Day 32, September 16, Hwy 12 from Torrey to Escalante

Scenic Byway 12 spans a route of 124 miles, and travels through some of the most diverse, remote and ruggedly beautiful landscape in the country. Many segments of the road hace sharp curves and steep grades (up and down), therefore we decided to explore the top half today by truck.
We had an early start for the trip, 8:00am, heading southwest on Hwy 12 under sunny skies. Trees are more plentiful and taller than what we have been seeing. Entered Dixie National Forest, 8000 ft. elevation.
At 8:20 we stopped at the Larb Hollow Overlook, which was a gorgeous view, but could not take any pics as we were looking into the sun. Have to be careful as there is open grazing with cattle wandering across the road! Stopped at Steep Creek Overlook, at 9450 ft, which was still hazy.

Stopped at the Anasasi State Park, but didn't go in since we have seen lots of Anasazi ruins. Next stop was Boulder, but we seem to have missed it! Couldn't find the Post Office or Town Hall.

Hogback was yet another experience. It is an internationally famous stretch of byway. The asphalt clings to this thin razorback ridge of slickrock, the terrain spills steeply off to each side to each side toward winding creeks & canyons.  One literally feels like you are on top of the world! More incredible views that cannot be captured by a camera. The drive down the other side was full of sharp curves and 8 - 14% grades.

Stopped at Escalante River Trailhead, planning to hike to the Escalante Natural Bridge and Escalante Natural Arch, but found that the trail forded the Escalante River, which was fast-flowing and muddy following yesterday's rain. Also must ford the river 5 times! Did not go there!

Head of the Rocks Overlook provided expansive views out across the Escalante Canyons where colourful slickrock stretches almost as far as the eye can see. We met a couple from England who built their Class C RV & shipped it to Halifax. They have travelled across Canada, up to Alaska & are on their way to Guatamala. They will be travelling for 2 years.

After reaching Escalante, visiting the Heritage Centre & having lunch at Escalante Outfitters, we started back east on Hwy 12. It started raining and the skies are very dark to the north.

The temperature dropped from 22C to 5C with heavy rain and ????hail? Yup!

Stopped at the Wildcat Information Centre and it stopped raining. The rest of the drive back to Torrey was uneventful. By the time we returned to the campground, it was 22C!.

Tomorrow, on the road to Bryce Canyon. What a fantastic trip!!!