Dixie National Forest - UT 12

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I was completely unprepared for the scenic journey that awaited me on UT 12. Most of my pre-vacation research focused on US 163 and UT 95. But UT 12 ranks right up there with scenic drives everyone must take, some time in their life.

UT 12 climbs up from Torrey into the Dixie National Forest. Suddenly, there's snow by the side of the road (during my visit in late March, I was fortunate the road wasn't completely snow covered). The air is cool and thin, and it's almost impossible to believe you were in a dry, hot desert, just on the other side of the Waterpocket Fold.

This picture was taken probably around 9,000 feet, at one of several scenic viewpoints.


	I didn't feel well driving along this stretch of road, and I believe the elevation may have affected me. Elevation sickness can feel like the flu, and give you a headache. The best treatment is to head for lower ground. But if you develop a serious case, see a doctor.

The road tops off at Roundup Flat, at an elevation of 9,400 feet. This is the highest point we'll reach on this trip.

Back at Lake Powell, you could see signs of the drought that affected much of the southwest for several years. This photo provides a perfect illustration of the problem: not enough snowfall in the mountains. In late March, you'd expect to see much more snow up here.


	Utah Hwy. 12 is designated as both a Scenic Byway and an All American Road. You can find out much more by clicking here.

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