The view from the Larb Hollow Overlook is considered the best along the entire road, and is frequented by photographers and artists. RON MACARTHUR PHOTOS Aspen are in full fall color in the higher elevations along Scenic Byway 12. It’s easy to see why Route 12 has been named an All-American Road. Route 12 is one of 31 All-American Roads in the United States. Scenic Byway 12’s varied landscapes range from mountains to rocks to meadows to seemingly endless acres of forest. The Henry Mountains provide a backdrop to the drive along Route 12. Free-range cattle are everywhere in Dixie National Forest, which covers 2 million acres. Route 12 overlooks provide a chance to stop and enjoy the unbelievable scenery. The Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument covers more than 1 million acres and provides a dramatic change in scenery from the forests on the eastern end of Route 12. The most dramatic ride on Route 12 is through the Grand Staircase-Escalante. Wild flowers are still in bloom in areas along Route 12. A slot canyon in Long Canyon off the Burr Trail Scenic Backway. A sandstone formation in Long Canyon. A huge aspen is backlit from the late-afternoon sun. Long Canyon is a road spur off Route 12, one of several including those accessible only by off-road vehicles. Anasazi State Park Museum, in Boulder, includes a Native American replica dwelling and many artifacts and interactive exhibits. A village at the site was abandoned and burned around 1117. Ruins have been uncovered and can be viewed. A dugout at Anasazi State Park Museum in Boulder. Torrey’s wide main street is typical for western towns, even those with a population less than 200 people. Torrey’s original log schoolhouse is situated near Route 12. The sun sets on a mountain ridge in Torrey, one of seven small towns along the highway. One of two small tunnels drilled through the rock in Red Canyon. Hoodoos in Red Canyon on the western side of Route 12. The canyon is filled with rock turrets, pinnacles and spires as well. Capitol Reef National Park is just a few miles from the eastern end of Route 12. Bryce Canyon National Park is near the western end of Route 12. The reservoir at Escalante Petrified Forest State Park. Hole-in-the-Rock Escalante Heritage Center tells the story of Morman pioneers who forged a tough trail westward through Hole-in-the-Rock, now a historical location. Ranchers face a battle keeping enough water on their fields to graze their cattle and horses. Irrigation runs constantly – including during this early morning when the water froze.