UT-120

About UT-120

Description

The UT-120 isn't just another stretch of road – it's a journey through some of Utah's most breathtaking landscapes. As someone who's driven this route more times than I can count, I can tell you it's a feast for the eyes and balm for the soul. Picture this: you're cruising along, surrounded by towering red rock formations that look like they've been painted by a master artist. The colors shift and change with the sunlight, creating a natural light show that'll have you pulling over every few miles just to soak it all in.

Now, I'll be honest – this road isn't for the faint of heart. It's got its fair share of twists and turns, and there are stretches where you might not see another car for miles. But that's part of the charm, isn't it? It's just you, the open road, and the raw beauty of the Utah wilderness. And let me tell you, there's something magical about that solitude.

One of my favorite spots along the UT-120 is this little overlook about halfway through the drive. It's not marked on any map, but if you keep your eyes peeled, you'll spot it. I stumbled upon it by accident during one of my trips, and now I make a point to stop there every time. The view... well, it's the kind that makes you forget to breathe for a second. You can see for miles in every direction, with layers upon layers of colorful rock stretching out to the horizon.

But the UT-120 isn't just about the views. It's also a gateway to some of Utah's best-kept secrets. There are hidden trails branching off from the main road that lead to secluded canyons and ancient petroglyphs. I remember this one time I decided to follow a barely-visible path on a whim, and it led me to this incredible natural arch that I swear looked like it was straight out of a sci-fi movie.

Of course, no description of the UT-120 would be complete without mentioning the wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled, and you might spot desert bighorn sheep scaling seemingly impossible cliff faces, or golden eagles soaring overhead. And if you're really lucky (like I was on my last trip), you might even catch a glimpse of a elusive mountain lion slinking across the road in the early morning light.

Now, I gotta warn you – this isn't a road for speed demons. The UT-120 demands respect and patience. It's the kind of drive where you want to take your time, roll down the windows, and let the desert air wash over you. Trust me, once you experience it, you'll understand why so many people (myself included) keep coming back to this remarkable stretch of asphalt.

Key Features

• Stunning red rock formations that change color with the light
• Numerous unmarked viewpoints offering panoramic vistas
• Hidden trails leading to secluded canyons and ancient petroglyphs
• Opportunities to spot diverse wildlife, including desert bighorn sheep and golden eagles
• Winding road with challenging turns and long stretches of solitude
• Gateway to lesser-known Utah attractions and natural wonders
• Unique geological features, including natural arches and towering cliffs
• Perfect for photographers, nature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers
• Varying elevations providing diverse ecosystems and landscapes
• Stargazing opportunities in areas with minimal light pollution

Best Time to Visit

Alright, let's talk timing. When's the best time to tackle the UT-120? Well, that depends on what you're after. In my experience, spring and fall are your best bets for comfortable temperatures and jaw-dropping scenery.

Spring, especially late April to early May, is my personal favorite. The desert comes alive with wildflowers, painting the landscape with splashes of yellow, purple, and red. It's like Mother Nature decided to throw a color party, and you're invited. Plus, the temperatures are just right – warm enough to enjoy being outside, but not so hot that you feel like you're melting into your car seat.

Fall, particularly September to October, is a close second. The summer heat starts to fade, and you get these crisp, clear days that are perfect for long drives and hikes. The angle of the sun during these months makes the red rocks positively glow, especially during the golden hours around sunrise and sunset. I've taken some of my best photos during fall trips along the UT-120.

Now, summer... look, I'm not gonna sugarcoat it. It can be brutal. We're talking temperatures that can easily soar over 100°F (38°C). If you do decide to brave the summer heat, make sure you're prepared. Stock up on water (more than you think you need), check your car's cooling system, and try to plan your outdoor activities for early morning or late evening.

Winter brings its own kind of magic to the UT-120. The red rocks dusted with snow create a surreal, almost otherworldly landscape. It's breathtaking, but it comes with challenges. The road can get icy, and some sections might close after heavy snowfall. If you're up for a winter adventure, just make sure you're equipped for cold weather driving.

One thing to keep in mind, regardless of the season, is the possibility of sudden weather changes. I remember this one trip in early spring when I started the drive under clear blue skies, only to find myself in the middle of a surprise thunderstorm an hour later. The desert can be unpredictable, so always check the forecast before you set out.

Oh, and here's a pro tip: if you can, try to time your visit with the new moon. The stargazing along some stretches of the UT-120 is out of this world (pun intended). I once pulled over on a moonless night and saw the Milky Way stretching across the sky so clearly it looked like I could reach out and touch it.

How to Get There

Getting to the UT-120 is part of the adventure, and there are a few different ways to approach it depending on where you're coming from. Now, I've made this trip from just about every direction, so let me break it down for you.

If you're starting from Salt Lake City (which is what I usually do), you're in for a bit of a drive, but trust me, it's worth every mile. Head south on I-15 until you reach Spanish Fork, then take US-6 east. This part of the journey is an experience in itself – you'll pass through some charming small towns and get your first taste of Utah's diverse landscape. Once you hit US-191, head south, and you'll eventually connect with the UT-120.

Coming from the south? If you're in the Moab area (and if you're not, you should definitely consider a detour there), you can take US-191 north. It's a straightshot, but keep your eyes peeled for the UT-120 turnoff – it can sneak up on you if you're not paying attention.

Now, here's where it gets a bit tricky. The UT-120 isn't exactly a major highway, and depending on your GPS, it might not show up. I learned this the hard way on my first trip – ended up on some backcountry road that definitely wasn't meant for my sedan. So, my advice? Get yourself a good old-fashioned paper map as a backup. It's saved my bacon more than once.

If you're flying in, the closest major airport is Salt Lake City International. From there, you can rent a car and make the drive. It's about a 4-hour journey, give or take, depending on how many times you stop to take in the views (and trust me, you'll want to stop).

One thing to keep in mind – cell service can be spotty along some stretches of the UT-120. I always download offline maps before I set out, just to be on the safe side. And it never hurts to let someone know your planned route and estimated arrival time, especially if you're traveling solo.

Oh, and don't forget to fuel up before you hit the UT-120. Gas stations are few and far between once you're on the road. I always fill up my tank and bring a small gas can as a backup. Better safe than sorry, right?

Lastly, if you're not comfortable with driving yourself, there are some tour companies that offer guided trips along the UT-120. It's not quite the same as having the freedom to stop whenever and wherever you want, but it's a good option if you're new to the area or just want to sit back and enjoy the ride without worrying about navigation.

Tips for Visiting

Alright, folks, listen up. I've been down the UT-120 more times than I can count, and I've picked up a few tricks along the way. So, here are my top tips to make your trip as awesome as possible.

First things first – water, water, and more water. I can't stress this enough. The desert air is dry, and it'll suck the moisture right out of you before you even realize it. I always bring at least a gallon per person per day, plus extra for emergencies. And while we're on the subject of supplies, pack more snacks than you think you'll need. There's something about the open road that makes you hungrier than usual.

Now, let's talk about your ride. The UT-120 isn't exactly a smooth highway, so make sure your vehicle is up for the challenge. Check your tires, brakes, and coolant before you set out. And if you're renting, consider getting something with a bit of clearance. You don't need a full-on 4x4, but a standard sedan might struggle on some of the rougher patches.

Sun protection is crucial. Trust me, you do not want to underestimate the desert sun. Bring sunscreen (and reapply often), a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. I learned this lesson the hard way on my first trip – ended up looking like a lobster for days afterwards.

If you're planning on doing any hiking (and you definitely should), sturdy shoes are a must. Those red rocks can be sharp and unforgiving. And speaking of hiking, always let someone know where you're going if you're venturing off the main road. The UT-120 area is beautiful, but it's also remote and can be dangerous if you're not prepared.

Here's a tip that took me a few trips to figure out – bring a good camera, but don't spend the whole time behind the lens. Some of my best memories of the UT-120 are the ones where I just sat and soaked in the view. There's something about this landscape that can't be fully captured in a photo.

If you're into stargazing (and if you're not, you will be after seeing the night sky out here), bring a star chart or download a stargazing app. Just remember to switch your phone to red light mode to preserve your night vision.

Now, this might sound weird, but bring some trash bags. Not only are they handy for keeping your car clean, but you can use them to pack out any trash you see along the way. Let's keep this beautiful place pristine for future visitors, yeah?

Oh, and one last thing – be flexible with your plans. Some of my best experiences on the UT-120 have been completely unplanned. That weird rock formation you spot in the distance? Check it out. That unmarked trail? Give it a try (safely, of course). The real magic of this road is in the unexpected discoveries.

Remember, the UT-120 isn't just a road – it's an experience. Take your time, be prepared, and most importantly, enjoy every moment of it. Trust me, once you've driven this road, you'll be planning your next trip before you even get home.