Twin Rocks

Embark on a challenging hiking adventure along the Utah Highway 24 Scenic Byway, stretching 70.4 miles (113.4 km) from Loa to Hanksville. This difficult route involves a total elevation gain of 2157 feet (657 metres) and typically takes around 29 hours and 49 minutes to complete. You will witness a dramatic transformation of scenery, starting with sagebrush and high mountain forests near Loa, then transitioning into the iconic red rock cliffs and canyon country of Capitol Reef National Park, where the majestic Waterpocket Fold showcases brilliantly colored sandstone and gleaming white domes.

When planning your visit, remember that many sections of this route are within Capitol Reef National Park, so be prepared to follow park regulations. While the byway itself offers access to trails of varying difficulty, this specific long-distance hike is rated as difficult. General parking is available at various trailheads along the scenic byway, providing convenient access points for your journey.

This extensive route offers a unique opportunity to experience Utah's diverse landscapes on foot, moving from lush forests to arid desert. Beyond Capitol Reef, the trail continues past Caineville, where the landscape flattens into an otherworldly desert with multicolored rock formations, reminiscent of the Moonscape Overlook near Hanksville. It is a journey through geological wonders and vast, open spaces.