Best route from St. George, UT to Bryce Canyon

IceWolf48 wrote:
Our rigs in storage in St. George, UT and we'll be picking it up at the end of next March (2016) then heading to Bryce Canyon. We've heard that although Rte 9 is the most direct route it's a "BEAR", can anyone comment???

Ted

Never seen any Bears (:?) We LOVE the Rt 9 tunnel out of Zion - so for me not a problem, Rt 9 a number of times, always enjoyed the trip. That said your alternate is a good ride and was more than just interesting as a way across those mountains.

Back to the drive Rt 9 is the obvious choice and you are rewarded with the opportunity to at least drive into - even if for only a short visit - Zion is always a favorite for the visit and even Dinner in the Lodge.

After the Visit to Bryce, Rt 12 - Kodachrome - Escalante - Goblins and Capital Reef will await you. If I recall, you need to be careful going over the Mountain after Boulder on Rt 12 as in the winter it is often snow covered and icy.

BOL

Having been through Zions numerous times in cars/motorcycles, I would never pull a 31' trailer along Rte-9 through Zions National Park during peak season. Being March, the traffic/tourists/congestion will be down, and it is do-able. If you want to enjoy it, ditch the trailer and just take the truck through the park.

Easiest route is to go North on I-15 to Hwy-20 and over to Panguitch and back South to Bryce. An alternate would be to go along 389 to Fredonia then North through Kanab/ect to Bryce.

Hwy 20 will be the fastest/easiest for you.
389/89 will take longer but slightly more scenic.
Taking the 14 over Cedar Mountain (East out of Cedar City) is a huge climb followed by decent, but still better than pulling through Zions.
Taking the 9 through Zions will be the most scenic but the slowest route. It is the fastest route if you are on a motorcycle/small car though :B

We have been across UT 9 several times in MH pulling toad. It is not that bad of road. Yes, it has many curves, but speed limit is low.
Remember going through tunnels have restrictions. 50 foot max length. Width and height requires permit.
It is the best way!