Instead of going to a fancy all-inclusive resort or a luxurious hotel, many tourists are opting for alternatives that are not only more affordable but also allow tourists to better experience the destinations they visit.
That's why road tripping has become more popular as it's a great way to cover more locations during your trip but it also provides you with full flexibility. You can make as many stops as you wish and you don't need to depend on a tourist guide. You can be completely independent and make your own itinerary.
If you're looking for your first road trip destination, we already have a suggestion for you. Utah is a dream destination for road trip enthusiasts. Apart from its vast landscapes, the state is home to some of the most iconic scenic byways in the United States.
You're probably familiar with the fact that highways like Scenic Byway 12, U.S. Route 89, and the Mirror Lake Highway offer travelers unforgettable views and access to five national parks. There's barely any other state that has this many national parks so close to the highway.
That makes it super easy for tourists to make a stop and explore all of these important landmarks and explore Utah as well. There are so many canyons to add to the list.
But, before going on your road trip, you also need to make sure you're well prepared, especially if this is your first road trip.
Let's take a look together at what Utah has to offer and how you can prepare yourself for a memorable and safe road trip.
What to do before hitting the road
A road trip requires some well-thought-out preparation. You need to make sure you've packed your suitcases on time and brought everything you might need.
You should make sure to bring a variety of comfortable clothes and appropriate hiking gear if you're planning on doing a lot of walking. Before you leave, take a look at the weather forecast to be able to pack appropriate clothes.
Additionally, don't forget to bring a first aid kit with the basics that might come in handy. Pack antibiotics, gauze, and bandages in case you end up with some minor wounds or scars that can be easily treated.
However, apart from packing properly, you need to make sure your car is also in good condition and ready for the long trip. As car crashes and collisions are quite common in the US, with more than 42,000 fatalities per year, it's important to regularly check your vehicle, especially before a trip.
Scenic roads in Utah often present a unique set of challenges for drivers, especially for new drivers who don't have that much experience behind the wheel.
Sharp turns, steep drop-offs, narrow shoulders, and rapidly changing weather conditions can make even the most breathtaking drives dangerous and challenging.
Add to that the distractions of beautiful scenery, potential wildlife crossings, and increased traffic, and the risk of accidents goes up significantly.
You could easily bump into another car in these sharp turns or cause a serious car accident. Things get additionally tricky when an accident happens outside of your state of residence, as the regulations might be completely different.
That's why we advise having a car accident lawyer's number memorised in your mobile just in case anything should happen.
Also, taking your car to an auto mechanic before leaving for your trip is a good precautionary measure.
Utah's scenic byways: A road tripper's paradise
Utah's network of scenic byways spans over 2,200 miles, showcasing the state's diverse terrain. As mentioned, among the most famous is Scenic Byway 12, which stretches over 120 miles between Capitol Reef and Bryce Canyon National Parks.
This route is frequently ranked among the top road trips in the U.S., thanks to its mesmerizing views of canyons and colorful rock formations. You've probably seen images of these online, and we guarantee that the real-life view is a hundred times better.
Another well-known route, US Route 89, offers a less-traveled alternative to Interstate 15, taking drivers through rural communities, pine forests, and historical landmarks. Meanwhile, Mirror Lake Highway cuts through the Uinta Mountains and climbs to over 10,000 feet, drawing visitors who want to escape the summer heat and experience Utah's mountain terrain.
How road trips support local businesses
These roads also help support local businesses. Many local businesses, including restaurants, lodges, and outdoor outfitters, rely heavily on seasonal traffic. In smaller cities, road trip tourism is often the main driver of the local economy.
Usually, these smaller areas don't get that many investments from their local governments as they are not as famous as some well-known destinations. However, this is where road-tripping steps in. People who go on road trips usually prefer these quaint little places where they can find some peace and recharge their batteries.
These smaller places allow tourists to go for long walks, breathe in the fresh air and explore what these cities have to offer.
The final word: Road-tripping the right way
For a first time road-tripper, Utah's scenic byways will be the ideal choice as you get to explore all the jaw-dropping views and landmarks. They offer an accessible way to experience some of the most stunning landscapes in North America, all from the comfort of a car.
But to make sure your trip goes well, you also need to do some preparation before hitting the road. In order to be able to tackle Utah's remote and somewhat challenging roads, you need to inspect your car and make sure it's fully functional before actually leaving for your trip.
Ultimately, the road trip will remain a quintessential part of the Utah experience. But whether that journey is a dream or a disaster will depend on a delicate balance: preserving the open-road magic of the state's scenic byways while ensuring that beauty doesn't come at the cost of safety.
