Hoover Dam??

Hi all. I have talked to my sis and bro-in-law about driving from Ohio to Vegas (in a couple weeks). Everytime we talk, my bro in law says "make sure you don't let people push you at the dam...take your time...don't try to drive fast there. Is driving over the dam particularly hazardous or something? I asked him and he said "no...but just be careful".
Also.... any ideas on where to find "packing lists" for a long road trip? This is a first for us...and I'm afraid I won't think of things to pack that would be helpful.
Any ideas would be helpful! Thanks!

Teresa,

I think it is possible that it has been a while since your Brother-in-Law visited the Hoover Dam area. The speed limit in the immediate vicinity of the dam is 25 mph and the reason people go slow is not because it is dangerous, but rather EVERYONE slows down to check out the views. Hoover dam is one of the wonders of the modern world.

Some of our lists are found on the http://www.roadtripamerica.com/tips/carcamping.htm page.

Always carry extra drinking water, "emergency can food", first aid gear, flares, basic tools, warm clothes, a pair of coveralls (for getting dirty), a good book, two flashlights and batteries, CB radio, cellular phone, blanket, teddy bear, ...

Hoover Dam isn't necessarily dangerous, yet it can be somewhat overwhelming. Just watch the trucks, and like your brother said, take your time. Stop to look at it, don't try while you are driving. It is an awesome thing to see.

With certain rare exceptions, (local-haul gravel trucks and some RV's) large trucks and RV's are prohibited from using US-93 over the Hoover Dam. Ever since 9/11 all trucks headed for I-15 must use Arizona county route 68 thru Laughlin and then north on US-95.

So it is just cars, SUV's and motorcycles on the route for most of the last couple of years.

Thanks Mark. I'll check out the tips too. You listed some things I wouldn't have thought of. plus "teddy bear..." LOL
We got our Trip Tik yesterday and it looks like the loneliest stretch is on I-40 somewhere between Flagstaff and Kingman for several miles. That shouldn't be bad, especially if we hit it in the daytime.

That's a good plan...stop to look at it. I know by then I'll be so anxious to see my family in Vegas....so it would be tempting to hurry. May have them meet us at the dam.

We're hoping to make it at least past St. Louis the first day. I hope we'll see the arches from the interstate! Do you know if you can...if the view is good from the road?

Actually the Teddy Bear has a very specific assignment -- one of the realities of road trips (not frequent, but I have seen it happen) are traffic accidents involving children. The Teddy Bear is given to anyone needing a little extra cheer in such an occurence. Teddy Bears are little troopers and in any vehicle I drive, one will ALWAYS be found riding shotgun.

Sure, the Arch (there is only one) is visible from both Interstate highways, but I strongly urge you to take two hours and tour the visitor center. The movie they show that depicts the construction will give you goosebumps. The best part of a visit is the ride up to the observation platform. Truly a unique experience! Don't miss it.

Mark - Oh yes, I meant arch...singular. I do these posts evening or early morning...so not typing what I think sometimes. Thats a SUPER idea for a Teddy Bear. Actually, I have 4 kids...all of which have been involved in accidents with me at different times (neither my "fault"....was hit head on...totalled vehicles). The second time was with my 4-year-old...and I was SO appreciative when she was given a teddy. We will take one just in case that occurs and we could be of help. I wouldn't have thought of it. Thanks!!

I hope you are planning to stop at the dam for a tour. I toured as a child and it had a strong impact on me. The tour requires a great deal of walking, so take hiking boots!

RE: Packing don't forget your address book, spare change for vending machines and band-aids/first aid kit for little emergencies. Also prescription medications for non-daily items such as (emergency inhalers, allergy meds, nitroglycerin tablets), whichever is applicable. Have a great trip but don't forget the hats and sunblock - Nevada is hot!

Peter Pan,

Post 9/11 the Hard Hat tour, that you may remember from your childhood is no longer offered to the general public. It is too bad -- it was magnificient. They still do the short tours, and are well worth it. The new Visitor Center is awesome.

(A favor -- We really like the content of your postings on this forum --- BUT please do not check "I want to use fixed-width font..." I have to search for all of your postings and un-check this.)

Both of these edfices are spectacular. They are man made wonders of the world. I have not seen nither. I am going to see the Grand Coulee later this month. Will report as to the greatness of both later. For I know I will see the other sometime.

I have seen both dams. I think they are both equally impressive in different ways. The setting of Hoover Dam is unlike any other I've seen. It's much taller than Grand Coulee and I love the rock walls on either side. Grand Coulee is shorter but appears to be much wider (but I don't know the true stats).

I guess my impressions would be that Hoover is prettier and more graceful-looking with its long, narrow lines. Grand Coulee is more massive in appearance.

Be sure and watch the wonderful laser-light show done on Grand Coulee after dark. It's really good!

hey check out www.route03.com i was just there

Cool website & great photos! Thanks for sharing.

A couple of Ethan's photos will be featured on RTA next week!