L.A. to Graceland/Teaching long distance driving

[glc]

Well, I didn't say it was an *easy* drive, but the scenery is just spectacular. They *are* mountain highways. It's 285 miles from Panguitch to Moab via that route.

[ll18]

Thanks both of you; this is exactly the info I needed. It's sort of like a kid in a candy store, isn't it? So many yummy choices. I don't think I'll have enough days to do all of Judy's itinerary, but once we're on the road, you never know . . .

[PNW Judy]

Yup, I like that. It's a great analogy for road-tripping, imho. You always want more time.

If you can't find time to get to the Grand Canyon, I think the route glc suggested from Arches to Bryce and then a stop at Zion will make for a very memorable trip.

[glc]

If you do that, take US-89 south out of the Bryce area and take UT-9 in the east gate of Zion through the tunnel. From there, it's an easy run through Springdale to I-15 to go back to LA. US-89 is a decently fast road with mostly 65 mph speed limits.

[ll18]

glc - funny you should mention that 12/24 route. I've been eyeing it on the map as a possible "let's go that way and see what happens" road. Mountain roads make me very happy.

It's looking more like we'll pass on Grand Canyon this time, so the 89/9 option - however I get there - looks very enticing. The time guidelines you both gave me are really, really helpful.

How hard would it be to get a motel room in Moab same-day? It might be a better place to spend the night, but I don't want to make reservations now or strike out when I get there.

[glc]

Moab has quite a few hotels, but check the rates. Moab can be expensive in summer. I can say that both the Motel 6 and Super 8 are decent ones. The Riverside Inn across the street from the Super 8 is well maintained and reasonably priced, I have stayed there.

[ll18]

I've survived that last crazy week before vacation at work, and we're finally on our way early tomorrow morning. Thanks everyone for all the tips and ideas. I'll post a trip report when we get home.