Just got a huge break at work and will be able to take my first vacation all year - so of course, I'm hitting the road! I'll have 10 - 11 days (Oct 7 -17), will be leaving from DC. I was looking for suggestions of the best route (thinking a southern route out, northern route back), but am also considering flying out and renting a car to have more time actually driving out west. If I fly out am thinking NM, UT and CO mainly. Was wondering what is a "don't miss" in your opinion. Do you think it'd be better to fly and drive or enjoy the drive out. I'll be doing this solo, so all the driving is under my foot (which is quite leaded!). Thanks for the great site - so much info!!

Wendy