One the return trip from Sturgis we want to do some riding in Utah. We hit Bryce Canyon and Zion last year on the return trip and are now looking for some other great paved rides. Any suggestions? I kind of wanted to go to Grand Staircase, Escalante but i dont know if you can get to any of the cooler places with paved roads. I ride dirt roads everyday to leave my house but dont want to get put in any unknown situations in BFE. I definetly want to stay away from Salt Lake City and the traffic. So if anyone knows of other ones i sure would appreciate it.

Mike
03 RoadKing 103ci
White Pearl

 

I believe Hwys 12 and 24 are ones you would want to do. From Sturgis, you could get I70 in Colorado, take 24 south through Fruita to 12. Take that south and west to 89. You could then take 89 south to 89Alt for the north rim of the Grand Canyon.

 

Two years ago we rode through southern UT on the way to Vegas. Went through Escalante and Grand Staircase. Stuck to the paved roads. Spectacular scenery, clearest air in North America, and beautifull roads with little traffic. Well worth the trip.

In Grand Junction, CO, head south on US 50. Just south of town, pick up SR-141 and go to Gateway. One of the best roads in CO. There's a new car museum in Gateway that's supposed to be pretty nicve. Remember the $5M Buick?

At Vancorum, turn west on SR-90 to LaSalle Junction. Why theis intersection has a name, I don't know. There's nothing there but a couple of old shacks. Not even a gas station.

Go south on US-191 to Blanding. Just south of Blanding, head west on SR-95. That takes you northwest to the very tip of Lake Powell, and then up to Hanksville. Go west on SR-24, and then south on SR-12.

If you're short on time (who isn't?), take I-70 west out to exit 147 and pick up SR-24 there. You'll miss the western CO and Monument Valley portion. But will save time.

That's just about the most scenic ride you'll find anywhere in Utah.

 

Arches and Canyonlands National Parks near Moab, UT is worth the stop. Along with Mesa Verde National Park in SW Colorado.