I decided to make my way to Salt Lake through the mountains, spending a couple of weeks rather than a day like I typically do. Usually, I go on I-80 through Wyoming, and occasionally on I-70. I think this is the first time I’ve gone (mostly) the whole way on Route 40.
Technically I could have stayed on Route 40 from Colfax Street in Denver until the exit for Park City, but I took a few detours at the beginning. It currently ends in Silver Summit, UT, which is about 20 minutes north of Park City. But it used to stretch clear to San Francisco.
Timing and Weather
I got into more rain than I expected for the end of July, but that’s the mountains for you I guess, and given the drought conditions in the West, I won’t complain. Usually, it was only an afternoon thunderstorm that didn’t last long. The mountains were cooler than in Denver but still pretty hot during the day. It got a little chilly at night but not bad. Overall it was a great time of year for this trip.
Stops
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Granby
I have spent a good deal of time in Winter Park, but had only really passed through Granby before. Driving through Winter Park I happened upon the Jazz fest, where Chaka Khan was playing. The place was packed. I stayed 4 nights at The Inn at Silvercreek, which is a 70s-era resort with condos for rent.…
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Steamboat Springs
I love driving over Rabbit Ears Pass on the way to Steamboat. I had originally planned to camp a night, but campgrounds were full and I opted for comfort instead. I booked a night at the Steamboat Springs Residence Inn using some points from my Marriott Bonvoy card. The room was great and the bed especially was very comfy.…
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Steamboat Lake
This is a great day trip from Steamboat. A friend of mine had camped there the year before I went and sent pictures that made me want to check it out. It’s a beautiful spot. There’s a nice little nature loop trail not far from the visitor’s center that was only a mile or so,…
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Park City
There’s a lot of open country on the drive from Steamboat to Heber City. I never cease to be amazed by the geology in Utah though. I didn’t stop at Dinosaur National Park on this trip, but I would recommend it if you haven’t been. Even just driving by you can see some cool geology…