Albuquerque to Utah National parks

[Rburke8]

I am planning a trip starting in ABQ in early October in a 43' fifth wheel. Once we are in Utah, what would be the best order or loop to visit the 5-6 National parks? What towns are the best as home base? Our final destination would be to head south to Mesa, AZ. We would have 3 weeks to do this complete trip. I would appreciate any suggestions. I am particularly concerned about the weather at that time of the year and road conditions (switchbacks etc) since our trailer is long. Thank you.

[twogypsies]

From Albuquerque you'd probably be taking I-40 west which will bring you into Flagstaff, AZ if you're adding the Grand Canyon to your list. For your 43' 5th wheel you'd probably need to stay in Williams. Trailer Village in the park is ideal but I don't know if over 40' would fit. If you do stay in the park you could take Hwy64 east from Grand Canyon to Hwy 89 north. From Williams, go back to Flagstaff and Hwy 89 North.

Then you could start in Utah at Zion Nat'l Park by either taking Alt 89 to Fredonia (one steep short pass to do but big-rig doable) and then pick up 389 west at Fredonia which becomes Utah 59 and stay in Hurricane, Virgin or Springdale for the park. Your 5th wheel won't fit in Watchman c.g. in the park itself. If you don't want to do that Alt 89 pass, at that intersection with 89 will be a detour into Page, AZ. It's short and very good road. From Page take 89 into Kanab and then south to Fredonia and 389/59 to Zion. Don't try for Hwy 9 into Zion off 89. You're too long for the tunnel.

Exit Zion to I-15 north and take Hwy 20 to 89 south through Panguitch. Pick up Hwy 12 for Bryce Canyon. Ruby's is a good place to stay.

Then Hwy 12 to Torrey for the next stay for Capitol Reef Nat'l Park.

Hwy 24 to I-70 east to Hwy 191 south for Arches N.P. and Canyonlands - both explorable from Moab.

South on 191 to 163 and Monument Valley. Stay at Gouldings - the only RV park nearby.

163 to Kayenta and 160 Tuba City to Hwy 89 south once again to Flagstaff. Then I-40 to I-17 south to 101 to Mesa.

Have a good trip!

[kirk7678]

That is the identical route I would give you except that 89 is still closed between Alt 89 and Page due to a landslide last year, so Alt 89 through Jacob Lake is the only choice. Be sure to stop at Jacob Lake for cookies -- they are worth the stop!

[twogypsies]

Yes, 89 is closed but there's an excellent detour that basically runs parellel to 89 so either 89 or Alt 89 will work.

[Rburke8]

Thank you. Great information.