Scenic Backways not Byways

      When you choose to visit Utah, plan for 2-3 days (or more!) to drive and hike what are known as "Scenic Backways".  We have had opportunity thanks to good friend Laurie D. to have a link to the country's Scenic Byways; but until two days ago, I had never heard of scenic backways.  We traveled the Burr Trail a couple of days ago, but on the way from Lake Powell, we passed the turn off to at least two more of theses scenic backways.  Google "scenic backways" sometime to read more!
     We traveled yesterday from Lake Powell to Green River UT.  Our son and his wife were in Green River for one of their Americorps trips a few years ago.  We had visited Green River once before and since we were so close, we took a short side trip.
     We then headed north to Price UT and fought a pretty nasty wind for about 60 miles.  From Price, we headed northwest on US Highway 6 over the pass (7500 feet) to Spanish Fork, UT.  There we picked up I-15 north headed toward Salt Lake City.
      I merged on to I-15 and then faced about 30 miles of the MOST stressful driving I have ever done in my life!!  Take into consideration that along the west slope of the Wasatch Mountains, the towns have pretty much all melded into one, continuous stretch of humanity and development.  (Just slightly different than what we'd been in over the past week or so!).  And, the interstate was under construction for several miles, so the highway department had created very narrow lanes with concrete barriers on the right.  The traffic volume was very, very heavy and traveling at speeds in excess of 60 MPH.  Lots of semi's and not much room for mistakes.  We were praying for good driving skills and God's favor on this part of journey.  No kidding, I think that hour or so is probably the most demanding driving I've ever done.
     So, we made it to Salt Lake City and I must admit, it is a beautiful city.  I've been blessed to spend a fair amount of time in SLC for work.  Muggy and I are only here for the evening, but we visited the downtown area and Temple Square.  If you don't know this, SLC is the home of the Mormon Church and it is an amazing place to visit.  If you're ever here, I recommend visiting Temple Square and going to the visitor center.  Also, check the auditorium where the Mormon Tabernacle Choir practices and performs.

We are now as far west as we will achieve on this trip.  We are headed north into Montana and then will start back east.  Here's our route so far: http://mapq.st/JTfY5F