Bryce Canyon to Zion via the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway UT-9

[jack45]

Looking for routing recommendations and/or experiences traveling with MH & tow vehicle from Bryce Canyon to Zion using the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway UT-9 around Mid-September.

It says a MH of 13 ft max height is allowed thru the tunnel with escort. My MH is 12’ 9” and 40 ft in length (the escort is not the concern but the tunnel height). Also, how is the road regarding switchbacks and grades traveling that Highway?

I plan on staying at Watchman Campground in Zion.

Thanks, Jack Ricardo

[desertdeals69]

The reason you need an escort is traffic has to be blocked so that you can run down the centerline of the road for maximum clearance. I ran through the tunnel back in the 70's before repaving and had more clearance. I would not take a chance now. Watchman campground is a good choice. One of the few national parks with electric hook ups.

[ronmonson]

We are going to be at Zion Sept 12 thru 15, doing Bryce etc.

We are staying at Watchman as well. I am interested in who may have driven Hwy 550 from Durango to Grand Junction....the Million Dollar Hwy.

It looks like it may be difficult with a motorcoach?

[wolfe10]

I am interested in who may have driven Hwy 550 from Durango to Grand Junction....the Million Dollar Hwy.

It looks like it may be difficult with a motorcoach?

Ron,

That is a very difficult question to answer. Can your coach, with an experienced mountain driver do the road safely-- yes. But, that means you are really comfortable with use of your Allison transmission, engine brake and can "feel" what you need to do next based on changes in grade.

I would sure not recommend this to a first-time/inexperienced mountain driver! It would be like starting out in graduate school instead of kindergarten. Sure, many can do well in graduate school, but not if that is where they start.

Brett