Life with ArielAs part of my 3-month Alaska roadtrip, I returned from Canada to California through the scenic Interstate 15 (I-15). This 1,433-mile route traverses through several states, from the mountainous terrains of Utah and Montana to the arid deserts of Nevada and Arizona. It serves as a gateway to many popular destinations such as national parks, the landscapes of Rock Mountains, and bustling cities. Here are my favorite 10 and many of them are dog friendly.
1. Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park, located in the Rocky Mountains of Montana, is one of the most visited national parks in the US. It requires a short detour from I-15. Here, over a million acres of wilderness embrace glacial-carved peaks and valleys, creating a dramatic landscape of rugged mountain ranges. The diverse ecosystems are awe-inspiring, from the park’s namesake glaciers, dense forests to alpine meadows and sparkling lakes, all majestic and serene. The iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road offers breathtaking panoramic views, winding through the heart of the park. You may also encounter wildlife like grizzly bears, mountain goats, and moose. I have a more detailed post about Glacier National Park including tips about reservations.
2. Flathead Lake
Flathead Lake is an expansive body of water (over 190 square miles) nestled in the northwestern part of Montana. It’s a treasured landmark known for its remarkably clear expanse, with visibility depths often exceeding 30 feet. Surrounded by a picturesque landscape of rolling hills and distant, snow-capped peaks, the lake’s scenery is breathtaking. Ariel and I went to Wayfareres State Park and hiked to its shoreline. We enjoyed the serene beauty and unspoiled natural surroundings. The lake was so vast that it looked like an ocean. Its crystal-clear waters were great for fishing, boating, and swimming. Driving along the lake was also a relaxing experience, with the lake’s soft blue hues merging with the sky at the far horizon.
3. Idaho Falls
Idaho Falls is a small charming city in southeastern Idaho on I-15. It’s most known for the artificial waterfall, Idaho Falls, located at the center of the city. The falls are the result of a hydroelectric power project that transforms the natural rapids of the Snake River into a more visually striking waterfall. The area around the falls, including the dog-friendly River Walk, is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. It offers picturesque views of the waterfall, peaceful walking paths, and recreational opportunities. Additionally, the Museum of Idaho in the city is a key cultural landmark and provides rich insights into local history. The city is also a gateway to the world-famous Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.
4. Lava Hot Springs
Lava Hot Springs, a small town on I-15, is a serene destination renowned for its natural mineral hot springs. These geothermal pools, which are the main attraction of the town, are sourced directly from natural underground springs. The hot pool soaking complex includes 5 outdoor gravel pools with temperatures ranging from 102 to 112 degrees Fahrenheit. These pools are especially popular in the winter months when the hot steam makes a perfect contrast to the chilly air, offering a soothing and rejuvenating experience.
In summer, floating on the Portneuf River is a fun and exciting experience. The Olympic Swimming Complex is also a popular destination with its diving platforms and water slides. Moreover, in the town’s historic downtown, you can explore buildings over 100 years old, live in hotels that are short walking distance to the hot springs, rent tubes for river rafting, and dine at various restaurants.
5. Salt Lake City and Great Salt Lake
Salt Lake City is the capital of Utah, a major metropolitan stop on the scenic I-15. The city offers a blend of modern urban life and stunning natural landscapes. It’s known for its significant role in the Mormon faith and boasts the iconic Temple Square and the Salt Lake Temple. The city is also flanked by the majestic Great Salt Lake and the towering peaks of the Wasatch Range. It’s a gateway to world-class outdoor recreation, from skiing at nearby resorts like Park City to hiking and mountain biking in the surrounding mountains.
One can’t leave Salt Lake City without visiting the Great Salt Lake, the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere and the eighth-largest terminal lake in the world. This lake is known for its high salt content, which is several times saltier than the ocean. Thus, swimmers can float effortlessly, offering a unique experience. Ariel and I went to the dog-friendly Antelope Island State Park located in the middle of the lake. It’s a unique natural sanctuary and home to a variety of animals, including its namesake antelope, bighorn sheep, bison, and various birds. You can explore the island through hiking, biking, and horseback riding on picturesque trails. For example, Ariel and I hiked the short Buffalo Point Trail which offers breathtaking views of the Great Salt Lake from different angles.
6. Cedar Breaks National Monument
Located near Cedar City on I-15 and on the way to Bryce Canyon National Park, Cedar Breaks National Monument is a natural amphitheater featuring intricate and dramatic rock formations, including hoodoos, spires, and cliffs. This geologic marvel is known for its brilliant hues of orange, red, and white on those unique rock formations. If you want to admire magnificent hoodoos but can’t make it to the Bryce Canyon, Cedar Breaks National Monument is a great alternative. The Rim Road provides several overlooks for you to admire the breathtaking vistas. I highly recommend Sunset View Overlook and Chessman Ridge Overlook. Like in national parks, most trails in this monument are not dog friendly. But your paw friends are welcome on paved areas and the Sunset Trail.
7. Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park, a well worthy detour from I-15, is renowned for its unique geological structures called hoodoos. These spire-shaped rock formations, created by erosion, create a stunning, otherworldly landscape. The park is less a canyon and more a series of natural amphitheaters, carved into the edge of a high plateau. You can explore numerous hiking trails here that range from easy strolls to challenging backcountry hikes.
For instance, the Rim Trail offers breathtaking vistas from the canyon’s edge. And the section between Sunset Point and Sunrise Point is dog friendly. Additionally, the Navajo and Queen’s Garden Trail descends into the amphitheater, allowing for an up-close experience with the hoodoos. Last but not the least, various vista points on the scenic Bryce Canyon Road such as Agua Canyon and Rainbow Point provide great opportunities for sunset and sunrise watching. Watching the golden rays dancing on the red and orange rocks is a surreal experience. I have a more detailed blog about Bryce Canyon National Park.
8. The Belly of the Dragon
The Belly of the Dragon in Utah is an enchanting and lesser-known trail that offers a unique hiking experience. It’s located between Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks. This short, easy hike is renowned for its main feature: an artificial tunnel that appears like a sandstone cave, resembling a dragon’s belly. The tunnel, originally carved as a water culvert to prevent highway flooding, stretches for approximately 0.25 miles and leads to a picturesque slot canyon. Also, there’s no sign about dogs. So I brought Ariel with me on a leash.
At the trailhead, you will probably have to climb down with all fours to the start of the tunnel. As you venture through the dimly lit tunnel, footsteps echoing, the air cools down and the rippled, eroded walls make you feel being inside a mythical creature. The trail’s end opens up to a rugged canyon. Although relatively short, the Belly of the Dragon is an intriguing detour with its unique blend of human engineering and natural beauty.
9. Zion National Park
Zion National Park, a short detour off of I-15, is a majestic natural wonder known for its stunning red cliffs, emerald pools, and diverse array of wildlife. It’s distinguished by Zion Canyon, which is carved over millennia by the Virgin River. The most iconic hikes here are Angels Landing and The Narrows. Angels Landing is famous for its breathtaking vistas and thrilling, narrow pathways at the top, while The Narrows allows you to wade through the Virgin River’s slot canyons, surrounded by towering walls. The park also offers a dog friendly trail, the Pa’rus Trail. It’s an ideal introduction to the park’s natural beauty, meandering alongside the Virgin River and providing stunning views of the surrounding canyon walls. I have another blog with more details about Zion National Park.
10. Las Vegas
Las Vegas, also known as “Sin City,” is a vibrant city located on I-15 in the Mojave Desert of Nevada. It’s famous worldwide for its buzzing energy, bright lights, and 24-hour entertainment. It’s a hub of gambling, fine dining, live shows, shopping, and nightlife. The city’s heart is the Las Vegas Strip, a stretch of South Las Vegas Boulevard known for its concentration of lavish resort hotels and casinos and replicas of global attractions like the Eiffel Tower and Venetian canals. Las Vegas’ unique blend of excitement and entertainment options makes it a top destination for people seeking a dynamic and unforgettable experience.
Apart from the glitz and glamour, Las Vegas hosts major conventions and trade shows. The city is also a gateway to natural wonders like the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and the Hoover Dam. Additionally, the famous art installation, Seven Magic Mountains, is just south of the city. This vibrant artwork consists of seven towering stacks of brightly painted boulders. Each stack stands over 30 feet high, presenting a stark contrast against the barren desert landscape. The installation is a creative expression blending aspects of human nature and the natural world.
[…] schedule, I was able to move things around and arrive at my next important destination, Lava Hot Springs, on time. Having the flexibility and the ability to address this unexpected event reduced my […]