Visit a ghost town, windswept desert plains, high canyon walls, spires, tall towers, wind caves, excellent mountain biking, and Arches National Park.
There are two routes to get down to Moab, Utah, from I-70 or U.S. 191. The latter way is the quickest especially if you are coming from the west, and it’s a fast half-hour blast through the desert. However, others not in a hurry and eastbounders should take Route 128 instead. Better yet, take one off ramp east of that, Exit 212, for the extra pleasure of Cisco. Not technically a tourist attraction, Cisco is a gloomy ghost town out on a windswept desert plain. It’s unclear whether there are any remaining residents of this eerie location, so stop and take a look, but don’t linger too long. Read more . . .
Everyone should discover the desert southwest and the natural wonders that await you across southern Utah. A little ambitious for a day’s drive, one could easily spend a whole day exploring any one of the monuments and parks along the way. Start your trip at St. George in the southwest corner of the state, head out on Route 9 going to Zion National Park. Route 9 runs right through Zion Canyon, a pretty drive, but it can get tremendously busy during peak tourist season.
The Elkhorn Mountains are the backdrop for this diverse and beautiful 106-mile loop through rich scenery with historic landmarks, wildlife, and recreation abounding. Starting at Route Seven in Baker City, where pioneers on the Oregon Trail once stopped, this entirely paved path traces the history of eastern Oregon from the gold mining towns of the mid-1800s to the trails, lakes, and wildlife areas of today. 
For you city slickers who crave a little outdoor adventure on the weekends, the Mt. Hood/Columbia River Gorge Loop is a perfect “must see” panoramic getaway. Encompassing the rich landscape just outside Portland, Oregon’s largest city, this 4-hour drive will take you to dizzying heights. Catch a scenic glimpse of the Gorge at the Grotto as you leave the city on Sandy Blvd. Follow Route 26 to Sandy where you can try your palette at the Wasson Winery.