See America Ride: Southwest Loop Adventure, June 2021

The Idea Sparks

In April 2021, Richard L. came across an article in GWRRA Wingworld Magazine describing a scenic loop through Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, and Arizona. Inspired, he mapped out a route and invited a few of us to join. Lesley and I jumped at the chance, and soon, plans were set: four parties, five bikes, and an epic adventure ahead.

Planning the Journey

Motelling was the unanimous choice—no complex camper setups, just cargo trailers and comfortable rooms. Our route would wind through Montana, Idaho, Utah, New Mexico, Arizona, and Colorado. Flexibility was key, but we had a rough itinerary:

• June 14: Missoula, MT
• June 15: Idaho Falls, ID
• June 16: Vernal, UT
• June 17: Poncha Springs, CO
• June 18: Durango, CO
• June 19: Blanding, UT
• June 20: Bryce Canyon City, UT
• June 21: Green River, WY
• June 22: Rock Springs, WY
• June 23: Idaho Falls, ID
• June 24: Cascade, ID
• June 25: Spokane, WA

We hoped to ride the Durango/Silverton Train, visit Dinosaur National Monument, and maybe reach Four Corners—if COVID closures didn’t get in the way.

Day 1: Missoula, MT

A good night’s sleep and a packed trailer kicked off our ride. We met Richard at Black Sheep Sporting Goods in Coeur d’Alene, ID, after a small parking mix-up ("...in the corner by the Costco gas pumps"—if only we'd heard!). After picking up Alex & Anne, the adventure officially began.

Lunch at the 50,000 Silver Dollar Bar was quick and light. We pressed on to Missoula and checked into the Super 8. The first night brought surprises: a vibrating floor (thanks to an overzealous washer/dryer), water woes, and a coffee cup shortage. The staff responded quickly, and the mysterious noise finally stopped at 10 PM.

Day 2: Idaho Falls, ID

After a rough continental breakfast and sharing a lone coffee cup, we fueled up and headed south. Riding US 93 through Salmon and Darby (home of the Chief Joseph Ranch from "Yellowstone"), we made it to Idaho Falls.

Day 3: Rock Springs, WY

Departed Idaho Falls, bound for Rock Springs, Wyoming. The scenery and roads were as impressive as expected, though details for this leg are sparse—sometimes the best adventures are the ones you simply experience.

Day 4: Return to Idaho Falls

After discussion, the group decided to head back—sometimes, plans change and the road calls us home sooner than expected.

Day 5: Back to Missoula

It's over. The journey winds down as we return to familiar territory.

Day 6: Homeward Bound

Final leg—heading home, carrying stories, memories, and a renewed love for the open road.

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Reflections

Though not every plan was realized and not every destination reached, the See America Ride was an adventure of camaraderie, scenic roads, and the thrill of exploring the Southwest. Sometimes, the best part of a journey is the journey itself.

*Missoula, here we come—and until next time, keep the rubber side down!*