Weather permitting, I’d like to follow the Sierras down to Death Valley, then cross the Mojave Desert back to L.A. However, I’m considering a few alternative routes in case too much snow and ice block my path.

I last visited the Grand Canyon with a college boyfriend in August 1990, and Adam and I explored Yellowstone, the Grand Tetons and Jackson Hole in August 2008; otherwise, this will all be new territory to me. I’ve taken a mere five days to plot out my route and get organized, but I feel prepared – and pretty darn excited.

Should all go according to plan, I’ll be on this adventure from March 1-22, 2012. For my journey, I have a new parka, sturdy boots, warm clothes, plenty of water, an emergency kit, tire chains and a AAA TripTik.

I’ll be staying in motels and with friends along the way, but will be bringing a sleeping bag, too.

Y’know, just in case I get caught in a snowdrift and need to hibernate in order to survive. 

Monument Valley to Canyonlands

Moab to Arches

Western Colorado

We’d love to go to Boise and check out the burgeoning art scene,
then go find the scene from the photo below.

Here are some resources to help you plan your own “travels with two” to Idaho.

Idaho Guides
Idaho State Tourism Guide
National Geographic
Frommers
Globe Trekker
New York Times

Idaho Articles
Sunset Magazine: Idaho search results
New York Times: 36 Hours in Boise, Idaho
Travel + Leisure: 30 Dream Destinations
Condé Nast Traveler: 10 National Parks: Where to Stay, Eat and Play

Idaho Travel Agents & Tours
Sterling Brownell
Arta River Trips

Junction near Idaho Highways 3 and 97 – Photo by Jay Cuthrell