West (OR) to East (NJ)

Hello All.

I've got a big trip coming up that I would like to document. Figured this would be a good place where people can leave suggestions, as well as help future cross-countriers.

Quick backstory: switch jobs, traded in a 2007 OR for a 2023 OR, moving across country to be closer to family.

My 2007 truck needed a bit of work. As a mariner, I was rarely home / had time to work on the truck. While in Portland and Newport Oregon, I began taking on water from somewhere. Everyday there was a large pile of water under the floormats. I traced it out as much as possible for weeks - no luck. It began to mold. The engine started ticking, what could possibly be a slight knock. Sludge was seen when lifting up the engine oil cap. Suspension issues. And to top it - many random rust spots began appearing all over the driver side door, which was a huge concern living near the coast. I loved this truck. We've traveled all up and down the West Coast. Lived in it during covid. She will be greatly missed.

I purchased a 2023 Tacoma Off-Road edition in Lunar Rock, with a double cab, 5ft bed. I love this color very much. This truck is awesome. I've never had a brand new car before and the process was somewhat stressful, but glad to have gone through it. With a few mods lined up for next week, I then should be ready for the big trip!


Start: Bend
End: New Jersey.




Happy to hear any/all suggestions around Utah / Colorado / anywhere across the country and meet up with folks!


More soon. Cheers!

 

Depends on the route you plan to take. The NPs in Utah are amazing. Bryce Canyon, Arches, Moab, etc.

There’s also Yellowstone, Grand Teton, so many to choose from.

Really depends on how much time you have and how adventurous you are feeling.

Just don’t be too excited to reach your destination. The scenery is much less, uhh, appealing

 

Definitely! I have to be in NJ no later than July 17th. Looking to spend 90% of my time in Utah / Colorado and jetting across to the East after the Rockies.

 

One option is to do a loop through Utah, hit up the NPs/off pavement as desired, then head down into Mesa Verde in Colorado, then head East through Southern Colorado. Touristy pavement route, but amazing scenery and you’re not on the Interstate through Denver.

 

Sweet! Thanks man! That should work out nice, because I'd like to hit that million dollar highway just to check it out. I have friends in Fort Collins that I'll be staying with a little bit. I'd rather head North through the mountains and avoid Denver.