Trip 2005 - Utah

As soon as we crossed over into Utah, we instantly knew that we weren't in Nevada anymore. It wasn't just because of the signs that said "Thank you for visiting Nevada" and "Now entering Utah"; it was the change of scenery that made us believe. Out were the desserts and mountains, and in were the salt plains. The aroma of salt hung in the air as it stings the nostrils, and it was quite pungent.

Those Mormons sure do a good job when it comes to erecting signs with the intent of benefiting drivers in their state. If not for these signs, I would have certainly met my impending death. Obvious things such as resting when you are tired are completely overlooked by the average driver. It's good to know that someone is watching over my shoulder and side-seat driving as I navigate the solitary highway towards Salt Lake City. These people definitely deserve some kind of commendation or award of some sort. In fact, I'll personally hand it out at a lavish ceremony.

I sat atop the viewing platform and looked a far as the eye can see. Without the aid of technology, I could only see the salt plains that provided a smooth surface for racers in rocket cars to set World Records in land speed. I can see how this is possible; the flat land is the perfect surface for cars to travel at a speed that was once only possible is science fiction stories. Once the records were broken, no one cared about the Salt Plains of Utah and they were once again remembered as salty plains that reeked and served no purpose to anyone on this planet.

I wanted to go and hang out on the plains and be the one who was feeling salty, but I was turned off by the smell. Ludo from the movie Labyrinth said it best when he uttered "smells bad." He really hit the nail right on the head when it comes to describing this place.

Tim checked out the rest stop map to see how far we still had to go before we got to Salt Lake City. Maps don't lie, and it told us that we still had to drive through boring Utah before we would arrive at our destination. Today was going to be a long day. I knew it.

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