Looking for some trip input

[CajunMikeR]

Hey all.

I'm planning a trip to go get my new trailer in Pheonix and was looking for input. The first leg from Louisiana to Phoenix will be driven in 2 days (arriving PHX on the morning of day 3), the return trip will be closer to a week. Here's the basic route, but I'm flexible on the return route.

What places would you consider a must see on the way back? Any tips on good dispersed camping sites? I would prefer to stay off major highways most of the return trip, taking back roads and farm/fire roads. This is my first time driving out this way and I've got no clue on the good spots to cover.

Vehicle is my stock 19 ORP with P-metric Nitto TerraGrapps (Dobinsons kit hasn't arrived yet, so no lift and more aggressive tires yet) and I'll be towing a 12ft long excursion trailer (6ft wide, approx 1800lbs, 16in of ground clearance on AT tires). I'll be carrying plenty of food, some recovery gear, and extra fuel...I've actually got my load out pretty well figured for this trip.

Thanks for any/all input!

 

[BearBio]

Go to Auto Club, get maps, travel guides and get on line. Here's some ideas=look them up and plan your trip! Most I have been to, others are on my wish list.

Mogollon Rim, Jerome (I don't think your trailer can do it-might have to leave it in a campground), Oak Creek Canyon & Sedona,

"Flag" : Montezuma's Castle, Walnut Canyon near Flag, Meteor Crater, Petrified Forest, Gallup (Forget Santa Fe=high priced tourist trap)

North Rim Grand Canyon, Mesquite Nev., Canyon de Chelly, Chaco Canyon, Wupatki Crater, Tuba City, Four Corners, try Sonoran Style Mexican food in Gallup/ABQ., Monument Valley

Colorado: Rocky Mtn National Park, Idaho City, Stanley Hotel (WATCH OUT FOR ELK!!),

Wyoming: Yellowstone (VERY CROWDED!), Buffalo Bill Heritage Center in Cody, Dinosaur dig in Thermopolis,(Road over Wind River Range vis Ten Sleeps is very beautiful), Chief Joseph Trail from Yellowstone (If camping, beware of grizzlies), Custer/Little Big Horn Monument.

I would recommend making this an exploratory trip to decide what you want to see on future trips! I grew up in the SW, now live in the PNW and can't wait to go visit friends on, near, or by the Rez!

Forgot: Mesa Verde (Again, steep, winding road not really suitable for trailers!()