Overlooking St. George from the red mountains on the edge of town.

Reasons To Visit Utah In The Fall

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Visit Utah

Fall is one of the best seasons of the year. The trees change color and people pack every month with festivals and attractions! Here at Salt Lake Express we want to keep you up to date on everything our destinations have to offer. And boy does Utah have a lot to offer during the fall! Check out Salt Lake Express to book a trip to these events! Let us show you just a few reasons to visit Utah in fall 2021.

Oktoberfest  – Snowbird

Dancers at the Shakespeare Festival

Located up at the Snowbird Mountain Resort outside of Salt Lake, the Oktoberfest celebration is one of the most anticipated things about autumn. This traveling cultural festival livens up the first month of fall! The family friendly celebration includes traditional food, games, drinks and activities. Admission is free, making this one of the best things to do in Utah on a budget.

Nature Hills Harvest Festival – Cedar City

Nature Hills annual harvest festival has arrived. It doesn’t get much better than picking a fresh pumpkin and sipping apple cider in Autumn. And Nature Hills sure takes the metaphorical pumpkin cake this time of year. Admission is at a low 5 dollars and the farm has enough activities to fill a whole day. Stop by on your next trip to Cedar City and take a hayride, pick a pumpkin, or stop by the harvest store for their original pumpkin spice hot cocoa!

Field Of Screams – St. George

Try testing your courage this fall at the field of screams! This haunted attraction takes it above and beyond. The Field of Screams has been voted Utah’s number one haunted attraction. With realistic props, special effects and costumes, the Field of Screams is a walking nightmare. This corn maze is a must go for any Halloween enthusiast! But we suggest not taking any small children. Stop by next time you travel to St. George. If you Dare!

Comedy Performances – Salt Lake

Fall shows provide a way out of the cold and an escape for a few hours, and Salt Lake packs these shows in at the end of the year. Most local comedians have been itching to perform and several clubs have reopened. The comedy scene in Salt Lake is livelier than ever with contests and performances! They don’t limit themselves to local performers either. Clubs in Salt lake plan to host national comedians such as Cameron Esposito, David Spade, Jeff Allen, and Kristina Kuzmic, through the end of the year. Swing on by on your next trip to Salt Lake!

Temple Lights – Salt Lake City

Residents of Utah know that the last day of November marks the start of Christmas lights in Salt Lake City. The LDS temple in Salt Lake is famous for its Christmas lights at this time of year. The light display can be seen throughout the whole city and are lit every night till Christmas 2021. Cross country travelers often go out of their way to make sure they catch a glimpse of the beautiful displays and feel the Christmas spirit. It has to be a stop on your winter trip to Salt Lake. Make sure to bring a cup of cocoa, it does get cold.

Skiing – Various locations

People around the country know Utah for it’s amazing powder snow and ski resorts! People travel far and wide for their ski trips and to drift down that fresh powder. These early months of mid November through December provide some of the best skiing weather! But, most locations get booked incredibly early. So don’t wait, Salt Lake Express can provide you transportation to your destination in Utah. Plan your ski vacation on your next visit to Utah!

What To Do On The Road To Elko?

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Salt Lake Express now travels to Elko, Nevada! Wondering what there is to do along the way? We’ve got you covered! Let us help you plan a memorable trip that will have you going time and time again! Whether you’re traveling from Boise, Rexburg, or even Salt Lake, there’s something along the way for everyone.

Jackpot, NV

The moment you cross the border from Idaho into Nevada you’ll enter a little casino town with a population of only 1,195 people. Although small, the excitement that can be had here is not to be underestimated. Top attractions include the following:

Cactus Pete’s Resort Casino

Try your luck at one of the most popular casinos in Jackpot. Great food, drinks, and excitement can be found throughout Cactus Pete’s.

Horseshu Hotel & Casino

The Horseshu may not be the most popular destination in town, but is a perfect way to beat the crowds and still get all of the excitement that its neighbor, Cactus Pete’s Resort Casino, has to offer.

Jackpot Golf Course

Not too big into casinos? Golf your stresses away at Jackpot’s one and only golf course. This course’s challenging, yet beautiful, landscape and is a must stop for any golf enthusiast. If you’re lucky, many people have reported seeing wildlife running across the course. So be sure to keep an eye out!

Wells, NV

If you are looking for a way to relax and enjoy the outdoors then Wells is a great place for you. With breathtaking mountains, relaxing hot springs, and a beautiful lake, Wells is low-key an outdoor lover’s paradise.

Twelvemile Hot Springs

Don’t let the name of this 2-mile-in-2-mile-out hike deceive you. Grab a backpack and some water, and take a moderate hike to one of the most relaxing destinations in Wells. This popular destination can get pretty crowded so start your adventure early and claim your space at the hot springs.

Angel Lake

Get ready to visit one of the most beautiful places in Wells. With crystal clear water, abundant wildlife, a variety of small trails and amazing views from the mountain, this local gem is sure to become a personal favorite.

West Wendover, NV

Wendover is known for its luxurious casinos and high payouts. With five casinos and a total of 3,839 slot machines and 126 table games, there’s something for every casino lover. Not a huge casino fan? You can also visit the Bonneville Salt Flats that are sure to make for a memorable adventure.

Montego Bay Resort & Casino

Montego Bay is one of the most popular casinos in Wendover, and for good reason. Known for their friendly staff, clean rooms, exciting atmosphere, amazing food, and variety of games, Montego Bay is sure to make for a fun getaway.

Rainbow Casino & Hotel

Great payouts, variety of games, beautiful décor, and delicious food can all be found at Rainbow Casino & Hotel. Try your luck on one of the 890 slot machines or order some steak and lobster from the steakhouse. Take your weekend getaway to the next level by upgrading your hotel room to a mini suite, and enjoy a room equipped with a jetted hot tub for long, uninterrupted, relaxation.

Bonneville Salt Flats

Visit a unique destination frequently described as out of this world. A rest stop right off of I-80 allows you to easily access and walk on the beautiful terrain. With mountains as a backdrop, this destination is the perfect place for a stunning photo op. Stop by and make the Bonneville Salt Flats a memorable part of your trip.

Elko, NV

Elko is the largest city in the county, and continues to grow in size, population, and popularity each year. This continually changing city is known for its vast array of historical attractions, including a variety of outdoor adventures, museums and historical landmarks.

California Trail Historic Interpretive Center

This interactive museum is a fun stop for people of all ages. View and interact with life size exhibits that focus on helping you experience what it was like for the people who walked the 2,000 mile trek across the United States. Take a walk on an approximately ¾ mile hiking trail that leads to an amazing view of the Ruby mountains. Be sure to check out the California Trail Historic Interpretive Center calendar on their website to plan your visit around any special events that may be taking place.

Northeastern Nevada Museum

Take a trip to the past by stopping by the Northeastern Nevada museum. This 20,000 sqft museum covers the history and culture of early settlers of Nevada. You can expect to see exhibits featuring the art and local history of Nevada, as well as extensive wildlife habitat diagrams. The Northeastern Nevada Museum is a must stop for anyone visiting Elko!

The Star Hotel Restaurant

The Star Hotel Restaurant is a Basque restaurant known for its family style dining, rancher inspired atmosphere, and variety of comfort foods. Take a stop at a local favorite that is sure to win both the hearts, and stomachs, of you and your family.

“Go west, young man.”

Book your trip out to Elko and head west across the Utah and Nevada deserts. There’s more to do than you might think!

St George Express is helping you elevate your bus travel experience

Healthy Travel Procedures

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We know and understand that the coronavirus is at the front of most people’s minds. We want to let everyone know that we are taking the necessary steps to ensure our riders safety is put first. Our talented and professional team of drivers, mechanics, customer service representatives, and management are all working hard to deliver the proper information to our loyal customers.

St. George Express Will Provide Masks For Riders

We believe in traveling safely, both today and tomorrow. We also believe in safe travels in every way. Well-inspected and maintained buses, competent and trained drivers, and clean cabins with the addition of provided face masks.

In doing our part to continue to slow the spread of COVID-19, Salt Lake Express & St. George Express will be providing masks for all travelers. When used in accordance with CDC guidelines, face masks can be effective at helping slow the spread of the virus. Face masks should fit snugly but comfortably against the side of ones face and allow breathing without restriction.

While our drivers and riders employ these safety standards combined with common sense, we believe our buses are a safe transportation option during this time. With the addition of these provided face masks in conjunction with the daily deep cleaning of our vehicles, we are prepared for people to start traveling again.

A Message From Our Owner

Dear Rider,

As an integral member of the Salt Lake Express & St. George Express community, we value the trust you place in our team when you travel.

Considering the ongoing news about COVID-19, the coronavirus, we thought it would be a good idea to update you on the steps we are taking to ensure your health and safety in your travels.

We have recently implemented procedures to redouble our efforts to make sure the safety and well being of our passengers and our employees is uppermost in our minds.

We’ve done this with a two-step approach that we are implementing throughout our entire fleet. That approach is this:

  1. First, all of our drivers have been instructed and trained on wiping down and disinfecting all hard surfaces at the end of each leg of a trip. This is done in accordance with best industry practices.
  2. Then, at the completion of a trip, the buses are brought back to the yard where our expert cleaning team then wipes down and disinfects the entire bus before it goes out on its next trip the following day.

Our hope is that by implementing these steps it will ensure the continued safety and well-being of not only our passengers, but our employees as well.

Thank you for your continued trust in Salt Lake Express, we sincerely appreciate it. Now, as we all commit to traveling smarter and more consciously, we hope you all travel safely as well.

Thank you,
Jacob Price, Owner

Official Letter From Visit Salt Lake

Visit Salt Lake

In this time of uncertainty and concern regarding the Coronavirus, a.k.a. COVID-19, our clients and customers are asking, “Should I cancel my travel plans to Salt Lake?” According to the World Health Organization, the answer is no.

Visit Salt Lake is responding to its clients’ concerns and would like to provide our partners and members with tools to respond.

In addition to providing an informative video produced by the CDC about why travelers shouldn’t cancel plans, reiterating simple health recommendations for staying safe during the outbreak, and providing up-to-date informational links to the CDC and WHO regarding the current situation in the U.S., there are some Salt Lake facts that are important to consider:

  • SALT LAKE IS AN INLAND DESTINATION: Unlike Washington and California, where the majority of COVID-19 cases are located, Salt Lake is inland and away from the majority of international travelers arriving by air or sea from China and other countries experiencing the highest rate of infected individuals.
  • SALT LAKE CITY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT: Though a major hub for Delta Air Lines, Salt Lake City International does not currently have non-stop service to/from restricted countries.
  • We understand there are a number of major issues regarding coronavirus and group travel, including the legality and practicality of trying to invoke force majeure clauses. For those of you that utilize contracts within your business, it is important to remember that a true force majeure generally requires two elements:

(1) an unexpected/unanticipated event, AND
(2) the event is illegal or impossible to fulfill as a result.

*Currently, most group concerns are an attrition issue, not a force majeure.

Other facts to consider:

  • OUTDOOR RECREATION: Salt Lake provides many opportunities for outdoor recreation, which is a good alternative for those concerned about going to crowded tourist attractions and the associated potential risk for contracting the virus.
  • TRAVEL COSTS: With so many people staying home due to fear of the virus, hotel rates and other associated travel costs are lower.

To see the toolkit page Visit Salt Lake has created, including additional information, go here.

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Visit Salt Lake
90 South West Temple
Salt Lake, UT 84101
VisitSaltLake.com

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World Health Organization Q&A

Travel Apps

Your Road Trip Checklist: 7 Things to Remember

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It’s a dangerous business, Frodo, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don’t keep your feet, there’s no knowing where you might be swept off to. – J.R.R. Tolkien

What does freedom feel like to you? For new students, snowbirds, or fortunate victims to wanderlust, this freedom likely manifests itself in the form of a full tank of gas and an open road. Whether you are heading home, to the airport, to the coast, or simply wherever the road takes you, the commencement of any road trip is full of possibilities.

Just like any type of freedom, it comes with a cost. There is a literal cost associated — road trips tend to dip into your wallet, if just for gas alone. You also face several hours in the car alone or, for better or for worse, with a full cab. You need to consider food, lodging, and not to mention you are racing several thousand pounds of machinery through the country which denotes some obvious hazards.

Prepping for your road trip, however, can be a joy. After all, remember, with the freedom of the open road there are innumerable possibilities. How will you equip yourself for such a journey? Here are some things we believe you should absolutely consider when getting ready to hit the road.

healthy snacks on a road trip

Snacks

A robust cache of road trip snacks is invaluable when driving cross-country. Your body is still burning calories just by sitting there, and more so if your playlist is good. Plus, what else is going to keep you awake when the hour is late and the scenery is bland? (Or if your playlist is bad.) You never really need an excuse for snacks, but a road trip is a good one.

Some tips: avoid too much sugar. It tastes delightful and makes you feel great while listening to “Life is a Highway” for the fourteenth time. But you’ll crash hard. Maybe in more ways than one. Caffeine may or may not sustain you; a good alternative is orange juice or green tea. Try throwing in some healthy snacks like apples or something that will make you work, like sunflower seeds.

listening to a podcast on a road trip

A Curated Soundtrack

Depending on your destination, you’re facing a lot of hours just staring straight ahead. Thinking time is criminally underrated, but it is also good to fill the silence.

Assemble a killer road trip playlist with a good mix of your favorite tunes. Get creative and try to explore beyond the hooks of the afore-mentioned “Life is a Highway” or “Surfin’ USA.” Finding songs named after your destination or places you’re traveling through can be fun — then again, your music choice doesn’t have to evoke a place at all. Songs with deeper meanings and plenty of layers engage your mind — rotate these in with more danceable tracks.

You don’t have to limit yourself to music, either. Subscribe to different podcasts that interest you, or rent an audiobook online or from the library. However you can best engage your mind and senses is worth preparing beforehand. Above all, avoid distracting yourself from attentive driving.

hand out the window - road trip

A Working Vehicle

There’s something thrilling about going by the seat of your pants, just hopping in and handing the reigns over to fate and adventure. But you may find that if you’re too footloose, you could end up stranded on the side of a lonely stretch of highway — you don’t want that much adventure.

Swing by your favorite service center on your way out of town for a last-minute checkup. Get an oil change, top off your fluids, replace wipers, whatever you have to do to ensure a safe journey. Your vehicle will thank you and show you a heartwarming amount of loyalty throughout your road trip.

road trip buddies

The Buddy System

Some of the best memories you can create are shared memories of a road trip. Inside jokes, stories both intimate and exaggerated, and experiences at that one place with the guy will follow you forever. This is the principle upon which some of the best travel and buddy comedies build: Planes, Trains, and Automobiles, Thelma & Louise, Dumb and Dumber…in fact, has there been a good travel comedy recently? Shout at me.

Whether you take a friend, a family member, or a perfect stranger, this person or people will undoubtedly make your road trip memorable. That being said, Salt Lake Express generally advises against picking up hitchhikers.

idaho map for a road trip

An Old Fashioned Map

Yes, I know you usually get your instructions from Siri. And sure, if you’re heading home chances are you already know the way. This one is more of a fun invitation: buy a roadmap from the gas station while you’re filling up and let it be your guide. Not only does it enhance the adventure but it gives you a bigger picture of where you are. You’ll learn more about surrounding areas and maybe even be tempted to take a quick detour to see that thing over there. Plus, when dead zones may strip your phone of its authority, your map will cease to be a novelty and will save the day.

However, it is the digital age, and we recommend you also keep your phone charged and ready to save your bacon. Physical maps don’t update as quickly or often as Google Maps…you should be ready to let technology go to work when you need it.

first aid kit on a road trip

Emergency Supplies

As they say, “[stuff] happens” and perhaps, despite all your precautionary measures, you end up stranded or worse (we certainly hope not). You don’t have to plan on it before you head out the door but absolutely plan for it. Again, this undercuts the spontaneity that can be so fun about road trips. But when it comes down to it, you’ll be very glad you thought ahead.

Keep some emergency cash on hand and pack a little extra food and water than you normally would for yourself. Also, and this is just a good rule of thumb, keep a full first aid kit and blankets in your car.

And don’t just pack safely for yourself — it’s good practice to carry extra automotive fluids, a spare tire/jack, and if you’re a super prepper maybe even a gallon of gasoline. The most important thing is that you feel secure when hitting the open road.

open road on a road trip

Games

What was your favorite road trip game to play as a kid? Pumping your arm to make semi drivers honk their horns? I Spy? M.A.S.H.? Mad Libs? Kids are amazing at coming up with fun ways to pass the time, and as an adult, you can too.

Sometimes you have to dig a little deeper if you are the driver and can’t get too distracted. You can entertain yourself (and your passengers) without the luxury of “games”, too; pretend you’re a guest on a talk show host and ask yourself questions or sing about things you pass on the road. It sounds a little crazy right now, but after enough time in the car (and perhaps enough caffeine) it can become very entertaining.

Assuming you have everything else packed, you’re all set to get going. Charge your phone and your camera battery, lock up behind you and let the road trip begin.

When To Visit Las Vegas

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Las Vegas. When is the best time to visit? Well, it’s complicated. Do you like the summer sun and heat? Do you prefer it more mild? How do you handle large crowds? Here at St. George Express we have our own opinions. However, we hope that this article provides a good blueprint for when to visit a place like Las Vegas based on what you value.

Best Time To Visit Las Vegas If You Like The Sun & Heat

June through August. This might seem like an easy and obvious answer. But hear us out. While the average temperatures in the mid-100s can be a lot to handle, Las Vegas understands how to combat this. If you’ve never walked the strip before don’t be afraid. You can actually walk a good portion (if not the majority) of the strip inside the hotels and casinos. You’ll often just have short walks outside to cross the streets between each property.

Now, if you enjoy laying out by the pool or a makeshift beach somewhere, this is perfect for you. You don’t exert too much energy getting from point A to B. This isn’t a trip to the beach in southern California where you need to battle for a parking spot and then walk a good distance just to enjoy the beach and the sun. No. In Las Vegas you can walk right out to your hotel’s pool, grab a chaise lounge, and sip your cool beverage. Is it still blazing hot? Sure. But you didn’t get all dirty and sweaty just to get to your destination. You can soak up all that vitamin D and then dip yourself into the cool pool if you find that you’re overheating.

Another great bonus for visiting Las Vegas this time of year is for the crowds. A lot of people want to visit in the more temperate or mild months, opening up the peak heat of summer just for you. But we’ll get into that later on.

Best Time To Visit If You DON’T Like The Heat

March to May and September through November. There’s a trade off here. With average temps ranging from the mid-60s to the upper-80s, this is a prime time to visit Vegas. And everyone else has the same idea. These months often hold the highest amount of work conferences and trade shows. This brings a high volume of visitors to the area. They can be corporate stiffs or families on vacation. Everyone wants to escape for a long weekend in Sin City.

This isn’t necessarily a bad time to visit. Because again, the weather is so moderate and nice that it makes dealing with bigger crowds worth it. Airfare is typically just a touch more pricey during these months but still manageable. Las Vegas continues to be one of the better destinations to fly into.

Best Time To Visit If You REALLY DON’T Like The Heat

December through February. I’m not sure that we really need to dive into this one too deeply. It can actually get moderately “cool” during December and January in Vegas. Average temps are in the upper-50s. However, if you’re looking to escape the frozen tundra of places like Idaho or Montana, this will feel like a welcome relief.

Busiest Times In Las Vegas

According to Vegas Unzipped, there are certain events that consistently bring in massive crowds to the area. These include major sporting events like the Super Bowl, March Madness, or NFR (National Finals Rodeo). There are also a few holidays that you might want to avoid if you don’t like big crowds. Check out the full list here.

Best Way To Get Around

We might be a touch biased, but we’re pretty sure there’s no better way than using St. George Express. If you don’t want to have to worry about putting the wear and tear on your own vehicle or dealing with the rental car process, then we are the solution you’re looking for.

St George Express is helping you elevate your bus travel experience

You can book your trip at anytime and we provide a great option if you’re flying into the Las Vegas Airport. However, if you’re not flying we can drive you to Las Vegas from as far away as Boise, ID, Great Falls, MT, or even Jackson, WY.

Stop side-stepping the issue and be spontaneous. Book your trip to Las Vegas today! We’ll take care of getting you around!

Visit Marble Canyon: Things To See & Do

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Marble Canyon is located just southwest of Page, Arizona, and boy is it a sight to behold. Rather, there are sights to behold. Whether you’re taking a drive on the 104 mile stretch of the Vermillion Cliffs Scenic Highway or fishing the Colorado River, there’s a wealth of things to do. Let’s dive in!

Marble Canyon: SEE

We all know that southern Utah and northern Arizona contain some of the most showstopping views in the country. However, do you know where to find all of them. It can actually be quite overwhelming. But no worries, we’re here to help guide you.

If you’re flying from somewhere to see Marble Canyon you’re most likely flying into one of these cities: St. George, Utah or Las Vegas, Nevada. If you don’t want to worry about a rental car or relying on a friend to pick you up, the best solution is to book one of our Salt Lake Express Shuttle buses. You could ride one from the airports in Las Vegas or St. George directly to the Marble Canyon region.

Once here, there’s an enormous amount to see. Let’s break it down for you.

Vermillion Cliffs Scenic Highway

If you happen to be riding one of our shuttles from Las Vegas or St. George you’ll be fortunate enough to ride along Highway 89A. Also known as the Vermillion Cliffs Scenic Highway. It has to be one of the most amazing drives in the country. You’ll see huge sandstone cliffs in the Vermillion canyons.

The Navajo Bridge

You’ll also get to see the Navajo Bridge, which rises over 465 feet above the Colorado River below. According to the National Park Service, the older, historic bridge was completed in 1929. The newer, modern bridge was completed in 1995, effectively retiring the historic bridge after 66 years of service.

Not only are the views breathtaking, but hearing the difference in the cost of the bridges is as well. In 1929 the historic bridge cost just $390,000 to construct, while the modern bridge cost $14,700,000 in 1995! Whoa, that’s a lot of dough. There’s also the Navajo Bridge Interpretive Center that you can visit as well. There’s a seasonal visitors center, bookstore, and an area for Native American craft vendors.

Marble Canyon

Only about two hours from Flagstaff, Marble Canyon is magnificent. Popular sites are the Glen Canyon Dam, Lee’s Ferry, and the Navajo Bridge we mentioned above. Imagine everything you love about Zion National Park but just a little less crowded. Marble Canyon is not only beautiful, providing cinematic views everywhere you look, but it’s also full of activities. Which brings us to our next section: Do.

Marble Canyon: DO

While the views are incredible, sometimes you just need to do more than look at something. You need to get out there and explore, touch, and experience. And believe us, there’s plenty of that in the Marble Canyon region.

Fishing The Colorado River

There is a wealth of guides and outfitters in the area if you’re not sure where to start. Whether you’re utilizing one of the many guides and outfitters or if you know what you’re doing, there’s hardly a more beautiful place to commune with mother nature. Fly fishing or bait fishing, you can do it all. And as the sun sets and you’re in the half-light of the canyon, you’ll have more than one pausing moment of awe.

Kayaking The Colorado River

While you can choose a variety of transportation methods down the Colorado River, we’d recommend kayaking.  It’s such an intimate way to experience the river, the canyon, and all that they have to offer. There are dozens of companies that can rent you all the equipment you need to safely experience the river. And even though we’re partial to kayaking, if it’s not your thing there are options for canoes, boats, and even stand-up paddleboards.

Exploring The Historic Cliff Dwellings

Not far from the Navajo Bridge you’ll find the Old Cliff Dwellers Lodge, also known as the Blanche Russell Rock House. It has been restored and still maintains its 1920s charm. Travelers can stay there as they rest from all their activities. There are cabins onsite that offer TVs, coffee, and private bathrooms. There’s even a restaurant that serves but barbecue and sandwiches on a patio that overlooks the desert below. This unique place is actually listed as a National Historic Site in Marble Canyon.

Marble Canyon: GO

Now that we’ve pitched you on just a fraction of the fun things to see and experience in and around Marble Canyon, it’s time for you to book your trip. Just keep it simple by hopping on one of our buses that takes you out to the area where you can leave worry behind and adventure ahead.

Simply enter your travel dates where you book a trip and see what’s available. And you never know, you might get lucky and snag one of our $19 fares!

Travel Apps for St George Express

Travel Apps to Download for Your Road Trip

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After writing Travel Tips For The Ultimate Road Warrior, we realized we could do a whole separate piece just about helpful travel apps to download before hitting the road.

So if you’re planning a road trip this summer, or you know you’ll be driving your way back to Rexburg, make sure you try these travel apps and let us know your experience.

GasBuddy

If you’re driving instead of flying, you’re probably trying to save some money. So why not save on gas too? GasBuddy is a mobile app that shows users all of the available gas options nearby and their prices. The app works based on user reports, and GasBuddy rewards users for updating a station’s prices. If you earn enough points, you can enter raffles for prizes, like free gas. 

iExit

Think about all the reasons you might need to make a quick pitstop — that’s exactly what iExit is for. Need a nap? Need to grab some snacks? Need to get some cash from an ATM? iExit helps you see what businesses and facilities are coming up on your route and what exit you need to take to get there. The app also lets you search for specific businesses or perks so if you’re looking for Taco Bell, it’ll help you find the closest one. If you’re looking for Wi-Fi or a campground, it can help you find those too.

Google Maps

While there are countless navigation apps that you could use for mapping your trip, Google Maps is easily one of the most functional and simplistic to use. It offers turn-by-turn directions specific to your mode of transportation, so even if you’re riding a bicycle for part of your trip, it’ll get you where you need to go. You can also add multiple destinations if your plan is to hit several locations in succession. Maps also lets you know when places with strict hours of operation close and checks to see if the route you’re taking includes tolls.

Spotify

Road trips, especially cross-country hauls, are a great reason to catch up on all the music releases you’ve missed since high school. Spotify arguably is the most practical way to control the soundtrack of your journey with on-demand music. Spotify provides curated playlists specifically designed for road trips and an enormous library of artists, bands and podcasts to listen to. The app is free, but if you want to ditch the ads, you might want to consider the $9.99-a-month premium subscription ($4.99 for students). And unless you’ve got unlimited data, make sure you download everything for offline listening.

Flush Toilet Finder

It might seem like a joke to include an app that helps you find and rate public restrooms, but Flush Toilet Finder might be what saves you and your shorts from a nasty gas station porta-potty.  The app uses location sensors to check its database of more than 200,000 toilets worldwide, and even while offline will show you nearby toilets with information about fees, key requirements or handicap access. With the ability to integrate with Google Maps, you can even get specific directions to the restroom of your choice.

Travel apps to accompany you on the road

Obviously, there are countless travel apps that will help you improve your travel experience. Depending on what you’re looking to do, there might be something out there that these apps just can’t do. But these are some of the best for any road trip experience. If you decide to give them a try, or if you find something you like better, let us know. We’re always looking for cool new travel apps.

All of these apps are free to download and can be used on iOS or Android devices.

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How Do I Become A Driver for St. George Express?

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One of the most commonly asked questions we get here at St. George Express is: How do I become a driver?

Short answer — just apply! We don’t require any formal commercial driving experience and our trainers are comfortable working with all skill levels. We offer free commercial driver’s license (CDL) training, which is about a $600 value, and work with you to ensure that you’re prepared to hit the road.

Our only requirements are: All drivers must be 21 years or older, must have a valid driver’s license and CDL, and have no more than two moving violations in the last year.

That’s it! We offer part-time and full-time employment opportunities and have bus routes at all times of the day, allowing you to work when your schedule permits. Drivers can sign on to make daily trips to and from Salt Lake or go into our charter program with trips to the many national parks and residential destinations in-between.

It’s a fairly simple process from there, with the only real hurdle being obtaining your CDL. If you’re already certified, you could start driving as soon as we process all your information.

For new drivers that have never driven commercial vehicles before, we’ll put you through training for free. Although it takes time, the application steps are pretty straightforward and there’s a lot you can do to be prepared.

STEP ONE: LEARN THE MATERIAL

The first step is to stop by your local DMV and pick up a copy of your state’s CDL manual. When you officially apply for your CDL, you’ll need to take a written knowledge test. Ensure that you’ve studied the manual carefully because it provides all the information you’ll be tested on.

STEP TWO: LEARN TO DRIVE

Once you’ve passed your written test, you can start driving with a learner’s permit under the supervision of one of our driving trainers.

When you feel comfortable behind the wheel, and have the required hours of practice in, you can take the CDL skills test. You will be tested on specific driving skills based on the type of vehicles you’ll be driving and regular tasks you’ll need to perform on the road.

STEP THREE: GET ON THE ROAD

After you pass the skills test, your CDL will be issued to you and you’ll be an officially certified driver. If you’re planning to drive commercial vehicles long-term, the value of a CDL will extend beyond your time driving with St. George Express.

The are several benefits of starting your driving career with us. If you’re planning on working any sort of commercial driving job from express shuttle services like ours, to school bus drivers, a CDL will be required. Getting the experience of driving for St. George Express will set you up to drive commercial vehicles anywhere. Not to mention the growth opportunities, employee health insurance and sign on bonus for qualifying applicants.

So if you happen to be wondering: How do I become a driver? Apply here, or just give us a call at (800) 356-9796. One of our customer service representatives would be happy to get you started.

Snow Canyon State Park

What To Do In Snow Canyon State Park

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Home to some of the most breathtaking vistas and diverse life in the west, Snow Canyon State Park has much to offer its visitors. The appeal of this state park is reflected in its average attendance of a quarter million visitors annually. Why do so many people visit Snow Canyon? What is there to do in all 7,400 acres of this state park? You’re about to learn.

Hiking

There are over thirty-eight miles of hiking trails in Snow Canyon State Park. These many trails range from easy to moderate, making it a very family-friendly hiking destination. There is also a three-mile paved trail for walking and biking as well as fifteen miles of equestrian trails. Nevertheless, hikers of all skill levels will enjoy the beautiful canyons and dunes of Snow Canyon.

Some of our top picks are White Rocks Trail/Lava Overlook, Whiptail Trail, Petrified Sand Dunes Trail, and Johnson Canyon. Find a more comprehensive list here.

Snow Canyon State Park

Camping

One of the good things about Snow Canyon’s location — besides the amazing landscape for which people visit — is the fact that it rarely receives snow. Low precipitation and mild climate allow for their campground to be open year-round.

The campsites feature a large number of amenities and accommodate motorhomes, RVs, and tents. Water hookups, bathrooms, electricity, and more are available to campers, and pets are allowed. Anything you need for your basic camping or extravagant glamping is available.

Reserve your campsite at Snow Canyon State Park here.

Wildlife Viewing

Snow Canyon’s location not only creates a welcoming climate for camping, but its geography lends to fascinating wildlife. Situated at the crossroads of the Mojave Desert, Great Basin, and Colorado Plateau, its dryness attracts a unique fauna. In fact, wildlife enthusiasts can discover thirteen state or federally-protected sensitive species, such as the peregrine falcon, desert tortoise, and Gila monster.

You can, of course, see many, many other types of wildlife in the park. The Utah Department of Natural Resources has identified coyotes, kit foxes, quail, roadrunners, and more. If you have an eye for wildlife you’re sure to see much more!

Always remember to exercise caution around wildlife; look, do not touch.

Snow Canyon State Park

Photography

Whether you’re into wildlife, beautiful views, or different species of plants, Snow Canyon State Park is a haven for photographers. The red Navajo sandstone and black lava rock make for colorful, stark, and striking backdrops. Wildflowers are beautiful in the spring and fall, and everything from narrow leaf yucca to blackbrush dot the landscape. Time and climate have carefully carved out this beautiful state park for us, and a picture is worth more than a thousand words — its beauty is inspiring.

Taking photographs is highly recommended; removal of plants, rocks, or wildlife is not.

Junior Ranger

Snow Canyon State Park is also a proud participant in the Junior Ranger Program, which is a national program to educate children on state parks. Their mission is best expressed in their motto: “Explore, Learn, Protect!”

Kids between the ages of 5-13 can participate in this program by following a few simple steps. You don’t have to go to Snow Canyon to earn some of the badges, but it sure makes it a lot more fun! As you and your child explore Snow Canyon State Park, you’ll both love what you see and learn.

Snow Canyon State Park

At over 7,000 acres, Snow Canyon State Park has everything to offer: gorgeous vistas, hiking, camping, wildlife, and activities for visitors of all ages. Plan your trip, remember to take pictures, and take in the wonder of one of Utah’s amazing state parks.

St George Express is helping you elevate your bus travel experience

How to Elevate Your Bus Travel Experience

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Unfortunately, trying to survive the ride to school and back is the only sort of bus travel many people are familiar with. Fortunately, 1985 is long behind us, and whether or not you have a lunchbox no longer determines how many times you’ll get hit in the back of the head by a bully who just discovered spitballs.

Even though we’ve all grown up a little, there are still some quick to-dos to ensure you avoid any unnecessary discomfort when riding the bus. Check out our list of ways to elevate your bus travel experience.

Hand sanitizer

Let’s be honest, other people can be disgusting. Most long-distance bus travel companies provide travelers with multiple opportunities to use the restroom, but may you want to clean up sooner than later.  If you accidentally touch some “ABC” bubblegum under the seat, a travel size bottle of hand sanitizer can be a lifesaver in an otherwise sticky situation.

Snacks

We all get the munchies from time to time. Remembering to bring a bag of chips or a chocolate bar can help soothe that sweet tooth or put off the tummy-grumbles until you reach your final destination.

Tablet (Laptop)

Sometimes looking out the window is all the entertainment you need, but it helps to have other options on long bus rides. Prepping a tablet or laptop with your favorite eBooks, podcasts, TV shows or movies can help you pass the time when you grow tired of looking at corn fields.

Neck pillow

Despite the efforts of everyone at St. George Express, bus travel isn’t always the most comfortable experience. Bringing a travel size pillow can give you just enough cushion to sleep through the entire trip or take a quick power nap.

Battery charger

Most bus travel companies like St. George Express have individual charging outlets on each bus, but bringing a personal battery charger is a smart backup plan. If you’re expecting an important phone call or need to make sure you’re fully charged for your entire trip, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Sweatshirt (blanket)

You never really know if the temperature on the bus will be too hot or too cold. Speaking to the driver of the bus can be a solution but packing a lightweight blanket or a sweatshirt you can quickly throw on will help keep you comfortable if it’s a little chilly on board.

Travel Bag

Last but certainly not least, the one thing that will let you bring all the other things with you. A backpack or travel bag is the perfect way to pack your snacks, tablet, blanket and hand sanitizer, while still keeping your hands free.

You want your trip to go smoothly, and so do we. St. George Express does everything we can to make your experience as positive as possible, but remembering some small personal items can make all the difference.