Two choices...need so advice

[TwoWhldTerror]

So I have a trip planned in late August that I have two alternative start points I am considering - Spokane, WA or Salt Lake City, UT. Thus my reason for posting here is that either ride spans multiple regions (including Canada on one route) and I did not want to post multiple posts in each region. I have 4.5 days (fly in on Friday and ride out that afternoon, through the following Tuesday), then I will spend three days with family and then head out early Saturday morning for the fast run back to return the bike.

Any feedback on these would be appreciated. I like the Spokane one as I will be going into Canada. The downside is I miss some of UT plus the only place to rent a bike in Spokane rents older BMW's (I would be getting an R1100RT). The SLC route I can get a BMW 1200GS (always wanted to ride one as I am interested in buying one) but I do not get into Canada.

Also, if there are any places ya'll think I just "have" to hit please let me know!

Spokane start -

https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msid=202229402580597259108.0004bfc68caf4eff23686&msa=0

Salt Lake City start -

https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msid=202229402580597259108.0004bfc6ec13ea3e628c5&msa=0

 

[gixxerjasen]

I have nothing to add except jealousy.

 

[WRichStrom]

Tough choices but I live a couple hours from Spokane and am partial to our area. I think the riding in the northwest and especially in British Columbia is just fantastic, so that would be my choice. If you wanted some additional bike choices you could fly into Seattle and certainly have more choices than the R1100RT. Best wishes in your final choice.

 

[SacramentoMike]

Considering the time of year--heat and vacation traffic favor the more northerly route, IMO. I think it's got more tasty roads, too, but they both look pretty good. It's nice to be stuck between a pillow and a soft place, isn't it?

 

[Aasland]

I would suggest a little modification which would do the following:

1. Avoid Yellowstone's worst traffic (it is a parking lot in the summer)

2. Ride Chief Joseph and Beartooth Pass

3. Take in a Pickle Barrel sandwich in Bozeman, MT

https://g.co/maps/d8xwt

 

[TwoWhldTerror]

Thanks everyone for the input. I have one other possible choice that certainly adds a few miles, but also lets me hit some additional great roads. What about this?

Start from Seattle

 

[mikebike]

It will all be so different than Georgia you will enjoy..... I would opt for the Washington Banff Route due to traffic & heat in the Utah route. I have not motorcycled there but have bicycled extensively in that area. Yellowstone will be a SLOW part of your ride due to crowds.

Take lots of pics and post up a report