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teeznu's avatar
teeznu
Explorer
Mar 24, 2022

Utah State Hwy 9

Will be traveling from Hurricane to Mnt Carmel Junction on Utah State Hwy 9 in a 40ft motor home pulling a 25ft car hauler trailer. Notice its a little "windie" in areas. And, are there any "height" restrictions?
Thanks to all who respond in advance.
  • For you to drive the tunnel on your own the height restriction is 11'4".

    From 11'5" - 13'1" you can still use it but need to purchase a permit. Then they'll close one lane and let you drive down the middle.

    So basically.... 13'1" is the limit.

    https://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/the-zion-mount-carmel-tunnel.htm

    Anytime you use a national park it's very helpful to go directly to their nps.gov website for lots of good information on roads, special alerts, closings, things to do, campgrounds, etc.
  • Yes, You can get to Zion but not Bryce.
    You could use your toad to go to Bryce. Use Zion for base camp. Would be long day to visit Bryce, but well worth going through tunnel and seeing that portion of Zion on the way.
  • Can you get to Zion and Bryce Canyon on Hwy 9 prior to the tunnel? And thanks to all who have responded. I'd heard of the tunnel, but that's been about it.
  • The height of the tunnel as well as the multiple switchbacks on that road argue against you. Even if you can drive it, it won’t be much fun. Lots of adventure, but not much fun.
  • I've done that tunnel with a 30' bumper pull and it's intense. Even just driving it in my bare dually (no RV) I had to pay extra to stop traffic and drive down the center.

    Google Maps shows the other route is more miles but the same elapsed time. It's an interesting drive if you've never done it before.

  • I would also be concerned about the switch backs as it is a good chance that you will drag your trailer tongue.
  • That route takes you through the park and the tunnel. The height restriction is 11' 4". We drove through with our travel trailer. Traffic is stopped in both directions to allow RVs to drive down the middle. It's quite the experience. I've seen big buses and FW's go through. There is an extra charge of $15, but worth it.