MINI Takes the States Kicks off & MotoringFile is Joining the Party

[DimON]

The iconic MINI TAKES THE STATES (MTTS) rally, hosted by MINI USA, commenced this weekend, with MINI enthusiasts embarking on a challenging nine-day road trip through the some of the most scenic roads in US. And we’re getting set to join the traveling part Wednesday.

The biennial event, now in its ninth iteration, expects to draw approximately 3,000 MINI owners, with 600-800 vehicles participating daily. The rally will traverse through five states and nine cities in the western United States, covering more than 1,600 miles of picturesque landscapes.

This year’s theme, “Camp MINI,” underscores the rally’s support for the American Camp Association and Keep America Beautiful. A portion of each participant’s registration fee will be donated to these organizations, which promote adventure and environmental stewardship.

The convoy will travel through Colorado, Utah, Montana, Idaho, Oregon and Washington State, offering breathtaking views of natural wonders such as the Rio Grande, Mount Rainier, and Yellowstone National Park. Along the way, MINI owners will have the opportunity to foster deeper connections with the brand and fellow enthusiasts at a series of Rise and Rally events, preceding each leg of the journey. And naturally there will be pop-up owner led events every night.

Reflecting on the 2022 rally, which saw over 2,000 MINI owners travel across nine states and eight cities in the eastern United States, from Vermont to South Carolina, MTTS 2024 is likely going to go be a bit more grand in terms of scenery and miles driven.

Our Route and MINI(s)

No surprise we’re going to be behind the wheel of the two latest petrol-powered MINIs to reach the US. More specifically we’ll be putting some miles on the U25 MINI Countryman JCW and the F66 MINI Cooper S.

But just as important is our route. Due to scheduling conflicts I’ll will be the sole MotoringFile representative and I’m aiming to join the party at Salt Lake City just as things get interesting. Here’s the route I’m planning on taking along with some suggestions on where to go, what to see and even where to stay.

JULY 16 – Land in Salt Lake

The plan is for me to join the party in Salt Lake City on the official MTTS day off. I’ll collect my car from MINI and get prepped for the trip that begins almost immediately.

Yellowstone’s breathtaking Lower Falls and Grand Canyon

July 17 | Explore the Tetons, Bridger National Forest & Yellowstone

My first day the plan will be to deviate a bit from the formal route and head to the Tetons, Bridger National Forest and eventually Yellowstone. This route, while longer, is an epic one that should not be missed.

The exact route will heading to western Wyoming and north via 189. This will take you through Jackson (a great place to stay the night if you want to take advantage of that extra day MINI is giving you) before heading into Yellowstone itself.

Pine Creek Lodge, Paradise Valley MT

Yellowstone can be very busy this time of year but is still highly worth a visit. Pro-tip; Entering from the south entrance will save you some time and unless you have to see Old Faithful, you’re better off sticking the east side to avoid some of the traffic. It’s also a direct shot to the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone which is not to be missed.

From there the plan is to head north into Paradise Valley (it’s called that for a reason) and make a pit-stop in Livingston Montana (one of our favorite towns in the world) before heading to Bozeman.

If you can take advantage of the day off and head north early, we’d highly recommend spending some time in this area. You can stay (or just taking a dip) at Chico Hot Springs, catch a show at legendary Pine Creek lodge and even grab a drink while watching the sunset at the Sage. There’s incredible hiking as well. For that be sure to check out All Trails have a guide to take you off the beaten path.

Want recommendations for places to stay on your days off? Here are our suggestions for the area that have a bit of local flavor:

Livingston & Paradise Valley: Chico Hot Springs, Murray Hotel, Sage Lodge, Under Canvass
Bozeman: The Lark, The Kimpton Armory

The Bridger Mountains

July 18 | On Our Way to Missoula, MT Via the Lewis and Clark National Forest

We’ll be at the Giddy up to Hardscrabble Ranch – a retreat destination in the Bridger Mountains to kick off a day. Pro-tip – there will be ZERO cell reception in the Bridger Valley so be prepared.

From there we’ll hop on I-90 and head west out of the Bridger Mountains and into the expansive ranch land west of Bozeman. We’ll eventually make our way to Enjoy the serene, open spaces as we make our way to Helena, the capital of Montana and a former gold rush jewel.We’ll then head to Highway 12 winding through the Lewis and Clark National Forest. And there finally back onto I90 and Missoula.

July 19 | Missoula, MT – Spokane, WA

We’ll be opting for the scenic route once more as we take 93 N through Lolo National Forest and Flathead Reservation. The plan is to head into the forest of pines, and through McLeod Peak and Ch-Paa-qn Peak and eventually into the beautiful lakes, mountains and rivers of western Montana and Idaho. Eventually we’ll hit state Highway 95 and Washington State.

And with that, we’ll be heading back east surely with second thoughts about not going the entire way. If you want to meet up along there way, the best way is to Direct Message us via Instagram and let us know!

The post MINI Takes the States Kicks off & MotoringFile is Joining the Party appeared first on MotoringFile.

View the full article