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Stacey Butler ReportingMany Utahns are planning a four-day weekend around Pioneer Day. That means more people out and about town and on the roads.
Like they do every year people have already marked their spots along the parade route. Some are fleeing to the mountains and out of state in spite of rising gas prices and the watchful eye of the UHP.
In Utah the price of gas is up, eight cents higher than the national average. But if you're looking to drive to a campground this holiday weekend, the good news is there's room.
Reservations are down from last year at this time. It turns out a lot of campers assume that water levels are low because of the drought and steer clear. But rangers say that isn't the case. Hotels, like campgrounds, also have a lot of vacancies. And the pre-parade crowds just aren't as thick this year.
Dennis Townsend, Arkansas: “ For the 24th, it looks kind of easy to get around. I noticed several parking spots.”
But for those who are going out of town, expect to see Utah Troopers out in force.
Guy Hood, Utah Highway Patrol: “It’s going to be a busy time, but we’ll be out there. You may not see us, but we’ll be out there.”
Troopers expect a near record number of drivers on the roads this holiday weekend and remind drivers to slow down.
