Here's the scoop...Need advice!
I'm going to start branching out to more remote canyons (i.e. not zion - so...escalante, swell, roost, north wash, etc.). The problem is that I live in Washington...
2-3 times a year I fly into Las Vegas (because it's super cheap to fly in there) visit Utah and rent anything from a cheap cheap sedan (typically for visits to Zion) or a mid sized SUV (for a previous visit to Egypt). This September a buddy and I are spending 14 days hitting canyons in Southern Utah in the more remote areas. Now...I made it to Egypt last year in that 2WD Ford Escape...but it wasn't pretty. My concern is that areas in the Roost, North Wash, and other areas in Escalante aernt going to be as "friendly" as the paved roads in Zion or spicier dirt roads to Egypt.
So....I rent a large SUV right? 4X4?
Problem #1: its anywhere from $800-1000 for a two week period for a large 4X4. I'll suck it up if I have to....but multiplied by 1-2 Utah trips per year for several years....EXPENSIVE.
Problem #2: I'm CERTAIN that I'm violating multiple bullet points of my rental contract. I've done it before...many times.
Problem#3: I am forced to continue to bring heavy gear bags between Washington and Utah multiple times a year...despite these astoundingly heavy bags I still cook on a tiny stove, with a tiny little utensils, and sit on rocks instead of camp chairs.
So....rather than renting, I invest that money in the purchase of a well used 4X4 right? and enjoy having a beast machine at my disposal for the next several years.
Problem #1: I have no where to store this vehicle... The cost of a storage yard (particularly in Las Vegas) is prohibitive.
Problem #2: I'm beating the S**T out of MY car instead of a rental.
Problem #3: Owning a car can ALSO be expensive...
Question #1: What do you all use to get around these areas?
Question #2: Does anyone else that travels to Utah for canyoneering have the same problems I do? If so what are your solutions?
Question #3: Some access is undoubtedly precluded in the remote areas of Utah if not in a FULL size 4X4, right? Mid sized SUVs, some of which are 4WD (Kia Sportage, Ford Escape, Toyota Rav4), are cheaper to rent but have lower clearances. How well do you all think these fair out there?