Driving from The View hotel to Gouldings Lodge after sunset

Question

We will be staying for one night at The View hotel. After reading reviews about the food at The View (particularly for specific dietary requirements) I am thinking about going to Gouldings Lodge for dinner.

I've read on these forums that it's not safe to drive in this area after dark due to animals wandering on the road. Would it be relatively safe to drive the few miles between these two locations at quite low speed? Also, presumably I would change time zones on the way out and again on the way back.

Thanks

Answer

The drive from The View Hotel to Goulding’s Lodge is very short, roughly 5–6 miles along US-163, but there are some important considerations, especially after dark.

Safety Concerns:

Wildlife: This area is known for deer, elk, and other animals crossing the road, particularly around dusk and after dark. Collisions are rare if driving cautiously, but animals can appear suddenly and be difficult to see at night.
Road Conditions: The road is paved and in generally good condition. There are no sharp curves or steep grades along this short stretch, but it is relatively rural with minimal lighting.
Visibility: Headlights provide adequate illumination, but the landscape is open desert, so you may experience glare from reflections or limited visibility of small wildlife.

Driving Tips:

Drive slowly and stay alert. Recommended speed is well below the posted limit—around 25–30 mph is reasonable for safe reaction time.
Use high beams when no oncoming traffic is present, but switch to low beams if another vehicle approaches.
Have a flashlight or phone handy in case of emergencies, though cell service may be spotty.

Time Zone Considerations:

The View Hotel is in the Mountain Standard Time Zone (MST).
Goulding’s Lodge is in Utah, also MST during standard time (Arizona does not observe daylight saving, so during DST periods, the times may appear offset). For a short evening drive, the time difference is minimal, but be aware if coordinating dinner reservations or other timing-sensitive activities.

Summary:

Driving from The View Hotel to Goulding’s Lodge at night is generally safe if you drive slowly and remain vigilant for wildlife. The short distance makes it manageable, but do not expect street lighting or roadside assistance along the way. Many visitors do this drive without incident, especially for a dinner outing. Ensure your vehicle lights are in good condition and avoid distractions while driving.

Driving from The View hotel to Gouldings Lodge after sunset

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