In Logan Canyon the road winds with the river and gains elevation at every turn. We pull off at China Cave, a cliff that juts out over the river. The limestone crags along Highway 89 in Logan Canyon are one of America's original sport climbing destinations.

Highway 89 wraps around the western edge of Bear Lake. Famous for its turquoise color, the lake is sometimes called the "Caribbean of the Rockies." Gray skies dull the color, but we still take the opportunity to go for a run.

Just prior to reaching Jackson, Highway 89 runs parallel with the emerald-green current of the Snake River. The rocky ledges overlooking Lunch Counter rapid make an ideal spot for a picnic lunch.

In the ranchlands of Star Valley, Wyoming, Highway 89 follows the path of the Salt River, a waterway with a reputation for brown and cutthroat trout.

While touring the Tetons, president Theodore Roosevelt famously said, "This is how mountains are supposed to look." Just before descending, the clouds rolled back like a curtain and we made fresh tracks with the grandest of views in our periphery.

At Backcountry, it’s no secret that we have a passion for great gear. Check out the top picks from our road trip north on old highway 89.