Sunset Point sits between Black Canyon City and Cordes Junction, a stretch of highway where drivers routinely report full rest areas and limited safe places to stop. The new lot directly targets that pressure point.

What Was Added at Sunset Point

The new parking area adds 19 additional truck spaces to a rest area where capacity has consistently been strained.

“The new lot on Interstate 17 between Black Canyon City and Cordes Junction features 19 spaces at a rest area where demand is high for truck parking, as the existing 27 spaces for commercial vehicles are often at or near capacity,” ADOT said. “The $4.1 million project also added waterless vaulted toilets and covered ramadas.”

For drivers, this means more room to park legally and access basic amenities without risking violations or unsafe roadside stops.

Why ADOT Used a Different Construction Approach

To stretch funding and accelerate delivery, ADOT used a lower-cost surface design instead of traditional pavement.

“The lot was constructed with gravel supported with a grid, which costs about half as much as asphalt pavement,” ADOT said. “The surface is permeable, which maximizes the space available for parking because no water retention areas are needed.”

This approach allowed the state to add parking faster while still supporting heavy truck use, a key factor as Arizona works to close its truck parking gap.

More Truck Parking Coming Across Arizona

Sunset Point is only one piece of a larger plan. ADOT is building hundreds of new truck parking spaces at rest areas where demand is highest along Arizona’s interstate system.

The following projects are scheduled to come online next:

• I-40 Parks Rest Area, west of Flagstaff
  Reopening in spring 2026 for truck parking only, adding 21 new spaces to the 18 already in place.
• I-17 Christensen Rest Area, south of Flagstaff
  Reopening in spring 2026 for truck parking only, restoring 21 spaces.
• I-10 Burnt Wells Rest Area, west of Phoenix
  Adding 125 truck parking spaces in late 2026.
• I-40 Meteor Crater Rest Area, west of Winslow
  Adding 133 spaces in winter 2027.

These projects follow the opening of 57 new truck parking spaces at the Haviland Rest Area on I-40 west of Kingman in December.

How the Parking Locations Were Chosen

The current buildout is based on Arizona’s 2023 Statewide Truck Parking Implementation Plan, developed through public feedback and direct coordination with the trucking industry.

The plan prioritizes rest areas along Interstates 10, 17, 40, and 8 where overnight demand is highest and alternative parking options are limited. Most of the new capacity is being added at existing facilities, along with two proposed truck-only lots.

Study documents and maps outlining recommended truck parking locations are available through ADOT’s implementation plan materials here.

Why This Matters for Drivers

For drivers moving freight through Arizona, additional parking at known choke points like Sunset Point means fewer end-of-day scrambles, lower risk of hours-of-service violations, and safer rest opportunities. While the total shortage has not disappeared, each added space reduces pressure across the system.

As more of these projects open over the next two years, drivers should see incremental improvements along some of the state’s busiest freight corridors.

The post ADOT Adds New Truck Parking at Sunset Point to Ease I-17 Congestion appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Why It’s Worth Exploring the Less-Traveled Truck Stops

The big travel plazas have their place, but occasionally, venturing off the beaten path brings unexpected rewards:

• Home-cooked meals that are actually homemade
• Friendly staff who treat drivers like family
• Cleaner facilities that never feel crowded
• Memories of meals and interactions you just don’t experience at major chains

America’s Undiscovered Truck Stop Favorites

Keystone Restaurant & Truck Stop – Loretto, Pennsylvania

Drivers love Keystone for its welcoming diner atmosphere, hearty classics, and reliable cleanliness. There’s a deli for snacks and a convenience store for forgotten essentials, making this spot perfect whether you’re pausing for coffee or a full meal.

Waynesville Truck Plaza – Waynesville, North Carolina

Located in the scenic mountains, Waynesville’s local roast coffee and comfort food from the Haywood 209 Restaurant keep drivers coming back. Drivers talk up the peaceful surroundings and genuine hospitality, which are perfect for a well-earned break.

Busy Bee – Jasper, Florida

Small but consistently full of life, Busy Bee offers quick, cheerful service. Their reputation for homemade fudge and exceptionally clean restrooms means even a short visit feels special. It’s a favorite stop for truckers on I-75 looking to recharge.

Big Horn Travel Center – Fort Worth, Texas

Big Horn stands out for spotless facilities, a display of local wildlife, and plenty of convenient add-ons like air and water. With a bustling food court and accommodating staff, it’s a comforting stop for drivers passing through Texas.

Circle C Travel Plaza – Walterboro, South Carolina

The highlight here is Necee’s Restaurant, serving a classic Southern buffet in a friendly, laid-back setting. Plenty of parking and a regular crowd of truckers make it a reliable spot on I-95.

A & A Truck Stop – Jackson, Ohio

Locals and drivers alike appreciate A & A’s honest food and fair prices. Friendly staff and a no-frills vibe help make each visit feel a little like coming home.

Tiffin River Service Plaza – West Unity, Ohio

Drivers searching for a relaxed stop with quality amenities consistently rate Tiffin River as one of the best. The lounge, games, and convenient dining make longer breaks more enjoyable.

South of the Border – Hamer, South Carolina

With a playful roadside attraction feel, South of the Border is anything but ordinary. Around-the-clock dining, quirky shops, and colorful neon make it a stop worth taking, even if just to brighten your day.

Noble’s Restaurant and Truck Stop – Corinth, Kentucky

Looking for authentic, home-style dishes at a fair price? Noble’s serves up classic favorites in a laid-back setting, making it popular with regulars and visitors alike.

Dysart’s Truck Stop – Hermon, Maine

Dysart’s is a legendary stop in the Northeast, especially known for fresh pies and generous meals. The family-run vibe and ample parking keep truckers coming back trip after trip.

Tips for Discovering More Great Spots

To truly make the most of your drives, try a few new strategies:

• Check out trucker forums and apps where drivers share reviews and honest feedback.
• Give independent diners and cafés attached to smaller stops a try—they’re often less crowded and more personal.
• Ask fellow drivers for their must-stop spots when you’re swapping stories at a rest area or fuel island.

There’s a special kind of joy in finding a truck stop or diner that gets it right. Whether it’s the food, the people, or the small comforts that make your job easier, those hidden gems can make the miles roll by a little bit sweeter. Next time you’re planning your route, consider one of these under-the-radar favorites. Who knows—you might just add a new story to your journey.

The post Hidden Gems: America’s Best Kept Secret Truck Stops and Diners appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Located off Interstate 57 at U.S. Route 62, Exit 12, this new travel stop is just about 16 miles from the existing Love’s in Sikeston, adding another reliable destination for drivers on the road.

With this launch, Love’s now operates 25 travel stops across Missouri, further solidifying its commitment to meeting the needs of drivers throughout the region.

Features of Charleston Love’s Location:

• Parking: 76 dedicated truck parking spaces

• Dining Options: Love’s Fresh Kitchen and Arby’s are now open

• Diesel Bays: Seven diesel bays

• Showers: Four private showers are available for professional drivers

• Laundry: On-site laundry facilities for added convenience

• CAT Scale: Ensuring accurate weights for trucks

• Dog Park: A pet-friendly area where drivers’ furry companions can stretch their legs

• Self-Checkout: Options for faster and easier transactions

This new location combines essential services with added conveniences to create an experience that exceeds the expectations of busy professional drivers.

Whether you’re fueling up, grabbing a meal, or taking a break to recharge, Love’s aims to deliver quality amenities and comfort every step of the way.

Source: Truckers News
Image Source: Love’s Travel Stops

The post Love’s Opens New Travel Stop Along I-57 in Charleston, Missouri appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.