Oh, I'd rather go and journey
Where the diamond crests are glowin'
And run across the valley
Beneath the sacred mountain
And wander through the forest
Where the trees have leaves of prisms
And break the light in colours
That no one knows the names of
King/Geffen
It really is about the journey.
Sat at breakfast this morning and it just didn't feel right. Quickly realized what it was, we hadn't pulled out a road map to discuss the days route and no one had turned the tv to the weather channel. That really made it hit home that the trip was just about over.
18 days, 5000+ miles, 4,500+ miles designated scenic drives, under 300 miles on interstates. We missed some things but thanks to paper maps and friendly people along the way we found the most incredible roads.
A thanks to the friends who ride with me, and those that want to. A very special thanks to my family for putting up with my absence.
Last a thanks to my best friend, lover, and wife who encourages me to never stop "Runnin Against The Wind".
Chuck
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
DAY 17
Pulled out of Page at a decent time and we had planned a route to Show Low that was on scenic roads for everything but about 23 miles of I-40. Of course this was about 140 miles farther than the gps suggested route.
We could see the San Francisco Peaks outside of Flagstaff and could have headed straight south to make it home today but everyone indulged me with a last day together.
Drove across the reservations of Arizona from the Navajo to the Hopi homeland, Second Mesa. The scenery constantly changing from flat high (6000) foot desert to canyons and the fringes of Monument Valley type of scenery. Drove through the Painted Desert and Petrified Forest National Parks on our way.
A good day about 400 miles or so before parking for the night. Found a Native New Yorker across the street and made our last meal together pizza, wings, and several pitchers of beer. Toasted another great trip with good roads, good
bikes, and most important good friends. Before we finished the conversation had turned to what we are going to do next year, a clear indication of a good trip.
Will do one last post tomorrow to recap the journey and offer some final thoughts on this trip.
We could see the San Francisco Peaks outside of Flagstaff and could have headed straight south to make it home today but everyone indulged me with a last day together.
Drove across the reservations of Arizona from the Navajo to the Hopi homeland, Second Mesa. The scenery constantly changing from flat high (6000) foot desert to canyons and the fringes of Monument Valley type of scenery. Drove through the Painted Desert and Petrified Forest National Parks on our way.
A good day about 400 miles or so before parking for the night. Found a Native New Yorker across the street and made our last meal together pizza, wings, and several pitchers of beer. Toasted another great trip with good roads, good
bikes, and most important good friends. Before we finished the conversation had turned to what we are going to do next year, a clear indication of a good trip.
Will do one last post tomorrow to recap the journey and offer some final thoughts on this trip.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
DAY16 ZION
Left the motel this morning and headed south towards Zion National Park. After about 45 miles stopped to get a water bottle and noticed that I had forgotten my cold weather/rain gear bag at the motel. This is really Al's fault since I roomed with him last night and he knows the rules. Whoever rooms with me has to check for the stuff I forget, last year it was a rain coat and a swim suit.
I rode back and got my bag then we headed towards Zion stopping just outside the park for lunch. After lunch we went into the park stopped at the visitors center to check the map and then drove on. The road in Zion runs all the way through the park and out the other side with several places to stop along the way. There is also a narrow 1.1 mile tunnel built in 1930 with several openings for ventilation out the cliff face, good ride.
The ranger at the visitors center had the perfect description of the differences between Bryce and Zion. At Bryce you look down, at Zion you look up. Each park has an assortment of hiking trails of varying difficulty, I wish we had more time at each park and it is a reason to return.
We are stopped for the night in Page and plan on heading east in the morning then south towards Show Low for the night this will put us home on Thursday. Talking at lunch today if we had been able to get to the Black Hills and Yellowstone we would have hit three weeks exactly. Not bad planning for not planning, just luck I guess.
While riding today I was thinking about the large number of road signs I've seen on this trip. I think the most frequent was "FALLING ROCKS" with the sign for curving roads coming in a close second. There were also signs for deer, elk, antelope, cows, and the least favorite "ROUGH ROAD AHEAD" at times the had so many of these for one stretch of pavement it would have been cheaper to just fix the road. Another sign that we saw many times was "ALL VEHICLES MUST CARRY SNOW CHAINS BEYOND THIS POINT" don't care if I ever see that one again.
We had our picture taken several times today by bus loads of german and french tourists who were intrigued by the bikes. Wanted to introduce myself as Bronson, old tv show reference.
Sixteen days and other than a light sprinkle and some light snow we have stayed dry, never even put rain gear on. A very good ride as we did what we said we would and "followed the weather".
I rode back and got my bag then we headed towards Zion stopping just outside the park for lunch. After lunch we went into the park stopped at the visitors center to check the map and then drove on. The road in Zion runs all the way through the park and out the other side with several places to stop along the way. There is also a narrow 1.1 mile tunnel built in 1930 with several openings for ventilation out the cliff face, good ride.
The ranger at the visitors center had the perfect description of the differences between Bryce and Zion. At Bryce you look down, at Zion you look up. Each park has an assortment of hiking trails of varying difficulty, I wish we had more time at each park and it is a reason to return.
We are stopped for the night in Page and plan on heading east in the morning then south towards Show Low for the night this will put us home on Thursday. Talking at lunch today if we had been able to get to the Black Hills and Yellowstone we would have hit three weeks exactly. Not bad planning for not planning, just luck I guess.
While riding today I was thinking about the large number of road signs I've seen on this trip. I think the most frequent was "FALLING ROCKS" with the sign for curving roads coming in a close second. There were also signs for deer, elk, antelope, cows, and the least favorite "ROUGH ROAD AHEAD" at times the had so many of these for one stretch of pavement it would have been cheaper to just fix the road. Another sign that we saw many times was "ALL VEHICLES MUST CARRY SNOW CHAINS BEYOND THIS POINT" don't care if I ever see that one again.
We had our picture taken several times today by bus loads of german and french tourists who were intrigued by the bikes. Wanted to introduce myself as Bronson, old tv show reference.
Sixteen days and other than a light sprinkle and some light snow we have stayed dry, never even put rain gear on. A very good ride as we did what we said we would and "followed the weather".
Monday, April 27, 2009
DAY 15 BRYCE CANYON
Woke up to temps in the teens with snow on the bike and decided a long breakfast was in order. The temperature rapidly climbed and soon we were on our way into Bryce. We decided to ride clear to the end of the road climbing up to about 9000 feet then head back down stopping at the viewpoints along the way.
The park is indescribable in it's beauty and it's varied scenery. The colors of the rock with pines and some snow was breathtaking. I would love to return and take some of the hikes available in the park that wind among the tall spires known as hoodoos that rise as silent sentrys from the canyon floor.
After stopping for lunch it was almost three o'clock before we headed on down the road on another "Scenic Byway". Headed into the mountain pass towards Cedar City and Zion National Park. Stopping for a quick break we found a group of German tourists on Harleys also touring around southern Utah. We then headed up a 9900 foot pass and from the top you could look down on snow covered meadows with campgrounds closed for the season. This road had just recently reopened with evidence of numerous winter rocks slides.
Pulled into Cedar City found a Best Western and called it day. Not a lot of miles but still a great day finished it it off with a good dinner.
At one point today we were on a road and saw a sign that said Phoenix 450 miles. I realized that I was only an easy days ride from home geographically but I'm still several days away mentally.
The park is indescribable in it's beauty and it's varied scenery. The colors of the rock with pines and some snow was breathtaking. I would love to return and take some of the hikes available in the park that wind among the tall spires known as hoodoos that rise as silent sentrys from the canyon floor.
After stopping for lunch it was almost three o'clock before we headed on down the road on another "Scenic Byway". Headed into the mountain pass towards Cedar City and Zion National Park. Stopping for a quick break we found a group of German tourists on Harleys also touring around southern Utah. We then headed up a 9900 foot pass and from the top you could look down on snow covered meadows with campgrounds closed for the season. This road had just recently reopened with evidence of numerous winter rocks slides.
Pulled into Cedar City found a Best Western and called it day. Not a lot of miles but still a great day finished it it off with a good dinner.
At one point today we were on a road and saw a sign that said Phoenix 450 miles. I realized that I was only an easy days ride from home geographically but I'm still several days away mentally.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
DAY 14
Woke up to a cold clear morning decided not to try for to early a start. We had plans to head for Bryce Canyon National Park, checking the GPS and mapquest they both wanted us to get there via interstate, by now you know that's not going to work.
Checking the map we found another route about the same distance but longer driving time. The good part, all two lane all designated scenic byway, the problem "ROADS MAY BE SEASONALLY CLOSED". Don't know if you don't try.
Headed out and soon passed over a 7000 foot summit of scrub cedar and oak then into the red rocks north of Lake Powell. This turned into some incredible winding roads amongst red high cliffs and canyons then on to vistas over looking the Colorado River and the northeast end of Lake Powell. Turned south after leaving the area of the lake and began to climb going up and up into one of the darkest looking skies we have seen. We were soon over 9000 feet in tall snow covered pines and aspens that hadn't heard it was spring.
As we headed down we came upon a stretch of road called the "Hogs Back" this is a narrow road following a high ridge with a drop off on either side very exhilarating riding. One more 7000 foot summit and it was on to Bryce.
Beautiful scenery with scary looking weather made for an absolutely awesome riding day, but only because we avoided most of the weather. The bike gulping cool air while we enjoy great roads and sights with only a slight bit of snow and a little drizzle to dampen spirits.
At one point today I was listening to the radio and a Jerry Jeff Walker song came on. For some unknown reason I didn't immediately change the channel and heard the following for the first time.
Well he's eight years old he's got a flour sack cape tied all around his neck
He's climbing up on top the garage figurin’ what the heck
He screws his courage up so darn tight, that the whole thing come unwound
He got a runnin’ start and bless his heart, he headed for the ground
Chorus
'Cause he’s one of those who knows his life
Is just a leap of faith
Gotta' spread your arms and hold your breath
And always trust your cape
Well he's all grown up, he's got a flour sack cape, tied all around his dream
He’s full of piss and vinegar, ah, he’s bustin’ at the seams
He licks his finger and checks the wind, it’s gonna be do or die
He wasn’t scared of nothin’, boys, he was pretty sure he could fly
Chorus
Now he's old and grey with a flour sack cape, tied all around his head
And he’s still jumpin’ off the garage and will be til he’s dead
All these years the people said the fool was actin’ like a kid
And since he didn't know he couldn't fly, well of course he did
Chorus
O Yea kids it all sort of makes sense.
Finished the day with a good meal and a beer in a beautiful lodge at the entrance to Bryce. Followed up with a trip to the jacuzzi while watching it snow out the window. Explore Bryce tomorrow.
Checking the map we found another route about the same distance but longer driving time. The good part, all two lane all designated scenic byway, the problem "ROADS MAY BE SEASONALLY CLOSED". Don't know if you don't try.
Headed out and soon passed over a 7000 foot summit of scrub cedar and oak then into the red rocks north of Lake Powell. This turned into some incredible winding roads amongst red high cliffs and canyons then on to vistas over looking the Colorado River and the northeast end of Lake Powell. Turned south after leaving the area of the lake and began to climb going up and up into one of the darkest looking skies we have seen. We were soon over 9000 feet in tall snow covered pines and aspens that hadn't heard it was spring.
As we headed down we came upon a stretch of road called the "Hogs Back" this is a narrow road following a high ridge with a drop off on either side very exhilarating riding. One more 7000 foot summit and it was on to Bryce.
Beautiful scenery with scary looking weather made for an absolutely awesome riding day, but only because we avoided most of the weather. The bike gulping cool air while we enjoy great roads and sights with only a slight bit of snow and a little drizzle to dampen spirits.
At one point today I was listening to the radio and a Jerry Jeff Walker song came on. For some unknown reason I didn't immediately change the channel and heard the following for the first time.
Well he's eight years old he's got a flour sack cape tied all around his neck
He's climbing up on top the garage figurin’ what the heck
He screws his courage up so darn tight, that the whole thing come unwound
He got a runnin’ start and bless his heart, he headed for the ground
Chorus
'Cause he’s one of those who knows his life
Is just a leap of faith
Gotta' spread your arms and hold your breath
And always trust your cape
Well he's all grown up, he's got a flour sack cape, tied all around his dream
He’s full of piss and vinegar, ah, he’s bustin’ at the seams
He licks his finger and checks the wind, it’s gonna be do or die
He wasn’t scared of nothin’, boys, he was pretty sure he could fly
Chorus
Now he's old and grey with a flour sack cape, tied all around his head
And he’s still jumpin’ off the garage and will be til he’s dead
All these years the people said the fool was actin’ like a kid
And since he didn't know he couldn't fly, well of course he did
Chorus
O Yea kids it all sort of makes sense.
Finished the day with a good meal and a beer in a beautiful lodge at the entrance to Bryce. Followed up with a trip to the jacuzzi while watching it snow out the window. Explore Bryce tomorrow.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
DAY 13 ARCHES NATIONAL PARK
Jumped on the interstate after breakfast and headed east towards the Colorado border past the off ramp for Moab. Forty miles down the road came to the back way down to Moab Utah. This was a great two lane road along side the Colorado River and on into Moab. Once we got there found out it was one of the busiest days of the year with custom cars and hot rods in town for the weekend.
We drove to Arches Park and took the 36 mile loop into the park marveling at the rock formations and the one arch we could see without a hike. Stopped at the visitor center on the way out and debated putting on rain gear as it was starting to look very threatening.
Took a what the heck lets drive attitude and immediately found ourselves in bumper to bumper with the regular traffic and show cars. Left town south to Montecello Utah for the night with very scary dark skies and a dropping temperature. Got into town and the sky started to clear, walked next door for a good home cooked style meal and good conversation.
With today's good roads and great vistas it was a great day but could have used less wind on the final leg we'll see what tomorrow brings.
We drove to Arches Park and took the 36 mile loop into the park marveling at the rock formations and the one arch we could see without a hike. Stopped at the visitor center on the way out and debated putting on rain gear as it was starting to look very threatening.
Took a what the heck lets drive attitude and immediately found ourselves in bumper to bumper with the regular traffic and show cars. Left town south to Montecello Utah for the night with very scary dark skies and a dropping temperature. Got into town and the sky started to clear, walked next door for a good home cooked style meal and good conversation.
With today's good roads and great vistas it was a great day but could have used less wind on the final leg we'll see what tomorrow brings.
Friday, April 24, 2009
DAY 12
Left Pocotello this morning under threatening skies and temps hovering at 40. Headed down I-25 for a few miles then off onto the old two lane following the Oregon Trail across southern Idaho. The road started to climb towards Bear Lake turning into a twisty mountain road, I don't envy the early settlers trying to cross in wagons. As we headed up it began to snow lightly then it stopped as we entered the clouds themselves. Bear Lake is a beautiful lake surrounded by snow covered hills this time of the year.
As we continued up into the clouds towards Logans Pass the air turned extremely cold maybe mid to low 30's. Over high pass and down into Logan in a light rain, doesn't sound like fun but it was a day to be remembered. Incredible vistas combined with incredible riding conditions make for good conversations and remembered experiences.
South by Great Salt Lake then onto more two lane, state route 6, following the railroad turn for turn over more (lower) mountains to our stop for the night in Price UT. The railroad here was built to haul coal from Grand Junction to Salt Lake City and there is a railroad town called Helper where the trains stop to get a pusher engine over the grade, saw one today with his "helper"
Good day, scenic roads, challenging conditions, finally warming up.
As we continued up into the clouds towards Logans Pass the air turned extremely cold maybe mid to low 30's. Over high pass and down into Logan in a light rain, doesn't sound like fun but it was a day to be remembered. Incredible vistas combined with incredible riding conditions make for good conversations and remembered experiences.
South by Great Salt Lake then onto more two lane, state route 6, following the railroad turn for turn over more (lower) mountains to our stop for the night in Price UT. The railroad here was built to haul coal from Grand Junction to Salt Lake City and there is a railroad town called Helper where the trains stop to get a pusher engine over the grade, saw one today with his "helper"
Good day, scenic roads, challenging conditions, finally warming up.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
DAY 11 FOLLOW THE WEATHER
A little bummed this morning after we looked at the weather. I was really looking forward to Yellowstone and if it was three days earlier we would be fine, temps in the 60's. Four hundred miles from Yellowstone and tomorrow called for snow and 30 degrees at the park.
After a quick consult we decided to head southeast towards Pocotello and save Yellowstone for another trip. I had to think about this a while before I remembered what the trip was about. It is about riding with friends and going where our maps and the weather lead us. Once I remembered our purpose I had to smile we were still accomplishing our goal.
Headed down the road with snow capped peaks on one side and the Snake river on the other. The Snake is wide and slow to suddenly in a deep canyon with nothing but white water, very beautiful and treacherous looking river that changed mile to mile.
A stop at Snake Harley for service on Bruce's bike and then on to Pocotello for the night.
All in all a beautiful day, cool and cloudy, bikes running great, good roads.
After a quick consult we decided to head southeast towards Pocotello and save Yellowstone for another trip. I had to think about this a while before I remembered what the trip was about. It is about riding with friends and going where our maps and the weather lead us. Once I remembered our purpose I had to smile we were still accomplishing our goal.
Headed down the road with snow capped peaks on one side and the Snake river on the other. The Snake is wide and slow to suddenly in a deep canyon with nothing but white water, very beautiful and treacherous looking river that changed mile to mile.
A stop at Snake Harley for service on Bruce's bike and then on to Pocotello for the night.
All in all a beautiful day, cool and cloudy, bikes running great, good roads.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
DAY 10 WESTERN STATES RIDE
Left this morning with me in the lead and quickly crossed the river to the Washington side. It was a two lane road curving back and forth on the upper bank of the Columbia. The temp was perfect a few scattered clouds, a barge heading towards the drawbridge, the morning sun glinting off the rapidly moving water.
As I headed up the side of the gorge leaning into a long right hand corner with five friends right behind I turned on the cd player and picked up the Ballad of Easy Rider by Roger McGuinn (The Byrds).
The river flows
It flows to the sea
Wherever that river goes
That's where I want to be
Flow river flow
Let your waters wash down
Take me from this road
To some other town
After that start the rest of the day just didn't matter. The timing of the music often makes the moment. We did drive to Boise ID on some beautiful highway with snow covered peaks in the distance, tomorrow north towards Yellowstone.
I was asked to include a story that occurred a couple of days ago at lunch. I was still in the Dairy Queen and everyone else had left to get on their bikes. A man that had cornered Jan with stories of the bikes he almost owned and trips he came close to taking had cornered me waiting for the restroom. He had noticed that we all had license plate frames that said KOA-789. For those of you that don't know this is the call sign of the Phoenix PD radio station and is used to identify us to phoenix officers. Well not wanting to go into a long explanation I told him that it stood for "Kings Of Annihilation the fighting 789th" and that he should google it for more info. I hope he lost some sleep sitting at his computer just like I am typing at mine.
Goodnight
As I headed up the side of the gorge leaning into a long right hand corner with five friends right behind I turned on the cd player and picked up the Ballad of Easy Rider by Roger McGuinn (The Byrds).
The river flows
It flows to the sea
Wherever that river goes
That's where I want to be
Flow river flow
Let your waters wash down
Take me from this road
To some other town
After that start the rest of the day just didn't matter. The timing of the music often makes the moment. We did drive to Boise ID on some beautiful highway with snow covered peaks in the distance, tomorrow north towards Yellowstone.
I was asked to include a story that occurred a couple of days ago at lunch. I was still in the Dairy Queen and everyone else had left to get on their bikes. A man that had cornered Jan with stories of the bikes he almost owned and trips he came close to taking had cornered me waiting for the restroom. He had noticed that we all had license plate frames that said KOA-789. For those of you that don't know this is the call sign of the Phoenix PD radio station and is used to identify us to phoenix officers. Well not wanting to go into a long explanation I told him that it stood for "Kings Of Annihilation the fighting 789th" and that he should google it for more info. I hope he lost some sleep sitting at his computer just like I am typing at mine.
Goodnight
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
DAY 9 WESTERN STATES RIDE
Left the motel headed north towards Mt Hood. After a few stops found ourselves on the south eastern corner of the national park. We decided not to risk going up and headed around the south side of the mountain towards Portland. Stopped in some little town for lunch and gave Louie Martinez a call. He met us on the east side of Portland and we headed east on the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Byway.
The Columbia is truly one of Americas great rivers and the gorge it cut across Oregon is incredible. Stopped down the road at Multnomah Falls, the highest water fall in Oregon, put some pics on the web.
After a hike up to the bridge by the falls and a visit with Louie it was time to continue east. Stopped for the night in The Dalles a city named after the Indian name for the rapids on the Columbia in the area and a base camp for Lewis and Clark.
We have been following the Lewis and Clark trail all afternoon, we followed it out of St Louis last year.
One thing I forgot yesterday that really struck me happened at Subway where we had lunch. We had backed in taking up most of the front of the restaurant with our bikes. Everyone had gone out and was getting ready to leave except for me when I noticed an older gentleman standing next to his table watching the process with rapt attention. The Subway guy who had been talking to us walked up to the old man and said "Do you know where there going?" and before the man could answer he said "anywhere they want".
The Columbia is truly one of Americas great rivers and the gorge it cut across Oregon is incredible. Stopped down the road at Multnomah Falls, the highest water fall in Oregon, put some pics on the web.
After a hike up to the bridge by the falls and a visit with Louie it was time to continue east. Stopped for the night in The Dalles a city named after the Indian name for the rapids on the Columbia in the area and a base camp for Lewis and Clark.
We have been following the Lewis and Clark trail all afternoon, we followed it out of St Louis last year.
One thing I forgot yesterday that really struck me happened at Subway where we had lunch. We had backed in taking up most of the front of the restaurant with our bikes. Everyone had gone out and was getting ready to leave except for me when I noticed an older gentleman standing next to his table watching the process with rapt attention. The Subway guy who had been talking to us walked up to the old man and said "Do you know where there going?" and before the man could answer he said "anywhere they want".
Monday, April 20, 2009
DAY 8 WESTERN STATES RIDE
Left Arcada and immediately were on the section of the 101 known as the redwood highway. Getting out of town entered narrow roads bordered by large redwoods with coastal fog giving the whole thing a surreal appearance. As the fog burned off and we continued north Ken turned onto a secondary scenic drive of narrow two lane road winding back and forth amongst the giant redwoods. At one point we pulled to the side of the road just to take it all in.
As we neared the Oregon border we turned inland towards Medford OR stopping in some little town for lunch and decided to head for Crater Lake. Crater Lake is located over 7000 feet altitude. That meant snow on the side of the road over 15 feet high. We picked the one road that is kept open year round, except during storms, by accident. It was a very narrow curving road with some gravel, running snow melt, and high snowbanks. All of the campgrounds are still closed for the season and the side roads blocked by snow. The few warning signs that were tall enough to stick out of the snow banks advised to watch for snowmobiles and that each vehicle was required to have tire chains available.
The ride was worth the view Crater Lake is the clearest, deepest lake in the US it became a National Park in 1902. Since it was now after five o'clock we finished our sight seeing and photos and headed out knowing the next stop was still over one hundred miles away.
Stopped for the night somewhere towards the middle of the state in some small town.
In the last week we have done our best to wear out the sides of the tires instead of the bottom. Some of these roads came about from suggestions and some from sitting together and looking at a paper map. You can use a GPS to find a motel in town but the computer doesn't understand quality on two wheels.
As we neared the Oregon border we turned inland towards Medford OR stopping in some little town for lunch and decided to head for Crater Lake. Crater Lake is located over 7000 feet altitude. That meant snow on the side of the road over 15 feet high. We picked the one road that is kept open year round, except during storms, by accident. It was a very narrow curving road with some gravel, running snow melt, and high snowbanks. All of the campgrounds are still closed for the season and the side roads blocked by snow. The few warning signs that were tall enough to stick out of the snow banks advised to watch for snowmobiles and that each vehicle was required to have tire chains available.
The ride was worth the view Crater Lake is the clearest, deepest lake in the US it became a National Park in 1902. Since it was now after five o'clock we finished our sight seeing and photos and headed out knowing the next stop was still over one hundred miles away.
Stopped for the night somewhere towards the middle of the state in some small town.
In the last week we have done our best to wear out the sides of the tires instead of the bottom. Some of these roads came about from suggestions and some from sitting together and looking at a paper map. You can use a GPS to find a motel in town but the computer doesn't understand quality on two wheels.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
DAY 7 WESTERN STATES RIDE
At breakfast we decided to head towards Redwood National Park located just off the coast near the Oregon border. Mapquest and the Honda GPS said it was 170 miles to the park entrance. We pulled out the old paper road map and after checking the green dot (scenic) roads that were available found a different route.
After about 270 miles of riding are in for the night and still short of the park. We have been on some of the most incredible two lane starting with farm country into the grass hills then forests prior to breaking out onto highway 1 in Ft Bragg CA. Then north on highway 1 winding back and forth on 35 mph roads with 15 mph corners then slightly inland into dense forests. I've run out of superlatives to describe the continued run of great roads we've found so far this year. Seven days on the road and we're still in California and have probably ridden less than 100 miles of freeways.
Walked to dinner, raised a beer to the end of the first week on the road with two more to look forward to. Tomorrow the third park then on to Oregon.
Chuck
After about 270 miles of riding are in for the night and still short of the park. We have been on some of the most incredible two lane starting with farm country into the grass hills then forests prior to breaking out onto highway 1 in Ft Bragg CA. Then north on highway 1 winding back and forth on 35 mph roads with 15 mph corners then slightly inland into dense forests. I've run out of superlatives to describe the continued run of great roads we've found so far this year. Seven days on the road and we're still in California and have probably ridden less than 100 miles of freeways.
Walked to dinner, raised a beer to the end of the first week on the road with two more to look forward to. Tomorrow the third park then on to Oregon.
Chuck
DAY 6 WESTERN STATES RIDE
Stayed late this morning everyone did laundry and minor maintenance didn’t leave until well after ten.
Headed east towards Lake Tahoe and quickly started climbing into snow covered mountains. Drove over Donnor Pass and soon found ourselves with four to six foot snow drifts on the side of the road. Dropped down into Incline Village on the north end of Tahoe it’s no wonder people like to come here, it’s beautiful. They were still skiing in the mountains but the large winter crowds have left and the summer crowds not yet arrived. The lake is full of buoys devoid of boats the docks are empty and many of the homes along the shore still shuttered.
Leaving Lake Tahoe headed down the hill to Carson City the capitol of Nevada, not much to look at. Leaving we headed into the hills again and several miles of twistys latter were in Virginia City home of the Ponderosa. Virginia City was full of motorcycles on a beautiful Saturday afternoon. It is a favorite local ride a combination of Jerome, Sedona, and Bisbee. Then it was back into the mountains onto another great road CA state route 20 ending the day in Yuba City back in the flat lands. We are only 20 or 30 miles north of where we started this morning but close to 300 miles on the odometer somewhere northeast of Sacramento.
Headed east towards Lake Tahoe and quickly started climbing into snow covered mountains. Drove over Donnor Pass and soon found ourselves with four to six foot snow drifts on the side of the road. Dropped down into Incline Village on the north end of Tahoe it’s no wonder people like to come here, it’s beautiful. They were still skiing in the mountains but the large winter crowds have left and the summer crowds not yet arrived. The lake is full of buoys devoid of boats the docks are empty and many of the homes along the shore still shuttered.
Leaving Lake Tahoe headed down the hill to Carson City the capitol of Nevada, not much to look at. Leaving we headed into the hills again and several miles of twistys latter were in Virginia City home of the Ponderosa. Virginia City was full of motorcycles on a beautiful Saturday afternoon. It is a favorite local ride a combination of Jerome, Sedona, and Bisbee. Then it was back into the mountains onto another great road CA state route 20 ending the day in Yuba City back in the flat lands. We are only 20 or 30 miles north of where we started this morning but close to 300 miles on the odometer somewhere northeast of Sacramento.
Friday, April 17, 2009
DAY 5 YOSEMITE
Headed to Yosemite after breakfast, great ride from Mariposa to the park, twisty roads along the river all the way in. Once in the park drove to Bridal Vail falls and walked up to the view point. Mist from the falls surrounded you and the rocks were wet and slippery. With the latest snow followed by warmer weather all the falls were flowing and beautiful. Next stop was El Capitan a forbidding rock that rises hundreds of feet above the valley floor. We've all seen it in pictures but it is more imposing in person.
After lunch left the park and tried to head over Tioga Pass but it was still closed do to snow. Ended up leaving out the north west park exit I don't remember the road but it was beautiful two lane twisty road.
Before the day was over we ended up on state route 49 named after the 49ers from the gold rush of 1849. The road is a two lane road that follows the same path. It connects many of the small gold rush towns right down the narrow main streets of Sutter Creek, Placerville, Drytown, Goldhill and numerous others including Sutters Mill were the gold rush started.
We are currently in for the night in Auborn,Ca after spending the entire day on two lane.
After lunch left the park and tried to head over Tioga Pass but it was still closed do to snow. Ended up leaving out the north west park exit I don't remember the road but it was beautiful two lane twisty road.
Before the day was over we ended up on state route 49 named after the 49ers from the gold rush of 1849. The road is a two lane road that follows the same path. It connects many of the small gold rush towns right down the narrow main streets of Sutter Creek, Placerville, Drytown, Goldhill and numerous others including Sutters Mill were the gold rush started.
We are currently in for the night in Auborn,Ca after spending the entire day on two lane.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
DAY 4 WESTERN STATES RIDE
I'm now calling this the western states great road ride of 2009. National Parks are nice but no longer a high priority.
Left Morro Bay this morning and after a quick stop turned onto Route 1 headed north. Ocean breaking on the rocks to my left cliffs to my right flipped on the radio as the road opened up ahead in time to hear the last stanza of Springsteen singing:
"The dogs on main street howl,
'cause they understand,
If I could take one moment into my hands
Mister, I ain't a boy, no, I'm a man,
And I believe in a promised land."
Road north all morning enjoying one of the greatest coast roads in existence. Past San Simeon up through Big Sur from waters edge to the cliffs high above winding back and forth mile after mile.
Stopped for lunch in Carmel By The Sea at a little Bistro just off the roadway. After lunch continued into Monterrey before turning inland.
Yea, it was as good as it sounds.
Not to many pictures today just the ones locked in my head. An image on the screen or written description just doesn't do justice to the day.
Headed inland and stopped for the night just outside of Yosemite, head there in the morning.
PS
Krys, saw several convertibles with the top down enjoying the road and the day we have to do that.
Left Morro Bay this morning and after a quick stop turned onto Route 1 headed north. Ocean breaking on the rocks to my left cliffs to my right flipped on the radio as the road opened up ahead in time to hear the last stanza of Springsteen singing:
"The dogs on main street howl,
'cause they understand,
If I could take one moment into my hands
Mister, I ain't a boy, no, I'm a man,
And I believe in a promised land."
Road north all morning enjoying one of the greatest coast roads in existence. Past San Simeon up through Big Sur from waters edge to the cliffs high above winding back and forth mile after mile.
Stopped for lunch in Carmel By The Sea at a little Bistro just off the roadway. After lunch continued into Monterrey before turning inland.
Yea, it was as good as it sounds.
Not to many pictures today just the ones locked in my head. An image on the screen or written description just doesn't do justice to the day.
Headed inland and stopped for the night just outside of Yosemite, head there in the morning.
PS
Krys, saw several convertibles with the top down enjoying the road and the day we have to do that.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
DAY 3 APRIL 15
Woke up to a phone call from the room next, quick look outside! Checked it out and saw snow on the bikes, ice on the ground and cloudy skies.
Before long we staged a raid and like navy seals freeing a captive commandeered the breakfast room where we stayed until well after breakfast.
Harley shop in Bakersfield said take route 58 west you won't be sorry. We did and we weren't. One of the most beautiful and challenging roads I've seen. Know as the Carrisa Highway it winds from Bakersfield to San Luis Obispo. Beautiful weather deep blue skies a few scattered clouds temps int he 50's and a road that was part Yarnell, part Oak Creek, and part indescribable, all two lanes.
Stopped in Morro Bay for the night walked down tho the waterfront from our motel for dinner.
Shaky start turned into one of those this is why we are here days.
Before long we staged a raid and like navy seals freeing a captive commandeered the breakfast room where we stayed until well after breakfast.
Harley shop in Bakersfield said take route 58 west you won't be sorry. We did and we weren't. One of the most beautiful and challenging roads I've seen. Know as the Carrisa Highway it winds from Bakersfield to San Luis Obispo. Beautiful weather deep blue skies a few scattered clouds temps int he 50's and a road that was part Yarnell, part Oak Creek, and part indescribable, all two lanes.
Stopped in Morro Bay for the night walked down tho the waterfront from our motel for dinner.
Shaky start turned into one of those this is why we are here days.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
DAY 2 DEATH VALLEY
Left Pahrump this morning and on to Death Valley. Near Furnace Creek passed a small settlement with the Death Valley Health Center? The What? Death and Health should not be in the same name. Death Valley was incredible different from what I expected uploaded lots of photos.
Left Death Valley and went from -200 in altitude to almost 5000 feet in less than an hour. Then turned south skirting the eastern edge of the Sierra Nevada's for the rest of the day. They are very imposing mountains rugged and snow covered. The weather channel kept insisting that the roads we were on had very high winds and that travellers should use extreme caution. This made riding tense and a little challenging but not impossible with frequent rest stops.
Finished the day a little short of where we thought we would be, someplace called Tehachapi, but found a nice restaurant and sat there visiting for about two hours, after all it was Tuesday.
Even with the cool weather and wind I just love riding with friends. As Joni Mitchel said in "Coyote", "I'm just a prisoner of the white lines on the highway".
Left Death Valley and went from -200 in altitude to almost 5000 feet in less than an hour. Then turned south skirting the eastern edge of the Sierra Nevada's for the rest of the day. They are very imposing mountains rugged and snow covered. The weather channel kept insisting that the roads we were on had very high winds and that travellers should use extreme caution. This made riding tense and a little challenging but not impossible with frequent rest stops.
Finished the day a little short of where we thought we would be, someplace called Tehachapi, but found a nice restaurant and sat there visiting for about two hours, after all it was Tuesday.
Even with the cool weather and wind I just love riding with friends. As Joni Mitchel said in "Coyote", "I'm just a prisoner of the white lines on the highway".
Monday, April 13, 2009
DAY 1-APRIL 13 WESTERN STATES RIDE
Left Phoenix on time met Jan in Chino Valley and got on the road. North on 89 to old 66 towards Kingman. As we were driving down the road I noticed several contrails from jets in an otherwise clear blue sky. I thought about the people inside those metal tubes with there knees in someones back looking at the world via a half inch thick ten inch high plastic window while breathing recycled air.
I hope they were going somewhere exotic but most were probably engaged in more mundane activities. I then looked around, wide open spaces, the feel the wind, the sound of the engine, wow what a way to travel.
The saying is really true "It's not the destination, it's the journey".
Drove over the Hoover Dam with the bridge under construction not sure how long it will still be open.
Stopped for the night in Pawrump, NV they didn't even have paved roads until the sixties now they have a Best Western and several brothels!
Chuck
I hope they were going somewhere exotic but most were probably engaged in more mundane activities. I then looked around, wide open spaces, the feel the wind, the sound of the engine, wow what a way to travel.
The saying is really true "It's not the destination, it's the journey".
Drove over the Hoover Dam with the bridge under construction not sure how long it will still be open.
Stopped for the night in Pawrump, NV they didn't even have paved roads until the sixties now they have a Best Western and several brothels!
Chuck
Friday, April 3, 2009
WESTERN US RIDE 2009
We are a about a week away from our ride. Jim and JB won't make this years ride but we've added CE and Ken to our group. We are leaving April 13 with no real destination this year. Planning on remaining in the western US visiting some of the National Parks and coast line via two lane scenic roads.
What parks we actually get to depends on time and weather, promised the wives that we would ride for three weeks then turn for home. It doesn't matter to me where we go just spending time on two wheels and two lane with good friends.
What parks we actually get to depends on time and weather, promised the wives that we would ride for three weeks then turn for home. It doesn't matter to me where we go just spending time on two wheels and two lane with good friends.
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