Left Cedar City east on Utah 14 towards Cedar Breaks and Zion the road quickly led into Cedar Canyon and thick stands of pine with temps in the 50's. We climbed to the top of the canyon to break out in large stands of Aspens with the pink and beige cliffs so typical for southern Utah jut beginning to catch the morning sun. I couldn't have asked for a better start to our last day on the road.
Headed south on 89A in good old Arizona to Jacob Lake then across the reservation before Flagstaff and lunch. Looking up at the imposing plateaus surrounded by high cliffs with incredible colors it is easy to understand why they are thought to be the residence of gods.
Eventually made our way to the heat of the valley and home, another ride over physically but my wife says it will be weeks before I'm home mentally. The fact that we have now done seven of these incredible rides around the US is really living a dream. We all have dreams that as we get older we know we will never realize but we hang onto them anyway, I'm so fortunate to be able to realize this dream with such good friends.
A songwriter that I admire named John Stewart that passed away several years ago wrote about his dreams as his life was winding down and I find his words fitting for myself and so many friends, some still here some no longer with us.
As
if I had all the time in the world,
And I had all the world in my time,
There are dreams that I'm keeping inside,
Like verses that never would rhyme.
I still dream I'll make movies in Spain,
Photograph dancers in flight.
Watching the clock running down,
And I live in available light.
And I still dream I will walk on the moon,
If the moon isn't holding me down,
Racing the future through fields
With the moonlight igniting the ground.
All the young girls are light years away,
And they seem to be browsing through time.
And you know that not one can compare
With the heart of this true love of mine.
In the waters of all of my tears,
The reflections of beautiful times.
In my dreams I am holding the wings
Of angels I'm hoping to find.
And I still dream I will walk on the moon,
If the moon isn't holding me down,
Racing the future through fields
With moonlight igniting the ground.
And friends, who were here, now they're gone,
Why does it happen so soon?
And, as they are closing their eyes,
Do they dream they will walk on the moon?
J. Stewart
Wednesday, June 26, 2013
Tuesday, June 25, 2013
DAY 23-24 JUNE 24-25, 2013
Several things contributed to the lack of a post yesterday not the least of which included 22 oz chilled mugs. So I will try to recap both days today.
Monday morning left the motel a little earlier than usual with everyone anticipating the ride from Red Lodge to Yellowstone over Bear Tooth Pass. The altitude at Red Lodge is about 5800 feet and we soon started climbing towards the pass almost 11,000 feet which was built as a route to transport coal from Red Lodge south.
The road was empty at 8:30 on a Monday morning and we started in thick forest climbing back and forth on switch backs until we broke out above the tree line. The road is two lane with minimal guard rails, hair pin turns that almost double back on themselves. Stopped for the required pictures at a view point and stopped briefly at the top ski area. The rope tow was running and several skiers were putting on their gear, we didn't stay long with the strong wind and cold temps.
Heading down the south side was just as interesting, snow on the mountains views of numerous lakes, some still covered in ice. The question comes up of is this the best motorcycle road or are there better roads to ride. We have ridden most of the roads on anybody's top 20 list and they are all different. I can't say which is the best they all could be number one on any given day it depends on how I'm feeling that day, the weather, traffic, and so many other factors. I'll ride all of them a few more times and maybe give you a better answer.
Soon found ourselves in Yellowstone National Park along with the entire population of the state. Still beautiful with lots of wildlife and beautiful scenery. Rode through the area devastated by the fire, a decade or more ago, the recovery is well on the way showing the resilience of nature.
Pulling into Mammoth Hot Springs for a sandwich passed at least six signs to avoid the elk, we hadn't seen any elk. There right by the store were half a dozen elk just laying in the shade not ten feet from the road. Other animals of the day included bear, herds of buffalo, antelope, and deer. Stopped at Old Faithful and for the second year in a row timing did not allow me even a glimpse of the geyser.
Ended the night in Idaho Falls with a trip to the hot tub followed by dinner and the aforementioned 22 oz ice cold mugs.
DAY 24
South on I-15. That's it.
Actually it started out with 50's blue skies with a few light puffy clouds and an empty interstate. Snow topped mountains to the east with smaller hills and farms to the west. The farms here all depend on ground water and the sprinkler systems were running on almost every farm. Continued south passing through Salt Lake City finally stopping for the night still on I-15 in Cedar City UT.
Got a wife and kids in Baltimore Jack
Went out for a ride
And I never went back.
Like a river that don't know
Where it's flowin
I took a wrong turn
And I just kept going.
Springsteen
Day 24 it kind of feels like it's time to go back.
Monday morning left the motel a little earlier than usual with everyone anticipating the ride from Red Lodge to Yellowstone over Bear Tooth Pass. The altitude at Red Lodge is about 5800 feet and we soon started climbing towards the pass almost 11,000 feet which was built as a route to transport coal from Red Lodge south.
The road was empty at 8:30 on a Monday morning and we started in thick forest climbing back and forth on switch backs until we broke out above the tree line. The road is two lane with minimal guard rails, hair pin turns that almost double back on themselves. Stopped for the required pictures at a view point and stopped briefly at the top ski area. The rope tow was running and several skiers were putting on their gear, we didn't stay long with the strong wind and cold temps.
Heading down the south side was just as interesting, snow on the mountains views of numerous lakes, some still covered in ice. The question comes up of is this the best motorcycle road or are there better roads to ride. We have ridden most of the roads on anybody's top 20 list and they are all different. I can't say which is the best they all could be number one on any given day it depends on how I'm feeling that day, the weather, traffic, and so many other factors. I'll ride all of them a few more times and maybe give you a better answer.
Soon found ourselves in Yellowstone National Park along with the entire population of the state. Still beautiful with lots of wildlife and beautiful scenery. Rode through the area devastated by the fire, a decade or more ago, the recovery is well on the way showing the resilience of nature.
Pulling into Mammoth Hot Springs for a sandwich passed at least six signs to avoid the elk, we hadn't seen any elk. There right by the store were half a dozen elk just laying in the shade not ten feet from the road. Other animals of the day included bear, herds of buffalo, antelope, and deer. Stopped at Old Faithful and for the second year in a row timing did not allow me even a glimpse of the geyser.
Ended the night in Idaho Falls with a trip to the hot tub followed by dinner and the aforementioned 22 oz ice cold mugs.
DAY 24
South on I-15. That's it.
Actually it started out with 50's blue skies with a few light puffy clouds and an empty interstate. Snow topped mountains to the east with smaller hills and farms to the west. The farms here all depend on ground water and the sprinkler systems were running on almost every farm. Continued south passing through Salt Lake City finally stopping for the night still on I-15 in Cedar City UT.
Got a wife and kids in Baltimore Jack
Went out for a ride
And I never went back.
Like a river that don't know
Where it's flowin
I took a wrong turn
And I just kept going.
Springsteen
Day 24 it kind of feels like it's time to go back.
Sunday, June 23, 2013
DAY 22 JUNE 23, 2013
Woke up this morning to clear bright blue skies and temps in the 50's. Levis, t-shirt, leather jacket, dark sun glasses definitely the order of the day, besides it is a very good look.
Headed north and soon found ourselves in Belle Fourche SD the geographic center of the fifty states. (click for info) Turned west on Route 212 under the beautiful blue sky with no traffic and herds of antelope on the sides of the road. The grass is brilliant green from the spring rains, we covered mile after mile of rolling hills and a corner of Wyoming before entering Montana. The closer we got to Billings the more the scenery changed with the hills becoming higher and pine trees appearing along the road. Turned south from Billings and found ourselves staring at snow covered peaks covered in pine trees.
Sixty miles later we are still north of the mountains in Red Lodge MT after a beautiful day of easy riding through incredible countryside. Since we stopped early went to the old downtown area, found a shop roasting their own coffee and sat watching people.
A couple of riders were standing outside the shop talking about the 800 mile trip they are on. I had to smile because I think we are near 7500 miles and 23 or 24 states, didn't say anything to them, not trying to brag, just....wow.
Tomorrow over Beartooth Pass and into Yellowstone Park with a forecast of great weather. The American Motor Association rates Beartooth as the number one ride in the US, they rate Blue Ridge Parkway, and Tail of The Dragon two and three. Three of the top fifteen in one trip!
Headed north and soon found ourselves in Belle Fourche SD the geographic center of the fifty states. (click for info) Turned west on Route 212 under the beautiful blue sky with no traffic and herds of antelope on the sides of the road. The grass is brilliant green from the spring rains, we covered mile after mile of rolling hills and a corner of Wyoming before entering Montana. The closer we got to Billings the more the scenery changed with the hills becoming higher and pine trees appearing along the road. Turned south from Billings and found ourselves staring at snow covered peaks covered in pine trees.
Sixty miles later we are still north of the mountains in Red Lodge MT after a beautiful day of easy riding through incredible countryside. Since we stopped early went to the old downtown area, found a shop roasting their own coffee and sat watching people.
A couple of riders were standing outside the shop talking about the 800 mile trip they are on. I had to smile because I think we are near 7500 miles and 23 or 24 states, didn't say anything to them, not trying to brag, just....wow.
Tomorrow over Beartooth Pass and into Yellowstone Park with a forecast of great weather. The American Motor Association rates Beartooth as the number one ride in the US, they rate Blue Ridge Parkway, and Tail of The Dragon two and three. Three of the top fifteen in one trip!
Saturday, June 22, 2013
DAY 21 JUNE 22, 2013
Day 21! I thought we were supposed to be headed for home on day 21, instead I'm in a motel in Spearfish SD.
Woke up this morning and was still slightly euphoric from our brush with the weather yesterday, what a ride. Headed out on I-90 west across the grasslands of South Dakota, partially cloudy skies casting shadows on the green grass with a lightly travelled smooth highway cruise set on 80 mph and the bike gulping cool clean air.. The twisty roads are fun but the sheer vastness of this part of the country has it's own attraction and beauty. At times today I could look in any direction and not see anything but rolling grasslands, just beautiful.
At the first break CE advised that the problem with his bike was getting worse so we headed for Rapid City for repairs. Found a Honda dealer to repair the bike and after repairs headed down the road. Didn't really get to far before stopping at Spearfish just minutes before a hail storm with golf ball size hail and 60 mph winds, luck definitely on our side, again.
Just another beautiful day similar too but different from so many of the others touring this gorgeous country. Some roads we have seen before some new all worthy of our travel.
Going down that long lonesome highway
Bound for the mountains and the plains
Sure ain't nothing here gonna tie me
And I got some friends I'd like to see
One of these days I'm gonna settle down
But till I do I won't be hanging round
Going down that long lonesome highway
Gonna live life my way
"Then Came Bronson" Theme
This wanderlust was fueled by the TV shows I grew up with so thanks Bronson and a special thanks to Gardner .McKay
Woke up this morning and was still slightly euphoric from our brush with the weather yesterday, what a ride. Headed out on I-90 west across the grasslands of South Dakota, partially cloudy skies casting shadows on the green grass with a lightly travelled smooth highway cruise set on 80 mph and the bike gulping cool clean air.. The twisty roads are fun but the sheer vastness of this part of the country has it's own attraction and beauty. At times today I could look in any direction and not see anything but rolling grasslands, just beautiful.
At the first break CE advised that the problem with his bike was getting worse so we headed for Rapid City for repairs. Found a Honda dealer to repair the bike and after repairs headed down the road. Didn't really get to far before stopping at Spearfish just minutes before a hail storm with golf ball size hail and 60 mph winds, luck definitely on our side, again.
Just another beautiful day similar too but different from so many of the others touring this gorgeous country. Some roads we have seen before some new all worthy of our travel.
Going down that long lonesome highway
Bound for the mountains and the plains
Sure ain't nothing here gonna tie me
And I got some friends I'd like to see
One of these days I'm gonna settle down
But till I do I won't be hanging round
Going down that long lonesome highway
Gonna live life my way
"Then Came Bronson" Theme
This wanderlust was fueled by the TV shows I grew up with so thanks Bronson and a special thanks to Gardner .McKay
Friday, June 21, 2013
DAY 20 JUNE 21, 2013
This Best Western is within walking distance of the Mayo Clinic and runs shuttles back and forth, Went down to breakfast this morning and found a solemn crowd, lots of elderly people sitting and eating quietly some helped by younger relatives some by themselves. Mood soon change for the better with the entrance of a high school swim team, this best western is set up for long termguests with full kitchens.
Headed south to get back on I-90 west and just prior to the interstate saw a road sign for Preston thirty miles. If we had time would have driven there, I spent the first four and a half years of my life in Preston and still have a few memories. Don't remember the address of the old house and don't have anyone left to ask but plan on visiting it someday when I get back this way.
West on 90 again through rolling farm land and beautiful farms with corn growing on both sides of the road for mile after mile. All under very cloudy threatening skies but no rain just lots of wind all across Minnesota.
Entered South Dakota and stopped at a rest area/information center for a quick break and other travelers were warning us about storms ahead. Went inside and the weather alerts were warning of golf ball size hail, 60 mph winds, strong possibility of tornados. About this time the power went out due to a tornado north of us, the news said it was starting to clear to the west so we jumped on the bikes and headed west. The winds got worse the sky turned black with jagged edged storms swirling around and the temperature dropped twenty degrees.
Headed south to get back on I-90 west and just prior to the interstate saw a road sign for Preston thirty miles. If we had time would have driven there, I spent the first four and a half years of my life in Preston and still have a few memories. Don't remember the address of the old house and don't have anyone left to ask but plan on visiting it someday when I get back this way.
West on 90 again through rolling farm land and beautiful farms with corn growing on both sides of the road for mile after mile. All under very cloudy threatening skies but no rain just lots of wind all across Minnesota.
Entered South Dakota and stopped at a rest area/information center for a quick break and other travelers were warning us about storms ahead. Went inside and the weather alerts were warning of golf ball size hail, 60 mph winds, strong possibility of tornados. About this time the power went out due to a tornado north of us, the news said it was starting to clear to the west so we jumped on the bikes and headed west. The winds got worse the sky turned black with jagged edged storms swirling around and the temperature dropped twenty degrees.
Stopped for the night on this westward quest in Chamberlain SD along side the Missouri River across the bridge from Lewis and Clark's campsite on their westward quest.
Thursday, June 20, 2013
DAY 19 JUNE 20, 2013
Today is easy, went north out off La Porte IN to I-94 then west into Chicago.
South Chicago industrial
Then continued on I-94 through Chicago and out the north side towards Wisconsin.
Skyline of downtown was amazing
I-94 to Milwaukee
Views of the lake, six flags, and the ads for the Harley Museum'
I-94/90 west to Madison
Beautiful farm country rolling hills, wide interstate grassy median
I-90 across Wisconsin
I-90 to Rochester Minnesota
In the for the night nice hotel ate on the patio
South Chicago industrial
Then continued on I-94 through Chicago and out the north side towards Wisconsin.
Skyline of downtown was amazing
I-94 to Milwaukee
Views of the lake, six flags, and the ads for the Harley Museum'
I-94/90 west to Madison
Beautiful farm country rolling hills, wide interstate grassy median
I-90 across Wisconsin
I-90 to Rochester Minnesota
In the for the night nice hotel ate on the patio
Wednesday, June 19, 2013
DAY 18 JUNE 19, 2013
Left late this morning after a new battery in Jan's bike and some banking. Headed west on I-90 and that's where we spent the day. Starting out along Lake Eire then into Cleveland where the designers decided to put a ninety degree 35 mph turn in the middle of the city on an ugly four lane interstate.
Once outside the city I-90 runs through rolling hills and farm land. Two weeks ago in Missouri the corn was already waist high, this far north it is still less than knee high. After lunch at a turnpike rest stop, not a trip highlight, we said our goodbyes and a few miles later JB turned towards home om I-75.
As we continued west I was listening to a Springsteen concert replay on XM when he played the song Bobby Jean. Bruce wrote this song for his long time friend Steve Van Zandt and listening to the lyrics after my brother from a different mother left for home alone made it very appropriate.
Now we went walking in the rain talking about the pain from the world we hid
Now there aint nobody nowhere nohow gonna ever understand me the way you did
Maybe you'll be out there on that road somewhere
In some bus or train traveling along
In some motel room there'll be a radio playing
And you'll hear me sing this song
Well if you do you'll know Im thinking of you and all the miles in between
And Im just calling one last time not to change your mind
But just to say I miss you baby, good luck goodbye, bobby jean
Springsteen
JB checked in stopped for the night as are we in La Porte Indiana, not a planned stop but nice motel on a lake with cold beer in the restaurant next door.
Tomorrow around Chicago then north and west, the ride continues.
Once outside the city I-90 runs through rolling hills and farm land. Two weeks ago in Missouri the corn was already waist high, this far north it is still less than knee high. After lunch at a turnpike rest stop, not a trip highlight, we said our goodbyes and a few miles later JB turned towards home om I-75.
As we continued west I was listening to a Springsteen concert replay on XM when he played the song Bobby Jean. Bruce wrote this song for his long time friend Steve Van Zandt and listening to the lyrics after my brother from a different mother left for home alone made it very appropriate.
Now we went walking in the rain talking about the pain from the world we hid
Now there aint nobody nowhere nohow gonna ever understand me the way you did
Maybe you'll be out there on that road somewhere
In some bus or train traveling along
In some motel room there'll be a radio playing
And you'll hear me sing this song
Well if you do you'll know Im thinking of you and all the miles in between
And Im just calling one last time not to change your mind
But just to say I miss you baby, good luck goodbye, bobby jean
Springsteen
JB checked in stopped for the night as are we in La Porte Indiana, not a planned stop but nice motel on a lake with cold beer in the restaurant next door.
Tomorrow around Chicago then north and west, the ride continues.
Tuesday, June 18, 2013
DAY 17 JUNE 18, 2013
Left Syracuse this morning headed south towards Binghamton NY and soon ran into fog on the road. It wasn't so thick as to make it unsafe to drive but gave the ride a surreal effect. It was kind of a Twilight Zone experience with nothing in front of or behind you like you exist but not in the normal world. Fog burned off and we turned west on I-86 finding ourselves on a lightly traveled interstate through forests and farmland, very green, very pretty. We continued west just enjoying a cool cloudy day and decent roads. Met up with I-90 towards the end of the day crossing Pennsylvania and on into Ohio before kick stands down and calling it, an easy 475 or so today.
On a bike you really do become part of the environment and you notice things you would miss in a car, smell is one of the heightened senses. You can smell the cigarette smoke if you're following a smoker, or the antifreeze of an overheating car. One of my favorites is following a bus burning reclaimed cooking oil, it smells like you're following a huge McDonalds french fry down the street. What brought this to mind today is while riding in the fog I could smell fresh cut trees like a freshly cut Christmas tree and we soon overtook a lumber truck loaded with logs. The smells assaulting us every day just overwhelm the senses.
Headed west but not really towards AZ yet and thinking about how much I miss my wife when as usual the radio just sort of summed up my thoughts:
Sometimes I grow weary,
From goin' all the time.
I love to take a minute,
Let you ease my mind.
I'd love to see my mama
Maybe go for a drive
But I gotta play the star in some little town again tonight
Don't get me wrong
I love what I do
It's just another song about missing you
Callin' me home
Callin' me home
Callin' me home, yeah
Oh, oh, we're almost home
Like a phone call from my baby
Sayin honey I miss ya, I miss ya like crazy
Just like the song of a siren song
Eric Church
Miss ya babe but not quite ready to turn home.
On a bike you really do become part of the environment and you notice things you would miss in a car, smell is one of the heightened senses. You can smell the cigarette smoke if you're following a smoker, or the antifreeze of an overheating car. One of my favorites is following a bus burning reclaimed cooking oil, it smells like you're following a huge McDonalds french fry down the street. What brought this to mind today is while riding in the fog I could smell fresh cut trees like a freshly cut Christmas tree and we soon overtook a lumber truck loaded with logs. The smells assaulting us every day just overwhelm the senses.
Headed west but not really towards AZ yet and thinking about how much I miss my wife when as usual the radio just sort of summed up my thoughts:
Sometimes I grow weary,
From goin' all the time.
I love to take a minute,
Let you ease my mind.
I'd love to see my mama
Maybe go for a drive
But I gotta play the star in some little town again tonight
Don't get me wrong
I love what I do
It's just another song about missing you
Callin' me home
Callin' me home
Callin' me home, yeah
Oh, oh, we're almost home
Like a phone call from my baby
Sayin honey I miss ya, I miss ya like crazy
Just like the song of a siren song
Eric Church
Miss ya babe but not quite ready to turn home.
Monday, June 17, 2013
DAY 16 JUNE 17, 2013
Left the motel this morning and got right back on route 2 headed for New York and the Adirondack Mountains. Vermont's state motto is Green Mountain State and it surely fits this part of the state. We rode for hours with the road wandering over and around the Vermont mountains covered with trees so thick you can't see 100 feet into the forest. Every so often you would come upon a quaint New England town always located along a river or lake. As soon as we crossed into New York stopped for lunch at a small outdoor café.
We soon found ourselves in the Adirondacks on Route 8 along the southern third of the mountain range. Our typical afternoon rain shower looked imminent so we suited up in rain gear and rode under cloudy skies past lakes, rivers, and forests. The state of New York has some incredible beauty and this area has to be at the top of the list.
Eventually the sun came out and we found ourselves in a pretty good rain under sunny skies. I should have known this would happen based on what the radio had been playing earlier in the day:
Someone told me long ago
There's a calm before the storm,
I know
It's been comin for some time.
When it's over, so they say,
It'll rain a sunny day,
I know
Shinin down like water.
I want to know, have you ever seen the rain
I want to know, have you ever seen the rain
Comin down on a sunny day
John Fogerty
Eventually the rain stopped the road dried out and we ended up in Syracuse for the night, another good day.
We soon found ourselves in the Adirondacks on Route 8 along the southern third of the mountain range. Our typical afternoon rain shower looked imminent so we suited up in rain gear and rode under cloudy skies past lakes, rivers, and forests. The state of New York has some incredible beauty and this area has to be at the top of the list.
Eventually the sun came out and we found ourselves in a pretty good rain under sunny skies. I should have known this would happen based on what the radio had been playing earlier in the day:
Someone told me long ago
There's a calm before the storm,
I know
It's been comin for some time.
When it's over, so they say,
It'll rain a sunny day,
I know
Shinin down like water.
I want to know, have you ever seen the rain
I want to know, have you ever seen the rain
Comin down on a sunny day
John Fogerty
Eventually the rain stopped the road dried out and we ended up in Syracuse for the night, another good day.
Sunday, June 16, 2013
DAY 15 HAPPY FATHERS DAY
Left Bangor this morning and headed west on Route 2 a beautiful two lane across Maine and into New Hampshire. Thick forest on both sides of the road with the requisite small town showing up every so often, these all seemed to have established on dates in the 1700's. Some of the towns seemed to be prospering while others looked very run down with lots of closed businesses. You have to wonder when the timber and trapping left how did some towns thrive and others wither.
Into New Hampshire and turned south to ride to the top of Mount Washington, the tallest peak in the New England states. It's a seven plus mile ride to the top of the mountain on a very narrow road with sharp curves, drop offs, and occasionally no pavement. At the bottom 72 degrees, at the top 47 with a wind speed of 20 to 30 and loose gravel. So much excitement at one location, I'm sure some of the other guys were having less than flattering thoughts about me for suggesting we ride to the top. At one time the mountain held the record for the highest wind speed recorded on the surface of the earth 231 mph. We soon headed back down in a light rain, geared up with rain gear at the bottom and turned west on route 2.
In for the night in St Johnsbury VT at a nice hotel with a good hot tub, felt so good after an afternoon in the rain.
I never used to miss the chance to climb up on his knee
And listen to the many tales of life upon the sea
We'd go sailing back on Barkentines we'd talk of things he did
Tomorrow just a day away for the Captain and the kid
His world had gone from sailing ships to raking mom's backyard
He never could adjust to land although he tried so hard
We both were growing older then and wiser with the years
That's when I came to understand the course his heart still steers
Jimmy Buffet
Today being father's day and the fact that you have time to think on the bike caused me to reflect a little on being a father. My kids have been able to save the eight bucks it usually costs to take me to breakfast this year but I miss them giving up there morning to spend it with me. I know I don't influence them anymore they have all made me proud. I would now like the chance to influence my grandkids as Jimmy was influenced by his grandfather. I think the wanderlust spirit has always been in me and I want the chance to pass that on, I want them to understand "the course his heart still steers", Happy Fathers Day.
Into New Hampshire and turned south to ride to the top of Mount Washington, the tallest peak in the New England states. It's a seven plus mile ride to the top of the mountain on a very narrow road with sharp curves, drop offs, and occasionally no pavement. At the bottom 72 degrees, at the top 47 with a wind speed of 20 to 30 and loose gravel. So much excitement at one location, I'm sure some of the other guys were having less than flattering thoughts about me for suggesting we ride to the top. At one time the mountain held the record for the highest wind speed recorded on the surface of the earth 231 mph. We soon headed back down in a light rain, geared up with rain gear at the bottom and turned west on route 2.
In for the night in St Johnsbury VT at a nice hotel with a good hot tub, felt so good after an afternoon in the rain.
I never used to miss the chance to climb up on his knee
And listen to the many tales of life upon the sea
We'd go sailing back on Barkentines we'd talk of things he did
Tomorrow just a day away for the Captain and the kid
His world had gone from sailing ships to raking mom's backyard
He never could adjust to land although he tried so hard
We both were growing older then and wiser with the years
That's when I came to understand the course his heart still steers
Jimmy Buffet
Today being father's day and the fact that you have time to think on the bike caused me to reflect a little on being a father. My kids have been able to save the eight bucks it usually costs to take me to breakfast this year but I miss them giving up there morning to spend it with me. I know I don't influence them anymore they have all made me proud. I would now like the chance to influence my grandkids as Jimmy was influenced by his grandfather. I think the wanderlust spirit has always been in me and I want the chance to pass that on, I want them to understand "the course his heart still steers", Happy Fathers Day.
Saturday, June 15, 2013
DAY 14 JUNE 15, 2013 SATURDAY
Left the motel this morning and headed right to Route 1 north, the coast highway. We rode part of this in 2007 and today we repeated some while adding a whole lot more. Traffic was heavy, it is a Saturday in June, in Maine, but moving along at or near the posted limit all day. As we rode we came upon many small sea coast towns with the scenery changing from dollar stores and circle k to rows of homes built in the 17 to 1800's.
Stopped for lunch at a small local restaurant with an outside deck overlooking the bay, sat there having a lobster sandwich looking at the view. I think I could have stayed there all day just sipping a cup of coffee watching the fishing boats coming and going from port. The weather today was ideal with temps in the low 70's and just a few scattered clouds to break up the brilliant blue sky.
After lunch finished the ride to Acadia National Park our unofficial goal and reason to take a motorcycle ride two weeks ago. Acadia is the farthest National Park from my house and in my opinion that alone made it a worthy goal. To get there and see the absolute beauty of it was an added bonus. During our ride around the park we went to the parking area for Cadillac Mountain which is the highest point on the eastern seaboard, we took the .3 mile hike to the top and according to the signage the sunrise is first visible in the continental US from this point. At the top you also look down onto Bar Harbor or correctly pronounced Baa Ha Baa. We are stopped for the night in the capitol of Maine at the White House Best Western with an on site bar and a full size President Obama in the lobby.
Well some say life will beat you down
Break your heart, steal your crown
So I've started out, for God knows where
I guess I'll know when I get there
I'm learning to fly, around the clouds,
But what goes up must come down
I'm learning to fly, but I ain't got wings
Coming down is the hardest thing
Tom Petty
Each morning you leave the motel and head down a new street, not getting beat down by life but embracing it, new locations, new roads, a new experience each and every day. Some days better than others but all to be cherished, man I love doing this. I know we turned west this afternoon, I know that's the direction home, I know I miss my family, I know we are taking the long way home, I don't know if I'm ready to turn home. Coming down is the hardest thing.
Stopped for lunch at a small local restaurant with an outside deck overlooking the bay, sat there having a lobster sandwich looking at the view. I think I could have stayed there all day just sipping a cup of coffee watching the fishing boats coming and going from port. The weather today was ideal with temps in the low 70's and just a few scattered clouds to break up the brilliant blue sky.
After lunch finished the ride to Acadia National Park our unofficial goal and reason to take a motorcycle ride two weeks ago. Acadia is the farthest National Park from my house and in my opinion that alone made it a worthy goal. To get there and see the absolute beauty of it was an added bonus. During our ride around the park we went to the parking area for Cadillac Mountain which is the highest point on the eastern seaboard, we took the .3 mile hike to the top and according to the signage the sunrise is first visible in the continental US from this point. At the top you also look down onto Bar Harbor or correctly pronounced Baa Ha Baa. We are stopped for the night in the capitol of Maine at the White House Best Western with an on site bar and a full size President Obama in the lobby.
Well some say life will beat you down
Break your heart, steal your crown
So I've started out, for God knows where
I guess I'll know when I get there
I'm learning to fly, around the clouds,
But what goes up must come down
I'm learning to fly, but I ain't got wings
Coming down is the hardest thing
Tom Petty
Each morning you leave the motel and head down a new street, not getting beat down by life but embracing it, new locations, new roads, a new experience each and every day. Some days better than others but all to be cherished, man I love doing this. I know we turned west this afternoon, I know that's the direction home, I know I miss my family, I know we are taking the long way home, I don't know if I'm ready to turn home. Coming down is the hardest thing.
Friday, June 14, 2013
DAY 13 JUNE 14, 2013
This will be pretty short as I'm tired and on a borrowed computer. We had a great day across New York on route 20 before turning onto the Interstate, skirting Boston during evening rush hour. Ended the day in Portland Maine where we met an old friend for a nice dinner at a local steak house. Evelyn had met four of us before on the four corners trip and I know her through mutual friends and her trips to Phoenix. In 2007 her husband Jeff road with us to the top of Maine as a friend and guide, he has since passed away but we have fond memories of that time with him.
Tomorrow we will be completing more and more of US Route 2. Last year we rode it in the northwest, two years ago we rode route 2 across the upper peninsula of Michigan. We seem to slowly be covering more and more of this coast to coast route a little at a time. Maybe it would be fun to do all of it at once sometime. Click here for Route 2 link.
Stopped for lunch today in the beautiful city of Williamstown Mass the home of Williams College which was established in the 1790's as a private liberal arts college. The countryside of New York from a motorcycle seat on secondary roads can be breathtaking. Lots of farmland with the picturesque white two story homes with people out mowing the yards or trimming on a beautiful 70 degree June day.
Tomorrow up the coast of Maine then turning west towards Vermont and New Hampshire.
Tomorrow we will be completing more and more of US Route 2. Last year we rode it in the northwest, two years ago we rode route 2 across the upper peninsula of Michigan. We seem to slowly be covering more and more of this coast to coast route a little at a time. Maybe it would be fun to do all of it at once sometime. Click here for Route 2 link.
Stopped for lunch today in the beautiful city of Williamstown Mass the home of Williams College which was established in the 1790's as a private liberal arts college. The countryside of New York from a motorcycle seat on secondary roads can be breathtaking. Lots of farmland with the picturesque white two story homes with people out mowing the yards or trimming on a beautiful 70 degree June day.
Tomorrow up the coast of Maine then turning west towards Vermont and New Hampshire.
Thursday, June 13, 2013
DAY 12 JUNE 13, 2013
Today was the kind of day that makes us appreciate the so-so days that could go either way and really appreciate the great days. Left the hotel in the rain ended up northbound on a toll road at 65 in the rain stopped for lunch, in the rain. Took a break to get something warm to drink, in the rain. Opened my top box and discovered that my computer and atlas were now 150 miles behind us in Allentown, in the rain.
Called the Allentown Best Western to find out that they found my computer in the lobby and would ship it to my house, in the rain. After a gas stop the rain started falling harder making it difficult to drive when we saw that great blue sign, Best Western next exit, in the rain.
The Best Western turned out to be 14 miles off of I-88, in the rain. After checking in found out quite by accident we were in Cooperstown and a short ride away from the Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum with plenty of time left in the day. Soon we were turning a bad day into a good one with a museum visit, dinner at a local restaurant with a local beer, inside out of the rain. This was followed by a trip to the hot tub, and a trip to the lobby to use their computer.
Always look for the good, even a bad day sparks good conversation and memories.
Called the Allentown Best Western to find out that they found my computer in the lobby and would ship it to my house, in the rain. After a gas stop the rain started falling harder making it difficult to drive when we saw that great blue sign, Best Western next exit, in the rain.
The Best Western turned out to be 14 miles off of I-88, in the rain. After checking in found out quite by accident we were in Cooperstown and a short ride away from the Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum with plenty of time left in the day. Soon we were turning a bad day into a good one with a museum visit, dinner at a local restaurant with a local beer, inside out of the rain. This was followed by a trip to the hot tub, and a trip to the lobby to use their computer.
Always look for the good, even a bad day sparks good conversation and memories.
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
DAY 11 JUNE 12, 2013
Left the motel this morning soon found ourselves back on the Skyline Drive heading north under partially cloudy skies and temps in the 60’s. Riding along I couldn’t help but be at peace with and at the same time consumed by the beauty of this part of the country, the motorcycle easily finding its way back and forth on smooth, lightly travelled pavement.
The road would run for a mile or so enclosed in a canopy formed by oak trees with their leaves touching overhead all but blocking out the sun. Just as you broke free from the trees you would be in an open meadow then climb several hundred feet to a ridge line looking over the Shenandoah Valley. We made several stops just to attempt to take in the sheer beauty of the area. I always picture the eastern portion of the U.S. as crowded with people and buildings but standing at a view point that looked in both directions and being unable to see any signs of civilization promote the opposite.
While riding this morning we came across two small deer standing in the trees on the edge of the roadway followed a short time later by a bear cub running across the street, finally found the reason for all the “Don’t feed Wildlife” signs. At one stop today there was a breeze coming out of the valley up the face of the mountain just down the ridgeline from where we were. Looking in that direction you could see about a dozen hawks that were just gliding back and forth riding the wind like a bunch of hang gliders apparently just for the sheer joy of it.
Ranger Jan said we were lucky to have such a clear day as the area is known for the dense fog like we experienced a few years ago. Disappointed at not having time to turn around and do it again we had to head out riding the interstate the rest of the day following a tire stop at the Honda dealer.
During a late afternoon stop we pulled out the map to look at routes towards Maine. I had just heard the song Allentown by Billy Joel on the radio so that’s the way we went and where we are for the night.
And we're waiting here in Allentown
For the Pennsylvania we never found
For the promises our teachers gave
If we worked hard, if we behaved
So the graduations hang on the wall
But they never really helped us at all
No they never taught us what was real
Iron and coke, chromium steel
And we're waiting here in Allentown
The road would run for a mile or so enclosed in a canopy formed by oak trees with their leaves touching overhead all but blocking out the sun. Just as you broke free from the trees you would be in an open meadow then climb several hundred feet to a ridge line looking over the Shenandoah Valley. We made several stops just to attempt to take in the sheer beauty of the area. I always picture the eastern portion of the U.S. as crowded with people and buildings but standing at a view point that looked in both directions and being unable to see any signs of civilization promote the opposite.
While riding this morning we came across two small deer standing in the trees on the edge of the roadway followed a short time later by a bear cub running across the street, finally found the reason for all the “Don’t feed Wildlife” signs. At one stop today there was a breeze coming out of the valley up the face of the mountain just down the ridgeline from where we were. Looking in that direction you could see about a dozen hawks that were just gliding back and forth riding the wind like a bunch of hang gliders apparently just for the sheer joy of it.
Ranger Jan said we were lucky to have such a clear day as the area is known for the dense fog like we experienced a few years ago. Disappointed at not having time to turn around and do it again we had to head out riding the interstate the rest of the day following a tire stop at the Honda dealer.
During a late afternoon stop we pulled out the map to look at routes towards Maine. I had just heard the song Allentown by Billy Joel on the radio so that’s the way we went and where we are for the night.
And we're waiting here in Allentown
For the Pennsylvania we never found
For the promises our teachers gave
If we worked hard, if we behaved
So the graduations hang on the wall
But they never really helped us at all
No they never taught us what was real
Iron and coke, chromium steel
And we're waiting here in Allentown
Tuesday, June 11, 2013
DAY 10 JUNE 11, 2013
Left the motel in Dublin headed up to Roanoke for gas then it was back on the Blue Ridge for mile after mile. This is definitely one of the premier motorcycle roads in the US; I would ride this every week if I lived anywhere near here. The entire day was spent in shirtsleeves with temps in the 60’s under partially cloudy skies and very little traffic. Managed to burn thru an entire tank of gas leaning back and forth mile after mile.
After a nice lunch finished the Blue Ridge and moved onto the Skyline Drive we are about forty miles in before stopping for the night. Weather permitting hope to finish it tomorrow then head north at a quicker pace for Maine.
The pictures are very similar and without captions would be impossible to tell apart reminding me of an old Richard Harris song "Slides" when he shows his slides to a high school class
Sunset, another sunset
I know it looks indistinguishable
from the last
but I remember the difference
Tony Romero
Onward north tomorrow.
 |
| BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY |
 |
| SKYLINE DRIVE |
After a nice lunch finished the Blue Ridge and moved onto the Skyline Drive we are about forty miles in before stopping for the night. Weather permitting hope to finish it tomorrow then head north at a quicker pace for Maine.
The pictures are very similar and without captions would be impossible to tell apart reminding me of an old Richard Harris song "Slides" when he shows his slides to a high school class
Sunset, another sunset
I know it looks indistinguishable
from the last
but I remember the difference
Tony Romero
Onward north tomorrow.
DAY 9 JUNE 10, 2013
Hondas headed to Johnson City following Al to get tires on his bike. Harleys headed to Hickory NC to Blue Ridge Harley. We said we were going for oil so everyone could top off but a Blue Ridge Harley t-shirt was not out of the question.
JB led us to Hickory and to say the route was circuitous would be an overly kind description. Eventually we did roll into the Harley shop after seeing some of the North Carolina country side. Heard from Al that his bike was done, pulled out the map and decided to put a few miles on since we had gone in opposite directions.
We eventually reunited on I-81 north of the Virginia border and are in for the night in Dublin Virginia Holiday Inn, a half hour in the spa, a dip in the pool, dinner, and I’m calling it a day.
Managed to avoid the weather all day except for two minutes in a hard cold rain that soaked the Harley riders, of course we can handle it we are the Harley riders. Back on the Blue Ridge tomorrow, weather permitting.
Route 321 to Hickory (eventually)) I-40 to I-77 to I-81N
JB led us to Hickory and to say the route was circuitous would be an overly kind description. Eventually we did roll into the Harley shop after seeing some of the North Carolina country side. Heard from Al that his bike was done, pulled out the map and decided to put a few miles on since we had gone in opposite directions.
We eventually reunited on I-81 north of the Virginia border and are in for the night in Dublin Virginia Holiday Inn, a half hour in the spa, a dip in the pool, dinner, and I’m calling it a day.
Managed to avoid the weather all day except for two minutes in a hard cold rain that soaked the Harley riders, of course we can handle it we are the Harley riders. Back on the Blue Ridge tomorrow, weather permitting.
Route 321 to Hickory (eventually)) I-40 to I-77 to I-81N
Sunday, June 9, 2013
DAY 8 SUNDAY JUNE 9
After breakfast several riders decided to check tire pressures, oil levels etc. before heading out for the day. When he looked at his back tire Al discovered that the great pot hole incident of 2013 had taken a large chunk out of his rear tire making the bike unsafe to ride at speed. We quickly went to the front desk and let them know that we were staying another night as there are no motorcycle tire shops open anywhere in the state on Sunday.
Once arrangements were made we had to decide what to do with our day and when you’re on a three week motorcycle ride the only thing to do on a day off is go for a motorcycle ride. We took off with a vague idea after looking at the green dots (scenic) on the map and headed for Tennessee.
Walkin’ to the south out of Roanoke
I caught a trucker out of Philly had a nice long toke
But he’s a heading west from the Cumberland gap
To Johnson City, Tennessee
And I gotta get a move on before the sun
I hear my baby calling my name and I know that she’s the only one
And if I died in Raleigh at least I will die free
So rock me momma like a wagon wheel
Rock me momma any way you feel
Hey momma rock me
Rock me momma like the wind and the rain
Rock me momma like a south bound train
Hey momma rock me
Dylan/Secor
An hour or so down the road found us in Johnson City TN filling up with gas and deciding where to head next. JB lead us over to Bristol and we rode by Bristol Motor Speedway then turned onto US 421 toward Mountain City and lunch. Route 421 turned out to be a great motorcycle road with lots of bikes enjoying the great Sunday weather. At one point we passed a small bar with 75 to 100 bikes in the parking lot, had a great lunch at a small restaurant in Mountain City. Leaving lunch we soon ran into a downpour but it didn’t last long and we were back on our way to Banner Elk NC for night two.
The local people we have met in North Carolina have all been very friendly with a slower, friendlier speech and a easy listening accent exuding friendship. The area we are in is an upscale recreation area of beautiful homes, hiking trails, biking, fishing, and skiing. However, if you look long enough in any state you find that person or persons that typify the stereotypes of the area. We pulled over to take off rain coats at a one pump gas/store/food building that hadn’t seen maintenance in years.
While we were standing there I was approached by an unshaven, torn t-shirt, two tooth wonder that wanted to talk. I’m always willing to talk to a local regardless of social status because you can always learn some interesting local fact, except in this case. After he walked away I asked Bruce why these guys always seek me out and he replied “don’t you have a mirror in your hotel room”, I think we may send Bruce home tomorrow.
Checked google for route 421 http://www.421thesnake.com/index.html and found out it’s 33 miles of great curves. Unlike the Dragon this road has lots of cross streets and driveways. Including a guy weed eating in a dangerous spot on a curve fun watching his eyes get big as we headed at him.
Once arrangements were made we had to decide what to do with our day and when you’re on a three week motorcycle ride the only thing to do on a day off is go for a motorcycle ride. We took off with a vague idea after looking at the green dots (scenic) on the map and headed for Tennessee.
Walkin’ to the south out of Roanoke
I caught a trucker out of Philly had a nice long toke
But he’s a heading west from the Cumberland gap
To Johnson City, Tennessee
And I gotta get a move on before the sun
I hear my baby calling my name and I know that she’s the only one
And if I died in Raleigh at least I will die free
So rock me momma like a wagon wheel
Rock me momma any way you feel
Hey momma rock me
Rock me momma like the wind and the rain
Rock me momma like a south bound train
Hey momma rock me
Dylan/Secor
An hour or so down the road found us in Johnson City TN filling up with gas and deciding where to head next. JB lead us over to Bristol and we rode by Bristol Motor Speedway then turned onto US 421 toward Mountain City and lunch. Route 421 turned out to be a great motorcycle road with lots of bikes enjoying the great Sunday weather. At one point we passed a small bar with 75 to 100 bikes in the parking lot, had a great lunch at a small restaurant in Mountain City. Leaving lunch we soon ran into a downpour but it didn’t last long and we were back on our way to Banner Elk NC for night two.
The local people we have met in North Carolina have all been very friendly with a slower, friendlier speech and a easy listening accent exuding friendship. The area we are in is an upscale recreation area of beautiful homes, hiking trails, biking, fishing, and skiing. However, if you look long enough in any state you find that person or persons that typify the stereotypes of the area. We pulled over to take off rain coats at a one pump gas/store/food building that hadn’t seen maintenance in years.
While we were standing there I was approached by an unshaven, torn t-shirt, two tooth wonder that wanted to talk. I’m always willing to talk to a local regardless of social status because you can always learn some interesting local fact, except in this case. After he walked away I asked Bruce why these guys always seek me out and he replied “don’t you have a mirror in your hotel room”, I think we may send Bruce home tomorrow.
Checked google for route 421 http://www.421thesnake.com/index.html and found out it’s 33 miles of great curves. Unlike the Dragon this road has lots of cross streets and driveways. Including a guy weed eating in a dangerous spot on a curve fun watching his eyes get big as we headed at him.
Saturday, June 8, 2013
DAY 7 END OF WEEK ONE
If you look up great American roads in any book, magazine, or web site one that is always in the top ten is the Blue Ridge Parkway. Left the motel this morning and soon found ourselves in the Great Smokey Mountains National Park with temps in the high 50’s and wisps of fog coming off the mountains down onto the road. An hour down the road and we were turning north at the beginning of the Blue Ridge were we spent the day on lightly travelled roads waving to other bikers and wearing out the sides of the tires. Shirt sleeve weather with scattered clouds was the request for weather for the day and exactly what we received.
In for the night in Banner Elk NC an upscale community in the Appalachians just a few miles off of the Parkway. We will get back on tomorrow but with a top speed of 35 to 45 might not finish the entire 468 miles until Monday.
Looking for a place to take a break we turned off the parkway into a North Carolina state park at Mount Mitchell which happens to be the highest point in the US east of the Mississippi, Mount Mitchell wikipedia. Walked to the viewpoint at the top of the mountain where you can see for miles in every direction and all you see is the forest covered Appalachian Mountains. Traffic was surprisingly light for a Saturday in June making for a great day hope for more of the same tomorrow.
In for the night in Banner Elk NC an upscale community in the Appalachians just a few miles off of the Parkway. We will get back on tomorrow but with a top speed of 35 to 45 might not finish the entire 468 miles until Monday.
Looking for a place to take a break we turned off the parkway into a North Carolina state park at Mount Mitchell which happens to be the highest point in the US east of the Mississippi, Mount Mitchell wikipedia. Walked to the viewpoint at the top of the mountain where you can see for miles in every direction and all you see is the forest covered Appalachian Mountains. Traffic was surprisingly light for a Saturday in June making for a great day hope for more of the same tomorrow.
Friday, June 7, 2013
DAY 6 JUNE 7 HAPPY BIRTHDAY JEFF
Left the motel and drove to a Honda shop so Al could get his bike checked for damage after the great Tennessee pot hole incident of 2013. While the bike was being checked several of us used the opportunity to catch up on laundry before heading out for the day.
I was starting the day in a less than wonderful mood after two days of too much food and not enough sleep. I just wanted to be moving. Finally, everyone was ready to go and we jumped on the interstate for a few miles to quickly get out of the city. We were soon eastbound thru gorgeous forest with very little traffic. The road was running parallel to a river full of rafters and kayaks weaving back and forth as we made our way the 150 miles over to Deal’s Gap and the Tail of the Dragon.
When you pull into Deal’s Gap, a motorcycle only store and motel, on a Friday afternoon you are immediately surrounded by several hundred other bikes crowding the parking lot. The center of the parking lot is taken up by a large tree covered in motorcycle parts; if you wreck your bike you can hang a part on the” Tree of Shame”. Your hearing is assaulted by bikes going up the hill in front of the parking lot where the “Tail” begins everyone trying to prove something with the speed they assault the first curves. The noise ranges from the Formula 1 race car sound of the sport bikes, the growl of the Italian twins, the almost silent hum of the Gold Wings, and the out of sync rumble of an American made v-twin. In between bikes you listen to the accents and languages being spoken in the parking as you wander around talking to different bikers or listening in on their conversations.
After the mandatory t-shirt purchase it’s time to mount up and make our own assault on the road. We change leaders of the group at every gas fill up and the last time we were here it just worked out that it was my turn to lead the group as we went from north to south. With a little luck and careful fuel management on my part I was in the lead again for our run from south to north. We made the run safely at a comfortable speed stopping a few miles beyond the end at Highway 129 Harley. Eventually continued on finally stopping for the night still somewhere in Tennessee the last half hour in a light rain. We hope to get on the Blue Ridge Parkway tomorrow but are currently dealing with the remnants of the hurricane that hit Florida.
At one point today a car pulled up next to me and I looked at his license plate it was from North Carolina and my first thought was; boy he’s a long way from home! Quickly corrected it to, we are a long way from home and a long way from Maine, still think Maine is our goal, time will tell.
I was starting the day in a less than wonderful mood after two days of too much food and not enough sleep. I just wanted to be moving. Finally, everyone was ready to go and we jumped on the interstate for a few miles to quickly get out of the city. We were soon eastbound thru gorgeous forest with very little traffic. The road was running parallel to a river full of rafters and kayaks weaving back and forth as we made our way the 150 miles over to Deal’s Gap and the Tail of the Dragon.
When you pull into Deal’s Gap, a motorcycle only store and motel, on a Friday afternoon you are immediately surrounded by several hundred other bikes crowding the parking lot. The center of the parking lot is taken up by a large tree covered in motorcycle parts; if you wreck your bike you can hang a part on the” Tree of Shame”. Your hearing is assaulted by bikes going up the hill in front of the parking lot where the “Tail” begins everyone trying to prove something with the speed they assault the first curves. The noise ranges from the Formula 1 race car sound of the sport bikes, the growl of the Italian twins, the almost silent hum of the Gold Wings, and the out of sync rumble of an American made v-twin. In between bikes you listen to the accents and languages being spoken in the parking as you wander around talking to different bikers or listening in on their conversations.
After the mandatory t-shirt purchase it’s time to mount up and make our own assault on the road. We change leaders of the group at every gas fill up and the last time we were here it just worked out that it was my turn to lead the group as we went from north to south. With a little luck and careful fuel management on my part I was in the lead again for our run from south to north. We made the run safely at a comfortable speed stopping a few miles beyond the end at Highway 129 Harley. Eventually continued on finally stopping for the night still somewhere in Tennessee the last half hour in a light rain. We hope to get on the Blue Ridge Parkway tomorrow but are currently dealing with the remnants of the hurricane that hit Florida.
At one point today a car pulled up next to me and I looked at his license plate it was from North Carolina and my first thought was; boy he’s a long way from home! Quickly corrected it to, we are a long way from home and a long way from Maine, still think Maine is our goal, time will tell.
Thursday, June 6, 2013
Day 5 JUNE 6
It’s eleven o’clock and I’m tired so this will be short. We had a beautiful day marred only by a short but intense rain storm. We are in for the night in Chattanooga well south and east of where we were yesterday. I know we are heading for Maine but nothing says we have to go straight there.
We angled across the western part of Tennessee before turning due east along the southern boundary of the state. A full day of green forests, green dotted road in the Rand McNally Atlas, and friendly people with some very strange accents. Route 64 is a beautiful road to travel and well deserving of its scenic status as it winds across the state.
Tomorrow should find us once again on the Tail of the Dragon before turning north towards the Blue Ridge Parkway and oh yea Maine.
Route was 412 to Jackson 45 south to 64 east.
We angled across the western part of Tennessee before turning due east along the southern boundary of the state. A full day of green forests, green dotted road in the Rand McNally Atlas, and friendly people with some very strange accents. Route 64 is a beautiful road to travel and well deserving of its scenic status as it winds across the state.
Tomorrow should find us once again on the Tail of the Dragon before turning north towards the Blue Ridge Parkway and oh yea Maine.
Route was 412 to Jackson 45 south to 64 east.
Wednesday, June 5, 2013
DAY 4 JUNE 5
I'm a long way from home
And i miss my loved ones so
In the early morning rain
With a dollar in my hand
With an achin' in my heart
And my pockets full of sand
With no place to go
Gordon Lightfoot
Woke to a pouring rain and strong winds and very wet bikes. We were leaving late today knowing that we only had a 75 mile drive to brunch in Springfield Missouri with a group of Phoenix PD retirees. After a couple of hours drinking coffee and waiting for the rain to subside suited up in rain gear and hit the interstate. Fifty miles down the road the rain let up and by the time we reached brunch everyone was dry and ready to put the rain gear away. After a two hour lunch and lots of conversation we mounted up and headed east on US 60.
A few years ago we rode most of 60 from Arizona to Virginia Beach but this short stretch we missed by detouring to Branson. We have now finished all of 60 stopping for the night in Sikeston Missouri and dinner at Lamberts Restaurant home of throwed rolls, throwed-rolls.com.
After a late wet start we are close to four hundred miles down the road on great blacktop thru the Mark Twain National Forest. At one break today we found ourselves in a small store/gas station in the middle of nowhere, all activity came to a stop when eight motorcycles pulled in and parked. After a few minutes visiting with Wanda the clerk and a few customers we were deemed harmless and the place returned to normal. A typical stop for us traveling the country experiencing Americana.
I remember Wanda when she was employed
Behind the counter of the Route 60 Bob’s Big Boy
Fried chicken on the front seat
Wanda sittin on my lap
Wiping up our fingers on
A Texaco road map.
Bruce Springsteen
And i miss my loved ones so
In the early morning rain
With a dollar in my hand
With an achin' in my heart
And my pockets full of sand
With no place to go
Gordon Lightfoot
Woke to a pouring rain and strong winds and very wet bikes. We were leaving late today knowing that we only had a 75 mile drive to brunch in Springfield Missouri with a group of Phoenix PD retirees. After a couple of hours drinking coffee and waiting for the rain to subside suited up in rain gear and hit the interstate. Fifty miles down the road the rain let up and by the time we reached brunch everyone was dry and ready to put the rain gear away. After a two hour lunch and lots of conversation we mounted up and headed east on US 60.
A few years ago we rode most of 60 from Arizona to Virginia Beach but this short stretch we missed by detouring to Branson. We have now finished all of 60 stopping for the night in Sikeston Missouri and dinner at Lamberts Restaurant home of throwed rolls, throwed-rolls.com.
After a late wet start we are close to four hundred miles down the road on great blacktop thru the Mark Twain National Forest. At one break today we found ourselves in a small store/gas station in the middle of nowhere, all activity came to a stop when eight motorcycles pulled in and parked. After a few minutes visiting with Wanda the clerk and a few customers we were deemed harmless and the place returned to normal. A typical stop for us traveling the country experiencing Americana.
I remember Wanda when she was employed
Behind the counter of the Route 60 Bob’s Big Boy
Fried chicken on the front seat
Wanda sittin on my lap
Wiping up our fingers on
A Texaco road map.
Bruce Springsteen
Tuesday, June 4, 2013
DAY 3 JUNE 4
This was the kind of day we ride for, primarily two lane roads thru wooded hills and farm land. Left the motel this morning and a few miles down the road got off the interstate headed north on a small two lane road. Within a mile of the interstate found that staple of this part of the country a single wide trailer with a pick-up, tire swing, and dog in the front yard, americana at its best. This soon gave way to neatly manicured yards in front of two story white painted farm houses with American flags hanging out front.
Rode thru several small towns with their downtowns full of small shops, a bank, a farm implement store, and the ever present “coffee shop”. Took a break in Kingfisher Oklahoma the birthplace of Sam Walton, everywhere we rode we were greeted by friendly people. Left OK and went across the southern part of Kansas headed towards Missouri.
Pulling into Joplin after about 375 miles of two lane road was greeted by old friend JB:
Met my old friend on the street last night
He seemed so glad to see me
I just smiled.
We talked about some old times
and we drank ourselves some beers.
Still crazy after all these years
With apologizes to Paul Simon
Good to meet up with an old friend.
On a sad note for today, Tim let us know this morning that he needed to take care of a personal problem and would be leaving us in Oklahoma. Wishing him a safe trip home.
Harleygramps break out your map here is the route I-40 to 281N, 3E, 81N, 60E, 35N, 166E to Joplin.
Rode thru several small towns with their downtowns full of small shops, a bank, a farm implement store, and the ever present “coffee shop”. Took a break in Kingfisher Oklahoma the birthplace of Sam Walton, everywhere we rode we were greeted by friendly people. Left OK and went across the southern part of Kansas headed towards Missouri.
Pulling into Joplin after about 375 miles of two lane road was greeted by old friend JB:
Met my old friend on the street last night
He seemed so glad to see me
I just smiled.
We talked about some old times
and we drank ourselves some beers.
Still crazy after all these years
With apologizes to Paul Simon
Good to meet up with an old friend.
On a sad note for today, Tim let us know this morning that he needed to take care of a personal problem and would be leaving us in Oklahoma. Wishing him a safe trip home.
Harleygramps break out your map here is the route I-40 to 281N, 3E, 81N, 60E, 35N, 166E to Joplin.
Monday, June 3, 2013
Day 2 6/03/2013
East on I-40 temps ranging from low sixties to low nineties with strong cross winds could summarize our day. If you look a little deeper at the day we had some old memories brought back up mixed with the new ones we are making. Crossing the pan handle of Texas we passed Adrian Tx the midpoint on old route 66 were we stopped and had lunch in 2008. The proprietor had stayed open when she heard from a friend that we were driving thru town. After a piece of pie and photos at her restaurant she led us outside and had us sign our names on her old Ford pickup. Later today we stopped to get gas next to a museum that we had visited in Clinton OK in 08.
Watching the change of scenery from Texas to Oklahoma is amazing as the dusty nothingness of the panhandle slowly change to the rolling hills farm and ranch land of Oklahoma. In for the night in Weatherford Oklahoma tomorrow we leave I-40 meet up with JB in Joplin Missouri
Watching the change of scenery from Texas to Oklahoma is amazing as the dusty nothingness of the panhandle slowly change to the rolling hills farm and ranch land of Oklahoma. In for the night in Weatherford Oklahoma tomorrow we leave I-40 meet up with JB in Joplin Missouri
Sunday, June 2, 2013
DAY 1 6/2/2013
…and so it begins. Once again we are off to see this great country from the perspective of two wheels. Today was all I-40 from Winslow east but still an enjoyable ride. The weather cooperated although at times you could feel the temperature drop ten degrees and smell the rain in the air. Both perspectives of the trip that you don’t get in a car as the temperature fluctuated all day between pleasant and a little on the warm side. At one point the weather channel warned of 60 MPH winds and quarter sized hail for the road we were on. All we noticed were dark clouds and a nice tail wind. At least a dozen times today we were asked “where you going” and when you tell them Maine it always elicits a story of travel and a desire to share. This early in the trip who knows if we will end up in Maine or somewhere else and who really cares. The destination is the excuse for the ride not the mandatory goal.
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