MONDAY, MAY 28. GAYLORD, MICH. TO MARKHAM, ON
By tonight we will have wrapped up our around the US trip. We (actually all Carl) drove about 20,000 km; in wind and rain and snow, up and down mountains repeatedly and saw a lot of beautiful scenery. The timing was almost perfect because there were no bugs anywhere we went. The only place we couldn't get to was Glacier National Park because the road had not yet been completely cleared of snow.
You probably read that we bought a National Park Pass for $80. We saved $200 in National Park admissions over the course of this trip. What a deal!
Thanks for following along on this trip with us. I appreciate you reading the blog. I sit down every evening to write it for you.
We now plan to enjoy our summer with the people we care about. On the weekends, you will likely find us at the Slovenian Summer camp veging under the trees and/or relaxing at a campfire.
SUNDAY, MAY 27. FARGO, SUPERIOR, MN. TO GAYLORD, MICH.
Noooo!!!! Not another time change. We lost an hour this morning as the time zone changed from Central to Eastern. Today, we just drove and drove and drove, through forests and small towns across northern Michigan. We saw an interesting sign for Baraga and Baraga State Park.
The most significant thing we saw late this afternoon was the Mackinaw City Bridge. This bridge has one of the longest suspension spans in the world; it stretches for 5 miles.
We are spending the night in Gaylord, Michigan at a Walmart.
SATURDAY, MAY 26. FARGO, ND TO SUPERIOR, MN.
We were on the road at 8 this morning eastbound toward home (actually Duluth). The hills we have grown accustomed to seeing are gone and in its place is flat land. Midway through Minnesota, it was evident that lakes were an important part of peoples' lives. Signs for Walleye dinners at restaurants and churches popped up frequently.
Trees, trees and an occasional swamp now took over the majority of the landscape to Duluth. Near Duluth, we transitionned to the Hwy 61 Scenic Drive north to Two Harbours. This route runs alongside Lake Superior and so provided lovely views of the water.
Trees, trees and an occasional swamp now took over the majority of the landscape to Duluth. Near Duluth, we transitionned to the Hwy 61 Scenic Drive north to Two Harbours. This route runs alongside Lake Superior and so provided lovely views of the water.
In Two Harbours, we detoured to visit the 3M museum (where it all began). Learning about the company history and philosphies for growth proved quite interesting.
FUN FACT: 3M invented the adhesive that was stuck onto the Monarch butterflies so that they could be tracked to their winter destination.
FUN FACT: 3M invented the adhesive that was stuck onto the Monarch butterflies so that they could be tracked to their winter destination.
Thirty kilometres north lies the number 7 things to do in Minnesota: the Split Rock Lighthouse. This lighthouse has been beautifully restored with a museum, lighthouse keepers home, the horn house and of course the Light House. It is a lovely scenic area (when the fog isn't moving in).
Carl had to swim out into Lake Superior quite a ways to get this shot.
Tonight we are spending the night in Superior, Minnesota at a Walmart and will be on our way early again tomorrow morning.
FRIDAY, MAY 25. BISMARCK/MANDAN TO FARGO, ND
The time changed again yesterday afternoon from Mountain to Central time so we lost another hour. Darn time changes wreak havoc on my internal clock.
We were able to get to the 9 o'clock tour of the State Capitol Building in Bismarck. The guide was not one of the best we have had. The existing building is a replacement for one that burned down in 1930. The apparent cause of the fire was rags that had been used to clean the desks for the return of the legislature.
This building looks more like a hotel than a capitol building. It is a skyscraper model and has 19 floors. The interiors of the govrnmental room were designed by artist Edgar Miller. An addition was completed in 1981.
This building looks more like a hotel than a capitol building. It is a skyscraper model and has 19 floors. The interiors of the govrnmental room were designed by artist Edgar Miller. An addition was completed in 1981.
Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park was the second place we visited. Here we saw the house Custer lived in before his untimely death at Little Bighorn., the soldiers barracks, the stables, the Visitor Center museum and a reconstruction of On a Slant Indian village.
FUN FACT: On Feb 17, 2007, 8,962 North Dakotans came out to make snow angels on the lawn of the capitol building. It got recorded in the Guinness World Book of Records.
FUN FACT: On Feb 17, 2007, 8,962 North Dakotans came out to make snow angels on the lawn of the capitol building. It got recorded in the Guinness World Book of Records.
After the state park, we retrieved the trailer and headed east. We ended todays drive in Fargo, North Dakota. The temperature is still quite warm as of 7:30 pm since, it reached 32o here today.
THURSDAY, MAY 24. MILES CITY TO BISMARCK, MT
It was handy being in the Walmart parking lot so that I could do a little grocery shopping this morning. It was several hours of driving to arrive at the Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
By noon, we were touring the South end of the Park to see the North Dakota Badlands. We had a small delay due to construction(everywhere we go). The two prairie dog towns at the beginning of the route were very fun to watch as they scurried around and then stood up on their hind legs,to see what was going on in the neighbourhood.
A bison on the road stopped us cold until he decided to move on. From here the views of striated rock formations kept us taking pictures. We happened upon another herd of bison lazing about.
At the end of the scenic loop, the Visitor Center had a film , a small museum, and Roosevelt's first cabin relocated from the Maltese Cross Ranch.
The resting place for tonight is an RV Park in Mandan (close to Bismarck, the capital of North Dakota).
WEDNESDAY, MAY 23. BILLINGS TO MILES CITY, MT
It rained all night and then the weather threw in a thunderstorm but the accomodations were fine. This morning we attended to some maintenance issues. The spare propane tank needed to be filled and Carl got a good deal on some new trailer tires at Costco (no tax). We did have to wait around for the tires though and it was one o'clock by the time we left Billings and almost 2 hours until we arrived at Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument. A map was provided at the entrance and we got in free again (National Park pass). In the Visitor center, we watched a movie explaining the history of the time and the battle logistics. The 5 mile drive has 17 stops with storyboards explaining Custer's last stand. Custer was severely outmanned against the warriors. 249 white graveyard tombstones mark the soldiers fell. Between 60-100 Lakota and Cheyenne died over the two day battle over the course of two hot summer June days in 1876. During the park drive, we were fortunate to get a break in the rainy weather.
At 4:30, our drive continued east to Miles City where we stayed at a Walmart overnight. The sky was scary looking and the rain started up again. Dinner was had in the trailer as it was late. Better weather is expected for tomorrow, warmer and sunnier.
TUESDAY, MAY 22. YELLOWSTONE TO BILLINGS, MT 
We left Yellowstone this morning and drove out the east entrance to Cody, Wyoming. The mountains became somewhat lower and the rock is consistently dark brown in colour. That scenery morphed into flat valleys with ranches and then it returned to sand coloured rocky craggs.
Billings most striking natural features are the Rimrocks as they rise 500 feet above the Yellowstone valley, running the length of the city and beyond.
We had a tasty dinner at the Cracker Barrel and spent the night in their RV parking lot. They allow RVers' to stay at their restaurants.
MONDAY, MAY 21. GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK
This is the snow around our campsite.
For Day 2 at Yellowstone, the choices included exploring the outer regions of Yellowstone or driving an hour to get to Grand Teton National Park; Grand Teton won.
At Coulter Village, we got some information on how to spend our day and were warned about the bear danger (always carry bear spray on the trails). We didn't even see a bear today.
At Jackson Lodge, the view inside through their huge expanse of windows was awesome as it was when we went outside. It is to beautiful to capture.
Jackson Lake Dam holds back Jackson Lake from entering the watershed to quickly.
Smokey Mountain Lodge had more views of pristine lakes and mountains.
At the Jenny Lake Loop, we stopped and walked a short ways almost to the foot of the mountains.
In addition to the scenery, we got to see a glacier at Teton Glacier Lookout.
Another cool item was the Chapel of the Transfiguration built in 1912.
The remains of an old Mormon village were seen off the highway on Antelope Flats Road. The story boards don't tell why they left and what happened to them.
There was a tour bus full of Oriental people at the Teton lookout. Carl them all to line up for a photo with the mountains in the background (LOL).
The Snake River outlook is knows for being photographed by Ansel Adams and hence contributing to the popularity of the park.
I was tired so only Carl went to the Cunningham Cabin Historic Site.
At the end of the route, we returned to Jackson Lodge so we could use their free wifi to catch up on emails and the blog. An hour drive back to the RV ensued. We made our own dinner again and passed the short evening away. Tomorrow we are moving on to Billings, Montana. 
It was freezing overnight, literally. In order for the hoses in the rv not to freeze, the water has to left running by a trickle. There is snow sitting on the ground close to the RV.
An absolutely stunniing vista of mountains in behind Yellowstone Lake greeted us as we began our tour. The sun was shining (despite a prediction for cloud and rain).
At West Thumb Geyser Basin, there are several pots of bubbling water and stea9m holes in this old volcano caldera. This basin lies right next to the Yellowstone Lake which still has some ice on it at the shore.
On the way to Old Faithful, we crossed the Continental Divide, twice.
Old Faithful was timed to go off 20 minutes from the time we arrived. We had a good viewing point and got to see the geyser erupt(10 minutes late). It was a very intriguing experience.
Old Faithful was timed to go off 20 minutes from the time we arrived. We had a good viewing point and got to see the geyser erupt(10 minutes late). It was a very intriguing experience.
Biscuit Basin was similar to Black Sand Basin except there were 3 bison lounging around at the entrance.
The Grand Prismatic Spring showed off some colourful pool patterns. This is were one of the most famous pictures of Yellowstone was taken. One pool (crater) has water so hot it instantly turns to steam so it is very difficult to see what it looks like.
The Gibbon Falls were quite pretty and mesmerizing.
At the Norris Geyser Basin, the Steamboat Geyzer was not on show for us. It was only emitting steam but the area is pretty anyway with other hot pools around.
The North Rim Drive south of Canyon Village brought us unexpectedly to the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and the Lower Falls. Both were magnificent sights.
The South Rim Drive showcased the Upper Falls from a high vantage point.
Lastly to see today was the Mud Volcano and Dragon Mouth Spring.
SATURDAY, MAY 19. BOZEMAN, YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK, MONTANA
This morning we tarried since the museum wasn't opening until noon. We shopped at Dollar Tree and I also popped into target. There is no sales tax in Montana!
At noon we entered the Computer and Robotics Museum. The attendant gave us a brief history of computers in the first two rooms and then left us to wander the other rooms. Exhibits included space travel, robotics, the Enigma machine and quantum computers.
An hour and half later under a dreary, cloudy sky, we were on the road for our lengthy drive to Yellowstone. At the Visitor Center we got some info on road conditions and park itineraries.
The first stop was Mammoth Hot Springs where we walked the lower and then the upper terrace.
Backtracking to get to the route to our Rv park, we came across a herd of bison. There were quite a few babies in the group.
Further along, traffic came to dead stop and everyone wanted to see a bear (he was very far away). This happened again at another location. Here the bear was closer and the park ranger had to keep the crowds in line. The elk we passed by don't seem to mind having their picture taken .
The road climbed to the top of Mr Washburn at 10,243 feet and there is still quite a lot of snow here.
Back in the lower elevations, the Yellowstone River parallels the highway.
At the Sulphur Cauldron stop, the hot yellowish water is bubbling up into a pool. It smelled very strongly of sulphur.
We finally got to the Fishing Bridge RV Park at 7pm and got all checked in. There are no restaurants up here so dinner had to be made from scratch. There is also no TV, and no cell phone reception. We ended up watching an episode of Blacklist that had been downloaded from home.
FRIDAY, MAY 18. MISSOULA, HELENA, BUTTE, BOZEMAN, MONTANA
FYI - We had planned to go to Glacier National Park but the Road to the Sun is not yet fully opened. There is 17 miles open from the west and a few miles is open from the east. The middle is still covered in a LOT of snow so, we won't be seeing this park.
We had a good sleep and set off early (for us) this morning. Gas is much less expensive here. It cost $2.79 at the Costco when we filled up.
On the highway, as we listened to the radio, there were several flood warnings in parts of Montana. Out the truck window, there were hundreds of heads of cattle, many with little calves trailing along beside them.
Helena is the capital of Montana and houses the State Capitol building. This building is quite low key: no security, no tours (cutbacks apparently) and a self guided tour book handout. I read the guide as we wandered around the various floors and wings. The painting in the House of Representatives is quite famous.
A few blocks away is the Cathedral of St. Helena. This church was modelled after the Votive Church of the Sacred Heart in Vienna, Austria. The interior is made of carrera marble and the stained glass windows came from Munich, Germany. It is quite beautiful.
The rain continued on the drive to Butte, In Butte, we stopped at the Berkeley Pit Viewing Stand. For $2, you get to see an abandoned open pit copper mine filled with water. We were told that it is the largest toxic lake in the country. There are intermittent loud noises to scare the birds away. After half an hour we left and headed to Bozeman.
Got to Bozeman at 5ish and went to Costco for fuel and sustenance. Overnight was once again at Walmart. Tomorrow we will go to the American Computer and Robitics museum and head for an RV park inside Yellowstone.
Note: If there is no blog while in Yellowstone, it is because I don't have wifi or cell service.
THURSDAY, MAY 17. SEATTLE TO MISSOULA, MONTANA The weather was drizzly and dreary as we left the coast but, an hour later the sun was out. We drove up the Cascade mountains and then down to flatter landscape. Approaching Spokane it became hillier again.
The Spokane Falls were AMAZING! There was so much water plunging over the rocks. It was a spectacle. We walked around them to get all the viewpoints.
This part of town is very nice. Spokane is Washington's 2nd largest city. One of Spokane's most convenient features is, its system of enclosed skywalks that allow pedestrians to visit many downtown establishments without having to brave the cold.
This part of town is very nice. Spokane is Washington's 2nd largest city. One of Spokane's most convenient features is, its system of enclosed skywalks that allow pedestrians to visit many downtown establishments without having to brave the cold.
Since it was still only 2:30 after visiting the falls, we decided to keep going to get closer to Helena, Montana. We changed from Pacific to Mountain time so are losing an hour tonight. At Costco, we gassed up at $3.07 and continued on our way . After driving through many more mountains and observing rivers that are brimming with water, we ended up at a Walmart in Missoula, Montana for the night. I had to go in and register the license plates for the truck and trailer in order to get approval to stay here. This is something we have never had to do before.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 16. SEATTLE, WASH.
This morning we got our first taste of Seattle traffic. It was as bad or worse than Toronto and were thankful for the HOV lane so that we could scoot around some of the cars. Downtown, we found street parking and walked to the Pike Place Market. This market is like a huge flea market with wares ranging from fresh fish to jewellery. It is right on the waterfront and interesting to browse around in.
We moved the truck to peruse the Seattle Center. This was the site of the Century 21 Expo, better known as the 1962 World's Fair. The space needle provides views of Seattle and surrounding area but, it was getting a Space Lift(LOL).
The Museum of Pop culture is quite a unique looking building. It was designed by Frank O. Gehry. It is supposed to resemble a smashed guitar, huh!
We continued through the Seattle Center and towards the waterfront to see the Olympic Sculpture Park. This park is on the waterfront and has a couple of interesting pieces.
Left with several choices to round out our day we chose another CAA GEM: the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks. We caught onto a tour and the tour guide was excellent explaining the history and function of the Lock. She even explained how they keep the salt and fresh water from mixing . There is also a fish ladder so that the salmon can get upriver to spawn (none today though).
Also on the grounds is the Carl S English Jr. Botanical Garden and this was worth a short stroll through it on the way to the exit.
Dinner found us at the exit in the form of a Fish and chips stand. Halibut and chips were munched down happily.
We drove to Costco to get gas as it is .40 cents a gallon less there. We also found a few other goodies while we were there. This is the first Costco I have seen that is not white with red accents. It was completely non descript. Interestingly, it is across the street from what seems to be Costco head office. Another feature I have not seen before is the outside Food Court. That wouldn't fly where we live.
We walked over 16,000 steps today and were both pooped. Carl watched the hockey game and I researched for the next couple of days. Tomorrow's destination is Spokane.
TUESDAY, MAY 15. OLYMPIA, SEATTLE, WASH.
Fog, fog and more fog, this morning. We were so fortunate that we got our sightseeing in yesterday. The fog burned off and turned into cloud and by mid afternoon it was sunny and nice. During the drive from Sequim, we debated whether to make a detour to Olympia to see the Capitol Building. The CAA guide book said it was a Gem so it was decided that we would go. We found parking a couple of blocks away for the truck and trailer and did a 1 km walk to the Legislative Buildings. The Capitol's 287 feet tall masonry dome is one of the largest in the world. The chandelier in the rotunda was designed and made by Tiffany. The tour guide was really good and went over her alloted hour for the tour. Outside, the gardens have lots of rhododendrons (their state flower) and the blooms are large and gorgeous.
It was still quite a drive from Olympia to Bellevue where we had booked a campsite. We checked in at 3:30pm and Carl decided that he wanted to watch the hockey playoff game so we opted to stay in for the evening.
MONDAY, MAY 14. OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK, WASH.
Yesterday, on Mothers day, I did connect with my Adam later in the day and I received some kind words from him.
The Oympic National Park visitor centre was opening just as we got there. We acquired a park map and some scenic drive info. On the Hurricane Ridge road nearby, we got stuck in construction only a short ways in. After 5 miles on a gravel road, we had to show our park pass ( saved another $25) at the entrance gate. The drive up to Hurricane Ridge was beautifully scenic with more and more snow covered mountains coming into sight as the elevation rose. There is still quite a bit of snow at the top. Carl was cute in his sandals in the snow.
Upon returning to terra firma, the hwy 101 route took us on a 2 hour ride to the Hoh Rain Forest. Construction delayed us again but beautiful Crescent Lake took the edge off the waiting.
Upon arriving at the Rain Forest drive the first thing you notice is the favourable smell. The scenery is different, greener and more lush just 2 miles in. Sixteen miles later lies the visitor center and, several hiking trails leading through the nearby forest. Here we saw very old trees(over 300 years), several types of moss hanging from trees and a rain forest environment created by 130 inches of rain per year.
It was 100 km back to the rv park with a stop in Port Angeles to pick up Chinese food for dinner. The first and second restaurant we tried were closed and the third one was an local award winner. The award was justified based on how much we enjoyed our dinner.
Upon arriving at the Rain Forest drive the first thing you notice is the favourable smell. The scenery is different, greener and more lush just 2 miles in. Sixteen miles later lies the visitor center and, several hiking trails leading through the nearby forest. Here we saw very old trees(over 300 years), several types of moss hanging from trees and a rain forest environment created by 130 inches of rain per year.
It was 100 km back to the rv park with a stop in Port Angeles to pick up Chinese food for dinner. The first and second restaurant we tried were closed and the third one was an local award winner. The award was justified based on how much we enjoyed our dinner.
Tomorrow's destination is Seattle.
SUNDAY, MAY 13. DRIVE TO SEQUIM (OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK), WASH.
Firstly, let me start my day by saying that I miss my guys like crazy but I'm in Washington so I am going to make the most of it. My family is going to have a lot of make up celebrations when I get home; Adam and Adrians birthday, Mothers day and possibly Fathers Day. I was happily surprised to find Happy Mothers Day messages from Adrian and Justin when I got up this morning. Today was a long driving day, moving on to Olympic National park near Seattle. Driving through Tacoma we realized that the Museum of Glass was very nearby so a detour was made. We actually found parking for the truck and trailer about a km away. We watched the movie about Stephen Daley and then saw his work in the gallery. The other gallery had works from Chihuly. It was more linear than the other abstract pieces.
Outside the building is a staircase that leads to the Bridge of Glass. Well, it isn't really a bridge of glass but it is a bridge with a showcase of over 100 glass pieces. On the bridge, in the middle is a very large glass sculpture.
The journey northward continued until we reached our RV park in Sequim at 4 o'clock. Now it is time to make dinner and plan for tomorrow.
SATURDAY, MAY 12. LEAVENWORTH, WASH. MAIFEST
Carl made a delicious mushroom omelette filled with monterey jack cheese and added a side of bacon for breakfast. What a yummy way to start the day.
From 10 to 11 we were once again entertained by the 4 piece group called the Alpenfolk. Everyone really got into doing the chicken dance either sitting or standing. They even played a song that was written in Slovenia. During a break in the music we walked down to enjoy the view of the Wenatchee river. The river is running very high right now.
While waiting for the noon parade to start I enjoyed a pralines and cream ice cream cone. There is nothing like an ice cream on a warm day. The parade had 2 marching bands, antique cars, goats, decorated dogs and a dance group.
Thereafter, a mini maypole raising was staged in the town square. A traditional dance of the Maibaum was performed by the Tirolean dancers from Portland, Oregon.
A real treat was the performance of 5 of those very long alphorns.
The music continued through the afternoon but the bands were ones that we had listened to already twice so, we decided to get some food. Just before we went in search of food, the knights did a demonstration with broadswords in the area beside the music gazebo.
For a late lunch we went to get a bratwurst but the restaurant was super busy with a long line up. I then got the bright idea to go to Safeway and buy some brats and potato salad and return to the trailer to make our own lunch. That is what we did and it turned out quite well.
The one last thing we had to do was see Downtown Historic Cashmere. It did not take very long and it was not very eventful. In comparison to Leavenworth, the town of Cashmere is quite plain. There are two large industrial buildings where they made and package precut apple slices. I imagine this business employs quite a few people.
Tomorrow we have a long drive headed for Olympic National Park.
HAPPY MOTHERS DAY TOMORROW!
FRIDAY, MAY 11. YAKIMA TO LEAVENWORTH, WASH. HAPPY MOTHERS DAY TOMORROW!
The wind was very active overnight and this caused the trailer to rock slightly. It work me up once and so, to compensate, we slept in.
The town of Leavenworth is hours from Yakima and they are having a Maifest. The CAA books says, Leavenworth is a small town remodelled to look like a Bavarian Village and this weekend is Mayfest. The campsite we chose was in neighbouring Cashmere (a 10 mile drive). After checking in, paying and parking, Carl took the time to change over a trailer tire that was getting low of tread on one side.
One hour later we drove the 10 miles to Leavenworth and stopped at the Visitor Center. The girl at the center was wearing a german dirndl dress and from there, we just kept finding more and more German stuff. The town is AMAZING! It looks like it was copied out of Bavaria. We got to listen to a small band, then watch a short girls Maypole dance and then more music. In between the music, we went to get a schnitzel for dinner at the Andreas Keller just across the street. The food was much enjoyed. We left as the temperature was cooling down, just after 7 o'clock. More events are scheduled for tomorrow in Leavenworth and we will be there.
THURSDAY, MAY 10. BAKER CITY, WALLA WALLA, YAKIMA, WASH. 
One hour later we drove the 10 miles to Leavenworth and stopped at the Visitor Center. The girl at the center was wearing a german dirndl dress and from there, we just kept finding more and more German stuff. The town is AMAZING! It looks like it was copied out of Bavaria. We got to listen to a small band, then watch a short girls Maypole dance and then more music. In between the music, we went to get a schnitzel for dinner at the Andreas Keller just across the street. The food was much enjoyed. We left as the temperature was cooling down, just after 7 o'clock. More events are scheduled for tomorrow in Leavenworth and we will be there.
By 9am we were at the door waiting to get into the Oregon Trail Interpretive Centre. We got in free with our National Parks pass (saved another $9). After 1 1/2 hours, our knowledge of the hardships endured by the settlers to cross 2000 miles of unforgiving land as greatly expanded. It was a great stop.
We retrieved the trailer and headed 200 km north to Walla Walla, Washington; the location of the Whitman Mission National Historic Site. The Visitor center desribes the story of Marcus and Narcissa Whitman and their attempt to set up a mission and convert the native people. The mission lasted 11 years. More and more settlers were arriving via the Oregon Trail and they brought diseases with them. Following a measles epidemic, the Cayuse people had had enough. By this time, half of their tribe had died from white mans illnesses. Several tribe members killed the Whitmans, two sons and 9 others. The remaining survivors were taken captive and ransomed one month later by the Hudsons Bay Company.While the mission was not on the Oregon Trail, those who were sick and destitute turned to the mission for shelter and comfort.
There were still daylight hours so we decided to put another 200km under our tires en route to Yakima. On Hwy 12, we drove alongside the vast Columbia River for a short stretch. Many industries are located on the banks of the river. In addition to industry, the area is known for its wineries. We saw miles and miles of vineyards as far as the eye can see in some cases. The soils and temperatures in this valley make it ideal for this purpose.
At 7:30 we arrived at our Walmart and, after asking for permission, we settled in for the night.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 9. HELL'S CANYON SCENIC DRIVEThe scenic Hell's Canyon drive started a short few kilometres from our RV Park. From the road, we took a short walk to find remnants of the ruts made by wagon trains in the 1950s following the Oregon Trail.
A view of snow capped mountains is omnipresent on the drive. Many homesteads with lush farmland and cattle farms parallel the river valley.
Past the town of Halfway, we entered a Land Management area. The environment now became very treed. Driving became risky as road hazards such as rocks and felled trees had to be negotiated.
The road again paralleled the running water.
Deeper into the forest we came across patches of snow on and beside the road. The turnoff of three miles to Hell's Canyon overlook revealed an amazing view.
Past the town of Halfway, we entered a Land Management area. The environment now became very treed. Driving became risky as road hazards such as rocks and felled trees had to be negotiated.
The road again paralleled the running water.
Deeper into the forest we came across patches of snow on and beside the road. The turnoff of three miles to Hell's Canyon overlook revealed an amazing view.
Returning to the scenic byway, we climbed to the top of another mountain where we were met with more snow, and wet roads that continued for the drive back down. We passed through several small to mid size towns, apparently miles from civilization (50 or more miles). Seeing how people live out here gives a different perspective.
Today, I spotted three types of wildflowers in bloom.
Today, I spotted three types of wildflowers in bloom.
The scenic byway was completed by 3 o'clock and we headed back to our home to think about what we were going to do for dinner. Since it was cold, windy and raining, we decided to make dinner here and then plan our trip for tomorrow.
TUESDAY, MAY 8. MOUNTAIN HOUSE, BOISE, BAKER CITY, OREGON
We had a quiet sleep at the Walmart. There were 3 other rv's in our area and 2 more in other spots in the parking lot. This town is within 1 hour of Boise and that is where we set off for.
In Boise, we lucked into a tour of the Basque Msuem and got a history lesson about the Basque people that had immigated to Idaho. Men worked often as shepherds and the women worked in boarding houses. There seems to still be a Basque presence in Boise judging from the Cultural Center and Basque restaurants nearby.
The State Capitol was a short walk from here so we left the truck and trailer parked where it was. At the Capitol building we found no security, no tour guides and a number of school kids. We walked all 3 floors, looked into each of the chambers and took some pictures before returning to the truck.
The last tourist stop was the Old Idaho Penitentiary State Buildings. A few of the buildings had been destroyed in a riot but many buildings remain to look into. From the look of things, it was not a comfortable existence. This site concluded the highlights of what we were interested in seeing in Boise.
At Costco, we fuelled up and were on our way to Baker City, Oregon. As we crossed into Oregon the time zone changed again, to Pacific Time. From Baker City, the plan is to drive the Hell's Canyon Scenic Drive tomorrow.
MONDAY, MAY 7. SALT LAKE CITY TO MOUNTAIN HOME, IDAHO
Bye-bye Utah, Hello Idaho. We were to end up in Twin Falls, Idaho today.
Entering Idaho brought lots of green fields and irrigation from the Snake River. The CAA book advised that sugar beets and potatoes are grown here.
The first highlight on the Thousand Springs Scenic Byway off I-84 was Shoshone Falls billed as the Niagara of the West. The scenic overlook was quite pretty as were the falls but it was no Niagara. Part of the Snake River is diverted here for hydroelectric purposes.
At Twiin Falls, the Chobani yogurt factory is a huge presence.
Nearby Buhl is said to be the rainbow trout capital of the US since the town is a leader in trout research and production. Trout farms raise and process rainbow trout that are shipped throughout the world.
Hwy 30 presents miles and miles of irrigated crop land with some dairy farms (milk for Chobani?).
Just before Hagerman, it looked like the cliffs has sprung a leak . At least 6 waterfalls cascaded down the walls.
The Hagerman Fossil Bed National Monument is open and free and has 2 overlooks, the Snake River and Oregon Trail remnants. It didn't take long to cover these two stops. A short distance away is Hagerman and here the Monument Visitor Center showed a short film and a real fossil of a Hagerman Horse.
Our drive for today concluded at Mountain House; the Walmart Hotel for RVer's.
SUNDAY, MAY 6. SALT LAKE CITYThis morning we returned to Temple Square for a concert at 9:30. We got the last two seats in the Tabernacle. The music and orchestra were very well done and soon the half hour was over.
When we returned to the truck, we realized that we were one km away from the State Capitol Building so we left the truck on the side street and walked there. There are no guided tours on Sunday so we missed that but, we had the place almost to ourselves. There were some interesting exhibits in glass showcases in the basement about filming, industry, a replica Liberty Bell and the state flag. The amount of marble in the building amazes you. We walked around each floor and then walked back to the truck.
We visited a Costco nearby to get gas and a few other items. Next, we went to the Walmart for the remaining groceries. This was an unsettling experience. There was a police car parked by the covered parking lot and 2 police officers inside the door. The greeter was checking receipts against purchases like they do at Costco. They must have high losses in this store. It was super clean looking, though.
Carl dropped me at a Target and waited, while I picked up some of the salsa that I like.
We needed to do laundry and this seemed like a good day to catch up so we got organized and did that. Carl was watching a hockey game on the cable tv they have here while I waited for clothes to finish.
We ate a stir fry for dinner that I made in the trailer.
SATURDAY, MAY 5. MOAB TO SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH
Todays final resting place is Salt Lake City, actually North Salt Lake. Along this drive a view of the mountains is always present. I saw a trail filled with coal cars.
It took us about 4 1/2 hours to get to SLC. When we reached the city of Provo, there was 6 lanes of traffic on each side and traffic stayed busy all the way to SLC.
It took us about 4 1/2 hours to get to SLC. When we reached the city of Provo, there was 6 lanes of traffic on each side and traffic stayed busy all the way to SLC.
Our RV Park is quite nice. We each got a huge cookie when we checked in. After depositing the trailer in its place, we drove to Temple Square where we scored parking right out front. For the next couple of hours we walked around the square admiring the gardens, visiting the Tabernacle, touring the Beehive house and taking lots of pictures. At the Beehive House, the Mormons did their best to bring us into their fold; in the nicest way possible, of course.
Following the Mormon faith, some of our time was devoted to the Catholic Cathedral of the Madeleine. The gothic interior has Venetian mosaics and Tennessee marble, three main altars of Utah marble and wall niches with oak statues. We arrived during the sermon portion of the Mass and left quietly thereafter.
Salt Lake City has so many beautiful flowers blooming. The tulips are especially beautiful right now.
Earlier in the afternoon, we were given a recommendation by the desk attendant at the rv park for a pizza place and we decided to follow through by ordering a pizza from The Pie. We were quite pleased with our pizza but still nothing beats Mile 0 Pizza from Dawson Creek.
The evening was spent reviewing travel plans for tomorrow and the next day when we move on to Idaho.
FRIDAY, MAY 4. CANYONLANDS AND ARCHES NATIONAL PARK
This morning was a late start, I didn't sleep well.
We entered Canyonlands National Monument from the Island in the Sky side. The outlooks showed some magnificent scenery. On the second trail was Upheaval Dome that was reached by a 2 km hike. The rocks in this canyon were a strange colour and shape and scientists have not yet figured out why it is in this formation.
Concluding our Canyonlands tour, we drove to Moab to fuel up for tomorrow and the drive to Arches National Park.
We saved another $25 with our National park pass.
I had thought that after all the rocks that I have seen so far that I was getting immune but Arches showed me that I could still say, WOW! I have to move this park up in my list of favourites. Over the course of th afternoon, we drove many miles, stopped many times and took lots of pictures at this unique park. It is gorgeous and I highly recommend seeing it.
Dinner was had at the Moab Brewery and was enjoyed by all.
THURSDAY, MAY 3. CANYONLANDS NATL MONUMENT AND MOAB
The first tourist attraction on the journey north was Canyonlands, Needles District. At Newspaper rock, we saw some very well preserved petroglyphs. A 10 mile drive lead to the Big Spring Canyon Overlook. This spot showed off some more spectacular formations created by Mother Nature.
From here, the drive back to Hwy 191 was long and I was able to manage a power nap. On Hwy 191, we stopped to take pictures at Wilsons Arch.
From here, the drive back to Hwy 191 was long and I was able to manage a power nap. On Hwy 191, we stopped to take pictures at Wilsons Arch.
In Moab, we stopped at the Visitor Center to ask about camping. Carl wanted to camp off the grid so the attendant sent us out of town on the road to Canyonlands National Monument (Island in the Sky side). We found a very remote campsite for the next two nights. It is just to far and to much trouble to go into town from here for dinner so we made dinner here using up some of our pantry food. There is no cell service here so it will likely be a quiet, early night.
Wednesday May 2nd. Monument Valley and Natural Bridges National Monument
Rain, again! It rained a little last night but this morning for our drive it rained consistently for about half an hour. I was content to sit in the passenger seat with my sugar free vanilla latte from McDonalds where we had breakfast. When camping without water, electricity, and sewer hookups it is just easier to eat out then cook in.
While driving along, listening to a CBC podcast we learned that the number 1 stolen book from libraries in the US is the Bible, think about that!. In Canada the number one stolen book is the Drivers handbook (US number 1 is the Guinness World book of records). And speaking of weird at 10:30 a.m., we drove through a brief Hail storm!
Around noon we started the drive through Monument Valley. Towering red formations grew closer and closer. There are many scenic turnouts to take pictures along the highway 163. We stopped many times along the highway to photograph unique structures.
The trailer got parked in Blanding by 2 p.m. and we hurriedly and drove to Natural Bridges National Monument 60 miles away. Yay, tonight I have real hookups.
Bad weather seems to be following us. By the time we got to Natural Bridges Monument the sky was black and there was thunder and then more hail. The ground was covered with white. We drove the 9th mile scenic loop stopping first at Sipapu bridge. Carl decided to hike the 1km to the canyon floor in the now sleeting weather. Sipapu is the matureist, highest and greatest in span.
Kachina bridge is still young.
Owachoma is showing its old age and will eventually break.
Upon completing the loop, the sky had finally brightened for the return trip to Blanding.
The time here is so confusing. Arizona is NOT on Daylight Saving Time but is on Mountain Time. The Navajo Nation does participate in DST.
Anyway, at the tour booth, I synchronized my watch to their time so we would be back in time for our 2:45 Lower Antelope Canyon tour.
With time to kill, we could now see the Vermillion Cliffs National Monument and visitor center that is 25 miles away.
We drove through the park ogling the views and then discovered the Cliff Dwellings site. This was a neat visit looking at very large stones that were used as shelters and homes in the past.
With time to kill, we could now see the Vermillion Cliffs National Monument and visitor center that is 25 miles away.
We drove through the park ogling the views and then discovered the Cliff Dwellings site. This was a neat visit looking at very large stones that were used as shelters and homes in the past.
Back at the Navajo tour site, the wind came up and sand was blowing everywhere. Shortly thereafter, we were informed that further tours were cancelled for today and that refunds were being given. We did collect our refund and decided against moving on today so . . . back to our Walmart parking spot for the night. It was a bit of a disappointment not being able to go on that tour but, crap happens when you are travelling and you just have to roll with it.
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