Thanks to Kathleen for reserving an awesome week- and letting us steal your timeshare benefits for a year!
The pool had red rock views & more importantly, was heated.
Plus 3 swanky hot tubs!
Unfortunately for David, when he stole Kathleen’s camera and made this face, the wind blew. And now he’ll look like this forever.
Our plan for Monday (the 28th) was to ride the 100 miles to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon and ride back to the Mt. Carmel RV Park (which we loved). But there was a wind advisory for Utah and Arizona until nearly midnight, 30-40 mph winds with up to 50mph gusts. We’ve been riding in the cold and enjoying it as our heated gear works incredibly well. But nothing fixes 50 mph winds.
We decided to wait another day for the North Rim and moseyed out of our favorite campsite into the big city of Kanab, stocking up on groceries and visiting the hardware store. David bought a sheet of plywood for the camper; it has two twin sized beds in the back. This obviously does not work for us. The first few nights we owned it, we slept in the bed over the front seats, which is a queen size. But there were some problems. First, I was wedged between the mildewy curtains and under the sloping ceiling, without a way out if I woke up before David. Also, I woke up the second morning to water dripping at my head. The camper had a leak. So, we decided to sleep solo until David could build us a bed. The way we’ve been sleeping is just like TV shows from the 50s. I thought we’d be married at least three months before I kicked him out of the bed… Anyway, it’s still better than the tent (for reasons that I will explain in a bit if explanation is needed).
I helped David and the lumber guy get the piece of wood in the camper and off we drove. Our plan for the night was a $5 campsite at a BLM campground. If you pull off the road on BLM land, you can camp for free, but this nine site campground has two outhouses, picnic tables and fire pits, so I guess with all those fine amenities, the $5 should be expected. Our RV goal is to camp for free as often as possible to attempt to offset some of the gas costs. But David pointed out that BLM camping on the side of the road in desolate places without anyone else nearby might not be the safest decision. At least at Walmart, he pointed out, there are people around. What kind of people, hm… But we decided to tiptoe our way into BLM camping.
There was a tent set up across from the site where we parked the rig. Surprising considering it’s been below freezing at night, but no untypical for this area. I wouldn’t like to camp in subzero temps, but we only have 20 degree sleeping bags, I wonder how much longer we could have made it in the tent with some -30 degree bags. Probably not more than a few weeks, as we’d still be cooking in the freezing dark at a picnic table for breakfast and dinner.
After he parked for the night, David looked at the wood he bought for the bed. I looked at the floor I had just vacuumed that morning, covered in splinters of wood. And then David realized the board was too big. Both too long to fit in the back bedroom and too long to lay flat across the camper. So we spent the night and next morning maneuvering around a massive piece of wood. Good thing we’re used to living in a tent because it really cut back on our livable space.
(Completely unrelated, I sometimes read articles at home-themed websites and a few weeks ago houzz.com had an article championing two folks that lived in a tiny house of under 200 square feet. I read the article and wondered why these two seemed like such heroes— when people all over the world live in tiny spaces. Poor people. No one is praising them for their environmental savvy and space saving techniques. The tiny house movement has a big time subculture following. And I used to think it was cool, now I can’t help but feel it’s elitist/classist. No one is writing articles about us, two hoboes living in a tiny space like gypsies and saying how wonderful it is… except us of course!)
David started getting caught up on his notes for the blog and I worked more on sewing new curtains for the bed above cab— the curtains up there were originals. And they contribute to the name I gave the bed, the mold hole. Last week I sewed curtains for the side windows, today I started working on the front window, which could take a while for a few reasons:
-I’m not a good seamstress. I took one quarter of home-ec in eighth grade and that’s the total of my sewing knowledge.
-We have no scissors. Unless the broken scissors on David’s ghetto swiss army knife counts.
-The window runs the whole width of the cab, like 90 inches or so.
-The materials and thread and sewing needle were left in the camper by the hippie Israelies. Not the highest quality fabric and it’s a mystery why they had it. The fabric is white, slightly sheer and very elasticy. Also cut up in weird places. And there’s a lot of it. But free, homemade curtains are better than moldy ones.
As we worked it didn’t seem that windy, but clouds began building up in the sky and it started to rain. We both stated our overused but heartfelt phrase: thank god we’re not in the tent! Then it started to hail. As I cooked dinner, drops of rain dripped on the chair where David typed his notes. Because this new spot was leaking, he checked the mold hole and that was also dripping— in new and old places. He did a quick check of the rest of the camper and then went up to the roof and brushed the water off. He did this again, but the second time the rain froze in sheets on the roof and I asked him stop going on the roof for the night. We placed buckets under the drips (it was like being a pioneer!) and ate dinner. Then we got ready for bed. We moved the huge board of wood as much into the living space as possible and I checked my bed to make sure there were no wild animals under the covers (I do this every night). The bed was wild animal free, but wet. I called David over, and we tried to dry off the bed enough to sleep on; his bed was also wet, but less so. I shimmied as far away from the wet as possible, zipped my sleeping bag up so I looked like a mummy, put the comforter over my head and fell asleep.
At some point in the night as half asleep I tried to stay as far away from the window as possible without falling off the edge of the bed, the rain stopped. What a relief. No pitter pat of rain drops and drips ruining the roof of our tiny home. What I didn’t realize was the rain stopped because the temperature dropped and it was snowing. When we woke up and said good morning from across the bedroom it was so cold we could see our breath.
The North Rim is 2,000 feet higher than where we camped. How do I break David’s heart and explain that this plan sucks?
(One hour later):
Oh what a relief— he knows it’s a stupid idea to ride on the bike to North Rim! We talk through our options for the next few days over coffee and David decides that we’re getting the hell out of the elevation. He decides this so quickly that as I wash the dishes from breakfast he’s packing stuff away, checking the trailer and asking when I’ll be ready to leave. He’s so intense that I have no time to change out of my pajamas, I just swap my sweats for jeans and he’s got the rig crossing over the cattle guards before I can brush my teeth. There’s one benefit of living in your car— quick getaways!
So like pioneers running away from Native Americans (whose land we stole), we boogey into town and steal some wifi from McDonalds. David brings his wood back to the lumber place and gets it re-cut in a way that makes sense and we head toward Lake Powell and Glen Canyon. I found a cheap campground there where you can pull up to the beach for the night. Of course, when we get there the water there is shut off. So it’s camping at our old friend’s again.
After some detours (dam detours) we pull into Walmart. So two nights of camping= $5. Good for us. I start working on my curtains and David builds the bed. Much applause was had! We pushed the twin mattresses together, went into Wally World and bought a solid enough queen sized mattress pad to even out the beds. Viola! Married people sleeping together. David keeps saying he’s so excited to steal my body heat. The truth is that there’s one comforter and I took it, so he’s been using blankets that don’t keep him warm enough in the snowy climates. He doesn’t care about cuddling or whatever else the execs from 50s TV shows worried about suggesting if couples slept in one bed. He just wants me for my body heat. If it keeps snowing while we sleep, the feeling will be mutual.
David had internet in Sedona, but I didn’t. So I have some catching up to do. Sorry to anyone who cares about chronology. But let’s take the time machine back to Utah- my favorite place!
We’ve seen so many different landscapes in the last four months it’s hard to believe that we’re still amazed at new places. Seemed like we’d seen all the variations on rock/mountain/sky out here— then we hit Utah.
Because most of Utah sits at such a high elevation and it’s already getting cold in the mountains (50s during the day and teens at night), we won’t be able to explore all of the state on this trip. Even with heated gear, 50 day time temps are tough. Also, many places and campgrounds in the elevation close for the season after Labor Day.
We started our trip into Utah in the Southwest corner— the lowest and warmest part of the state. Just for perspective:
-when we arrived in Utah we camped at a state park at about 3,300 feet
-the lowest elevation in the state is about 2,200 feet
-our second campground is at about 5,200 feet
-the highest point in Rhode Island is Jerimoth Hill at 812 feet.
Southern Utah’s weather is a lot like the weather in Vegas, up to 115 in the summer and barely freezing in the winter. Of course, they can drive an hour north into the mountains and ski starting in November.
Zion National Park is the big attraction in the southwestern part of the state and it was spectacular. We spent three days driving and hiking around the park and I wish we could spend three more because we barely explored more than the easier hikes and the most visited parts of the park. But outside of the park is also gorgeous, we spent a day at Snow Canyon State Park hiking in red rock canyons, passing by lava beds, and a huge arch. We spent some time riding around into the elevation and through farm areas, seeing ranches placed in canyons and expensive mountain retreats in the rocks above us. Because of the elevation is so varied throughout the state (I think the highest peak is over 13,000 feet) all of the roads, even the highways are scenic and just stunning. The rocks are a deep orange color, but change hue throughout the day as the sun moves. It’s my favorite place we’ve seen, unlike anywhere else in the country. Maybe the planet.
After spending lots of money to get the generator on the camper fixed we rode deeper into the central part of the state. Our second campground is a motel/RV park with ten RV sites and six motel rooms. When we arrived on the first night the office door was unlocked but the little room was empty. On the wall outside the door it said: motel rooms are unlocked, the key is hanging just inside of the door. Cross the room number you take off the list. No place for self pay. No checkout time. When we rang the bell for service no one came to take our money, but a little tiger striped kitten came up and let me pet her. The next morning when I rang the bell someone did show up to let me pay.
Yesterday we rode a 300+ mile loop on route 12, which is a scenic highway and “all American road,” whatever that means. It climbed up to 9,600 feet and rode us past red rock tunnels and hoodoos, the entrance to Bryce Canyon National Park (we’re going back there before we leave the area), through mountain villages, petrified forests, and mountains overlooking Capital Reef National Park (too far away for us to visit, sadly because it also looks unlike any other place I’ve ever seen— bright pink cliffs, rock ledges and deep canyons), views of the Henry Mountains (the last place in the continental US to be surveyed, this is really wild country with millions of acres untouched by humans), abandoned Indian villages cut into rocks, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, dinosaur fossil beds, on and on, etc. The ride was one of the most intense we’ve done. It was both a long mileage ride, a historical ride, and it traversed through over 4,000 feet in elevation (from about 5,200 to 9,600 feet).
Other places that we won’t have time or warm enough weather to visit: Dinosaur National Park on the eastern edge of the state, Arches National Park, Rainbow Arch National Monument (only accessible by boat from Lake Powell— also closed because of flooding/washouts in the southeastern part of the state), Canyonlands National Park, the list goes on. We haven’t left and I’m already planning our next trip to Utah. When we return I’ll have to an experienced snowshoe-r, rock climber, and canyon-eer. Better start training now.
Back to elevation, it’s gotten to the point that when we discuss possible campgrounds we don’t talk about the amenities or the yelp reviews, the first thing we do is check the elevation. This late in the fall anything over 5,000 feet is likely to be cold. Anything over 6,000 guarantees misery. Anything over 7,000 we laugh at. As the winter presses on, we might just decide to return to Death Valley and the blissful -280 feet below sea level.
20131101. Day 124. Friday
A day off in Dead Horse State Park
We woke up to a still chilly morning, but the sun is bright and warming, and the birds are chirping an amazing amount of happy sounds. Which is actually pleasant. The last time we heard morning birds, it was in California, and there sounded awfully pissed off. Maybe this state aint so bad, huh!
We brewed up the french press, and savor the flavor. This is the way to start off a lazy day. I cook up the rest of the bacon, then fry up another 1/2 dozen over easy eggs. Oh YEA!!
Lauren had to finish up the curtains she had made for upstairs, and I was cleaning out the two downstairs storage bins. They do get outta control pretty easy. I had a drawer from the bureau I removed in the back bedroom, so I used it as a storage bin. Worked out well. After the organizing, i went into the bathroom to see what I was up against with the flooring. Its a mess, and I cant stand it. The rug is junk. And I find out that its the first thing put down when the manufactures build out the RV. So everything is installed over it. And that means its a royal pain in the ass to get the old rug out. Between the glue, and all the staples, and cutting around fixtures. Yea, it sucks. But, I get the razor knife out and diligently start cutting, and ripping. It takes a while, but finally I get all the scabby rug ripped out. It stinks bad ugly, and I cant wait to toss it out of the RV.
I cant put the tile down though. There is a weird patch on the floor, and there is no way the peel-n-stick tiles will cover it up without problems. So, I figure a peice of sub flooring from the Home Cheapo will be needed. Call it a wrap for today.
We lounge around a bit, then fix up some dinnah.
Weather today was warm and sunny, temps in the low 70s
Total miles today was zero and zero.
Tomorrow we travel north about 20 miles to the next resort in Sedona.
20131102. Day 125. Saturday
Heading up to Sedona.
Another easy morning, woke up to the sun shining, and the happy birds, chirping away, singing some happy tunes. Its nice here, and the weather has finally thawed us out. Sure the nights get chilly here, but the warm days help make up for it. We didn’t have to check out of here until noon time. So we didn’t hurry to get going.
The french press is always tasty, and we had to get rid of the eggs.
After stuffing ourselves, I hooked up the trailer and got the bike loaded up and tied down. The sun was warming the air up nicely, forecast is calling for 77 degrees today. What a difference a few days makes, ain’t waking up to snow on the ground again if we can help it.
At noontime we rolled outta the park. I dumped the dumper and Lauren went to reserve a spot for next week when we leave the resort. I succeeded, she didn’t. Well, it was possible to reserve a spot, but they was gonna charge us an extra $5, so we just figured we would wait and take a shot when we needed the space.
We headed out to RT89A, We stopped at the Supermahkit and got us some fixins for dinner tonight. Lauren is making pasta with a cheese sauce, and a salad with italian type bread on the side. We packed it into the campah and headed north on Rt89A. The ride north is beautiful. Were approaching the Mongollon Rim. Its so cool to see the edge of it. We were on it for several weeks, the Colorado Plateau is up there. Approaching it like this you can really see the obvious edge and the beautiful colors that are layered down.
We get into West Sedona, and wanna run the campah thru the car wash. Well, once we dropped the tape measure over the edge, we realize at 10’6″ were just a tad to tall. Time to back on outta there. We get back to RT89 and follow it to uptown Sedona. Its where RT179 starts. We do the rotary and get going southbound on RT179, towards Oak Creek. We have to go 10 roundabouts, and we roll into the resort, on the golf course. Snooty is us!
We find Kathleen and Alex at check in, and were pretty happy to find some Row Dylindas. We get our check in stuff, and parking permits, and were good to go. We pull in and unload all our stuff from the campah. Then its time to park in overflow lot. I unload the bike, and the battery is dead. Oh great. Good thing there is a hill here. I bumped started it before I got to the bottom of the hill. Luckily. I left it running for a few minutes in front of the condo.
Were here, and its comfortable. This is the nicest resort we have been in. Very modern, very clean and comfortable. We relax and just enjoy seeing them and hanging out, with no where to go and nothing to do for a week. Dinner was awesome and tasted great.
We settle down for the night in a great mood.
Weather today was great, sunny and warm in the 70s. Chilly tonite, mid 40s.
Total miles today was 28 on the RV, and zero on the bike.
Tomorrow is a lazy day for us all. Time to watch some football.
20131103. Day 126. Sunday
Are you ready for some football.
Nice waking up inside again. This is getting to feel luxurious at these resorts. We cant really sleep in, as Kathleen and Alex are on East Coast Time still. Thats 3 hours different. So there up by 7, which is 10 there time. Oh well, at least Lauren gets up with them and gets the coffee brewed right for us. We had a bunch of Pancake mix we needed to use, so thats on the breakfast menu today. And we had some good organic syrup to go with it. Of course it doesn’t compare to the real stuff my favorite Auntie Joan and Sir George brews up in Maine, but, until we get home, no chance of getting any till 2014 or later.
I wanted a football day. It didn’t matter who was playing, i just wanted to sit on a couch, and relax and watch the NFL. Its strange seeing it on TV at 11am. Lucky for me, New England vs. Pittsburg was on at 2:30, so I got to watch the home team thrash the Steel babies. And yes, I was relaxing for it all. Lauren and Kathleen went to the supermahkit and got us a few days worth of groceries.
I have been craving some good ribs for dinner, and they loaded us up with 40 or 50 pounds for dinner. Alex knows a thing or two about preparing meat, and after something like 5 hours of slow cooking, we had some damb good damb ribs. Nice
Sunday night football was on early, and its always fun to watch the Texans get there smirks wiped off there faces. Ha! But, sure hope the coach is OK.
We finished the night off with a splash in the pool, and a nice long soak in the hot tub. What a relaxing day. Well deserved!
Weather was outside today, and looked nice from in here. Mighta been warm, but it was sunny. And cool and dark in the evening. Lots of stars around here. Who knew
Total miles today was Zero on the RV, zero on the bike, Sweet!
Tomorrow we drive north and go to the Grandest Canyon.
20131029. Day 121. Tuesday
Whats that on the ground outside, and why is it so damn cold?
Ayup, it was raining when we went to bed last night. I had given up chasing the couple leaks. Cant do much about them when its dark and raining. So we fell asleep to the pitter-patter of raindrops bouncing off the roof of the RV. Even with a couple leaks, its way way way better then sleeping in the tent. Way!
When I get up to do my business, I take a peak outside, and what da? Whats that on the ground outside? Sheet, its snow.
SNOW way are we sticking around for this crap
Great. Its not alot of accumulation, more like a heavy dusting, but still, its SNOW! No wonder its so freakin cold in here, I can see my (bad) breath billowing out as frosty white clouds. Bummer.
Now what? Why stay where its cold? No need to be here at 6300ft., regardless how cheap the rent is. Lets get somewhere warmer, eh?
We packed up quickly, I mean real fast. I wanted outta there. nOW, it was cold, damp, and plain miserable. It only took us a short time, and we were moving. Back out Hancock Road to RT89. Banga right, and were southbound. 20 minutes, and we were in Kanab.
First stop was MickeyD’s for a terlit break, and some wicked slow free WiFi. We struggled thru it, and booked the plane tickets to Acapulco !! Woo-Hoo! It took a while, but we have it planned. We fly out of Dallas, Texass on the 13 of December, and back on the 20th. I have a buddy that lives outside of Fort Worth, and he said there is plenty of room for us to park the RV for as long as we want. Thanks Wayne, I sure do appreciate it.
After the McD stop, I went next door to the Ace hardware/lumba yard. Yesterday I had bought a sheet of plywood. Were turning the twin beds in the back into a queen size bed. I needed plywood to fill the gap. Well, Stupid David didnt have a way to cut a sheet of 3/4″ plywood! Duh. So they were more then helpful, and cut me to sections at 48×45. Thanks guys. We threw the plywood in the back of the RV, and were outta here. See ya later U-Tar, its been great here. We hope to come back some day. Its a seriously beautiful state. All The people are wicked friendly, the scenery is gorgeous, and it just feels comfortable here.
We take RT89 south outta Kanab, and back out onto the Colorado Plateau. We again are watching the Vermillion Cliffs on our left. Pretty distracting for sure. But we trooper on, and kick it down the road. I keep it at a steady 60mph, even though its a 65mph speed limit here. No need to hammer it, were trying to maximize the mpg. After an hour, were in the town of Big Water, Utah, right on the border of AZ. We see a BLM visiting center, and decide to pull in and have a break and some lunch. What an awesome place. Really.
Cool BLM vizzitizz center
It has a museum about the Grand Staircase Escalante Monument. And its all about the dinosaurs that were here 17million years ago. Fascinating stuff. The guy behind the counter was friendly, and helpful. After a few minutes, he wandered over and started giving us an impromptu lecture about the exhibits. He was really informative, and genuinely interested in sharing his knowledge. He even showed us a picture of himself, Merle Graffam, finding a fossil that was a claw. This was in 1999. In 2009 The Royal Society B; Biological, London, named the dinosaur he found Nothronychus Graffami. After HIM! How cool is that! It was really a surprise to us. We have stumbled into so many cool things out here.
Scary wow dinosaur oh my
Totally blows us away! What a great place the western US is. Seriously
We got back onto RT89, he told us it was 7 miles to the Lone Rock Campground on Lake Powell. In the Glen Canyon Recreation Area. We found the road, and hung a left. The toll booth was closed for the season, but it was set up for self pay. We drove on by to have a look before we paid anything. As we were rolling by the dumping station, we saw a camper in there. But the sign said it was closed. So I hollered over to him, asking if it was open. He said the water was shut off. Bummah! If they had water, we probably woulda stayed. We went down to the camping area anyways, and had a look. The lake is huge, and the Lone Rock is out of this world.
The Lone Rock in Lake Powell
We spotted a couple campers right on the edge of the lake, and the campground was empty. Pretty obvious why. It was windy and cold there. Wicked windy. Very blustery indeed. We decided to move along.
We saw the Glen Canyon Dam visitor center was open, so we figured lets give it a view. We gained an hour when we entered Arizona, so we had time to burn? The center was cool. Lotta history in there. And the view of the damb dam is spectacular. Really cool. Its huge.
Damb Dam is damb big
What a build. All these dams we have seen out here are so critical to the development of the arid southwest. Not only for irrigation, but the water that sustains life out here. It is what has allowed all these cities to grow. Phoenix, Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, LA. If it wasnt for the water from these dams, no way could they have grown. Plus the lakes are huge recreation centers, all the boating and camping bring lots of cash into these areas.
We finished our visit, and got back onto RT89 south. Destination? WallyWorld in Page, AZ. Love the free rent! Once we settled in, I ripped out the bureau that separated the twin beds, and put the plywood down, added a couple legs, and now we have a real bed again. And it wont pop under duress. I hope……..
We ran inside, used the facilities, and bought a mattress topper for our new bed. It should help alot.
Dinner was a quick Pasta with Pesto. Gotta love having a generator that runs. Sure makes this thing much more livable
Weather today was varied. First thing in the morning at 6300 ft was really cold, with snow on the ground. Down here at 4000ft it was closer to 60, but windy. It cooled of tonight, but not bad. Maybe in the 40s, and lots of stars
Total miles today was 95 in the RV, none on the bike.
Snow place to no snow place
Tomorrow were heading further south, down to Dead Horse State Park, in Cottonwood, AZ, its at 3200 ft. Might be a bit more warmer and tolerable. We figure we will stay there until Saturday, when we meet Kathleen and Alex at the Time share in Sedona
20131030. Day 122. Wednesday
Heading a bit more south and towards some warmth
Another morning, another WallyWorld parking lot. Hoorah! Certainly not the worst thing in the world. We brewed up the french press, and enjoyed it as always. I flipped on the hot water heater, and we got cleaned up, then went inside for a few couple of things. As we were walking back to the RV, I noticed the tail light on the trailer was crooked, and loose. So I assessed the situation, and noticed on of the nuts had fallen off. No lock washers. Trailers always have a lot of vibrations, all the fasteners should have Loctite, or lock washers. So I trudged back inside, and as expected, they didnt have any metric fasteners. I bought a bag of zip ties, and tried to hold it in place. It also happens to be the attachment point for the cheap plastic plate bracket. I see an O’Reilleys auto parts store across the road. My bet is they have what I need. So, we batten down the hatches, and cross on over to see what they have. Exactly what I need. I bought a package of M6 nuts, a package of lock washers, and a package of flat washers. That solved the problem. But I will try to devise a new license plat holder bracket. I am not impressed with plastic.
We filled up the petrol tank, and went 5 miles down RT89 to the HorseShoe bend overlook. Its so cool. Its a 270 degree turn of the Colorado River, just downstream from the Mighty Glen Canyon Dam. Its about a 1/2 mile hike in loose sand, up over a ridge, then down over some red sandstone. Then your there.
The Horseshoe Bend
Whats striking besides the view, is no safety rails. None. Your on the edge of a cliff, about 150 feet above the river, maybe more. There are all sorts of rocks and assorted other dangers amongst the trail. And no rails. Must be Arizona Baby, where they dont let no government tell them what to do!
We goof around a bit, looking at the expansive view. Its mind boggling to a flatlander like me. The red stone, the deep canyon, the cliffs in the background, the high desert surroundings. Its really awesome. Talk about sensory overload. Its real, its here.
High Desert of Arizona
The sun is warming us up finally, so were reluctant to go anywhere to quickly, but we need to get going. We wanna get past Sedona today, so its about 200 miles. We gotta get moving.
RT89 southbound is closed about 15 miles south of Page. There was a landslide back in February of 2013, and it buckled the road badly. From what I have read, they will end up moving part of the mountain, and the road, then rebuilding a good stretch of it next year. So for now, they have a detour set up thru the Navajo Land. It was RT20, a dirt road, but AzDot, paved it, and put up a fence to keep the critters off the road. Its about 40 miles of additional miles, but before they opened this road, it was a 120 mile detour. I sure am glad it opened up.
So we left HorseShoe Bend, and went back north towards Page. We turn right onto RT98. It takes us east about 7 miles till we get to RT89T. We banga right there, and were heading south, thru the reservation. You can see that this reservation is a lot less poor then some of the other ones we have seen. Not that it looks like high society, but it isnt as rundown and ramshackle as the rest of them. The speed limit thru here is only 55, so its easy going. We cross thru some beautiful terrain again. The high desert here is not just a desert, but a wide range of open land, huge rocks, cliffs, trees, shrubs, all sorts of various topography. Its just so awesome to see it. We finally get to the end of the detour, and get funneled back onto RT89 south.
We set our sights on Cameron, for a lunch stop. It takes us an hour to get there, and we pull into the trading post there. A quick break in the terlit rooms, and a fast lunch in the campah, and we top of with some cheap fuel. We just got 12.4 mpg? Wow. Keeping the foot outta the big block helps a lot I see! But 50-55 gets you run over everywhere else. Ha! And no, we didnt adopt the little homeless doggie running around the parking lot. He just had the saddest eyes, and looked scared to death of people. Poor guy, I felt so bad for him. I really miss my Lil miss diggah 😦
Doesnt look like she misses me 😦
We jumped back onto RT89 south. Traffic volume has picked up a bit, and its moving at 65-70+. I keep it at 60, screw em all, I will give them plenty of room to pass, have at it, I need to try and get good mpg. We approach Flagstaff, and were climbing. Page was around 4000ft, Flagstaff is over 7000ft. I try to keep my foot out of it, and just let them all pass by. We get into Flagstaff, and merge onto RT66 Westbound for a few miles. Before long, we turn south onto RT89A, towards Sedona. Our destination is CottonWood, AZ.
We cruise down RT89A, thru Oak Canyon. Its beautiful thru here. But, after all we have seen in Utah, its not exactly as mind blowing as the last time I saw it. But, its still pretty nice thru here. We approach the town of Sedona, and the sun is dropping fast. Its the golden hour, and the sun is lighting up some of these cliffs. Its really beautiful. We need to keep moving, we wanna get settled before its dark. We cruise thru West Sedona, and were on the final descent. Down we go, our approach is timed perfectly. We get to Cottonwood, and pull into Dead Horse State Park just as the sun is dropping. We had seen online they had sites without electric, for $15/night. Perfect for us. But, the catch is, tents only on those sites, no RVs. We see they have 1 single RV site with no electric, and head right to it. Of course, dontcha know, it has a tent on it. WTF? Oh well, we speak to the camp host, he says there only there one night, we have to go up the hill to the $25a night site, and then ask in the morning about this site. So thats what we do. At least we have electricity and water hook ups tonite. Big deal. Well, the water is anyways, we were less then a 1/4 tank of fresh water.
Shade was not on the list of amenities
So tomorrow we will fill the water, and back onto the site with no electricity, no problem. Unless its reserved, then I dunnoa what we will do. Probably look for another place to camp for the nest 2 nights.
We have a great dinner of rice and beans, and Lauren learns me a thing or two about cribbage, bah!
Weather today was mostly sunny, and reasonably warm, around 65. Tonight is forecast to be in the low 40s, and some wind. Glad were not in a tent
Total miles today was 180 in the RV, none on the bike
From Page to Sedona, AZ
Tomorrow we do laundry, and relax here for a day. Friday we might do some hiking.
20131031. Day 123.Thursday
Moving south about 1800ft.
It felt good to sleep in again today, for some reason I didnt drift off to sleep to well last night. At least its a big comfy bed, and I am snuggled up next to my sweetie.
We brewed up the french press, and enjoyed the sunshine and warmth trickling in the windows. Dam sight better then 2 mornings ago, when we woke up to snow outside the window.
After coffee, I unloaded the bike, and rode down to the Park headquarters to ask about the sight with no electric. Score! Its open. So I grab it for 2 nights, and ride back to the RV. Lauren sweet talked me into whippin up some cackleberries, and I had some Canada Bacon to go along with mine. Another 1/2 dozen in the record books.
We moved the RV and bike down to the lower loop, then took the RV to the dump station so Lauren can learn what it takes to empty the black water tank, and the grey water tank. (Hint; rubber gloves) after the tanks were cleaned, we backed the RV into the small spot we have. A couple of low clearance branches created some spectacular maneuvering, but thanks to the 2nd set of eyes out back, we landed safely.
Ya cant beat a Dead Horse. State Park that is
After cleaning up, we loaded the dirty laundry up, and set off into the metropolis of CottonWood, AZ. Always entertaining to feed quarters into the Maytags, and watch the basket people walk around and mumble. We might run over the the Home Cheapo to see if we can pick up so cheap peel-n-stick tiles for the bathroom. It has a rug in there now, and the question is? WHY? Why Fleetwood, In the terlit room would you put a rug? Makes no sense to me.
So we got all our undies cleaned and folded up. Went down the street to The Cheapo, and found tiles for $0.99 each. Got some primer/glue for the floor. Also picked up some roof cement to repair a small leak upstairs. A quick visit into Frys supermarket for rolls and water, and were done. We over load up the bike, and cruise back to the State Park. A quick dinner of meataball sangwitches, and were done.
Weather today was sunny and 72!! Finally, chilly tonight, dark and starry!
Total miles today, 8 on the bike, 1/3 on the RV.
Tomorrow were gonna do some work on the RV, and maybe do some hiking around the Dead Horse State Park.
20131026. Day 118. Saturday
Hiking with the HooDoos!
Saturday morning arrived with a bright sky, and a fresh bunch of energy. We brewed up some french press and savored the flavor once again. Love that anniversary blend! We had another 1/2 dozen eggs, and I withheld myself, and only cooked 1/2 a pound of bacon. Yum! Before noontime arrived, we were gearing up to go. Apparently, we should be leaving way earlier every day. We got out to RT89, and pointed north. Easy cruising in the valley. Fueled up at the Chevron again, and got going. 70mph is the easy cruising speed along here, with 65mph speed limits, its surprising I am not doing 80. Must be losing my need!
Before we knew it, we were back to RT12. the All. American. Road. Whatever. Ride thru Red Canyon again, and stop to gander at the colors, its really, , , , red, for some odd reason. We ride thru the arches, feeling utterly dignified indeed. Beyond this canyon the road flattens out again, as were up on the —– plateau again. In the wind, its a bit breezy, but not bad. We get to the entrance to Bryce Canyon and banga right onto RT63 south. Of course we have to drive thru Bryce City, home of Rubys Inn, and assorted other overpriced facilities. Every National Park seems to have the little villages, and they really beat ya good for any kind of services. No deals for the visitors anywhere. POW! We keep going the few miles to the tool booths. Another $25 saved. This $80 pass sure has paid good dividends for us. Inside the visitors center they show an “award winning” video, so we sit down and have a look see. I guess you can give it an A for effort, but I dunno about any awards from me. We find the sticker department, and stock up on a few more for the trailer.
Ok, we have had enough, where is them there HooDoos? As a side note, Bryce Canyon isn’t really. “Canyon”, its an amphitheater. Out to RT63, hang a right, and down to the turn off for the (overpriced) lodge. A quick left, and were in the parking lot. If you didn’t know where you were, you would have no idea whats right over there beyond the trees. We lock up the bike, and head over.
Overlooking the Bryce Canyon, thats not a canyon
Words cant describe what we see. Out of this world? Breathtaking? Colorful? Hypnotic? Beautiful? Phenomenal? We are in awe! Its so gorgeous here. We had done a little research on this place, and picked out a 3 mile hike in the HooDoos! Queens Garden trail, then connect to the Navajo Loop and ascend thru Wall Street!
We started down the packed dirt trail, and couldn’t get more the 10 feet, stop, pictures, 10 ft, stop, pictures, 10 ft, stop, pictures.
Heading into see the HooDoos
It was the way it went all the way down into the amphitheater. We were so in awe of the natural beauty.
My mostest favorite HooDoo
We have seen so much on this adventure, but this really tops it all
Amazing colors in here
.We slowly hiked down, and then we got to the floor area, that was almost a mile, and we dropped about 400 ft. The connectors drops another 150 ft, and is less of the HooDoos, and more desert type trail. Were still surrounded by the HooDoos, but there not right beside us. We walk to the next trail intersection. The Navajo Loop. Two choices on directions, up or up. We pick up, via Wall Street Trail. And immediately are back into the HooDoos.
Look at all the HooDoos
Amazing, so beautiful. You can walk right up to them, and they look so cool. Huge. Colorful. Fancy. A natural wonder. Magical!
My sweet wife is more beautiful then the surroundings
This guy is having way to much fun
We get into the Wall Street Canyon, and the hike up out of the amphitheater. This is cool. And steep. Lots of switchbacks, some stairs. Canyon walls are towering above us as we ascend.
Looking up Wall Street
HellYA! This is spectacular. I get short of breath on the hike up. The floor is at 7500 ft, and up at sunrise point its about 8000 ft so its thin air. Were somewhat acclimated to the air at 5000 ft, but not above. The hike up was awesome.
And then looking back down Wall Street
Again, words just cant describe what we just saw. Pictures help, but do not tell the complete story. When we get to the top, we have a 1/2 mile hike back to the bike, along the rim trail.
We sure did enjoy this hike
Again, we can stop staring over the edge into the amphitheater in awe. Its so beautiful.
The best hike we have done so far
Finally back at the bike, we gear up again, and set out.
South on RT63 takes us further into the park, were wondering what it looks like from above. We stop at Farview Point,( real original name there,eh?) at an elevation of 8819ft, and its anticlimactic. After walking in with the HooDoos, this is just another view from above. It reminds me of Cedar Breaks, minus the snow. Its chilly here, its over 8800ft here, and we have had enough of the cold. Gear up, kick the heated jackets up to just below broil, and were gone.
I thought I might have tempted fate a bit to much. As we came around a corner, the speed limit suddenly dropped from 45 to 30mph. I was at about 49 according to the electronic radar speed sign. And dontcha know, there was. Park ranger sitting there watching me. As soon as I was in his view, he flipped on the strobes, and lit me up! Oh-shit. I thought my luck ran out. I grabbed every brake I had, and was down to 30 in about 2 seconds. As I pulled along beside him, I gave him a friendly wave, and held my breath. A quick look in the mirror, and I was relieved to see the strobes off, and him just sitting there doing what they do best. Ok, time to keep the speed down till were outta the park. Which is less the 10 minutes.
Once were back to RT12, we hook a left, and head west. Time to build up some momentum, and get rolling again. Somehow its well after 5:30, and we have an hour to cover about 70 miles. I can do the math. We need to do 80 to get there before dark. To many chances of critters out there at night to be hauling ass along in these parts. So we wick it up, and get ta going. Of course we do slow down going back thru Red Canyon. But after hiking with the HooDoos, this just isn’t as cool any longer. Back to RT89, we hook a left, and head south.
The sun is getting low in the western skies, and we gots ta go! And go we go. Never really riding to fast, but certainly a brisk pace. Very little traffic out here, I mean, maybe 5 cars pass us going north, and we pass maybe 3 going south. No worries lets go. By the time we get to Odorville, its just about dark. I see 3 deer right on the edge of the road. Shit, I hope they go back into the woods. And they do. Phew! I get pretty nervous about them. Its a bit different in a vehicle, but on the bike, odds are just not as good. Within a few minutes were back at the RV. And the sun is just setting now. Made it.
What a fantastic day we just had. One of the nicest hikes we have done. And some of the most beautiful scenery I have ever seen. Amazing to say the least.
Weather today was sunny, mid 60s, cool and dark at night. Probably drop to the low 40s, high 30s. Brr, this is why we have an RV now.
Total miles today was 4 hiking, and 145 on the bike.
Tomorrow were debating riding to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, or just having an easy day off.
20131027. Day 119. Sunday
No go today.
I wake up at the usual time, and for some reason, just cant hurry out of bed. Its pretty comfy. Luckily, Lauren bangs all the kitchen equipment loud enough to wake the dead, or me. The french press sure taste good today, just like every other day come to think of it. We lounge around sipping coffee, and I just cant get motivated. I vote for a take it easy day, lets hang out and get a few things done on the RV.
Lauren whips up some sweet potato home fries, and then Some ham and egg scrambles for us to chow on, Nmm Nmm.
I get the Patriots game live on the mobile app, and follow along as I lounge back. lauren works on the blog for a while. I finally get some motivation inside, and rip the old window coverings off. There trashed, and I need to hang some new blinds up. It takes a while to get all the old stuff off, then assemble the 3 new ones in place. But the end results are ell worth the effort. The new blinds look great in the bedroom, and the one next to the table also. It sure is better then what we had there before.
About 4 pm, we decided we had gotten enough done for the day. Time to go for a hike. The campground host had recommended a nice place just up the road in Odorville. It was up behind the cemetery and after the water tower.
So we geared up and went the 3 miles into town, rode behind the school, and past the cemetery, and got near the water tower. It was to sandy to ride in, so we parked on the pavement, and started from there.
There is a Slot Canyon back there
It looks cool from out here, and you can see all the color variations. From deep red, they gradually transition to a lighter color, then up to white near the top. Cool. We continue along the sandy dry river bed. Its getting closer and closer to the canyon. A slot canyon its called. And were hoping it will be. We keep going up the river bed, eventually it splits, and we head left, right into the canyon. The rocks are layered and the canyon is getting narrower. Cool. Real cool.
Were going deeper
We get into the canyon, and the walls are tapering closer and closer. It steps up a few times, and we get our way along. It gets real narrow, and then its a huge step up, maybe 15 feet. We don’t see an easy way up, and its gotten real windy in here. Real cool wind noises. Awesome sounds.
This is forserious a Slot Canyon
We really were mesmerized by this place. What a special place, and its just right there behind the cemetery. Just part of town. Nice deal. We turn around, and slowly hike back out. Enjoying the slot canyon immensely. This was a cool 2 mile hike indeed.
We get back to the bike, gear up, and go back to the RV very satisfied after the hike. Pull into the site, and lock it all down. Time to hibernate for the sunday night. Dinner was rice, alotta damb rice, with some beans along side it.
Weather today was chilly, in the low 60s, with a brisk breeze. Tonight is suppose to cool down to the high 30s.
Total miles today, 6 on the bike, 2 on the feet
Tomorrow were gonna do the run to the Grand Canyon North Rim, Holla!!!
20131028. Day 120. Monday
Another recalculate
As soon as I woke up, I heard the wind blowing. Sounded pretty blustery out there. I grabbed the iPad, and looked up the local weather. Sheet. High Wind Warning for about 400 square miles around us. What to do? Have coffee and consider the options. So we brew it up, and enjoy the anniversary blend again. A fresh pound tastes awesome. No eggs in motha hubbards cupboards, so we revert to the goatmeal. After a couple weeks of none, it didnt seem so bad. Sorta not kinda.
Option 1 is go for it, its just a breeze
Option 2 is stay put and do a local hike again
Option 3 is to go towards Kanab, get some groceries, and camp on BLM land.
We pick number 3. Its just to windy to try, steady 30mph, with 50 mph gusts are just not worth the effort for us. Staying put is ok, but, $5 for a developed campground spot on the BLM land is cheaper the $20 here. Lets go
We load the bike up, and get outta MT.Carmel. Down RT89 we go, a quick stop for fuel and propane, and were done here. We get into Kanab. First stop is the Post Office to send the Scala G4 intercom back to the manufacture. Its warrantied, so they will fix or replace it. It wont charge any longer. Sure hope they can get it done and back to me in Sedona. Then we hit the market for some groceries. Lauren swears she does better without me, yet I am always invited to assist. Its sure not because my shopping cart navigation skills are excellent, so it must be to help fill it up, right? After groceries, we get a sheet of to big of plywood, so we can build a full size bed in the back. Having twin beds sucks for newlyweds. Need I say more.
We get back onto RT89 north, and go,about 10 miles, up to the road that leads into Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park. About 7 miles in is a BLM campground. 9 sites, with fire pits, picinica tables, and drop terlits. $5 a night, self serve pay.
The Campah in the deserted BLM campground
We decide it will be ok for the night, and give them $5 and settle in, watching the clouds build up, and then the rain starts. And even turns to hail at one point. Uggh. Dontcha know, the old campa has a leak upstairs. Over the cab. Figures. Not much I can do about it tonite. To wet. I go up on the roof to look, and brush some of the standing water off, and its turning to ice. I figure no need to be up here in this, we will figure out what to do in the morning.
Lauren whips up some serious good veggies in a stir fry. With rice. Alot of it. Ok. I fire up the generator for a bit, just to,charge the batteries and make sure its all good. It runs a bit rough, so I run out in the rain, and adjust the pilot screw. That helps it smooth out, and not run so rich. I run it for about 1/2 an hour, and it works great. A little loud but, meh, whatcha gonna do.
Weather today was cool and windy, low 60s. Then rainy and cold tonite. Forecast is for rain, temps in the mid to looooow 30s. Brrr
Total miles today was about 35 on the RV, none on the bike.
Tomorrow depends on the weather. If its decent, were doing the run to the North Rim. If not, were debating sticking around here, or maybe going into the state park for hot showers and a dump station kinda facility, for $16. Night. Well see
20131023. Day 115. Wednesday
Moving on up
Our morning at WallyWorld was uninteresting. Really. Its the suburbs. And there is a lot of scattered campers around here. Nothing to see here, lets move along. We went in to get some window blinds for a couple windows, and then loaded up to get outta here. The voltage regulator was expected at 1pm. We left the Waldo at noontime, and went to Big Dicks to get the propane bottles, 4@$10 is cheaper then anywhere. Gonna need that heat, eh.
We pulled into the RV service store at 1, and noticed the big brown truck in the parking lot. Timing is everything. The hustled the rig right inside and got to work. Lucky for us, they did it fast, cause we were just about ready to sign onto a $69000 rig in the sales department. Haha. It was 2pm, and were on the road again.
A quick run up I-15 to RT9 again, as thats the only real road heading east. A fast stop for more fuel, and then were moving on up. Eastbound to Hurricane, we pick up RT59 east. It start climbing right away. And a good 2nd gear climb. For a couple miles. We finally get to the top and were onna roll now. Overdrive all the way! Its breathtaking up here, the visuals dont change much here, at all. Were on a plateau, and there is still plenty of cliffs, red, white, and orange rocks everywhere. The Vermillion Cliffs loom large to the north, and keep getting me to look over there, instead of where I am driving. Ummm, ooops! Surprisingly, there is plenty of shrubbery here also.
RT59 heads southeast, and into Arizona. We pass thru Colorado City, which looks alot like the typical western type of meth town. It just looks shabby, with a lot of unsavory characters running around. Lets keep moving please. We see the sings for Pipe Springs National Monument, and figga its as good a place as any to stop for a spell, and see if we can spring the pipe, right. Its pretty cool. Its just an underground spring thats been puking up water for a few hundred years or so. It sounds like the Mormons took it from the Indians, so now the government took it from them, so we can look at it? Or something like that. Perhaps the resident brainiac can clarify it.
When we entered Arizona, RT59 morphed into RT389, so away we continue on 389, kinda looping into a Northeasterly direction, to Fredonia, AZ. Another shabby little shithole town in the middle of nowhere. Nothing to see here folks, lets move along. We reached US RT89, and bang a left. Northbound baby, lets go. Quickly we cross over the state line, back into U-tar. Heading into Kanab. A surprisingly nice looking place. We cruise along tho, its getting a bit late, and we wanna get settled before its dark out. We ascend up into The Sand Hills. Another section of Utar that is full of soft silky sugar sand. No time to look, were just moving along. Its strange to be driving a 5 ton beast now, compared to the bike and little trailer. But, I will admit, much better in the comfort department. Finally we pass the signs for RT9, the road to Zion. We know its just a couple few more miles. Suddenly, MT. Carmel, here we are. And opps, there it is, The MT. Carmel motel and RV park. All 10 spaces, with only 3 open. We head in, and there is just a sign, take a spot, see us in the morning. If you want a room, there unlocked, keys are hanging in the room, just cross out the room number so no one else trys to get it. Okay, we pull into site 7, and were done. Finally we can plug in to electricity, and water, and a shit pipe to! Woo-Hoo!
Dinner is easy, pasta and chicken, and 1/2 a can of red gravy, with some french looking bread. Deal!
Weather today was warm and sunny in the 70s, but cooler up here at 5200ft, suppose to get down to 38 tonight. Brr.
Total miles today, 0 on the bike, about 120 on the RV.
Tomorrow looks like a big ride, maybe 300 miles on the bike, thru the Grand Escalante Staircase monument, along an All American Road, RT12
20131024. Day 116. Thursday
Doing the big loop.
We had decided to do the biggest ride first, then as the days went by, the closer rides would feel a lot easier. Its difficult out here to judge distances and riding times. Its just so big, and everything seems so far far away.
We rolled outta bed shortly before 8am, and brewed up the french press. Damn it, thats some seriously god anniversary blend. We debated having the usual eggs, but I was still a bit full from dinnah last night, so we opted for the pumpkin granola and yogurt! Filling enough, I suppose. By the time we got geared up and on the bike to depRt, it was 10am. Not bad.
We headed up RT89 North, and didnt get 4 miles before I decided my pants were not good for the weather. So we banged a youee, and went back to the RV. I pulled on the long Johns, and a pair of heavier black pants. Way better. Back to the road, and we got going on RT89. Its a nice corridor thru here, lots of canyons, with good high speed corners, and plenty of room to pass. There are a few towns to slow you down, with the suddenly 40mph signs flashing NOW. They have these silly radar signs, with your speed blinking in them. Why are mine always blinking brilliant red, and strobes flashing to beat the blazes? 20 miles north, we stop at the Chevron to tank up. Doing mileage runs now based on the GPS miles, seeing the speedometer cable hasnt been repaired yet. We tanked up, and figured to keep moving, lots of miles to do today.
We got another 15 miles, north, and saw RT12 East. Bang a right, and were on the “All American Road”. Whatever the hell that might mean?
The first thing you see is motels, cabins, and gift shops. Cafes, diners, and petrol stations galore. I guess thats all american. Within 10 miles, were in Red Canyon, and we see our first HooDoos! Those have to be the strangest things I have ever seen. Really. We didnt stop, because were coming back to spend a day at Bryce Canyon, and will get to them then. We continued on RT12, down into the canyons, and past Tropic, of Cancer, or Capricorn? I dunno, maybe its tropical at some point in time? We went past Kodachrome Basin State Park. We wanted to stop there, but, again, its a mileage day, we will come back.
It flattens out in here, thru the valley. Surprisingly, there are a couple towns in here. We figured because it was a National Park, it would be desolate. Your definitely isolated here, but not alone. Bryce Valley had some petrol stations, and assorted gift shops. We just motored on by them. When we got to the town of Escalante, we found a National Park Visitors center. Looks like a good place to stop and eat. Were at a 100 miles. Hmm. So we wander in, start looking at maps and brochures. A Forest Ranger asked how we were doing, and then proceeded to chat with us a good 20+ Minutes. She asked all about our trip, and offered great suggestions for camping off the grid on BLM land and US Forest land.
We hoped back on the bike, anxious to see whats around the next corner, and over the next hill. She had told us the ride between here and the town of Boulder would blow us away. She was spot on correct! Wow. The colors alone are amazing.
Add in the distances and wide open spaces of the “staircase” and its just breathtaking. We find the scenic pull out areas better then advertised. We tried not to linger, but its next to impossible. We rode down from the Plateau into the vastness of color
.
Its difficult to describe it all, so the pictures will have to do. I have a hard time watching the road here, there is so much visual distractions, but we manage. We finally finish this leg of the ride as we roll into Boulder. Another little no place town, in the middle of all this beauty.
We continue up RT12, its turned north now, and we start to climb again. Alot. This is Boulder Mountain. It heads up and over, the summit is about 9400 feet. There is another viewport, so we pop and and gander down at Capitol Reef National Park. It looks as amazing as all the rest of this whole area. Sadly, I doubt we will have time to see that one. Maybe after Sedona?
Up here its cold. I mean really frickin cold. Time to break out the Gerbings heated gear. We layer up, and get back on the road. Funny thing is, neither of us are warm. No power to the gear. I suspect a fuse. We keep going tho, were onna roll and we will need a gas stop when we get to Torrey. Its about 20 more miles.
When we stop for the fuel, I pull out the power leads, the 10amps are good, but the 7.5 that feeds the pigtail is blown. I hadnt replaced that one with a stronger one. I ran into the store, $2.49 for a mixed package. Sweet! I popped in a 20amp, and HellYA! Were warm and toasty now.
Were at the end of RT12 and take RT24 Westbound. Thru some real strange landscape. Almost reminds me of Central Washington, the scablands. Were hauling ass, keeping the rpms around 4500 gets me to 75mph. Up to 5000 gets us over 80mph on the GPS. We realize were pretty far north when we see signs directing us to I-70! Thats aways from home. But we head south, on RT62. Another vast open valley. We dont see any traffic, at all. Nope. None. So we cruise at a steady 80mph. And the road feels designed for it, wide sweeping corners, good visibility, plenty of space in the lane. We keep rolling along. Were trying to beat the sundown, and still have a lotta miles to finish up. We pass the Otter Creek reservoir, and it just seems to run forever. No water shortage here. RT62 comes to a T intersection. We look over the maps, and decide to banga right and stay on RT62, instead of going down RT22 on the left. We still have some miles to go. RT89 is only about 20 miles over the hills. We get onto RT89, and turn South. Its been a long day, and we still have about 70 miles to go. At these speeds, thats an hour run. We do stop for an assbreak and a stretch in Panguitch. Once we get back on the bike, its time to click off the rest of the miles. Even though were running 75-80mph, it still seems to take some time.
Finally we get back to the RV, and settle in. Its been a great ride today. Over 330 miles on a pleasure ride. We use to reserve bigger mileage days for getting places. Kinda strange to do a fun ride like this. The scenery today was like no other day, ever. Spectacular for lack of a better word.
Weather today was sunny, mid 60s at lower elevations. Up over 9000ft it was low 40s, and chilly
Total miles today was 332 on the bike, zero on the RV
Tomorrow were heading to see some HooDoos up over 10000 ft.
20131025. Day 117. Friday
Riding up to Cedar Breaks, and over 10,500 ft, and in the snow?
Another easy morning was on order. After yesterdays ride, we were in no hurry to get back in the saddle. 330 miles was second most miles day for us on the bike. Biggest was day 2 thru PA, and OH. This was way way better.
It was late morning when we decided to get it together to go. The weather seems nice, sunny, mild, maybe the low to mid 60s. Perfect riding weather. We geared up to go, and set out running but we take our time! No hurry today. Short ride up to Cedar Breaks. Well, short for out here! Its about 45 miles away.
Back thru the grass canyons on RT89 north we go, go, go! The 20 mile ride to the Chevron was pleasant. Its at the intersection of RT14 at about 7000ft. Thats our route. We fuel up with 4.9 gals, and head west. The big yellow signs warn us, no tractor trailers, steep curves, 8% grades. HellYA! Bring it! We start climbing right away you can feel the air temps change. We notice a real dark and ominous cloud, directly in front of us. We decide to stop and pull on the rain pants, and heated gear. Glad we did. As we continue climbing up, the temps continued dropping down. Brrr. We got to RT148, and stop to take a pitcher or two of the snow on the hills. WTF? Oh well, in for a dime, in for a dollar, Holla!
We head north on RT148, sign says 4 miles to smiles. Away we go, still climbing. I had looked at the topo maps last night, I knew this would be the first time over 10,000 feet elevation on the trip. What I didn’t know, was how god damb cold it would be. We see the signs for the overlook, and pull in. We didn’t expect everything to be closed up tighter then a bulls behind. At least we don’t have to flash the pass to get by the guards, cause there home. Where its warm.
When we walk out onto the walk, Ayup, were stunned. Its absolutely breathtaking. Literally, over 10,000 feet is when areoplanes pump oxygen into the cabins. I can see why. The air is so thin here, you just can not get a good breath into your lungs. I kept trying, but no chance of getting a full breath. Its so odd for a couple of flatlanders like us. We cant get enough of looking at the HooDoos up here. And with the light cover of snow, its like frosting covering the layers. It only covers part of the canyon, so its incredible to see it.
We just don’t get the best of it, were shivering to much. So we trudge away begrudgingly. And jump back on the bike, and quickly get the heated gear up to broil. That helps alot. We discuss turning back, or finishing off the loop. My vote is finish the loop, and Lauren agrees (against her better judgement). Se continue up RT148 north, and another mile is another overlook. Knowing were never going to be back here again, we head over for a look.
We keep all our gear on, just unplug and run over for a couple-few pitchers. Then back to the bike. We run the few more miles up RT148, and hit the highest point of elevation on the trip. 10,579 on the GPS. Thats up there! We get to RT143 and head east, and back down thru the Dixie National Forest. We go by a couple of mountain lakes that are about shut down for the winter. Its really an uneventful descent.
Until we run into Mr.Douchebag Motorhome driver. There is always one. Here is what happens. I come around the corner to a straight away down hill. Slightly over the 65mph, maybe 70-72mph. About a 1/4 mile in front of us, on the left shoulder is a big ass motorhome. As I approach rapidly, I see him start to pull out of the shoulder ditch so he can do a U-turn. Of course I flash my high beams alot to get his attention, as I am coming in pretty hot, and totally cant believe he is gonna do it. Of course he has his New Jersey blinders on, and pulls right in front of me. I start grabbing every brake I have, damn near ready to go into a ditch if I cant get it whoaed up. I just about stand it up onto the front wheel, but manage to get it stopped. And I have to come to a complete stop, cause he as a big ass car on a tow bar behind him, so there wasn’t even a shot at using the left lane for avoidance. This all took place in about 7 seconds. When I put it in first and got beside him, I slowed right down next to his window, and he just gave me a smirk and douchebag asshead look. The “I am bigger then you tough shit” look. I was steamed up big time. I let off the horn finally, flipped him off, and took off. Lauren told me to not be pissed, he “looked” sorry. I was bullshit. The guys bangs a u turn right in front of us, I have two lives in my hands, doing everything I could to not hit the dumbass, and I shouldn’t be pissed? Lucky I keep my wits, calm down a bit, and travel on. You cant guess how bad I wanted to wait for him in town, and give him an earful of shit for being a douchebag driver. Frickin loser!
Anywho, we followed RT143 to the end. In Panguitch, the county seat. A decent little town for out here. They have a Subway and everything else, like all the no name motels you can think of.
We take RT89 south, its about 50 miles to MT.Carmel. I wick it up, and were in the 75mph range. The road here is in a valley, wide sweeping corners, plenty of shoulder, great sight lines. Most traffic is in the 70mph range, so we pass a few. Gotta remember to turn it down in the little villages. The speed limits drop to 40mph real abruptly. I have seen a Sheriff now and then, and once Highway Patrol. But no sense chancing it.
We get back to the RV, and finally feel warm again. That was a real cold snap up there for sure. What a great ride today!
Weather today was sunny in the 60s at base camp 5200ft. Sunny in the 40s with snow flurries up at 10,000ft. Cool in the high 30s late at night.
Total miles today was 133 cold miles
Tomorrow we go to Bryce to hike in with the HooDoos.
The back yahd for a week
And the front yahd ain’t to shabby
And the side yahd is tolerable I reckon
Some regular blog updates to follow
Dave and Lauren's adventure ride 