Great Motorcycle Trike Adventure

Our Ride

2008-08-09T07:31:00.002-04:00

We wanted to mention several times during the ride our thoughts about the trikes that we were riding but a part of us did not want to jinx anything. And, that was our thoughts about the reliability of our Honda GL1800, and their respective Motor Trike Kits, that were installed for us by Win Adams of Rutland, Vt.

During the ride, we both experienced some overheating in the hot temps. Especially the day we were doing the ride and encountered over 1200 bicyclist sharing the road to Black Canyon of the Gunnison NP. What a sight!

But, our Hondas, took us everywhere we wanted to go and back with not a mechanical failure, a tire failure, no failure of any kind. And that rates a big thumbs up!

John & Les

A true trip of a lifetime recap

2008-08-08T15:47:00.005-04:00

With a few hours sleep under my belt, I, will attempt to share some thoughts about what was really a true trip of a lifetime. That two long time friends were able to accomplish this is a feat unto itself. Yes, we had a few moments and the friendship is still there.

We met some unbelievable people on this trip. Fine people. Who shared insights with us about places not to miss, side roads to take. We became ambassadors for the trike world. We had people ask to sit on them. Take them for a spin around the parking lot. Have their pictures taken on them. We stopped at one restaurant, and looked out the window and noticed two women, who later told us they were from Germany, had asked a passerby, to take their picture next to the trikes. They were going to tell their friends, this is how they had gotten around the US.,there were endless numbers of such scenes. We did out best to be good will ambassadors. Coming thru North Bay, Ontario, our last night out, we were stopped at a traffic light, the window rolled down and a very pleasant woman, welcomed us to North Bay, and said if this was our first time here, to make a right, and follow the shoreline. It was a beautiful drive.

If there was a good time to spend 8 weeks on the road, this was the year to do it. We were really never in a traffic jam. Traffic was light in the parks. We paid close to $6.00 for gas in California, and as low as 3.19 in Montana. We traveled less than 1000 miles on the interstate.

And, we were blessed with great weather. A thorough soaking in Ottawa, the day we left, a few drops here and there, and one hour of rain the morning we left Fargo, and a cloudburst near Prescott, Ontario. And that was it! We saw countless animals, native to this country and the parks. Best meal, smoked salmon and crackers in our room.

We highly recommend the purchase of a satellite radio. It helps to keep you sane. A GPS saved us many times and saved us hours.

Les' top five includes Yellowstone, Mt Rainier, Crater Lake, Yosemite and Sequoia. Things other than the National Parks for Les, were Buffalo Bill Museum and Cody, Wy; Redlin Museum; Gold Mine Tour with actual demonstration of the tools used to mine the gold In Silverton, Co; Mojave dessert; the Columbia Gorge in Oregon and the 4 Corners area.

My favorite parks were Mesa Verde; Yosemite; Yellowstone; Arches; Bryce & Zion. Things that stand out in my mind are the miles we road on Route 66. Especially, when you consider that this was a major route for commerce prior to the Interstate system. I loved Silverton, Co., and would return. I loved the Royal Gorge, in Co. My visit with Kid, and his family was precious. Beartooth Mountain, I loved the ride. My least favorite was the time spent on the coast of Washington and the Olympic Peninsula.

All in all, 8 weeks went by really fast.

I want to thank the number of visitors who have come on the trip with us thru the blog. Google tells us that over 3000 people clicked on to read and follow us. A few of you left some thoughts for which we are thankful and appreciative.

As time goes by I will check in and probably add a thing or two.

For now, I thank you. It has been a great ride.

Outlook Sunny!

Total Mileage 12,220

Day 59

2008-08-07T20:09:00.001-04:00

I am home. Les, dropped off to see his mother, in Massena.

I am too pooped to be coherent. Will blog tomorrow, when all my senses are back.

John

Day 58

2008-08-06T20:42:00.004-04:00

Our ride today sees us leaving, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario heading East. We rode Canada 17 all day and most of the afternoon, followed Lake Nippising. The riding today was very pleasant. As we head home we are both reflecting on the time that we have had, what we have learned about this country, and that we have had at best a snap shot experience. The natural resources that America has in its National Parks is almost too hard to imagine. Millions upon millions of acres, that are being preserved in their original state and therefore made available for all to enjoy.($10 for a senior pass, $80 annual pass for non-seniors)

For us the best part of this experience has been driving from park to park and that two lifetime friends were able to share this adventure together. Our first experience of traveling in the high country of Colorado and other states was exciting. For a couple of guys enjoying motorcycle riding, we learned that a lot of Americas wealth lies in our crop growing ability. The sheer vastness of traveling the western US and seeing miles upon miles of fields of crops that feed Americans and others.

In looking at this 8 weeks adventure we would have to say that Yellowstone would be our choice to which we would return. Silverton Co., remains our #1 choice of things we stumbled upon that we really enjoyed.

Temps today 62 - 78.

Mileage today 373.

Total mileage this trip 11,970.

Day 57

2008-08-05T20:08:00.004-04:00

This is actually a cement tree with baskets of flowers
Lake Superior
This morning we left Ashland, WI., headed to Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. The ride today was very pleasant. We followed Lake Superior all day. Along the way we stopped at the info center in Marquette, WI., where we gazed at the beauty of the lake and its immense size.

Temps today 65-80.

Mileage today 343.

Total mileage 11,597

Day 56

2008-08-04T18:46:00.004-04:00

Today found us taking a ride up the North Shore of Lake Superior, with a stop at Gooseberry State Park. We came back the same way, as we chose not to do the entire ride, which would take us into a rather remote area of Canada. Returning to Duluth/Superior, we stopped at a Culvers, and then rode to Ashland, Wi, where we are for the night.

Our temps today 56-77.

We rode 154 Miles.

Total mileage 11,254.

John & Les

Gertrude Garmin, GPS

Day 55

2008-08-03T19:23:00.006-04:00

A new use for those illegal bales.....weightlifting!!

Today saw us traveling toward home. We left Fargo, ND, headed to Duluth, MN as we want to do the scenic ride that follows the North shore of Lake Superior.

For the first time since the trip began, our morning ride started in rain. We traveled a circuitous route to get here. As Gertrude, took us through a labyrinth of county roads that took us constantly east to our destination. At one point a bridge took us over what appeared to be a creek, and it was the Mississippi River.

Tonight finds us in Superior, Wi.

Temps today 66-75.

We rode 285 miles.

Total Mileage to date 11,100 miles

John & Les

Gertrude Garmin, GPS

Day 54

2008-08-02T22:59:00.004-04:00

As seen from the parking lot, the park

Visitors Center Theodore Roosevelt State Park

Our ride today took us from Glendive, Wy., to Medora, South Dakota and the Theodore Roosevelt National Park, which has the distinction of having an interstate highway run along its side, so that it is just a hop to the park from the interstate, and then the entrance back to the interstate, is the downtown of the early American style village that is outside the gate.

The movie was most interesting in that it was the words of the former president, as he had written them years ago, narrated by an actor. While it was only 13 minutes long, it was impressive.

This park serves primarily as a preserve for game animals. And it is actually three small parcels of land, within a national forest of the same name.

We rode interstate 94 all day which is unusual for us. We will have ridden less that 1000 miles on Interstate highways during this entire trip. The last 90 minutes was in moderate rain, the longest rainfall, since the first day we were on the road. Tonight finds us in Fargo, ND.

Our temps today were 68-88.

We rode 375 miles.

Total mileage to date 10,815.

John & Les

Day 53

2008-08-02T09:54:00.004-04:00

Beartooth Mountain Range
Sculpture marking the Nez Perce Massacre.
View of the Alpine-like highway at Beartooth

Upon leaving Cody, Wy., this morning we came upon the Chief Joseph Highway, and discovered that we could do a 50 mile detour and still do the Beartooth highway, which is heralded as America's Scenic Highway. This highway makes its way across the rugged Beartooth Mountain Range, in Montana and Wyoming. The road is the highest elevation highway in the Northern Rockies and provides dramatic view unlimited outdoor recreation opportunities and unparalleled wildlife watching, although we did not see anything outstanding. The drive is very Alpine in nature. At one point we were on one road and looked up the mountain and could see 3 different levels of the highway switching back and forth and all with motorcycles going in both directions. The upcoming Sturgis rally, is bringing a lot of bikers to the area. We were treated today to the return of hot temps. Riding in temps which stayed in the 104 for at least a three hours duration.

We rode 387 miles today.

Temps 68-104.

Total mileage 10340.

Day 52

2008-07-31T23:49:00.003-04:00

Tourists
20 years ago Yellowstone was devastated by fire. This is what it

looks like today.
This morning found our plans to ride Bear Tooth Pass, scuttled by the National Park Service. We awoke this morning, to find the air heavily laden with smoke and the rode to Bear Tooth Pass, closed. Regrouping we decided to leave Yellowstone and ride to Cody, Wy. The ride to Cody, through Yellowstone and exiting at the Eastern Entrance was scenic.

Cody is famous as the base of the many antics of Wild Bill Cody. It is also home of the museum that bears his name. Again this was another one of those suprises of the trip. It is five different museums in one. Les, checked out the Cody Firearms Museum, and reports he has never seen an exhibit of firearms so well done. I checked out the Plains Indian Museum, and we did the Whitney Gallery of Western Art, and the Buffalo Bill Museum together. This museum is well worth a visit to Cody, Wy.

Temps today 35-80.

Mileage 102.

Total mileage to date 10032.

Day 51

2008-07-31T22:45:00.007-04:00

Shot this of the fire as it was just starting
Old Faithful doing his/her stuff
This is the bubbling mud hole at Yellowstone
Grand Teton Mountain Range
Stopped to take another picture of the Grand Tetons

and found this guy grazing.

Today found us taking in the Grand Teton Mountain Range. From Jackson Hole, where we spent the night the Tetons rise abruptly and majestically from the flat lands of Jackson Hole, as you ride towards Yellowstone. Ran into road construction again, with slight delays.

Upon entering Yellowstone, we drove over to Old Faithful. And he performed with much fanfare. Down the road we turned into an area with small geysers spewing, and mud holes that were bubbling up. We did not realize how much activity is taking place underground, as what we saw.

After this we drove to Lake Yellowstone, where we had reservations to stay in the park for two nights. Just about everyone told us that it was impossible to get accommodations in Yellowstone, but this gives you a clue of how slow tourism seems to be this year. We toured the village and the grand hotel. We were in cabins that were part of the hotel property. As we were riding around, we became aware that a fire was flaring up about 3 miles from where we were staying. Yellowstone Lake was impressive by its size. Gusts of 35-40 miles an hour were creating large waves that lapped up the roadside with waves of 4 feet. These winds were also fanning the fire. As we were driving alongside the lake you could smell the sulphur that is associated with the geysers, that were visible.

Temps today 55-78.

Mileage 247.

Total mileage 9930.

Day 50

2008-07-29T17:00:00.002-04:00

Today found us in Jackson Hole, Wy, where I (John) got a chance to walk the streets of this community that has a strong arts interest that I like.

Les, chose to stay in to nurse his sore back.

The next 2 nights will find us in Yellowstone, where we have accommodations in the park and where there is NO wi-fi available. So we will be off line.

Day 49

2008-07-28T22:42:00.003-04:00

It is hard to believe that today marks the end of 7 weeks on the road. We left Ennis, Mt., this morning and drove towards the western entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Upon our arrival there, we observed that the Imax theatre was there, so we went in and saw 2 0f the movies that they play on Yellowstone. One was on Bears, in the park and elsewhere, and the other movie was on Yellowstone. This took two hours out of our day, so we proceeded towards Wyoming, where tonight we are at Jackson Hole. We got to see some of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. The road through the parks is under construction in several spots, and we experienced waits of 15-30 minutes. Today was a great day to be riding.

Temps were 64-82.

Todays ride 206 miles.

Grand total mileage 9683.

John & Les

Day 48

2008-07-27T22:15:00.004-04:00

This greeted us a rest stop. Worry not!

Today was one of those days that bikers dream about. After a good nights sleep and breakfast we hit the road and spent the whole day traveling US 287 south. The first 90 minutes was rolling plains. Then we came across Prickly Pear valley and 287 became I 15 for about 36 miles. We followed from a distance the mountain range that comprises the continental divide which we crossed yesterday. In Helena, 287 returned to its ruralness. We had a large glacier lake on one side of the road and on the other side rail road tracks. Once again we witnessed commerce moving across the plains via rail.

We arrived in another small western town named Ennis, where we checked out the dance halls and saloons. The main street looks like it was designed for a movie shoot. This is one of those days where nothing is planned but everything just turns out perfect.

Temps today 65-84.

We rode 210 miles.

Total to date 9477 miles.

Day 47

2008-07-26T20:31:00.003-04:00

Glacier National Park

Weeping Wall at Glacier National Park
Yes!! This appeared just as we left the park. Riding heaven!

We left Kalispell, this morning and rode to Glacier National Park, riding US 2, which becomes The Going-To-The-Sun Road, which traverses Glacier National Park. We believe this is the only national park that crosses into Canada, where the Canadian portion is known as Waterton National Park. This road took us to Logan Pass. This is the first park in which there was a line to get into the park, that we have experienced. The road has a 15 mile section that is under construction. This highway is an engineering marvel, to behold. There are still several large waterfalls from the glaciers that are melting. We were told at the visitors center that at the rate of the annual melt, there will not be Glaciers here in 22 years. (Al Gore, where are you).

Upon leaving the park we rode thru the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, and continued south, thru Montana, high ranch country, with rolling hills, where you can look for miles and just see grasslands. The term big sky was really there for us to see.

Tonight finds us in Choteau, Mt.

Temps today 67-84.

We rode 182 miles.

Total mileage 9267.

Day 46

2008-07-25T21:38:00.004-04:00

Hello and Good bye to Idaho
A field of "illegal" bales of hay in Montana. Illegal you say? Yes, its seems

that livestock can not get a square meal. (gotcha j,m&m)

We left Sand Point, Id., today and rode along the river basin. We are definitely on a homeward bound bent, as the morning finds us riding into the morning sun. Our highlight today was crossing into Montana, and setting our clocks forward one hour. we find the Montana, speed limit a little high for the quality of the roads. 70 mph on a two lane highway. We rode thru the Kootenai National Forest, and the Cabinet Mountain range on US 2.

Today was just another beautiful ride thru rural America, getting us to Kalispell, Mt., where we are spending the night. We got here early enough to do our laundry.

Temps today were 68 - 82.

We rode 185 miles.

Total mileage to date 9083.

Day 45

2008-07-25T10:11:00.003-04:00

We left Grand Coulee, Wa., and entered the 1.3 million acre Colville Indian Reservation. We followed Sunpoil River in a south to north direction to the mining town of Republic, where 2,000,000 oz of gold was taken. From there we rode Shermans Pass, to Lake Roosevelt, which was formed by the making of the Grand Coulee Dam, to Tiger, Wa. The availablity of water to the area, is what has made the properous agriculture that we have see today, possible. We continued our trike ride on Route 20, we followed the Bend Oreille River to New port and finally leaving the state of Washington, into Idaho, where tonight we find ourselves in Sandpoint, Id, which is known as the "funnel" in railroad parlance, due to the fact that over 40 different trains from the west drive thru Sandpoint on daily basis. We are less that 50 miles from the Canadian border.
Temp 68-82.
Ride 240 miles.
Total mileage to date 8906.

Day 44

2008-07-23T23:07:00.005-04:00

North Cascades National Park. Under cloud cover
Winthrop, Wa. The entire village resembled an old west town.

Leaving our stop for last night, Concrete, Wa., we rode Route 20, which took us thru Cascades National Park. This park is unique in that it is remote, wet and green, and has many glaciers in its midst. The movie at the Visitors Center, was the best we have seen thus far on any particular park. We were unable to see Baker Mountain, because of the cloud cover, as you can see from the photo. The entire ride today, until we crossed over into East Washington, was cloudy. In a matter of 10-15 miles we went from rain forest to high dessert. We rode thru a very interesting town , named Winthrop, which was packed with cars. We were unable to find a parking spot, but took a picture as we passed.

Our day finished with our arrival at Grand Coulee Dam, where we viewed the dam and took in the visitors center. Grand Coulee is the largest hydro power producer in the US with a total generating capacity of 6,809 megawatts. The dam is one of the largest concrete structures in the world, containing nearly 12 million cubic yards of concrete. That's enough concrete to build a highway from Seattle, Wa. to Miami, Fl. Or, you could build a sidewalk four feet wide and four inches thick and wrap it twice around the equator (50,000 miles).

Temps today 51-78.

Ride 200 miles.

Total mileage to date 8666

Day 43

2008-07-23T22:38:00.003-04:00

No wi-fi here!!
We acknowledge that for the first time we were unable to post on the due date. Our accommodations were rather remote, and did not provide wi-fi or access to the net.

Today started with a visit to Chateau Ste Michelle winery, in Woodinville, Wa. I got a tour of the winery, a geography lesson and got to sample 6 very nice wines. And, all before 11:30am.

From here we journeyed up towards North Cascade National Park, taking Route 9 North, which took us into rural Washington. It was interesting to note that on at least 2 occasions Washington makes use of turn arounds (traffic circle) where you might expect there to be a 4 way stop. We continue to experience mild weather, very decent for riding.

Temps 55-65

Our ride today 115 miles.

Total mileage to date 8460.

Day 42

2008-07-21T22:41:00.006-04:00

This is a sheer cliff at Ranier, with trees growing in them
Yes, that is snow by the roadside, in Rainier

Majestic Rainier National Park

Leaving Lacey, Wa., this morning we headed to Mount Rainier and the Paradise visitors center located at 4500 elevation. On the way over Rainier was covered with a blanket of clouds, and not visible. So we killed some time by stopping at a restaurant and having breakfast. By the time we were back on our trikes, it was clearing off and Rainier was visible. It is absolutely huge and majestic, as you can see from the picture. The visitors center, is being replaced by a more efficient and modern edifice. When it opens in November, the existing one will be destroyed. Rainier is host to a number of glaciers. It is a volcano waiting to erupt.

According to the info at the visitors center, it not a question of if it will erupt, but when. The park is home to some beautiful wild flowers. And, there is still a lot of snow visible from the road.

Temps today ranged from 66-87.

We rode 210 miles.

Mileage to date 8351.

John & Les

Day 41

2008-07-20T22:13:00.004-04:00

Coast of Washington view of Pacific Ocean
Lake inside Olympic National Park

Our ride today took us to Port Angeles, Wa., and the visitors information center for the Olympic National Park, where we learned that Mount Olympus, at a height of 7980 feet has at least 6 glaciers in it's peak, and it contains a million acres, give or take a few, said the ranger. Our ride from Fork, Wa., where we spent the night, on US101, continued our scenic ride of the majestic Olympic peninsula. And we are finally glad to have the cold and damp weather that borders the Washington coast behind us. Our morning ride began at 52 degrees. By the time we arrived at Port Angeles, we were taking off a layer.

After viewing the movie at the visitors center, we proceeded to drive south with our destination being Lacey, Wa., where we are spending the night. Riding down 101, to our destination, Mt. Rainier loomed ahead of us in all its majesty. What a sight to behold. Looking forward to our visit there tomorrow.

temps today 52-78.

We rode 185 miles.

Total mileage to date 8140.

John & Les

Day 40

2008-07-19T17:13:00.009-04:00

which way is that?
These beautiful plants in this color and white, dot the roadside all over Washington.

Today we rode from Fork, Wa to Neah Bay, Wa., and rode to Cape Flattery, reported to be the north western most point in the lower 48 states. This ride took us thru the Makah Indian Reservation. While here we visited with other riders who are out for the day. We also took advantage of a local smokehouse and purchased some smoked sockeye salmon to enjoy later this evening. We rode back to Fork, and noted that the day remained rather chilly. We are ready to say good bye to this type of climate. My son Josh, turns 30 today. Happy Birthday, Joshua!!
Today was a constant 57 degrees.
We rode 111 miles. Total mileage to date 7953.

Day 39

2008-07-18T21:31:00.006-04:00

This is the largest spruce tree we have ever seen
View of Olympic National Park & Mount Olympus

Today took us from Ocean Shores, where we spent the night, and up the coast of Washington.
We drove thru the Quinault Indian Reservation. Getting to Oympic National Park, took us thru rain forests, featuring Sitka Spruce that just seems to reach to the heavens. The trees have a lot of moss on them. We drove into the park thru the HOH Rainforest, which had a stream of water flowing alongside the road, and had a lot of dead trees in the water. There were several trees over a hundred feet long that were just decaying in the stream. The sun came out for a short time while we were riding thru the rainforest. A surprise on the stretch of road was a lot of twists and turns, which made the getting there and back fun.
Temp variation today was 55-59 degrees.
Todays ride 148 miles.
Total mileage to date: 7842
John & Les

Day 38

2008-07-18T00:41:00.003-04:00

We left Long Beach, this morning a little late. I mis-placed my credit card, and waited until the place opened this morning. And, lo and behold, they had it. I am one grateful person. We rode to Ocean Shores where we are tonight, traveling thru Aberdeen. This was our first day, in which the temps stayed in the very low 60's. Not one ray of sunshine did we see.

My CB quit working yesterday, and today, we tried unsuccessfully to get it going...

Sorry, no pix today...drab and dreary don't photograph well.

John & Les

Day 37

2008-07-16T22:48:00.003-04:00

Beautiful Sandy Pacific Ocean beach, coast of Oregon

Leaving Portland, Or., this morning put us in the midst of early morning traffic in a LARGE city.

We rode to the pacific coast, riding thru the Tillamook range of mountains, and to a town of the same name. From there, upon entering the Tillamook Valley, we observed that it was a heavy dairy area, much like upstate NY.

From there we traveled up the coast of Oregon, bordering the ocean, to Astoria, Or.

We crossed into Washington, via a 2 mile bridge, into Chinook, Wa., arriving in Long Beach, Wa., about 3pm. Once again, we experienced temps in the high 50's. We then traveled the length o the peninsula to Leadbetter state park, where we learned that trikes and beach sand, does not blend well.

Temps today ranged 57-62. We rode 205 miles. Total trip mileage 7685.

John & Les

Day 36

2008-07-15T22:22:00.003-04:00

Some wildlife
Wind surfing on the Columbia Gorge

Our ride this morning from Madras to the south side of the Columbia Gorge took us thru grass valley with its high plains wheat and hay fields. The amount of irrigation that is done by these farms to grow their crops is impressive. We then crossed a bridge over the Columbia Gorge, into the state of Washington, and proceeded to ride highway 14, which follows the Columbia Gorge. A very pretty ride, almost 100 miles, from which we could see various views of Mt. Hood. We stopped at Maryhill Vineyards. This is an award winning producer, even though it has only been in business for 7 years.

Along the way we pulled off and watched wind surfers playing their craft. It was fun to watch them be pulled out of the water by their air chutes.

Tonight we are just outside of Portland, Or.

Temps today mid 60's to mid 80's. Total ride 189 miles. Total trip mileage 7380.

Day 35

2008-07-14T18:50:00.002-04:00

THAT IS SNOW!!! AND THAT IS THE BLUEST WATER.
ANOTHER VIEW OF CRATER LAKE

Our ride today took us to Crater Lake National Park. Upon entering the park, we were surprised to see snow just off the roadway in the trees. Not just a little here and there, but quite a bit of snow. We were also surprised to see how busy the visitors center was.

The beauty and intense blue of Crater Lake is awesome. 5 miles wide and ringed by cliffs almost 2000 feet high, the lake rests in the shattered remnants of a volcano called Mount Mazama, which erupted and collapsed into itself 7700 years ago. Crater Lake filled with rain and melted snow has a depth of 1943 feet. It is the deepest lake in the US and one of the deepest in the world.

From there we found ourselves on US 97, and headed north, learning that Oregon, has a very viable high plateau area with farming and ranching going on with the aid of irrigation. This evening finds us in Madras, Or. Our trip this afternoon, was highlighted by the constant presence of the show capped Cascade Mountains.

Temps today ranged from 72-86. We rode 176 miles. Total mileage to date 7185.

It is nice being in Oregon, where gas prices have dropped about a dollar a gallon from California prices. Gas today was 4.19. We paid as high as 5.69 in California.

John & Les

Day 34

2008-07-13T20:58:00.004-04:00

California coast line, Crescent City
Helicopter fighting wild fires

This morning it was to the laundromat, again. After which we toured Crescent City, Ca., the ocean front, the bay area, and then headed to Prospect, Or., thru Grant's Pass.

Our trip was delayed a little, as the firefighters, fought a fire on the mountains bordering Rt. 199.

The attached photo of the helicopter, shows the copter in action aiding the firefighters. We saw a number of firefighters, manning their posts and there were many trucks along the road. Traffic was only 1 way. It was interesting to see this in action, and they got a thumbs up from us as we passed.

We left Ca., with temps off the ocean of 62 degrees. We traveled 145 miles. Total mileage to date

7005.

John & Les

Day 33

2008-07-12T23:27:00.003-04:00

REDWOODS!! WOW!!
A HERD OF ELK, ENJOYING AN AFTERNOON REST
Our surprise this morning came when we discovered that our route 299 to Crescent City had been closed by California authorities due to the fires. So we headed 30 mils south and rode California 36 and headed west towards the coast. As has been often the case this road turned out to be a bikers dream, with many twists and turns and whoop de doos. Some areas were quite desolate. We did 143 miles on 36, without a stop sign or a red light.We were in a smoke haze, most of the day. On both sides of the road we witnessed fires that have ravaged the area in the last few days/weeks.

We then picked up 101 at Fortuna, driving thru Eureka, and this road took us thru a state park with phenomenal redwoods. The diversity of things to see on this ride was a sight to behold. We then visited the Redwoods National & State Park, which is a long and narrow stretch of a forest that follows the Pacific Coast. The word that comes to mind when you see these redwoods is majestic. Often times you come along trees that are so close to the edge of the road that large reflectors are posted in front of them to warn you that they might be closer than you wished. They are huge! Tonight finds us in Crescent City, 2 blocks from the ocean and we can hear the fog horn at the harbor.

It was cool/cold riding today. We left Redding at about 82 degrees, and before long, we were adding layers, as we got close to the Ocean. No sun, because of the haze. Temps dipped to 57. Tonight its about 65. We rode 265 miles. Total Mileage to date 6860.

John & Les

Day 32

2008-07-11T18:45:00.004-04:00

Lassen Peak
Acres of Volcanic rock
Another view of Lassen Peak

We started our morning by making a visit to Labcorp to have blood work done. Leaving Reno we rode to Lassen Volcanic National Park. It is one of many active, dormant, or extinct volcanoes found around the Pacific Ocean. As part of the Cascade Mountain range it encompasses parks that go all the way up to Rainier and include Crater Lake National Park and Mount St. Helen's. Scientists believe that it is an example how Mt. St. Helen's might recover from its eruptions of the 1980's, since Lassen Peak had a series of eruptions that occurred during 1914-15.

It was a cool mid-80's in the park. By the time we arrived in Redding, Ca., where we are spending the night, temps had reached 106 degrees. Riding into Redding we noticed that mountains were on fire in a number of different locations. A safe distance away. Our ride today was 198 miles. Total mileage to date 6595.

John & Les

Day 31

2008-07-10T20:25:00.005-04:00

Traveling thru the great Sierra mountain range, if you lay on the ground and look up, this is what you get. Magnificent trees stretching to the sky. Today was a lazy day. We traveled from Lee Vinning, Ca, where we stayed last night, to Lake Tahoe, to Carson City and tonight we are in Reno, Nv. Lake Tahoe, impressed us as yet another playground for the super wealthy. We are starting to smell the smoke that is filtering east from the many fires that are burning in California. In Reno, we visited a Cabella's store. The drive today followed the great mountain range of the Sierras. The haze is so bad, that they are barely distinguishable, yet they are only miles away. Riding today was much more comfortable, as we get away from the intense heat of the desert, even though the heat approached 102 degrees as we rode into Reno.

John & Les

Day 30

2008-07-09T21:54:00.002-04:00

Leaving the heat of Fresno, this morning, we rode directly to Yosemite. Arriving we found one of our favorite signs. A squiggly arrow proclaiming curves for the next 23 miles. Our total mileage in this park on the park road system was ove 100 miles. As we took it all in, all we could think 0f was WOW!! UNBELIEVABLE!!! The size and grandeur is such that it was difficult at time to focus on the road in front of us. We toured Yosemite Village with its normal gift shop, grocery store, theatre. Leaving here we rode Route 120 to heights of 10000' elev. Finding several small lakes and high mountain meadows at over 9000' elev.
Weather today was enjoyable. from the low 70's to mid 80's.. Rode 157 miles. Total mileage todate 6190. John & Les

Day 29

2008-07-08T21:20:00.003-04:00

Kings Canyon
Kings Canyon

After a restful night in Bakersfield, Ca. (Where a number of streets are named after country music artists Buck Owens, Merle Haggard, etc) we headed to Sequoia National Park, home of the giant redwoods. And, giant is an understatement. These trees are huge!! The heat is intense.

We drove thru the park, which is connected by a very scenic road with many twists and turn, to Kings Canyon National Park. Here we rode a 37 mile section of road down into Kings Canyon. And then rode it back to exit the park. Going from an elevation of 6900 feet to the base of the canyon which was about 3200 feet elevation. The ride down and back, was at times thrilling. Hugging the mountain in parts and overlooking drops of several hundred feet in others, with no guard rails.

Our surprise of the day was exiting Kings Canyon, and traveling Route 180, which had switchback and curves and which made for a wonderful ride that took us to Fresno.

The second surprise was traveling the same distance and leaving mid 80's in Kings Canyon

to 111 when we arrived in Fresno.

Temps 71 - 111; mileage to day 277 miles; Total trip mileage to date 6033.

Day 28

2008-07-07T22:12:00.005-04:00

This morning took us to Riverside and a visit with Chris, at his business, Volvo Rents. It was a real treat to see his accomplishment. Volvo rent rocks! Kid, I am really proud of you and your accomplishments.

While there we programmed Gertrude (Les' GPS) to take us Bakersfield, where we are this evening. Unfortunately, the most direct route, from where we were, took us Pasadena, Burbank and up I-5. This trip took us thru more dessert, and temps exceeding 100 degrees. We can report that all the stories we have heard about the California driver was borne out today. Driving with 4-6 lanes of traffic, weaving in and out, one would not realize that we should be driving slower to consume less energy.

We saw our first watermelon farm. It appears that this valley is probably prime farming area.

temps today 72-101; miles rode 164; total mileage to date 5755.

John & Les

Day 27

2008-07-07T01:04:00.003-04:00

Joshua Tree Cacti
A young Cacti, and older in background

This morning took us Joshua Tree National Park. Joshua tree National Park, is the only place on this continent where the Joshua Tree Cactus grows naturally.We learned that the Joshua Tree Cacti grows as a straight stem, which you can see from the photo, and does not start growing limbs until about 60 years old.

We rode down California 62, to I-10, where happened upon the largest windmill farm we have ever seen, which is just north of Palm Springs. The windmills were the same as what we are seeing in the Ellenburg area, except they also have shorter ones, mixed in. There had to be several hundred of them.

While we have enjoyed the experience of the last week and half, with the varied desert weather, we are looking forward to a change in scenery and weather as we move up into central and northern California.

Tonight we are in San Bernardino, having spent the afternoon with my stepson Chris, his wife Jan and children Ashley and Bradley. We watched Ashley put her horse, thru its paces, and then went and watch Chris and Bradley ride a moto-cross track in the early evening. Just like old times.

John & Les

Day 26

2008-07-05T18:41:00.003-04:00

Today we left Flagstaff, Az., at 6:30am, desiring to get an early start on what we felt was going to be long hot day. We traveled over a hundred miles on Interstate 40, veering off to travel Historic Route 66. Route 66, is desolate and destitute. It was originally referred to as Main St., America, linking hundreds of towns and cities from Chicago to Los Angeles. It was the background for a very popular tv series aptly name Route 66. (get your kicks, on route 66, remember?). The twists and turns were very interesting. We stopped in Oatman, Az., the ghost town that refuses to die. Wild burros roam the town. We were looking for ice and managed to find a store that sold it. It was now 10am and temps were in the l0w 100's.

We experienced the Mojave desert today. It was hot! hot! hot! By 11:00 am, it was time to seek an air conditioned Jack in the Box, for refuge.

Crossing the desert and arriving in 29 Palms, Ca, by mid afternoon, it was really time to seek refuge from the relentless desert sun. Tomorrow, bright and early, we will be doing the Joshua Tree National Park.

Temps today 65 - 110; today's ride 328 miles; total mileage todate 5442.

John & Les

Happy July Fourth

2008-07-04T21:56:00.002-04:00

Happy 4th of July. Since today was a national Holiday, we goofed off, and have absolutely nothing of significance to report.

Tomorrow it's off to Joshua Tree National Park, Ca

John & Les

DAY 24

2008-07-03T20:19:00.003-04:00

PETRIFIED WOOD
MUSEUM ENTRANCE

Expecting to see a forest of petrified trees, we found instead remnants scattered about, This park is also known as Painted Desert NP. After a while, looking at desert land all seems to start looking like the before and the day before that. The movie was informative, in that the historic significance here goes back to the days when dinosaurs roamed the area. Petrified wood is very colorful, and requires a diamond blade to cut across.

The second part of today took us to Meteor Crater. (www.meteorcrater.com) Here we learned that 50,000 years ago a a meteor, which was hurtling towards earth at 26,000 MPH, caused a a crater 700 feet deep, and over 4000 feet across, was carved into this once flat rocky plain. This caused such an inferno, that it wiped out the creatures roaming the earth, referred to in the previous park.

temps 70-101; rode 249 miles. Today we broke our rule of doing as little interstate driving as possible, opting to go the distance on mostly interstate and Historic Route 66.

Day 23

2008-07-02T22:43:00.005-04:00

This morning we left the comfort of our room at The Cameron Trading Post. Our room was done in the southwest motif. They operate a destination tourist outlet that is a must if you are into southwest art and artifacts.

We neglected to mention yesterday, that only about 10% of the people who come to the Grand Canyon, visit the Northern Rim. Today we saw why. The southern rim is grander, and much more developed. The tourist information movie at the southern rim is in an Imax theatre operated by National Geographic.

We visited the El Tovar hotel, which was built by the railroad in the early 1900. Its' service is in the grand style. We treated ourselves to lunch, and watched the sights, and the rail road come in with a whole new bunch of tourists.

After this we took 180 to Flagstaff, AZ, where we will be spending the next 3 nights. We have observed that National Park Service (NPS) is shutting off traffic to vehicles and using shuttle buses to herd the tourists.

We are noticing that at least one third of the guests are European. Also, our waiter today was from China. A student on a work visa for the summer. We are seeing a lot of this in high traffic tourist areas.

Photo 1, is the watch tower at the entrance; photo 2 is of the expanse of the canyon and photo 3, shows the Colorado river.

Temps today 72-91; miles 139; mileage to date 4736.

John & Les

Day 22

2008-07-01T17:49:00.004-04:00

We left Utah today, crossing into Arizona, on the way to the North rim of the Grand Canyon.

The ride to the Grand Canyon took us thru the Kanab Forest. The grand entrance road from Jacob Lake to the No. rim was 44 miles long. Both sides of the road were meadow . We saw no animals today. The three pictures are of the North rim. It is a vast expanse. Upon leaving we followed the Vermillon Cliffs. It was like riding the basin of the Canyon, with intense heat. At 5000 elev., it was high desert heat.

Todays temp 66-102; mileage 243;total mileage to date 4597.

Day 21

2008-06-30T21:43:00.002-04:00

Today marks the end of 3 weeks on the road. We left Torrey, Utah, and drove Utah 12, which had magnificent scenery. We are find that it is not just the National Parks that have us starring with our mouths open, but the getting there, that is truly breath taking. We rode thru Escalante (Staircase) National Monument. It is so vast and so awesome in its scope that my little camera, (picture 1) does not do it justice. At Escalante, we rode some distance where we had just the width of the road, a little shoulder and steep drop-offs. We found ourselves staying close to the center line.

We arrived at Bryce Canyon around 11am. High mesas, similar to what we saw yesterday at Canyonlands NP and Capitol Reef NP. At Bryce Canyon, you are on top the the Mesas, rock formations looking down, or at them from on high. On our arrival, we learned that the theatre was closed because of a malfunction. (Joe Leone, where are you?) So we toured the park (picture 2) and on our return the malfunction had been repaired.

At breakfast this morning we talked to a couple from Palm Springs, who told us about a wildlife museum, just a couple of miles, from Bryce. So seeing as how we are spontaneous, we just popped in. It was eye popping. They had dozens of dioramas depicting all forms of wildlife from all corners of the world. Over 600 wildlife animals. Some animals we had only seen in National Geographic, were here. They also had a collection of over 1400 butterflies from all over the world. (www.brycecanyonwildlifemuseum.com)

We then checked into our motel, which was on the way, to Zion, and we rested awhile, to let some of the high heat pass, and left at 5pm to go to Zion. On the way to Zion (picture 3) we viewed Checkerboard rock. Then we came upon the 1.1mile tunnel, where despite many warnings saying that over-sized vehicles, will turn the tunnel into one way traffic, you can see us waiting for some big motorhome to clear the tunnel. At Zion, you are in the basin. You are on ground zero, looking up at massive rocks. Colorful, but massive, just the same. Zions colorful rock formations are absolutely fantastic.

Temps today 66-104. We rode 242 miles. Total mileage to date 4352.

John & Les

PS-tonite can you hear me now, can not hear us. We have no bars.

Day 20

2008-06-29T18:04:00.003-04:00

7am found us on the road and on the way to Canyonlands NP. Canyonlands is 3 distinct areas.

Needles, Maze and Islands in the Sky. Maze has no access. Needles road is currently closed so we went to Islands in the sky. It is called this because from the sky it looks like islands that are connected by a neck bridge. (not very wide) and as you cross and look down it is cavernous. This park is separated in three by the Green River (first photo) and the Colorado. This park had over 30 miles of nothing but S turns. It felt like they had only 24 miles of road to pave but had purchased blacktop of 32 miles. So they S'd the hell out of the road. We left Canyonlands and took 191, we did some Interstate 70, and exited onto 24 all the way to Capitol Reef. Photos 2 & 3 are of the Utah landscape. This area is very sparsely populated. It is high desert.

In the brief time that we are spending in each park, we are visiting each Visitors Center. Where we find informative displays on each individual park, also very helpful park rangers, who help us understand the history, geology and any special features. And we also watch a 20-30 minute video presentation on the specialness of the national park we are visiting. Capitol reef photos 4 &5.

Temps today 67-93 (dry heat, hot!!) mileage today 230 miles. Total traveled 4110.

John & Les

Day 19

2008-06-28T18:24:00.006-04:00

Driving thru the 20 plus miles of Arches National Park, with it's wondrous formations and arches, we are reminded of the times when, as a youngster, we would look at the clouds and their changing formations and imagine various animals, flowers, etc. This park is an awesome example of this art form. You can imagine a courthouse and its pillars; groups of people talking together; even a groups of sisters (nuns). You can see a rock balanced precariously. The arches formations which are featured in the other photos, makes one wonder, how much longer they will be able to keep that form. It was easy to get into sensory overload. Awesome, doesn't quite cover it.

Temps today 71-104; mileage 55.

Day 18

2008-06-27T20:44:00.005-04:00

Today, we say good-by to Colorado, its high peaks with snow, and altitude adjustments. We did a guided tour with a Park Ranger who explained a lot of the history and archaeology of the park and the early residents who were cave dwellers. They were there from 600 ad to 1400 ad.

The middle picture is of a kiva. The focal room for the cave dwellers. The other two are actual dwelling remains, that probably housed a hundred or more people. You notice how the cave dwellers took advantage of canyons in the rock to build their dwellings. In the past 10 years this park has been struck by lightning, and thousands of acres of this park displays charred remains of trees. The wildflowers are outstanding. And many of the creature inhabitants are foraging in the new green ground cover.

We then drove to Moab, Utah, where for the first time we observed 100 degrees on the digital read-out on our bikes. The sun today was intense. They tell us its a dry heat, so we need to adapt.

Today we rode 161 miles; temps 64-100 degrees; total mileage to date 3810

Day 17

2008-06-26T20:56:00.005-04:00

WOW!! WOW!!! WOW!!!!

More than 1400 years ago, long before those guys from Europe came over, a group of people living in the 4 corners region chose to move to Mesa Verde, and lived there for over 700 years, they and their descendants lived and flourished here. Over time they built elaborate stone communities in the sheltered alcoves of canyon walls. Then in the 1200's, in the span of a generation or two, they left their homes and moved away. In the 1880's roving cowboys reported seeing these structures. These folks had a thing for Million Dollar Views, long before it was in.

Temps 60- mid 80's; Rode 115 miles. John & Les

Day 16

2008-06-25T21:37:00.005-04:00

We rode from Silverton to Durango, where we washed the trikes and trailers, (Silverton was dusty), and went to a Honda shop, where Les, had the oil changed in his trike. From there we rode southwest, into New Mexico, to Shiprock, picture to the left, where we passed thru the Navajo Indian Reservation, with what seems like immense poverty.

From there we went to the Four corners area of the US, where you see a tourist demonstrated for us what its like to be in all four states at once. The four states being Utah, New Mexico, Arizona and Colorado. This also enters our list of things you do because they are on the way, and you cross it off your list for good. Today we experienced the extremes of temperatures. From a cold 43 in Silverton, to afternoon heat in the high 90's. We adjust to the lack of climate control, by putting on and taking off clothing. You can see the buttes for what seems like forever. The afternoon climate was very arid. We drink lots of water.

From there we rode to Cortez, Co., where we are spending the night. Tomorrow we do Mesa Verde National Park. Todays temps 43 - 97. Total mileage 202, mileage todate 3538.

Day 15

2008-06-24T20:01:00.004-04:00

We were so enthralled with Silverton, CO., that we decided to spend an extra whole day. For the first time we stayed in a Bed & Breakfast, the Villa Dallavalle. Where we were treated like royalty.

According to the brochure Silverton is famous for its mining history, bordellos and gunslingers. From the photo in front of the B&B, you can see its a gravel street. The only paved street is Main St. There are no franchising, (food, lodging) allowed here. One native tells us there are 350 full time residents another says it more like 400+/-. Every day the train from Durango, comes and drops off hundreds of folks who come here to shop and experience an ole west town. We toured the mine, where we learned a lot about hard rock mining, they demonstrated the progression of the technology of mining from the early 1880's, to 1990-91, when the mines shut down. We then did the mill where they processed the ore, separating the gold, silver, and base metals copper lead and zinc.

we also visited the historical mining museum. Silverton's school age youth from grades k-12 age number 42 students, in one building. The gym is in a separate building. At the heigth mining there were 250 students in school, in the early 90's. This town has a ski area for experts only. Before you can ski by yourself, you have to go with a guide, to prove your skiing ability. Altitude is 9300. Silverton, offers the normal tourist things, like rafting, jeep and atv rentals and also we did not participate, we understand the Saloons at night are the place to party. Temps today 47-71. Mileage 10 mi. John & Les

Day 14

2008-06-23T21:27:00.005-04:00

Today, we rode to the latest National Park added to the system, by Pres. Bill Clinton, in 1999.

We can truly understand why he added it. It is not as wide as the Grand Canyon, but it is as deep, and the rock is black. It was originally filled with molten lava, which was soft and more easily eroded, than the granite rock surrounding it. Before reaching this NP we followed the Arkansas River, thru a lower canyon, that had fantastic twists and turns.

Black Canyon NP, was not on our "must do" list, but we are sure glad we did not miss it. It is breathtaking.

The 18 mile road into the NP itself, which climbs about 2000' in elev., was made even more challenging as we had to also be on the lookout for over 1200 cyclists who also were there to see the park. The colorful spandex, was also a distraction. After exiting the park we drove to Montrose, a good sized small town. We then headed south on US 550, reaching Ridgeway, CO. We soon learned why it is so named. We literally rode 23 miles , on the side of MT. Sneffels, to its peak, on speeds no exceding 15MPH, and the edge of the pavement (no Guardrails) a 1500-2000' drop. It was a real experience to meet oncoming semi's and other vehicles. This is the highest peak we have climbed with our trikes with an elev. of 14,150'. Tonite we are in Silverton, Co. Temps 92- 50.Another short burst of rain. We rode 230 miles today. John & Les

Day 13

2008-06-22T22:17:00.001-04:00

8am, found us on the road to Pikes Peak, and a 10:40a.m. rendezvous with the Cog Railway, that takes you to the summit. The view from the top was clear, so we could see the 5 states. By mid-afternoon we were on our way to the Royal Gorge Bridge, which spans the Arkansas River. Indeed at this point the river has cut the gorge 1000 feet deep. We rode the aerial tramway over the gorge, and then rode our trikes, across the 18 foot wide suspended bridge. After a quick cloudburst, we headed west on Rt. 50, where we followed the Arkansas River thru the canyon, to Salida, Co., where we are spending the night. Temps today 65-83: rode 225 Miles:

Day 12

2008-06-21T20:25:00.002-04:00

Today was a down day. After riding the miles we have and seen the terrain, that we have, the mind is in sensory overload, and the butt is tired, and we needed to do laundry. We did however mount our bikes and rode over to see Breckenridge, Co. An absolutely, wonderful ski area. After taking in all the sights, we rode back to Dillon, and took in the local sights. Found a wonderful Colorado cafe, for our evening meal, where we sat outside, basking in the sun, with the snow capped mountains all around us. There was a big cycle event in Dlllon and Breckenridge so the traffic was heavy.

Perfect weather low of 64-high of 78, Clear; Mileage 38; total for trip 2896.

Day 11

2008-06-20T20:41:00.004-04:00

Today makes us realize that we wish we had paid more attention in school. Today's ride was like a school field trip. We crossed over the great divide twice. Once at Milner Pass, and the second at Rabbit Ears Pass. There is still a lot of snow above the tree line. We rode to Steamboat Springs, where some of the world's wealthy come to play. The hillside is dotted with second or third home. We were at the headwaters of the Colorado River. We observed it several spots, and remarked that it was no larger than a mountain brook. We saw hundreds of railroad cars loaded with coal, from the mining operations in Colorado. We continue to get a fresher understanding of how truly important the RR is to this country. We were taken aback by the beauty of the high country valleys and cattle ranching that takes place here. As we traveled south this afternoon, we passed gold and silver mining operations. Tonight we are in Dillon, Co. Temps today were 42-78. We rode 251 miles. Total mileage to date 2858. We give a special shout out to those of you who are following our little journey, especially those who leave us comments. Special Hey to our SOB friends at Solivita. John & Les

Day 10

2008-06-19T21:30:00.005-04:00

After traversing this great country, I could no longer live with sporadic radio, and had a Sirius radio installed on my bike. I feel re-connected. This morning we did a ride called Peak to Peak, which took us from Estes Park to Boulder. Boulder is a very upscale community. It was avery scenic ride. The Boulder -Ft Collins area seems very upscale. Hewlett Packard amd Intel, have a strong a strong presence here. This afternoon we rode a portion of Rocky Mountain National Park, traversing the great divide at Milners Pass (elev. 10759).

Inspiring scenery all around. As you can see from the attached, we ran across some wildlife and some not so wild. Imagine chipmunks that come up to you for food. On the other hand we saw our very first Elk. What a magnificent beast. The Bulls are in full velvet. We also encountered a herd of elk cows and calves. This is a beautiful country. Tonit we are in Estes Park (elev.7500).temps today were 58 to 82, mostly sunny, few clouds; we traveled 186 miles; total for trip todate 2607. John & Les

Day 9

2008-06-18T17:15:00.003-04:00

Leaving Kimball, NE and riding south to Colorado, we continue to be impressed with the vastness of the diversified ranching operations. The sizes of the irrigation systems boggles the mind. But we've seen almost enough of the great plains, and are looking forward to the beauty of the Rockies. As we rode west on Route 14, we were not disappointed. Driving towards Ft. Collins, for at least 50 miles, we could see the snow-capped peaks.

For the next couple of nights we are at Estes Park, CO, in anticipation of spending the next days touring Rocky Mountain National Park, our 3rd National Park to explore. As we do this blog, it is lightning and thundering outside. Temps today hi 83- low 63 mostly cloudy. Todays Mileage 201..total to date 2435

Day 8

2008-06-17T19:37:00.003-04:00

Our day started with a visit to National Woodcarvers Museum. It displays the works of an animator, who helped Disney with the animation at Disneyland. If you have ever been to see

Its a Small World, it is the animation that makes characters move.

Their limbs, etc. We then went to Wind Cave National Park and its network of underground caves.

Goods still move by freight. As you can tell from the attached. We waited over 15 minutes at the tracks.

Tonight finds us in Kimball, NE. Looking forward to getting to Colorado, tomorrow and start seeing the Rockies

Day 7

2008-06-16T23:15:00.007-04:00

Today took us to Needles Highway and a trip thru Custer State Park. Another road with great twistees and hairpin turns. Elev. got to 6380'. Les' new friend, Gertrude Garmin, has an altimeter on the GPS. This ride exhibits the masterpieces of the Creator with Cathedral Spires formed in the great rocks.

From here we traveled 70 miles north to Harley Mecca (Sturgis). We wanted to find out what all the hoopla is about which attracts a million people in August.

After our fact finding tour, we next headed for Deadwood. Made famous by the HBO series, of the same name. It is a large gambling area, with many Casinos. We then went to Lead, SD, which is just up the road. This hillside town's industry is gold mining. While returning home in late afternoon, we both decided to return to Alternate Route 16, near Mt. Rushmore, since we had so greatly enjoyed this ride yesterday. This time thru we focused on observing the engineering marvel that make up the curved wooden bridges that make 360 degree circles. This trip also provided us with our first close encounter Western Big Horn Sheep.

We then ventured to the Crazy Horse Memorial, which has been under construction for 60 years. Those of you watch the Today, show you recently say Ann Currie, repel off this mountain and set off a blast. It is a masterpiece in the making. It was great to see that. Todays high temp 74 partly cloudy...todays mileage 194 miles....total mileage to date 2019.

Day 6

2008-06-15T21:13:00.005-04:00

Day 6 of our adventure finds us in the Badlands. And, another beautiful day to ride. Our morning started with a visit to Wall Drug, for breakfast. It is a 76,000 sq. ft. tourist trap that everyone needs to do once. Donuts were great.

We visited our first National Park. John, got the golden pass for seniors ($10), Les, had to pay $80.

Upon entering we came upon a heard of big horn sheep. As you can see from the attached photo, the backdrop looks like we could be on the moon. We spent the morning in this area, and then traveled Rt. 44, thru Buffalo Gap National

grasslands. After which we traveled to Mt. Rushmore National Memorial, to see the dead presidents. Our surprise today was crossing iron mountain road, with double and triple corkscrews, single lane tunnels, split roads, it made Deals Gap look easy. Next we entered Custer State Park, where we encountered a herd of Buffalo grazing by the road side. We also saw antelope, wild mules, & white tail deer. Scenery is spectacular. Tonite we are in Custer, an

interesting western town. Our first Western National Park visit, contained a number of sights for which words escape us. A great beginning to our National Parks adventure.

2008-06-14T22:00:00.003-04:00

On day 5, not only were we very impressed with the staff, at Redlin Art Museum, but people came up to us and after hearing about our 8 week adventure, took our pictures. We are most impressed with the midwest people, their charm and openness.

Along the way Les, stopped and had a town named after him. As you can see from the attached photo.

Redlin

2008-06-14T21:35:00.003-04:00

Day 5, began with a tour of the Terry Redlin Museum. As you can see from the picture in the background, it is a massive brick and granite building. Housing 3 floors of Terry's Americana and wildlife paintings. In addition there was a temporary display of Norman Rockwell's works. It took us 2 and a half hours to tour this facility and we would highly recommend to anyone, if you are anywhere near it is a must see.(www.redlinart.com) Admission is free. Little did we know the best part of the day was yet to come. We did not leave Watertown til 1pm and for the next 7 hours we rode 315 miles thru America's prairie land. East of Pierre, we saw fields of wheat that went on for miles. On the west side of Pierre, began the majestic hills of South Dakota. From the top of some of these hills on this very clear day, we could look in any direction and just see farm fields for 20 miles. There were many herds of contented beef, up their knees in green grass. There has been a good amount of rain in Central US. Les, made the comment that this landscape was as green as anything he saw in Ireland. This evening we arrived in Wall, SD. Here they have the world famous tourist trap called The Wall Drug Store. We will be there first thing, in the morning for breakfast. We can then cross that off our Bucket List. Weather today, was exceptional. NO RAIN NO WIND, low 80's.

2008-06-13T20:52:00.002-04:00

Day 4: We left Ed's home at 7:00am. A bright sunrise welcomed us. We traveled SR 70 North Central Wisconsin, entering Minnesota at Mora, where we picked up Route 23, which took us Southwest thru Minnesota. We were surprised to see the large crop farms, mostly planted to corn, to provide for our nations energy. The flatness of the terrain was awesome. At Clara City, we connected to US 212, and exited Mn, and entered the state of South Dakota, where we are spending the night in Watertown, with a population of 24,000, and the home of noted artist Terry Redlin, who has a museum, that we are hoping to get to visit tomorrow. So far we have clocked 1400 miles. In closing for this day we want to thank Ed, for his hospitality, and graciousness.

2008-06-13T20:43:00.002-04:00

Day 3 of our adventure takes us to Wisconsin, and meeting up with our friend and fellow SOB, Ed Zimmer, who has extended a gracious invitation to have us stay over. Getting there involved more riding in the rain, and thru an Elk Preserve, where we saw a lot of deer, but alas, no elk.

Ed, has a beautiful home on a lake, that he built himself, which has three levels. We accompanied Ed, to one of his favorite watering holes, here you can se us enjoying the fare, which was great.

2008-06-11T21:04:00.002-04:00

Day 2 of our great adventure took us along Canada 17. We crossed at Saulte Ste Marie. Temps were cool. High of the day was 62, at 6pm. Would have welcomed heated grips and seat. Les' new Garmin is performing well as our trusted giver of directions. We are overnighting, in Munising, Mi. We spent the night planning our future intinerary. Hoping to maximize our enjoyment at the many upcoming stops. We are also looking forward to hooking up with our fellow rider from Florida, at his home in Wisconsin, tomorrow.

Day 1 Hooray!! We're on our way!!!

2008-06-10T18:19:00.001-04:00

This is us leaving Malone, at about 9:30 am. Day 1 of our big adventure. We traveled to Ogdensburg, NY, crossing into Canada....we had lunch in Petawawa, Ontario, . and then proceeded to drive to North Bay, where we arrived at about 5PM. The last 90 minutes of the drive in the rain. Temp dropped to 60...Thank God for rainwear, and waterproof boots. We are tired, but anxious for the adventure that began, this morning.

John Parent & Les Miller

2008-06-08T13:41:00.000-04:00

If you see this on the road accompanied by another trike, that is My buddy Les, and we are headed out to visit all the National Parks on an 8 weeks Adventure of a Lifetime.

The movie Bucket List inspired us.

2008-06-08T07:16:00.000-04:00

Sunday: 2 days til take-off. It's a beautiful day. The anticipation is building. Getting excited.

2008-06-06T16:21:00.000-04:00

Today I washed the bike and trailer in anticipation of the great adventure that begins on Tuesday,

June 10th

2008-06-06T15:18:00.000-04:00

My buddy, Gizmo.

Countdown to Day 1

2008-06-03T18:57:00.000-04:00

As countdown to departure, approaches I am well aware that it rains almost daily in Malone, NY. Makes me wonder about what the 60 days on the road on a motorcycle will be like.

Pre Planning

2008-05-29T09:47:00.000-04:00

Today we start preparation for our trip of a lifetime. An 8 week motorcycle trike adventure of our National Parks system.

John Parent

Les Miller