Embarked: September 13, 2014
Returned: September 28, 2014
States visited: 9; in order - TX, NM, AZ, UT, NV, CO, KS, MO, OK
Favorite state/part: Either UT or CO. The parks and the land in these states is amazing.
Least favorite: The boring plains of KS. I get their significance for our country and for making food for all of us to eat, it just isnt pretty to look at for me.
Miles traveled: ~ 4100 ass pummeling miles
Longest traveling day: 530 miles (1st day from Houston to Lubbock) followed closely with 507 miles from Las Vegas to Grand Junction
Shortest traveling day (not including layover days): St. George to Las Vegas (120 miles)
Things I enjoyed:
1. The countryside in the west is beautiful. Not as much desert as I was expecting, which was also nice.
2. The national parks that I got to see (Petrified Forest, Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, and Mt. Zion) were absolutely stunning for various reasons and I am glad I got to see them. Granted, I did not get to explore them as much as I would like due to time constraints. I spent part of days in these parks, and one could easily spend multiple days in a single park.
3. Traveling alone (will hit on the negatives later) was nice. Got to make my own schedule, see and do the things I wanted to do, and could stop where and when I wanted or needed to without having to worry about pissing someone else off.
4. Couchsurfing. The fact that there is this network of friendly, hospitable people opening their homes and lives to complete strangers is amazing. Add to that the fact that it gave me awesome individuals to talk to and spend some time with on this long, lonely trip was that much better. Being a social creature, I would much rather be around people than not, and this provided me that ability.
Things I wish I had done differently:
1. Tested out my seat. I feel like when the one complaint I have is my seat kicking my ass, that is a great trip (and it was). But if I had to do it again, I would do some test rides of significant distance like I wanted to, but didn't.
2. Traveled with someone/people. As I alluded to earlier, and as many of yall know, I love being around good people. I have no problem going somewhere or doing something by myself (this trip being a prime example) if I need to, but it would have been nice to have another person around to travel with not only for safety reasons but also for increasing the enjoyment of the trip.
3. Stayed West. As much as I loved seeing my friends and the city of Kansas City, there is so much more to see and do in the Utah/W.Colorado/N.Arizona area that part of me wishes I would have stayed in that general area and spent some more time in the parks and what not. That being said, I definitely do not regret the trip as is even a little bit.
Lessons learned:
1. Do a trial run or 2 before the big expedition. I knew this from Philmont days, but I didnt have/make time to do it this time and I paid the price.
2. There are great people, in all shapes and sizes, all over this planet. I have seen it time and time again in my travels and this trip just reiterated it even more.
Motivations going forward:
1. Next big trip I want to be Ozarks or Pacific Hwy. Hopefully, it will be with someone so I can learn group riding.
2. For short term trips, I want to explore Texas State Parks and what not. So I might be looking to gather my camping supplies and just take little trips to parks I havent visited before.
3. On previous trips, I took handwritten notes about the adventures. I think I will try and find those and even though they are not on a motorcycle, I will try and document them as best to my ability as it would be good to have a digital account of some of these amazing trips I have been extremely fortunate to go on, and it will open people's eyes to the greatness that is Nicaragua, South Africa and Europe.
Next to come: A photographic account of this Motorbike trip
Tuesday, September 30, 2014
Sunday, September 28, 2014
Hoooomeward Bound
Day 16 - September 28, 2014
OKC - Houston
I got up at the crack of dawn to get home in time go see a friend I have known since I was 2 and hadn't seen in a few years, who has been in town the past week but I obviously wasn't. So no fooling around, today. I head out and head south towards Dallas. The southern part of Oklahoma is also pretty with trees, lakes, etc. and the greatest thing was, they didnt make me pay to use 35. Good job Okies! Once I get into Texas, I stop for food at a Braum's (why do we not have these in Houston?). They are still serving breakfast, the food was decent for fast food, but the kicker - they are also an ice cream shop with like 20 different flavors. These flavors are always available. So naturally I had a peanut chocolate fudge shake (whatever the flavor was called) with my breakfast and it was delicious on all levels. Now that I think about it, the last thing I need in Houston is another path to acquire milkshakes from (did anyone else take advantage of sonic's summer of shakes these past few months? Cause I sure did :) ).
I then get back on the road and my old nemesis, the seat, decides it wants one last go at my keester. I suffer through the last hour or so battling the lovely 45 in Houston before pulling up ti the place where I started this all a little over 2 weeks ago. A wonderful, amazing trip that I couldn't be happier to have taken.
I will soon write a summary post and a post or 2 with pictures summarizing the trip. Thsnk you all for following me on this journey. I hope it inspired at least one person to get out there and either challenge their comfort zone, or just explore a piece of this great country that we have at our disposal; just make sure to treat it kindly. :) Cheers!
OKC - Houston
I got up at the crack of dawn to get home in time go see a friend I have known since I was 2 and hadn't seen in a few years, who has been in town the past week but I obviously wasn't. So no fooling around, today. I head out and head south towards Dallas. The southern part of Oklahoma is also pretty with trees, lakes, etc. and the greatest thing was, they didnt make me pay to use 35. Good job Okies! Once I get into Texas, I stop for food at a Braum's (why do we not have these in Houston?). They are still serving breakfast, the food was decent for fast food, but the kicker - they are also an ice cream shop with like 20 different flavors. These flavors are always available. So naturally I had a peanut chocolate fudge shake (whatever the flavor was called) with my breakfast and it was delicious on all levels. Now that I think about it, the last thing I need in Houston is another path to acquire milkshakes from (did anyone else take advantage of sonic's summer of shakes these past few months? Cause I sure did :) ).
I then get back on the road and my old nemesis, the seat, decides it wants one last go at my keester. I suffer through the last hour or so battling the lovely 45 in Houston before pulling up ti the place where I started this all a little over 2 weeks ago. A wonderful, amazing trip that I couldn't be happier to have taken.
I will soon write a summary post and a post or 2 with pictures summarizing the trip. Thsnk you all for following me on this journey. I hope it inspired at least one person to get out there and either challenge their comfort zone, or just explore a piece of this great country that we have at our disposal; just make sure to treat it kindly. :) Cheers!
All good things must come to an end
Day 15 - September 27, 2014
KC - OKC
After some breakfast, I got my bike set up for the day and headed out. I chose to head south through Missouri instead of what google said was the ~30 mile shorter route back through Wichita for 2 reasons: 1) hadn't seen Missouri countryside, and (this one is the important one) 2) it avoids going through Kansas (if you are curious, check out my earlier post :) ).
Missouri was nice. Just trees and farms and small towns the whole way down 49. At Joplin, I change to 44 and head west and into Oklahoma. This is where I found out that maybe I had just been spoiled with all my traveling on interstates previously, cause the road from Joplin to OKC was 2 4$ toll roads (Joplin - Tulsa, Tulsa - OKC). Just kidding, add Oklahoma to the list. The parts I saw were indeed prettier than Kansas, but I feel as though main thoroughfares that are most likely paid for with tax dollars from the federal government should not be toll roads. The beltway here in Houston I understand cause you have options for the most part. I digress.
I finally get into OKC and meet my host for the night, a medical resident with family and one in the oven. They are a few years older, and pretty cool. He seems to do it all; father, husband, doctor, motorcyclist, home brewer, etc. They are a very friendly, warm family that after we meet and I drop my stuff off, invite me to their neighborhood pot luck. I accept cause hey, free food, and I can talk to them some more. After we eat (we told a lil white lie about our friendship as they thought it best living in a more conservative neighborhood), we come back and drink some beers. The first one I had looks like an IPA, but upon tasting the malty, chocolaty, flavors I am utterly confused. Turns out the beer is called Casper and it is a white stout from Wisconsin. Pretty interesting. We proceed to shoot the sh*t and have some other beers, one of which I was bringing home for some friends, until it decided to spill into my saddlebag and I decided it wouldnt keep (an apricot au pouive belgium beer aged in chardonnay barrels - those who know me know I have been on the lookout for wine barrel aged beers). It was a very tasty beer with the flavors going from apricot semi-sweet to pepper savory (black pepper not spicy peppers) to chardonnay dryness. It was a fun drink, which made me upset it didnt make the trip as the guy I was bringing it for, loves au pouive steaks. We continued to talk bikes, life, beer, etc. until it was my bed time.
This is the second exceptional person/experience I have had with couch surfing. Both experiences different as can be, but I have really appreciated meeting these people. Tomorrow, home sweet home :)
KC - OKC
After some breakfast, I got my bike set up for the day and headed out. I chose to head south through Missouri instead of what google said was the ~30 mile shorter route back through Wichita for 2 reasons: 1) hadn't seen Missouri countryside, and (this one is the important one) 2) it avoids going through Kansas (if you are curious, check out my earlier post :) ).
Missouri was nice. Just trees and farms and small towns the whole way down 49. At Joplin, I change to 44 and head west and into Oklahoma. This is where I found out that maybe I had just been spoiled with all my traveling on interstates previously, cause the road from Joplin to OKC was 2 4$ toll roads (Joplin - Tulsa, Tulsa - OKC). Just kidding, add Oklahoma to the list. The parts I saw were indeed prettier than Kansas, but I feel as though main thoroughfares that are most likely paid for with tax dollars from the federal government should not be toll roads. The beltway here in Houston I understand cause you have options for the most part. I digress.
I finally get into OKC and meet my host for the night, a medical resident with family and one in the oven. They are a few years older, and pretty cool. He seems to do it all; father, husband, doctor, motorcyclist, home brewer, etc. They are a very friendly, warm family that after we meet and I drop my stuff off, invite me to their neighborhood pot luck. I accept cause hey, free food, and I can talk to them some more. After we eat (we told a lil white lie about our friendship as they thought it best living in a more conservative neighborhood), we come back and drink some beers. The first one I had looks like an IPA, but upon tasting the malty, chocolaty, flavors I am utterly confused. Turns out the beer is called Casper and it is a white stout from Wisconsin. Pretty interesting. We proceed to shoot the sh*t and have some other beers, one of which I was bringing home for some friends, until it decided to spill into my saddlebag and I decided it wouldnt keep (an apricot au pouive belgium beer aged in chardonnay barrels - those who know me know I have been on the lookout for wine barrel aged beers). It was a very tasty beer with the flavors going from apricot semi-sweet to pepper savory (black pepper not spicy peppers) to chardonnay dryness. It was a fun drink, which made me upset it didnt make the trip as the guy I was bringing it for, loves au pouive steaks. We continued to talk bikes, life, beer, etc. until it was my bed time.
This is the second exceptional person/experience I have had with couch surfing. Both experiences different as can be, but I have really appreciated meeting these people. Tomorrow, home sweet home :)
Kansas City - gateway to the West?
Day 12-14 - September 24-26, 2014
Kansas City, MO
I spent the last couple of days catching up with my friends, checking out what Kansas City has to offer (my friend is trying to recruit me up there for after I graduate). The first night was just about getting settled in, having a nice homemade steak dinner (the meat i later found out came from a butcher they went in with some friends and split a whole cow mwahahahaha AWESOME!), then hitting up his local haunts for some good local beers. We started at a nearby brewpub where I sampled their beers, which I enjoyed, before we tryed other beers from their extensive list. After a few rounds, some of his friends met up, and we went across the street to another bar with a great beer selection. In Kansas City, some places can sell bottles to go (bottle shops) and I was wishing this was one of them, but it wasn't. It had 2 beers (barrel aged old rasputin and a Cantion Iris) that I really wanted to bring home for some friends to try, but alas this place was on premise only :( . So we closed that place down, as they closed early (midnight), and went to our final stop, a restaurant with a little bit of everything for what everyone was wanting. After a drink, we headed home as I was spent from the long drive and then a night out.
The next day we got up and stumbled around the house until it was time to start the day. Went to see my friend's work and it was pretty sweet. If I could do science like that, I would enjoy it thoroughly me thinks (he absolutely loves it - I now understand). Then ran some errands with them, checked out the city's WW1 memorial which was a pretty area/building. After that, we went home so the misses could run some more errands and we went to Cinder Block Brewery for a couple drinks. It was their one year anniversary so they were having demonstrations, special tappings, etc. so we talked to a few of their employees and after having some beers, went to a german brewpub to have a drink (had to get the dunkel of course - live me the Dunkels) then decided to head home, watch Beerfest and drink home brew. Solid end to a great day.
The next day was my last day so I had to take it easy. We started by going to a local butcher to get some shopping done (they were taking apart a pig, but had all kinds of meat available) before heading to the nearby farmers market, which smelt great. Spice shops, italian meat shops, etc alternated this giant square of shops where they did some more shopping before we headed out to get some lunch at a nearby sandwich shop where I had a philly cheesesteak that was pretty good. After this we went to a bottle shop to get some souvenirs. After we had all our goodies from the day, we dropped them off at the house, then got their brewing supplies and headed to a brew shop where we proceeded to brew 2 batches of beer (I mainly watched them and tasted some different beers) and hung out with a group of men who were in town for the UTexas game that weekend and were a hoot. They were all latin american descent, the ring leader being Puerto Rican. The took over the place playing all kinds of hispanic music, dancing all over the place while the shop owner tried to teach them about brewing. It didnt help that every 5-10 mins they seemed to be opening a new bottle of beer. Either way, they were the life of the party and a great addition to the day's activities. After we were done, we headed home and I packed up and got everything ready for my departure tomorrow.
KC is a cool little town. It has new and old architecture seemingly blended into each other. Lots of beautiful churches/buildings/views from all the hills. Seems to have parks everywhere with even more fountains placed throughout the city. The highways dont make much sense sometimes, the weather was perfect the whole time, and I enjoyed the craft beer scene. Was definitely worth the trip not only to see a good set of friends, but also to experience a new city I probably wouldn't have come to otherwise.
Tomorrow the journey home begins...
Kansas City, MO
I spent the last couple of days catching up with my friends, checking out what Kansas City has to offer (my friend is trying to recruit me up there for after I graduate). The first night was just about getting settled in, having a nice homemade steak dinner (the meat i later found out came from a butcher they went in with some friends and split a whole cow mwahahahaha AWESOME!), then hitting up his local haunts for some good local beers. We started at a nearby brewpub where I sampled their beers, which I enjoyed, before we tryed other beers from their extensive list. After a few rounds, some of his friends met up, and we went across the street to another bar with a great beer selection. In Kansas City, some places can sell bottles to go (bottle shops) and I was wishing this was one of them, but it wasn't. It had 2 beers (barrel aged old rasputin and a Cantion Iris) that I really wanted to bring home for some friends to try, but alas this place was on premise only :( . So we closed that place down, as they closed early (midnight), and went to our final stop, a restaurant with a little bit of everything for what everyone was wanting. After a drink, we headed home as I was spent from the long drive and then a night out.
The next day we got up and stumbled around the house until it was time to start the day. Went to see my friend's work and it was pretty sweet. If I could do science like that, I would enjoy it thoroughly me thinks (he absolutely loves it - I now understand). Then ran some errands with them, checked out the city's WW1 memorial which was a pretty area/building. After that, we went home so the misses could run some more errands and we went to Cinder Block Brewery for a couple drinks. It was their one year anniversary so they were having demonstrations, special tappings, etc. so we talked to a few of their employees and after having some beers, went to a german brewpub to have a drink (had to get the dunkel of course - live me the Dunkels) then decided to head home, watch Beerfest and drink home brew. Solid end to a great day.
The next day was my last day so I had to take it easy. We started by going to a local butcher to get some shopping done (they were taking apart a pig, but had all kinds of meat available) before heading to the nearby farmers market, which smelt great. Spice shops, italian meat shops, etc alternated this giant square of shops where they did some more shopping before we headed out to get some lunch at a nearby sandwich shop where I had a philly cheesesteak that was pretty good. After this we went to a bottle shop to get some souvenirs. After we had all our goodies from the day, we dropped them off at the house, then got their brewing supplies and headed to a brew shop where we proceeded to brew 2 batches of beer (I mainly watched them and tasted some different beers) and hung out with a group of men who were in town for the UTexas game that weekend and were a hoot. They were all latin american descent, the ring leader being Puerto Rican. The took over the place playing all kinds of hispanic music, dancing all over the place while the shop owner tried to teach them about brewing. It didnt help that every 5-10 mins they seemed to be opening a new bottle of beer. Either way, they were the life of the party and a great addition to the day's activities. After we were done, we headed home and I packed up and got everything ready for my departure tomorrow.
KC is a cool little town. It has new and old architecture seemingly blended into each other. Lots of beautiful churches/buildings/views from all the hills. Seems to have parks everywhere with even more fountains placed throughout the city. The highways dont make much sense sometimes, the weather was perfect the whole time, and I enjoyed the craft beer scene. Was definitely worth the trip not only to see a good set of friends, but also to experience a new city I probably wouldn't have come to otherwise.
Tomorrow the journey home begins...
Thursday, September 25, 2014
We're not in Kansas anymore... thank goodness
Day 12 - September 24, 2014
Goodland - Kansas City, MO
Today I was to drive clear across Kansas, to get to my last layover stop in Kansas City to see some friends from Grad school. I woke up, got the bike packed, and after filling up the gas tank, I was heading East. Within a few hours on 70, I saw more cops and more people pulled over than the previous 10 days. Not a good omen. I was fortunate not to get pulled over but those coppers were everywhere. Kansas is flat. Quite the opposite from the rest of the trip thus far, which made for a very boring drive but it had to be done. Once you get into eastern Kansas, starting about at Salina, the hills start and it becomes a little better with trees and things to look at. On the way to Topeka, I passed an army base which reminded me of the base I passed on the first day in Texas.
These bases are awesome as a pedestrian looking in; I wonder if the people in the military find it just as amazing to look upon the behemoths of war. The Texas base had land vehicles: hummers, massive tanks, etc. The Kansas base was more loaded with supply vehicles and air vehicles: Chinooks, Apaches, etc. Both bases were pretty cool sights to behold.
So I get into Topeka, fill up for my final leg, and head out. As I leave Topeka, I realize that the interstate between Topeka and Kansas City has been turned into a 60 mile toll road. WHO TURNS AN INTERSTATE INTO A TOLLROAD?!?!? Freaking Kansas thats who. I decide to stick it to the greedy bastards and take the residential highway, big mistake. I wind up hitting every light, coming across some of the worst drivers ever (who moves into the left lane to turn their hazards on and slow down?), and taking 2 hours to go 60-70 miles. In hindsight, my frugality got the best of me.
I eventually get to my friends place after getting lost to poorly marked street signs a could times. I take my stuff in and shower before going out with them and some of their friends to try some local beers. Should be a good couple of days till the 2 day ride home starting on Saturday. Cheers!
Goodland - Kansas City, MO
Today I was to drive clear across Kansas, to get to my last layover stop in Kansas City to see some friends from Grad school. I woke up, got the bike packed, and after filling up the gas tank, I was heading East. Within a few hours on 70, I saw more cops and more people pulled over than the previous 10 days. Not a good omen. I was fortunate not to get pulled over but those coppers were everywhere. Kansas is flat. Quite the opposite from the rest of the trip thus far, which made for a very boring drive but it had to be done. Once you get into eastern Kansas, starting about at Salina, the hills start and it becomes a little better with trees and things to look at. On the way to Topeka, I passed an army base which reminded me of the base I passed on the first day in Texas.
These bases are awesome as a pedestrian looking in; I wonder if the people in the military find it just as amazing to look upon the behemoths of war. The Texas base had land vehicles: hummers, massive tanks, etc. The Kansas base was more loaded with supply vehicles and air vehicles: Chinooks, Apaches, etc. Both bases were pretty cool sights to behold.
So I get into Topeka, fill up for my final leg, and head out. As I leave Topeka, I realize that the interstate between Topeka and Kansas City has been turned into a 60 mile toll road. WHO TURNS AN INTERSTATE INTO A TOLLROAD?!?!? Freaking Kansas thats who. I decide to stick it to the greedy bastards and take the residential highway, big mistake. I wind up hitting every light, coming across some of the worst drivers ever (who moves into the left lane to turn their hazards on and slow down?), and taking 2 hours to go 60-70 miles. In hindsight, my frugality got the best of me.
I eventually get to my friends place after getting lost to poorly marked street signs a could times. I take my stuff in and shower before going out with them and some of their friends to try some local beers. Should be a good couple of days till the 2 day ride home starting on Saturday. Cheers!
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
When the lights go down in the country
Day 11 - September 23, 2014
Grand Junction - Goodland, KS
Today was to be a short day. Little 4 hour jaunt down I70 with an optional hour detour for a scenic route north of 70 also through the Rockies. I got up, not with any certain hustle in my step, and had breakfast before getting on the road.
Immediately, I start to realize that my enjoyment of 70 from my travels through Utah was only the beginning. As I leave Junction, 70 gets into the mountains and you careen around them as you follow the Colorado River. Shortly after, I find myself among a wine making town with vineyards, green, rolling hills, and mountains all around. I keep on my path and as I get higher into the mountains, I start to wonder; with 70 being so beautiful, and still with Vail and Breckenridge to come, should I take the detour, or just stay on 70? After realizing I have never been to either of the 2 previously mentioned towns, I optioned to skip my planned detour and stay on 70. After some more riding, I stop in Avon for lunch at the Northside Kitchen and they are still serving breakfast, so I get eggs benedict with bacon instead of Canadian bacon and wheat toast (made in house) instead of the usual Engligh Muffin. I am usually disappointed when I get eggs benedict as it never tastes as good as I have had it at a handful of places; I can add this place to the list. I do no normally take pictures of my food, but today I did. I really enjoyed the food, the bacon provided a great crunchy yin to the sauce/yolky runiness' (lets assume that is a word if it is not) yang. Ok enough of food, making me hungry talking about it.
As I'm leaving, some gentlemen stop and talk as they are riders as well (this whole trip I have really loved the general friendliness of bikers both on and off the road). They recommend some rides for the rest of my trip, and wish me a safe ride. I pull out and before long I am upon Vail and it is beautiful. The trees are all kinds of colors due to the time of year, the town sits at the foot of the ski slopes (which right now are lush grassy fields) which I imagine is why it is such a great ski resort, and there are golf courses and bike paths running next to the highway. Just amazing. I continue down the road and come upon Breckenridge. As you escape the pass, your view opens up into an expanse of nature and small town with a giant lake and more luxurious mountains all around.
As I make my way down into Denver, I start to realize my fears will soon be realized; the amazing highway that is I70 will soon open up into plains and plenty of flat boring farmlands. Bye, bye mountains. I get close to where my host lives and make an executive decision. In order to cut down on my now minimum 10 hour drive the next day (thanks time zone, you sneaky little bastard) I opted to go forth and put more road behind me today as I felt good from a good night's sleep and it wouldn't hurt to be closer to Kansas City for the next day. So I zip out of Denver, eventually stop and grab dinner at a truck stop diner (oh chicken fried steak, you always know how to make me happy :) ) and make my way East.
I stop to get gas in the smallest of towns (Arriba, CO) to have a gas station and as I come out from the store, an old fellow is looking at my bike (is Wayne Brady going to have to choke a B*tch?). Turns out, he also rides, and he wanted to chat so we shared stories of our recent trips and shot the shit for a bit before getting back on the ride. Shortly thereafter, I realized there is a benefit to being in the middle of nowhere and riding in the dark; no city lights to rob us city folk of one of THE most impressive sights we humans who never leave this earth's atmosphere will ever see - the Milky Way. For those who never get out of the city to camp, if you dont like connecting with nature, or being without your plush amenities, the one reason you should get away from the city is to look upon an unadulterated night sky full of the stars and the cloudiness among the stars that is the Milky Way (if I remember right, the cloudiness is actually due to the millions of stars there causing an inability to distinguish between individual light sources). I remember going to AZ years ago with my father and I believe Aunt? And we pulled over an hour outside of El Paso and he pointed out to me the milky way that I don't think I ever realized was visible. It was, and still is amazing to be able to lay you eyes upon it. I can understand how people like NdGT make a passionate career out of astrophysics. After pulling over on the highway to take it in, I continue down the road and eventually pull into Goodland where I found a place and went to get some rest.
Grand Junction - Goodland, KS
Today was to be a short day. Little 4 hour jaunt down I70 with an optional hour detour for a scenic route north of 70 also through the Rockies. I got up, not with any certain hustle in my step, and had breakfast before getting on the road.
Immediately, I start to realize that my enjoyment of 70 from my travels through Utah was only the beginning. As I leave Junction, 70 gets into the mountains and you careen around them as you follow the Colorado River. Shortly after, I find myself among a wine making town with vineyards, green, rolling hills, and mountains all around. I keep on my path and as I get higher into the mountains, I start to wonder; with 70 being so beautiful, and still with Vail and Breckenridge to come, should I take the detour, or just stay on 70? After realizing I have never been to either of the 2 previously mentioned towns, I optioned to skip my planned detour and stay on 70. After some more riding, I stop in Avon for lunch at the Northside Kitchen and they are still serving breakfast, so I get eggs benedict with bacon instead of Canadian bacon and wheat toast (made in house) instead of the usual Engligh Muffin. I am usually disappointed when I get eggs benedict as it never tastes as good as I have had it at a handful of places; I can add this place to the list. I do no normally take pictures of my food, but today I did. I really enjoyed the food, the bacon provided a great crunchy yin to the sauce/yolky runiness' (lets assume that is a word if it is not) yang. Ok enough of food, making me hungry talking about it.
As I'm leaving, some gentlemen stop and talk as they are riders as well (this whole trip I have really loved the general friendliness of bikers both on and off the road). They recommend some rides for the rest of my trip, and wish me a safe ride. I pull out and before long I am upon Vail and it is beautiful. The trees are all kinds of colors due to the time of year, the town sits at the foot of the ski slopes (which right now are lush grassy fields) which I imagine is why it is such a great ski resort, and there are golf courses and bike paths running next to the highway. Just amazing. I continue down the road and come upon Breckenridge. As you escape the pass, your view opens up into an expanse of nature and small town with a giant lake and more luxurious mountains all around.
As I make my way down into Denver, I start to realize my fears will soon be realized; the amazing highway that is I70 will soon open up into plains and plenty of flat boring farmlands. Bye, bye mountains. I get close to where my host lives and make an executive decision. In order to cut down on my now minimum 10 hour drive the next day (thanks time zone, you sneaky little bastard) I opted to go forth and put more road behind me today as I felt good from a good night's sleep and it wouldn't hurt to be closer to Kansas City for the next day. So I zip out of Denver, eventually stop and grab dinner at a truck stop diner (oh chicken fried steak, you always know how to make me happy :) ) and make my way East.
I stop to get gas in the smallest of towns (Arriba, CO) to have a gas station and as I come out from the store, an old fellow is looking at my bike (is Wayne Brady going to have to choke a B*tch?). Turns out, he also rides, and he wanted to chat so we shared stories of our recent trips and shot the shit for a bit before getting back on the ride. Shortly thereafter, I realized there is a benefit to being in the middle of nowhere and riding in the dark; no city lights to rob us city folk of one of THE most impressive sights we humans who never leave this earth's atmosphere will ever see - the Milky Way. For those who never get out of the city to camp, if you dont like connecting with nature, or being without your plush amenities, the one reason you should get away from the city is to look upon an unadulterated night sky full of the stars and the cloudiness among the stars that is the Milky Way (if I remember right, the cloudiness is actually due to the millions of stars there causing an inability to distinguish between individual light sources). I remember going to AZ years ago with my father and I believe Aunt? And we pulled over an hour outside of El Paso and he pointed out to me the milky way that I don't think I ever realized was visible. It was, and still is amazing to be able to lay you eyes upon it. I can understand how people like NdGT make a passionate career out of astrophysics. After pulling over on the highway to take it in, I continue down the road and eventually pull into Goodland where I found a place and went to get some rest.
Monday, September 22, 2014
Proper prior planning prevents poor performance
Day 10 - September 22, 2014
Las Vegas - Grand Junction
Today I was in 4 different states. Twas a driving day indeed. I woke up early, so early my roommate was baffled and also upset at the alarm, got my stuff together and got to the bike. I pulled out and got on the road when it was still cool, which was my plan as I felt the heat and in that gear, it is no fun, especially if there is traffic. So I went back up 15 to 70, which I will be on until I get to Kansas City in 2 days. I really enjoy the vast landscape varieties in Utah. On today's drive I think I saw every possible environment except for beaches or tundra.
My plan for the day was to get to Moab so I could see the Arches national park but with the long day and me needing to stop more as my body was exhausted thanks to the last 3 nights of horrible sleep, I wasnt able to get near that park til 7 and figured it would be closed/closing. So I screwed the pooch on planning today, but the silver lining - gives me a reason to come back to Utah and this area, maybe another bike trip :)
The other silver lining was I70. Once you get on it from 15, its just a beautiful vista after beautiful vista, and at one point you are among canyons, rock formations, and tons of just amazingly beautiful views. I wish someone else was driving so I could just look out the windows and take it all in. But I got some looks in when I could :). So I decided to just keep on 70 and get some rest as in 2 days I have a trek from Denver to Kansas City. Pulled into Grand Junction, found a place to sleep and did some writing for everyone's enjoyment.
Tomorrow is a easy day to Denver. Thats always good, especially since it gives me my 2nd of 3 couch surfing experiences with strangers. Excited! :)
Las Vegas - Grand Junction
Today I was in 4 different states. Twas a driving day indeed. I woke up early, so early my roommate was baffled and also upset at the alarm, got my stuff together and got to the bike. I pulled out and got on the road when it was still cool, which was my plan as I felt the heat and in that gear, it is no fun, especially if there is traffic. So I went back up 15 to 70, which I will be on until I get to Kansas City in 2 days. I really enjoy the vast landscape varieties in Utah. On today's drive I think I saw every possible environment except for beaches or tundra.
My plan for the day was to get to Moab so I could see the Arches national park but with the long day and me needing to stop more as my body was exhausted thanks to the last 3 nights of horrible sleep, I wasnt able to get near that park til 7 and figured it would be closed/closing. So I screwed the pooch on planning today, but the silver lining - gives me a reason to come back to Utah and this area, maybe another bike trip :)
The other silver lining was I70. Once you get on it from 15, its just a beautiful vista after beautiful vista, and at one point you are among canyons, rock formations, and tons of just amazingly beautiful views. I wish someone else was driving so I could just look out the windows and take it all in. But I got some looks in when I could :). So I decided to just keep on 70 and get some rest as in 2 days I have a trek from Denver to Kansas City. Pulled into Grand Junction, found a place to sleep and did some writing for everyone's enjoyment.
Tomorrow is a easy day to Denver. Thats always good, especially since it gives me my 2nd of 3 couch surfing experiences with strangers. Excited! :)
Viva Las Vegas
Day 7-9 - September 19-21
St. George - Vegas
This morning started the reason behind this whole road trip; a good friend's birthday celebration in none other than Las Vegas. But first, I had to take the 2 hour drive down I15 from St. George to the city of extreme sin (after visiting I felt like I was able to judge :) ). So I got up from my not so good sleep at the Knights Inn and ate what was offered at the continental breakfast (not much, but I did get a honey bun which I have not had in forever - a guilty pleasure of mine) before packing up and moving out. The views were so gorgeous the night before and this morming, which made me want to ask someone who has lived in/within sight of mountains for a prolonged period of time if they ever take them for granted. Every time I see mountains, I envy at their beauty, while respecting/admiring their size. They are like the bacon for landscapes; can be enjoyed by itself, but when combined with sunsets, clouds, lakes, etc. they synergistically make everything more beautiful. So yeah, if someone could get back to me on that, I would appreciate it.
So the drive starts out going through the top corner of Arizona before entering this gorge that you serpentine through. I saw an 18 wheeler handle like a sports car - speed limit 75. Im taking it easy going 65-70, this 18 wheeler comes from nowhere and is passing me and a handful of cars who were easily passing me as well. I was impressed to high hell with the sheer tenacity of this driver and the skill level but then I was relieved he was in front of me cause I want that no where near me.
The gorge is amazing, on the other side is what I have been waiting to see; actual desert. Not the weak sauce desert of New Mexico/Arizona I saw earlier. Real, barren, hot as balls desert. The Mojave takes the cake. Slight vegetation with mountains? that are more like sand hills in the distance; don't have the same rugged rocky look as mountains. There was the occasional "desert tree" that I grew fond of (I am too lazy to look them up but they look like miniature lorax trees or small cactus palm trees) looking at on the drive. When I was ~30 miles out, I passed what I can only assume is the waste water treatment plant from Vegas as it smelt like stomach acid (that smell of throw up is unforgettable once it hits your nostrils). Once I got past that, thanking my lucky stars the smell didnt make me hurl into my helmet as that would make for an interesting time, I eventually saw the city in its dormant state, with fighter jets running drills over head. It was cool seeing our service people doing their thing. I pull into the casino parking lot (stayed at Monte Carlo) and wait for everyone else, I am the first one in. The group slowly trickles in throughout the day with some beverages and gambling occupying our time until we are at full force then we go to the Höfbräu house for dinner and some ass slappings (they a lady going around with a paddle and apparently if you buy a shot fromher, she hits you HARD on the buttox. Im glad I didnt have to do it as my ass is ginger from all the riding. Any who, after dinner we do do some more gambling and hanging out until bed time.
Next day is pool time so we amass in the pool area and hangout until late lunch at the pub in the hotel. After that we get back to the tables (noticing a trend?) until bed time (which for me I wish it was earlier).
Next day was a slow day as the goal was sports gambling on NFL and easy gambling as we prepare for departure early the next day. I took this opportunity to go out on the strip and look at Vegas alive. Unfortunately I got sidetracked by construction blocking my progress and didn't get too far :(. Returned to the tables and then went up to gather my things as I leave early in the morning.
I definitely understand how the city maintains its nickname, and I wouldn't mind going back more as a tourist to see different casino's extravagance and what not but I enjoyed the group of guys I was with and my first visit to Vegas.
Tomorrow road trip's second half begins.
St. George - Vegas
This morning started the reason behind this whole road trip; a good friend's birthday celebration in none other than Las Vegas. But first, I had to take the 2 hour drive down I15 from St. George to the city of extreme sin (after visiting I felt like I was able to judge :) ). So I got up from my not so good sleep at the Knights Inn and ate what was offered at the continental breakfast (not much, but I did get a honey bun which I have not had in forever - a guilty pleasure of mine) before packing up and moving out. The views were so gorgeous the night before and this morming, which made me want to ask someone who has lived in/within sight of mountains for a prolonged period of time if they ever take them for granted. Every time I see mountains, I envy at their beauty, while respecting/admiring their size. They are like the bacon for landscapes; can be enjoyed by itself, but when combined with sunsets, clouds, lakes, etc. they synergistically make everything more beautiful. So yeah, if someone could get back to me on that, I would appreciate it.
So the drive starts out going through the top corner of Arizona before entering this gorge that you serpentine through. I saw an 18 wheeler handle like a sports car - speed limit 75. Im taking it easy going 65-70, this 18 wheeler comes from nowhere and is passing me and a handful of cars who were easily passing me as well. I was impressed to high hell with the sheer tenacity of this driver and the skill level but then I was relieved he was in front of me cause I want that no where near me.
The gorge is amazing, on the other side is what I have been waiting to see; actual desert. Not the weak sauce desert of New Mexico/Arizona I saw earlier. Real, barren, hot as balls desert. The Mojave takes the cake. Slight vegetation with mountains? that are more like sand hills in the distance; don't have the same rugged rocky look as mountains. There was the occasional "desert tree" that I grew fond of (I am too lazy to look them up but they look like miniature lorax trees or small cactus palm trees) looking at on the drive. When I was ~30 miles out, I passed what I can only assume is the waste water treatment plant from Vegas as it smelt like stomach acid (that smell of throw up is unforgettable once it hits your nostrils). Once I got past that, thanking my lucky stars the smell didnt make me hurl into my helmet as that would make for an interesting time, I eventually saw the city in its dormant state, with fighter jets running drills over head. It was cool seeing our service people doing their thing. I pull into the casino parking lot (stayed at Monte Carlo) and wait for everyone else, I am the first one in. The group slowly trickles in throughout the day with some beverages and gambling occupying our time until we are at full force then we go to the Höfbräu house for dinner and some ass slappings (they a lady going around with a paddle and apparently if you buy a shot fromher, she hits you HARD on the buttox. Im glad I didnt have to do it as my ass is ginger from all the riding. Any who, after dinner we do do some more gambling and hanging out until bed time.
Next day is pool time so we amass in the pool area and hangout until late lunch at the pub in the hotel. After that we get back to the tables (noticing a trend?) until bed time (which for me I wish it was earlier).
Next day was a slow day as the goal was sports gambling on NFL and easy gambling as we prepare for departure early the next day. I took this opportunity to go out on the strip and look at Vegas alive. Unfortunately I got sidetracked by construction blocking my progress and didn't get too far :(. Returned to the tables and then went up to gather my things as I leave early in the morning.
I definitely understand how the city maintains its nickname, and I wouldn't mind going back more as a tourist to see different casino's extravagance and what not but I enjoyed the group of guys I was with and my first visit to Vegas.
Tomorrow road trip's second half begins.
Thursday, September 18, 2014
2 for 1 special, only in Utah
Day 6 - September 18, 2014
Kanab - St. George
Before I get started a quick note, the temperature measurements in previous posts were in C and they should have been F. Im used to my lab temps in C so I used the temps given but used C instead of F. My bad :)
This morning was a tough one after a long ride the night before followed by the coffin sleep. Between the noises of the highway, the cramped sleeping arrangements and the drop in temperature through the night, I got some sleep but not great. I woke up, broke camp, and headed out towards my first of 2 national parks today, Bryce Canyon. The road to the canyon was amazing, 89, along the road was a green pasture right next to the desert which still had plenty of vegetation. Eventually you turn onto the road that takes you to the canyon and you pass through the red canyon which has some cool formations and some little arch tunnels we drive through to get to the canyon. Upon entering the park, I headed to the furthest viewing platform, Bryce overlook. Once again, I stand breathless at the beauty and amazing sights before and around me. Bryce is one of thise parks I would love to get a group of hikers together and go explore. Trees galore, beautiful landscapes, and tons of hikeable trails. As I made my way back towards the visitor center, I stopped at the other vistas and enjoyed their views. Then I headed out towards my next stop, the 2nd of my national parks, Mt. Zion National Park.
I took 89 until the turn off and made my way into the park from the eastern entrance. Upon entering the park, you are met with giant stone facades and twisty turvy roads. The park is beautiful and when you stand among those giant pillars of sandstone, it makes you feel so small and insignificant. After driving through some tunnels, you find you way to the visitor center where you can jump on a shuttle and go explore the other locations within the park. *both parks had shuttles that run with great frequency and are a fabulous way to see the parks* I enjoyed the park, but I enjoy looking out upon vistas and the whole time you are in the canyon.
After my time in the park, I got on the bike and headed to St. George. The countryside is just spectacular. Mountains, plateaus, both near and far, just create such an amazing view throughout the trip. I pulled into St. George, found a motel room, and decided to relax before the weekend funday in Vegas. Tried some more local beers, these were much better than the AZ beers. Red Rock, Uinita, and Epic breweries all make good beers (at least the ones I had).
Kanab - St. George
Before I get started a quick note, the temperature measurements in previous posts were in C and they should have been F. Im used to my lab temps in C so I used the temps given but used C instead of F. My bad :)
This morning was a tough one after a long ride the night before followed by the coffin sleep. Between the noises of the highway, the cramped sleeping arrangements and the drop in temperature through the night, I got some sleep but not great. I woke up, broke camp, and headed out towards my first of 2 national parks today, Bryce Canyon. The road to the canyon was amazing, 89, along the road was a green pasture right next to the desert which still had plenty of vegetation. Eventually you turn onto the road that takes you to the canyon and you pass through the red canyon which has some cool formations and some little arch tunnels we drive through to get to the canyon. Upon entering the park, I headed to the furthest viewing platform, Bryce overlook. Once again, I stand breathless at the beauty and amazing sights before and around me. Bryce is one of thise parks I would love to get a group of hikers together and go explore. Trees galore, beautiful landscapes, and tons of hikeable trails. As I made my way back towards the visitor center, I stopped at the other vistas and enjoyed their views. Then I headed out towards my next stop, the 2nd of my national parks, Mt. Zion National Park.
I took 89 until the turn off and made my way into the park from the eastern entrance. Upon entering the park, you are met with giant stone facades and twisty turvy roads. The park is beautiful and when you stand among those giant pillars of sandstone, it makes you feel so small and insignificant. After driving through some tunnels, you find you way to the visitor center where you can jump on a shuttle and go explore the other locations within the park. *both parks had shuttles that run with great frequency and are a fabulous way to see the parks* I enjoyed the park, but I enjoy looking out upon vistas and the whole time you are in the canyon.
After my time in the park, I got on the bike and headed to St. George. The countryside is just spectacular. Mountains, plateaus, both near and far, just create such an amazing view throughout the trip. I pulled into St. George, found a motel room, and decided to relax before the weekend funday in Vegas. Tried some more local beers, these were much better than the AZ beers. Red Rock, Uinita, and Epic breweries all make good beers (at least the ones I had).
Wednesday, September 17, 2014
I wanna rock!
Day 5 - September 17, 2014
Flagstaff -Kanab
After enjoying my day off, I woke up early and started getting my stuff together as I was to continue my adventure today. Made some breakfast that my amazing host supplied. ***seriously if all couch surfing hosts are half this amazing, I will have to do this more often.*** after talking tomher for a bit, I loaded the bike and said my goodbyes as I made my was north to the Grand Canyon. I headed up 180 which was a lovely road the whole way up. I got to the entrance gate and once again my admission was half off (this being on a bike is paying off). Asi approach the main overlook, I just stop and am utterly amazed at what lies before me. I took some pictures that will be added later, but they cannot do this canyon justice. I feel like "Grand" is a gross understatement of the size of this thing. Anywho, I walk around a bit before heading out on 64 - the desert path. There are more outlooks along said path, one of which I left my gloves on the back of my bike and drove off. A while down the road I realized my stupidity and back tracked to find my gloves, which were pretty far a part. The eastern most stop has a tower that I had to go to the top of, of course, and take some pictures. After fully appreciating the marvel in front of me I headed out.
By this time,I am hungry and I stop at Cameron to grab a bite. It's a remote town that has a restaurant inside a trading post. I finally got to try the Navajo fry bread (think funnel cake) that was the bun of my burger. Was interesting, however the big ? comes from the water. Their tap water was salty. Not a little salty, but ocean level salty. I have drank water with all kinds of treatment (thank you Philmont) tastes but this was nasty. I do not know how they tolerate it (though if they know no better, se la vie). After finishing my meal, I head out towards Page.
The road has various sights along the way that I was enjoying, and then I get to the northern city of Page where, after filling up, I realize they have dammed the river to create Lake Powell. This giant lake among rising columns of rock looks beautiful especially as the sun begins to set. I jumped back on my bike to make it to my ending city, trying before dark but to no avail. I arrived inti town and stumbled upon Crazy Horse Campark which had an open site (he said all the hotels were booked, and why wouldn't he? :) ) so I figured out how to set up this tent (coffin?) that a friend lent me, in the dark, before taking a hot shower and heading to bed so I can rest up for tomorrow's whirlwind park tour of Utah.
Flagstaff -Kanab
After enjoying my day off, I woke up early and started getting my stuff together as I was to continue my adventure today. Made some breakfast that my amazing host supplied. ***seriously if all couch surfing hosts are half this amazing, I will have to do this more often.*** after talking tomher for a bit, I loaded the bike and said my goodbyes as I made my was north to the Grand Canyon. I headed up 180 which was a lovely road the whole way up. I got to the entrance gate and once again my admission was half off (this being on a bike is paying off). Asi approach the main overlook, I just stop and am utterly amazed at what lies before me. I took some pictures that will be added later, but they cannot do this canyon justice. I feel like "Grand" is a gross understatement of the size of this thing. Anywho, I walk around a bit before heading out on 64 - the desert path. There are more outlooks along said path, one of which I left my gloves on the back of my bike and drove off. A while down the road I realized my stupidity and back tracked to find my gloves, which were pretty far a part. The eastern most stop has a tower that I had to go to the top of, of course, and take some pictures. After fully appreciating the marvel in front of me I headed out.
By this time,I am hungry and I stop at Cameron to grab a bite. It's a remote town that has a restaurant inside a trading post. I finally got to try the Navajo fry bread (think funnel cake) that was the bun of my burger. Was interesting, however the big ? comes from the water. Their tap water was salty. Not a little salty, but ocean level salty. I have drank water with all kinds of treatment (thank you Philmont) tastes but this was nasty. I do not know how they tolerate it (though if they know no better, se la vie). After finishing my meal, I head out towards Page.
The road has various sights along the way that I was enjoying, and then I get to the northern city of Page where, after filling up, I realize they have dammed the river to create Lake Powell. This giant lake among rising columns of rock looks beautiful especially as the sun begins to set. I jumped back on my bike to make it to my ending city, trying before dark but to no avail. I arrived inti town and stumbled upon Crazy Horse Campark which had an open site (he said all the hotels were booked, and why wouldn't he? :) ) so I figured out how to set up this tent (coffin?) that a friend lent me, in the dark, before taking a hot shower and heading to bed so I can rest up for tomorrow's whirlwind park tour of Utah.
Tuesday, September 16, 2014
A layover? I'll take it!
Day 4 -September 16
Flagstaff adventures
It feels good not having to break camp and move on in your trip. I am reminded many times over the past few days about my days hiking through Philmont as a Boy Scout (the smells, the landscape, the sunsets, etc.) and today's layover is no different. There is a psychological benefit being able to stay put for a day after being constantly on the move. Granted I still planned on getting on the bike and exploring, but I didnt have to pack up, and head out. I had a home base, and that feels amazing. So I woke up, had some late breakfast (around 11am) then readied my bike for today's excursion down to Sedona. Took the scenic drive down (89A) and it was awesome. A magnificently winding road with tons of scenery starting with trees and meadows and developing into canyons and vistas as you traverse the serpentine road taking you quickly down from 7k ft to about 4k. I probably was pissing off people left and right as I was taking it all in and taking my time (Kodak moments abounded) making my way to Sedona. Once you enter Sedona, the scenery changes instantly, from wooded canyon, to red rock formations all around. Its pretty amazing how Sedona has its own unique vistas compared to the surrounding areas. Its a quaint tourist town offering gorgeous views and many ways to see it (helicopter tour for $50??? Wish I had more time and a giant storm wasn't coming in). I took in some sights, checked out the chapel of the Holy Cross, which is a cool little church kinda carved from rocks in the area. Inside was small, but was a beautiful building. Then headed back to Flagstaff via the highway to see a different route back. It was this day, I found out there was a motorcycle gathering nearby which explained the crap ton of bikers I had seen, or at least helped explain it. Highway didnt seem as amazing as the way down, but that could be due to the rain making the ride back miserable.
I got back to Flagstaff and checked out one of the craft beer stock house, the mobile gas station. No joke, it seems to get good craft beer here, you must go to a mobile gas station. Its like the D&Q on richmond but with gas. So I got a few local brews, and then headed to downtown for an early dinner at Beaver Street Brewery where I had there stout with the meatloaf sandwich. Both were decent, the fries were crispy but airy; I have no other way to describe it. I then proceeded home to do laundry, taste the beers, and get ready for my next few days of adventure till I roll into Vegas for a friend's dirty 40. Tomorrow, I head north to explore the Grand Canyon.
Flagstaff adventures
It feels good not having to break camp and move on in your trip. I am reminded many times over the past few days about my days hiking through Philmont as a Boy Scout (the smells, the landscape, the sunsets, etc.) and today's layover is no different. There is a psychological benefit being able to stay put for a day after being constantly on the move. Granted I still planned on getting on the bike and exploring, but I didnt have to pack up, and head out. I had a home base, and that feels amazing. So I woke up, had some late breakfast (around 11am) then readied my bike for today's excursion down to Sedona. Took the scenic drive down (89A) and it was awesome. A magnificently winding road with tons of scenery starting with trees and meadows and developing into canyons and vistas as you traverse the serpentine road taking you quickly down from 7k ft to about 4k. I probably was pissing off people left and right as I was taking it all in and taking my time (Kodak moments abounded) making my way to Sedona. Once you enter Sedona, the scenery changes instantly, from wooded canyon, to red rock formations all around. Its pretty amazing how Sedona has its own unique vistas compared to the surrounding areas. Its a quaint tourist town offering gorgeous views and many ways to see it (helicopter tour for $50??? Wish I had more time and a giant storm wasn't coming in). I took in some sights, checked out the chapel of the Holy Cross, which is a cool little church kinda carved from rocks in the area. Inside was small, but was a beautiful building. Then headed back to Flagstaff via the highway to see a different route back. It was this day, I found out there was a motorcycle gathering nearby which explained the crap ton of bikers I had seen, or at least helped explain it. Highway didnt seem as amazing as the way down, but that could be due to the rain making the ride back miserable.
I got back to Flagstaff and checked out one of the craft beer stock house, the mobile gas station. No joke, it seems to get good craft beer here, you must go to a mobile gas station. Its like the D&Q on richmond but with gas. So I got a few local brews, and then headed to downtown for an early dinner at Beaver Street Brewery where I had there stout with the meatloaf sandwich. Both were decent, the fries were crispy but airy; I have no other way to describe it. I then proceeded home to do laundry, taste the beers, and get ready for my next few days of adventure till I roll into Vegas for a friend's dirty 40. Tomorrow, I head north to explore the Grand Canyon.
The good, the bad, and the desolate.
Day 3 - September 15, 2014
Albuquerque - Flagstaff
I woke up early (8am) and started getting stuff together as I had a full/long day ahead of me. I packed up, loaded the bike, and headed west on I40.
Sidebar: Albuquerque is beautiful. People walking/biking around town, mountains right next to the city, and lots of new mexican architecture (or whoever the influence of the stereotypical dwellings one thinks of when you think of New Mexico).
And back...
Headed west towards Grants, NM for my first stop - the Bandera Ice cave and volcano. It's a decent drive from the highway (25 miles). You get to drive through El Malpais conservation area which was much prettier than the desolate land getting to that highway exit. Got to the ice caves after off roading for a bit with my street cruiser. Paid the $12 for entrance, walked up to the volcano (you dont get to the top which is a major let down) before heading back down (was maybe a half mile to the end of the trail) to check out the ice caves. Get to the cave and you notice a difference in the temperature as you descend the steps, but it is but one cave that you see the entrance as thats where the path ends (the cave doesnt go far back). This side trip was the bad of the day. I thought is was too far removed, too expensive, and too unimpressive for the ratings it got. It was cool how this open cave naturally stays around 31 C year round and what not. If you were driving by to the reservations and stopped in itwould be fine, but to go out of your way, I was not a fan.
Now I headed back to the highway to make my way to the petrified forest after suffering through more desolate scenery (plateaus and what not in the distance is pretty but I was missing trees :) ). Right before I got there I stopped for gas (btw Arizona puts taxes on its gas. In NM it was 315/gal, in AZ - 350 at least) and wound up talking to 2 guys from the Compadre Motorcycle Club out of SE Cali, one of them had the president patch. Having recently binge watched Sons of Anarchy, I had all kinds of questions for them, but out of a desire of self preservation I did not ask. But this makes me wonder about the thuths behind the show :). I make my way into the petrified forest (only 5$ since I was alone on a bike. Otherwise 10$ per vehicle) and it was beautiful. The first vista alone well worth the money spent. Its this giant gorge with rock formations "painted" by eons of sediment mixtures creating layers in the rocks. So naturally beautiful. Then you continue to drive through the park and see all the other formations and views (I guess this is a good time to mention I will have a picture post or 2 with pictures from the trip as the pictures are on my camera and I have no way of transferring them to my pad).
After leaving the park, I make my way towards Flagstaff, but first I must pay homage to the best Eagles song, or at least one of the top 3. No not Hotel California. It states, "I'm standing on a corner in WINSLOW, ARIZONA". The song and its popularity led to a park being designated in Winslow. So I found it and paid my respects before heading out to finish my journey.
As I arrive into Flagstaff and start making my way to my host's house (tonight will be my first attempt at using the couchsurfing.org website) I realize that Flagstaff has all kinds of trees and it is insanely beautiful. Not what I was expecting when I pictured Arizona. Met my host, who is an amazing human being, and after I get showered, she takes me to a Himalayan restaurant. We talked through dinner then for a while once we got back home before calling it a night (she has to work and I had a long day). After talking to her, I called an audible and decided to stay an extra night here, so tomorrow will be a layover WOO-HOO!
Albuquerque - Flagstaff
I woke up early (8am) and started getting stuff together as I had a full/long day ahead of me. I packed up, loaded the bike, and headed west on I40.
Sidebar: Albuquerque is beautiful. People walking/biking around town, mountains right next to the city, and lots of new mexican architecture (or whoever the influence of the stereotypical dwellings one thinks of when you think of New Mexico).
And back...
Headed west towards Grants, NM for my first stop - the Bandera Ice cave and volcano. It's a decent drive from the highway (25 miles). You get to drive through El Malpais conservation area which was much prettier than the desolate land getting to that highway exit. Got to the ice caves after off roading for a bit with my street cruiser. Paid the $12 for entrance, walked up to the volcano (you dont get to the top which is a major let down) before heading back down (was maybe a half mile to the end of the trail) to check out the ice caves. Get to the cave and you notice a difference in the temperature as you descend the steps, but it is but one cave that you see the entrance as thats where the path ends (the cave doesnt go far back). This side trip was the bad of the day. I thought is was too far removed, too expensive, and too unimpressive for the ratings it got. It was cool how this open cave naturally stays around 31 C year round and what not. If you were driving by to the reservations and stopped in itwould be fine, but to go out of your way, I was not a fan.
Now I headed back to the highway to make my way to the petrified forest after suffering through more desolate scenery (plateaus and what not in the distance is pretty but I was missing trees :) ). Right before I got there I stopped for gas (btw Arizona puts taxes on its gas. In NM it was 315/gal, in AZ - 350 at least) and wound up talking to 2 guys from the Compadre Motorcycle Club out of SE Cali, one of them had the president patch. Having recently binge watched Sons of Anarchy, I had all kinds of questions for them, but out of a desire of self preservation I did not ask. But this makes me wonder about the thuths behind the show :). I make my way into the petrified forest (only 5$ since I was alone on a bike. Otherwise 10$ per vehicle) and it was beautiful. The first vista alone well worth the money spent. Its this giant gorge with rock formations "painted" by eons of sediment mixtures creating layers in the rocks. So naturally beautiful. Then you continue to drive through the park and see all the other formations and views (I guess this is a good time to mention I will have a picture post or 2 with pictures from the trip as the pictures are on my camera and I have no way of transferring them to my pad).
After leaving the park, I make my way towards Flagstaff, but first I must pay homage to the best Eagles song, or at least one of the top 3. No not Hotel California. It states, "I'm standing on a corner in WINSLOW, ARIZONA". The song and its popularity led to a park being designated in Winslow. So I found it and paid my respects before heading out to finish my journey.
As I arrive into Flagstaff and start making my way to my host's house (tonight will be my first attempt at using the couchsurfing.org website) I realize that Flagstaff has all kinds of trees and it is insanely beautiful. Not what I was expecting when I pictured Arizona. Met my host, who is an amazing human being, and after I get showered, she takes me to a Himalayan restaurant. We talked through dinner then for a while once we got back home before calling it a night (she has to work and I had a long day). After talking to her, I called an audible and decided to stay an extra night here, so tomorrow will be a layover WOO-HOO!
The bounce back
Day 2 - September 14
Lubbock - Albuquerque
My question I had for myself after that grueling day 1 ride is how my body would bounce back. I didn't set an alarm, allowing my body to tell me when I was sufficiently rested. Woke up around 9 not feeling too bad, much to my surprise. I started breaking down my sleeping arrangements and gathering my belongings until it was time to eat. For brunch we went to the craft house gastropub which, again, had a great beer menu. Once again, I passed as I knew I had a long day's ride ahead (I am noticing a trend :( ). I got the chicken and waffle, but what came was a surprise. It was skewered chicken tenders with waffle batter fried around them (like 3 little chicken waffle corn dogs) and a side or sriracha maple syrup, eggs and potatoes. Was extremely moist and delicious. When we were done, we went back to the place so I could load up and head out. I got on the road (another cold and depressing weather day) and headed west. Took 84 up to Santa Rosa where I sought out and found the infamous Blue Hole of Santa Rosa, an 80' deep, spring fed, watering hole that is constantly at 61 C. Seeing multiple people suffering due to the colder than normal air temps, I opted not to jump in. Headed to Albuquerque, where my gps took me to the wrong address (anyone who has heard me rant against gps instead of getting a hard place on a map and figuring it out myself - this is my most recent evidence :) ).I eventually found the place, and after coordinating with my local peeps and showering, we made our way to frontier for dinner. I got the burrito with green chile stew on top. Was good but nothing special. Was hoping for a gargantuan burrito ,but alas I was let down. After catching up a bit, we headed back to the place for much needed sleep.
Lesson learned today - buying a bluetooth helmet so you can listen to music is only good when your phone has a network that it can constantly get data to play said music. Next time I will download music so there is no reliance on the network.
Lubbock - Albuquerque
My question I had for myself after that grueling day 1 ride is how my body would bounce back. I didn't set an alarm, allowing my body to tell me when I was sufficiently rested. Woke up around 9 not feeling too bad, much to my surprise. I started breaking down my sleeping arrangements and gathering my belongings until it was time to eat. For brunch we went to the craft house gastropub which, again, had a great beer menu. Once again, I passed as I knew I had a long day's ride ahead (I am noticing a trend :( ). I got the chicken and waffle, but what came was a surprise. It was skewered chicken tenders with waffle batter fried around them (like 3 little chicken waffle corn dogs) and a side or sriracha maple syrup, eggs and potatoes. Was extremely moist and delicious. When we were done, we went back to the place so I could load up and head out. I got on the road (another cold and depressing weather day) and headed west. Took 84 up to Santa Rosa where I sought out and found the infamous Blue Hole of Santa Rosa, an 80' deep, spring fed, watering hole that is constantly at 61 C. Seeing multiple people suffering due to the colder than normal air temps, I opted not to jump in. Headed to Albuquerque, where my gps took me to the wrong address (anyone who has heard me rant against gps instead of getting a hard place on a map and figuring it out myself - this is my most recent evidence :) ).I eventually found the place, and after coordinating with my local peeps and showering, we made our way to frontier for dinner. I got the burrito with green chile stew on top. Was good but nothing special. Was hoping for a gargantuan burrito ,but alas I was let down. After catching up a bit, we headed back to the place for much needed sleep.
Lesson learned today - buying a bluetooth helmet so you can listen to music is only good when your phone has a network that it can constantly get data to play said music. Next time I will download music so there is no reliance on the network.
Monday, September 15, 2014
walk first????
Day 1 - September 13, 2014
Houston to Lubbock
Today I begin my maiden voyage for my first motorcycle road trip. I have yet to take my motorcycle past IAH and today I begin a 2 week trip taking me well across the SW USA then across the Midwest before heading back home. My itinerary is planned to be Houston- Lubbock - Albuquerque - Flagstaff - Cedar City - Vegas - Moab - Boulder -Kansas City - Oklahoma City - Houston. I will be staying with friends, couch surfing and camping during my travels. Now on to this first day's drive. I pulled out around 1030am once I got everything situated on the bike. The overcast/drizzly weather was a gloomy start to a long trip. The good news was it never developed into a full rain. So on the road, I headed toward my first stop (I planned out some stops based on my interest using the roadtrippers.com site) the hullabaloo diner in/near college station. I arrived a little before noon and already there was an hour wait in the diner, even for a party of 1 (yours truly), so I opted for a limited menu at the bar (separate building right next to the diner). I order the biscuits and gravy with eggs and home fries (~8$) and its at this moment I realize that this homey place actually has a decent craft beer selection. I wanted to throw caution to the wind but when you have a long day of motorcycle journeys across Texas you let reason prevail *reason shall prevail*. I enjoyed the healthy portions (3 biscuits with everything else) served on a paper plate (easy cleanup - yes please) before getting back on the road. Makimg my way to my next stop, the weather does not let up. Same crappy, cold (for the time of year) weather but it must be conquered. I am looking out for my next stop in Sweetwater (a bbq joint) but the roadtrippers map has me looking to the wrong side of the road and I miss it. I drive well past this stop and am looking for my next option when my gas light goes on (I learned a valuable lesson today - my bike gets ~50mpg unless I drive it fast, in which case it does not :( ). Made it to a gas station, got some grub and made it into Lubbock to meet up with a friend from SIC who is letting me crash at her place (arrived around 1030pm). Never looked more towards a night's sleep more than that day.
Some say you gotta walk before you run. I didn't do this and my body is already paying :). Let's see what the future treks hold shall we?
Houston to Lubbock
Today I begin my maiden voyage for my first motorcycle road trip. I have yet to take my motorcycle past IAH and today I begin a 2 week trip taking me well across the SW USA then across the Midwest before heading back home. My itinerary is planned to be Houston- Lubbock - Albuquerque - Flagstaff - Cedar City - Vegas - Moab - Boulder -Kansas City - Oklahoma City - Houston. I will be staying with friends, couch surfing and camping during my travels. Now on to this first day's drive. I pulled out around 1030am once I got everything situated on the bike. The overcast/drizzly weather was a gloomy start to a long trip. The good news was it never developed into a full rain. So on the road, I headed toward my first stop (I planned out some stops based on my interest using the roadtrippers.com site) the hullabaloo diner in/near college station. I arrived a little before noon and already there was an hour wait in the diner, even for a party of 1 (yours truly), so I opted for a limited menu at the bar (separate building right next to the diner). I order the biscuits and gravy with eggs and home fries (~8$) and its at this moment I realize that this homey place actually has a decent craft beer selection. I wanted to throw caution to the wind but when you have a long day of motorcycle journeys across Texas you let reason prevail *reason shall prevail*. I enjoyed the healthy portions (3 biscuits with everything else) served on a paper plate (easy cleanup - yes please) before getting back on the road. Makimg my way to my next stop, the weather does not let up. Same crappy, cold (for the time of year) weather but it must be conquered. I am looking out for my next stop in Sweetwater (a bbq joint) but the roadtrippers map has me looking to the wrong side of the road and I miss it. I drive well past this stop and am looking for my next option when my gas light goes on (I learned a valuable lesson today - my bike gets ~50mpg unless I drive it fast, in which case it does not :( ). Made it to a gas station, got some grub and made it into Lubbock to meet up with a friend from SIC who is letting me crash at her place (arrived around 1030pm). Never looked more towards a night's sleep more than that day.
Some say you gotta walk before you run. I didn't do this and my body is already paying :). Let's see what the future treks hold shall we?
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