Wednesday, May 25 (continued)
In the previous episode of RVSue and her canine crew, the Perfect Tow Vehicle carries us out of Buckboard Campground west of Monticello, Utah, continuing a day trip through Manti La Sal National Forest and beyond.
“Now would be a good time for you two to take a snooze.”
Bridget and Reggie settle into position in the PTV. Reggie lies down in the doggie bed between the two front seats and Bridget sits in the passenger seat.
“We’re still climbing. I hope this road doesn’t take us too high.”
The plan for today is to complete a loop from Monticello, going higher than 9,000 feet, over the mountains and down to Newspaper Rock at 5,400 feet, east on Indian Creek Scenic Byway (Route 211), and returning southward on Route 191/163 to Monticello and our camp at Devil’s Canyon.
You can see the loop on this map.
As we gain altitude toward a viewpoint, I notice my feet begin to tingle.
Uh-oh.
I check the crew.
Reggie is resting normally. Bridget, however, doesn’t look so good. She’s lying across the passenger seat with her head hanging over the side.
Bridget doesn’t handle high altitude well. Poor thing . . . She’s either nauseous, woozy, or headachy.
In the past Bridget has traveled higher up than this without a problem.
Two things are different today. For the past several months going back to last summer we mostly have traveled and camped at low altitude. Then this road takes us very quickly up a couple thousand feet, twisting and turning as it goes.
We haven’t had time to acclimate to the altitude.
“Oh, a lake! We’ll stop for a minute. Maybe it will do you good, Bridge, to stand on firm ground in the fresh air.”
I let out the crew, setting out the water dish and hooking Reggie’s tether to the side mirror while I take these photos. (I wish I could remember the name of the lake. It’s really small, could be called a very large pond.)
A few people are fishing from the bank on the other side.
A dirt road disappears among the trees. I assume it continues around the lake. I zoom in on what appears to be a campsite.
On the road again . . . .
“You look much better, sweetheart. That stop did you good.”
We make a rapid descent (no, we don’t fall off the mountain!). We’re on Hart’s Draw Road which crosses a plain of sagebrush to the intersection with Route 21.
At the stop sign, Reggie dispatches a herd of cows with his most ferocious barks.
We turn left toward Newspaper Rock.
Where the first part of today’s drive went high into the land of aspens and evergreens, now we travel among sage and juniper and approach red rock cliffs.
We pass domes of white rock . . .
. . . and enter the canyon where Indian Creek flows among cottonwood trees.
Soon we arrive at Newspaper Rock.
A rented Class C is parked in the lot. I wonder what those things cost to rent.
I leave the crew inside the PTV.
Three bikers are disembarking nearby. One of them — a woman — rushes over to me.
“Is that your dog?” she asks excitedly, pointing at Reggie who stares at us through the window of the PTV.
“Yes, that’s Reggie. He’s part chihuahua and Jack Russell.”
“That’s what my dog is! He looks just like him! I can’t believe it! I miss my dog so much. We’re on a 10-day road trip and I left him back in Iowa.”
(Later, while walking around Devils’ Canyon Campground with the crew, we meet up with her again. She and her friends are in the site next to us!)
Okay, let’s read the sign about Newspaper Rock.
Click on the photos below if you’d like them enlarged.
Somewhere across the road from Newspaper Rock is a small campground.
Only 8 campsites. I don’t see a sign for it and, wouldn’t ya’ know, I forget all about it and drive off. If you’re interested in the campground, you probably can find information and photos online.
Oh, well . . . .
Munching on mixed nuts from a can, I drive Route 211 out of the canyon. The PTV carries us across the flat expanse of sage.
At Route 191 and Church Rock, I turn right toward Monticello and home.
“Did you have a good day?” I ask the crew, lifting them down from the PTV at our camp. Bridget and Reggie scamper around, happy to be home among the pines again.
“You don’t have to answer, cuties. That was rhetorical. I know you did!”
rvsue
MEMORIAL DAY
~ Remember with gratitude those who made the ultimate sacrifice ~
THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING AMAZON FROM MY BLOG!
First today?
YAY! YES, YOU ARE, NORMAN! CONGRATULATIONS!
Second!
YIPPEE FOR ILSE! SECOND PLACE!
(I’m wearing the blue socks on cold mornings.)
2nd? and a question Is the state line on 163 on Navajo land?
Also forgot to ask. Is Reggie’s Leash tied down, so that when he gets excited he can’t get out the window?
Thank you for your concern for Reggie.
My photos give the impression that the window is down low a lot. The only time that window is brought down is when I want to take a photo of Reggie’s head in the foreground. While in transit and at other times, the window is 3/4 of the way up or more, too high for him to get out, so, no, he isn’t tied.
In other words, I’m watching the little bugger when that window comes down momentarily. 🙂
Hi, Dave…. Third Place today!
“Is the state line on 163 on Navajo land?” I assume you mean where Route 163 crosses the AZ-UT border at Monument Valley. Yes, that is Navajo land.
Hi RVSue, this is the closest to being first I have ever been. Love your posts, thank you for taking the time to share with us.
You tied for third place, Kat. You’re getting up there!
You’re welcome. I’m happy you enjoy my posts.
Maybe 3rd? I’m glad the elevation didn’t cause any major issues! That looks like a great loop drive. Thanks for sharing.
Remembering all who have and those who are serving to do their duty.
Hi, Jane,
Almost 3rd, not quite. 🙂
It is a great loop drive, not scary, and I left out where you’re coming off that mountain and Canyonlands is visible in the distance. It was too hazy and far for my camera to capture… It’s a magical sight.
I priced a rental Class C for a week. Last year it was $1000 a week plus mileage. And the deposit on your credit card was really high (don’t remember exactly.) Way too much for my budget!
Hi DeAnne,
Thanks for the info. I figured it would be very expensive to rent one of those. I’m amazed at how many we come across in our travels. When I was dreaming of living as a full-timer, trying to decide on a rig, people suggested I rent one of those. Heck no! That money went toward buying the BLT instead!
That’s exactly what happened to me–a couple of friends said to try it before deciding whether to go full-time. I guess if you had 6+ people traveling, it would be more cost effective. Just not for me! I’m going on an 8 day cruise as a celebration this year and it’s only $1400 and all food included! Woot woot!
Care to share where you’ll cruise?
Me too-thought that I would rent for a week until I saw the price. Too wasteful for my budget and budget rules.
Thanks for the great pics Sue!
You’re welcome, Linda!
I am sailing from Miami, then going to Grand Turk, San Juan, St. Kitts and St. Maarten. Visited all and love them all. Going during Fall Break in October.
*sigh*
I think their pricing strategy is based on what airfare, hotel rooms and car rental might cost for a family of four. I think it might be cheaper to buy a used RV (there are plenty out there) and then resell it after the trip.
Just so no one gets confused or lost, it’s route 211, not 21. And if one continues onward past Newspaper Rock, there are several dispersed camping areas on BLM land, and then the Needles district of Canyonlands NP (which also has a campground).
Thanks, Al. I’ll fix my post. I took another look at my Benchmark and realized my eyesight isn’t what it used to be. Maybe I need new glasses. I can see 211 clearly in the photo I posted. Should have caught that.
Yes, another 22 miles or so past Newspaper Rock . . . too far to add on to that drive.
Started my 69th year today by strolling in the garden with the cats. Picked green onions, 3 medium zucchini and a plate of strawberries. Hubby bbqing a pork tenderloin stuffed into a pineapple which will be wrapped in bacon; he loves his new Rec-Tec grill! Tomorrow going fishing! Yea!
You two prepare the most delicious meals! And with fresh vegetables and fruit! I’m salivating….
Happy Birthday!!!
Thank you! Really grateful for all my blessings; especially good enough health to go camping!
Have fun fishing tomorrow… 🙂
Happy Birthday KGDAN!!
Susan, I enjoy following you around, some of the places I’ve been lucky enough to have seen. Why don’t you Boondockit east and hit the reunion. Plenty of places to camp. You may not want to leave, land is really cheap right now. Happy travels, JP
Oh, my, it’s John Paul Roy! That kid who always made me laugh in class! Good to hear from you John Paul… 🙂
It’s nice to know you’re reading my blog. It is tempting to return to NY for the reunion… All those miles in between keep me from going. You have a great time. Thanks for stopping by with a note and invitation.
Hi John Paul 🙂
Poor Bridgee babee….glad you are able to “read” her and know how to make her comfy!
I’ve never seen petroglyphs in person! Wow…glad they have somewhat of a barrier in an attempt to preserve it!
Nice site you’ve found!
I must confess…when I was growing up (60’s) Memorial Day was never really explained. I remember we were off from school, there were sales galore and a family BBQ picnic. Fast forward to today….I can’t even imagine what today represents to so many. It’s kind of two fold…Honoring, thanking those who made the ultimate sacrifice and thoughts of the family members.
Jules and I talked about this the other day…the news used to update the number of casualties weekly. Now, they report on superfluous incidents that ratings deem newsworthy.
Not just on Memorial Day but everyday.. all should be remembered..because they were someone’s daughter/son, sister/brother or mom/dad. ??
And we can add to our prayers and remembrance the 250 prisoners of the Vietnam War still being held in Vietnam all these many years. That number probably isn’t accurate because most likely some have died. The original group left behind was near 600, I believe. A national disgrace.
Fortunately Bridget’s discomfort was for a short time. I’ll have to introduce us gradually to altitude if we’re going to explore Colorado this summer.
Although I might be on my own adventure by then, if not, I’d love to personally “pick your brain” with some questions I have. Presently, I’m in the Metro Denver area.
Ask away, Elaine!
My brother and husband and many friends served in Vietnam Nam. When they came home they were harassed and criticized for their service. That whole war was a disgrace, and for what? The ?Vietnam Cong won, and the country is still fine.
Our country treated our soldiers horribly! I too had many friends that served. Right before Memorial Day I stopped at the grocery store and Mike was there with his red Poppies. When I walked up to him he looked very troubled. I asked him what was wrong and he told me that the women before me had told him that she had no respect for our soldiers from Vietnam! I was so upset I just stood there with tears rolling down my face. I just couldn’t believe it. So sad.
That makes me sick at heart, Krystina. Those women hurt Mike deeply and their words and attitude will cut him for the rest of his life. It’s good that you came along to share his pain.
Gee, I’m glad that Bridget and you quickly got past those reactions to the altitude, hopefully neither of you experience those again in your future travels. Whenever you mention or show Reggie’s ferocious barks and stances I grin yet am impressed by his courage. What a great package he is-sweet and puppy like at times and all tough guy at others. I liked all the photos in this post. Thanks for the close ups of the petroglyphs. It’s a subject that fascinates me. The curve in the road in the pic above “Soon we arrive at-” looks as if the rock makes one drive cautiously there . Is that an optical illusion or might it scrape a vehicle going by?
Hi, weather,
I agree about Reggie. He’s a special mix of tender baby, playful child, and courageous fighter. I’m very glad we found each other.
I took another look at that photo with the overhanging rock. I think there is some optical illusion going on making it seem the rock is closer to the pavement than it really is. The road is foreshortened, that’s what does it.
I’m happy you like the photos and seeing the petroglyphs. Look for the feet with extra toes…
The extra toes was one of the things that stood out. Do you notice a bit of a cone shape or elongated top of their head on one of the children? Interesting bit of history-indigenous people in bygone days really did hold their hand up when greeting a stranger, to show that they had only a thumb and four other fingers. Having more than that was indicative of bloodlines not to be trusted for reasons I won’t go into here.
I don’t see the elongated head. Interesting about holding the hand up…. I didn’t know the origin of that common gesture.
I expanded the picture to look for the head shape, it’s not obvious, or likely of interest to most, anyway. A note about the writing on the wall question below, I’d say not petroglyphs, instead Daniel5:5-30
Thanks for the Bible reference, weather.
Do you plan to enjoy the day where you are or moving today? Whatever you do, I hope it’s delightful!
Thanks, weather. This is our last day at Devil’s Canyon. We move tomorrow (Wed.). Start the new month in a new camp. 🙂
May each part of today, the move and new camp have what you hope it does, plus nice surprises and bits of joy dancing through it.
Good morning, weather,
Thank you for the sweet travel blessing. I thought we’d move today but, upon rising, I find I don’t have the ambition. We might stay another day. It’s nice here.
Surprises and joy to you, too, dear one.
It’s nice there and the places ahead will be there whenever you arrive. It’s grand to be free to let a day take shape around us instead of forcing ourselves to fit whatever’s planned all the time, isn’t it?
Yes, it is. Something I’ve wanted all my life!
Our next camp may be in an area of no internet. I don’t like to take off when the posts are falling behind. Working on one now! 🙂
FOR THOSE OF YOU INTERESTED IN DRIVING THE HART’S DRAW ROAD LOOP:
I found a better description than what I wrote at fourcornerstourism:
“The Harts Draw Road loop begins at the intersection of U.S. 191 and 200 South Street in Monticello and travels west into the Abajo Mountains. As the road climbs, the Gambel oak give way to forests of Ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, aspen, and spruce. Stunning views of the surrounding canyonlands are available at nearly every turn. The road passes the entrance to both Dalton Springs and Buckboard US Forest Service campground and Foy Lake, with good fishing, dispersed camping, and trailhead access. It eventually joins Highway 211 which continues past Newspaper Rock BLM Recreation Area and ends at the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park. Evening rides on Harts Draw Road often result in Mule Deer and wild turkey sightings.”
What a nice little excursion! I’m glad Bridget felt better with some fresh air. I wonder too if the rapid increase in altitude didn’t make her ears hurt. Hope you are having a relaxing, quiet Memorial Day. We are all so blessed to have the freedoms that others paid for with their lives.
Hi, Cynthia,
You know? You may be right about her ears hurting. She has sensitive ears that produce heavy wax. I have to clean her ears often. I didn’t think of her ears!
Our Memorial Day weekend has been peaceful, quiet, relaxing, perfect! I hope yours was, too.
We did Newspaper Rock and Canyonlands all in the same day from Bluff campground! Needles area too! We took our time just cruising and soaking it all in. The doggies just loved the ride! Inside Canyonlands was a very nice but rustic campground.
Great pictures Sue! You are on a wonderful, magical tour and I really appreciate riding along with you!
Glad you and Miz Bridge got acclimated to the altitude! North Rim just about did me in! Hugs to the brave Bovine Barker and the indomitable Miz B.
Hi, Geri,
Newspaper Rock and Canyonlands from Bluff? You have more stamina than I have! 🙂 Keep on riding with us….Thanks re the photos and “tour.”
Opppps! Slip of memory there! We ledt from Moab, when we were staying with friends workamping there!
Still… That’s a full day. 🙂
Hi Sue & crew…the pictures are fantastic, as always, and I thoroughly enjoyed the jaunt around the loop. Another area I simply must visit when I get these wheels a rollin’….
You being the teacher..tell me this..did the saying “the writing on the wall” originate from petroglyphs?
Hope ya’ll are having a great day!!
Hi, Pat,
I don’t know the answer about the origin of that saying, but weather does!
Thanks re the photos. I’m pleased that you enjoyed traveling the loop with us.
Sue, what a nice day you had and you covered lots of ground. I enjoyed all the photos. Newspaper Rock is very interesting. And thanks for including the map – it’s fun to see the route that you have traveled.
Have you been to the Needles District of Canyonlands in your previous travels? If not, I hope you will be able to make it over there. It is an enchanting place and well worth the trip.
Hi, Debra,
Our previous visit to Canyonlands was cut short quite abruptly when I realized I forgot to buy gas when we went through Monticello. I didn’t dare go all the way out to see the Needles, instead hurried to Moab where we cruised into a gas station, riding on fumes. Then the crowds of people pushed us out of the area.
I appreciate knowing it’s fun for folks to see the map. I’ll do that frequently in the future. Thanks for letting me know.
37th? Whoo hoo! I haven’t been under 100 in a long time !
And here comes Linda from Wisconsin, look at her go! she’s moving up fast! 🙂
?
I’ve traveled a LOT in many of the places you’re going, because I began as a child with my parents, and never stopped. However, taking the journey WITH you is much more revealing, and hearing your personal description makes me realize that you just can’t visit interesting places too many times, and there is always more to learn!
I re-read everything in travel magazines, blogs, etc., and always wish I had noticed one more ‘detail’ or spent just a little ‘more’ time in different places.
Because I’m careful (I have to concentrate) to avoid ‘panic attacks’ when in confined spaces or when at high altitudes, I found myself trying to “breathe” with Bridgette. Your photos make me want to go look at old print photos and the newer ones on DVD again and again.
My dad always cut out newspaper articles about places he thought would be interesting, and then when we traveled, he went back to his (real paper) files and dug out the information to take on the trip. Because you aren’t under the constraints of people ‘on vacation’, you are seeing so much more, identifying so many things other locals or ‘vacationing people’ never would notice.
Thanks so much. I hope your Memorial Day weekend was nice and quiet!
What a wonderful collection of memories you must have, Becky! Your comment is entertaining. I can see your dad with his newspaper articles, dreaming and making plans as he cut them out, organizing them, pulling them out for the trip. Now we have the internet and apps and GPS and all that stuff. Not as picturesque or charming as a father with scissors in hand, putting together vacation plans. 🙂
Thank you for the positive feedback on my blog and photos. Even without doing much of the touristy things, we manage to discover much that entertains us. I’m glad you enjoy what we share.
Yes, the weekend has been “nice and quiet.” It was a good decision to camp here. I hope your weekend was all you wanted it to be.
Greetings from a sunny spot after 3 weeks of rain! (Oh yeah, almost forgot … I live in a rainforest.)
Thanks for the guided tour of an interesting area. Neat little side trip. About how many miles in total? Averaging your ‘touristy’ speed, how long were you out on that excursion? Was it within the time you allotted? What is your limit on a day trip? Is it you or the pups that usually call time’s up? If time/energy is gone for a trip and you still have more to see, do you try another day or make notes for the next time you’re through the area?
I’m like Al C. ^^^. I’ll set out for a trip then … squirrel! I see the wisdom of how you travel camp to camp and would lean on your insight for day trips, too.
That little baby squirrel that was screeching at me from the birdfeeder decided to come visit me in the rig. After near 20 minutes of fun and games and bouncing of every wall and under every cubby, it flew out the door and landed on the napping cat. More fun and games ensued. That was my big fun this week. Aside from your blog, that is. 🙂
Hi, MV gal…
Your questions:
The loop drive is about 42 miles, add a few miles to go west to Newspaper Rock, plus 12 miles from Monticello to Devil’s Canyon— so almost 60 miles. I really don’t know exactly how long we were on this excursion, what with stopping at the campgrounds, the lake, and the Rock. I think we left around 9 in the morning and were back at camp around 1 or 2 in the afternoon.
“Was it within the time you allotted?” No, because I don’t allot time. We just get up and go.
“What is your limit on a day trip?” I like to leave camp early, right after breakfast, bath, and checking this blog… about 8 or 9 a.m. Somewhere from noon to 3 p.m., I’m ready to head for home. It depends on what we do. I don’t like to return home all wrung out like a zombie from over-stimulation. I’d rather see and do less and enjoy it more.
“Is it you or the pups that usually call time’s up?” Usually me, because the crew goes to sleep when they’ve had enough. 🙂
“If time/energy is gone for a trip and you still have more to see, do you try another day or make notes for the next time….?” No, I don’t try for another day. I don’t want to see and experience everything in a locale. I like to savor part of what is available and leave a lot for another trip (s). No, I don’t take notes. I have my Benchmarks and the internet.
Funny about the baby squirrel and the cat. Must have been exciting for a few moments!
Yay for sun after a long stretch of rain!
I’m always struck with how beautifully you write. You describe the journey down simple roads as you and the crew travel and do it in such a way I feel like I’m in the PTV and experiencing it myself. It’s always a joy to read, thank you.
You’re welcome, Nancy, and thank you for that very nice compliment on my writing. I try to write simply.
When I edit I skim through the text, cutting up sentences, turning clauses into sentences, anything to make the writing easy to read. Nobody wants to WORK at reading a blog about a woman traveling with two dogs! It should be easy and, when things go well, fun. 🙂
Well, that was a nice little outing wasn’t it? I imagine the fur kids were glad to be home. The one remembrance I have of altitude is a misadventure I had in Utah. It was up in the Wasatch Mountains at high altitude (over 1100′). I felt okay upon arrival but I had been driving for 11 hours and was tired. I did all the things one does upon arrival to a new site, and when I was done, I made a cocktail. A few sips and yours truly literally fell into the warming fire I had built. I got out before it did any major harm but I learned a valuable lesson, alcohol and altitude do not mix. I got into the rig and had a nice nap. Detta tells me she and our two fun babies (Annie and Christopher) had a nice time.
That’s hilarious, Jim! I mean, it wasn’t so great for you at the time, even somewhat dangerous, and I’m sorry you fell into the fire.
But you survived to tell us the story and it was fun reading it. Hi to Detta!
Lesson learned Missy…
Have a great Memorial day to you and all the blogger OOS,,,,
Thank you, Rusty. I hope you were able to enjoy it — no ATVs, gunshots, and other stuff nearby…
We’ve been hearing gun shots off to our left and Piper has been hiding under the truck all of the day, ?
Oh, the poor girl. I hate that. Someone was shooting right outside the campground on Saturday, ruining the day for Reggie.
I talked to a fellow and he said that some are practicing with hi powered, scoped rifles, for what I don’t know, he said it’s political on this holiday? , sad that some people think that way,,,,,,,,,
Poor Reggie,,
Cheer up little buddy,,,, , Piper,,, I know how you feel,,,,, ?
Thanks, Piper. I’m okay now. Your friend, Reg.
I don’t do great above 6500 but fortunately Tessa doesn’t seemed fazed by higher elevations. Oh, and Bill’s okay with it too 🙂 Don’t you just love going from pines and forest to red rock and sage valleys? Days of exploring are the best!
And you can pick the environment in which to live! I don’t know about you, Jodee, but this lifestyle has me addicted to change. Every time I consider a place for a possible permanent home, I turn away thinking, “but do I want to STAY here?”
Roswell…. We bypassed it in 2011. One of these days . . . .
Lovely to be in pines…just lovely!! Enjoy!! Did you see that all the states except just a couple in the middle of the country are expected to be hotter this summer? Seems it was SE Montana, S. Dakota, Kansas…can’t remember the other…hehe, but that is all relative. Kansas is expected to be about 88 with same humidity…and we know all about that don’t we Sue?? Happy trails and hope you find just perfect temps all summer long!!
Thanks, Elizabeth. If this summer is going to be a really hot one, it’s good we’re heading for the mountains.
Speaking of hot….Our 10 day forecast calls for all days above 100 but Saturday will be 117. For some unknown reason our 10’s of thousands of snowbirds are gone. It will be 109 tomorrow if the weather channel is right. Enjoy your cool weather Missy…
Gosh, it seems early for that kind of heat. I hope all the full-timers who don’t have air conditioning have moved to cooler camps.
You keep cool, too, Jim and Detta…
The average high temperature in Phoenix during June is 104 so it it is not too early.
When I lived there I always thought June was the hottest month because we were getting hotter every day. July is the hottest with an average of 106 but I never noticed much difference until it cooled off to an average of 100 in September.
Yep. Tucson also has 10 days over 100. Saturday forecast for 112. At least here in Tucson we have much cooler nights. That’s the one thing I can’t handle about Phoenix…it stays hot at night!
Sue, you are aware that Colorado is super hot in the summer, right? And because of the elevation, the sun is worse on your skin?
Thanks for the warning on Colorado’s summer heat and also regarding sun on skin. My curiosity had me doing some research which supports what you say to a certain degree (ooh, a pun!).
For the fun of it I randomly chose a few locations and looked up average high temperatures (F) for the month of July:
Pagosa Springs CO: 83.1
Boulder, CO: 88
Grand Junction, CO: 93
Gunnison, CO: 79
Eugene, OR: 82
Bozeman, MT: 83
Salina, UT: 93
Rapid City, SD: 85
🙂
We’ll give Colorado a try and see how it goes. We can always leave early if the heat is a problem.
Dolores, CO
Average high temperatures: June-82, July-87.
Average low temperatures: June-48, July-54.
I too will give CO a try and see how it goes.
We’re shadowing each other this year, Ed. 🙂
Hi Sue,
The weather here in Colorado is unseasonably cooler for this time of year. You will be a mile plus higher than sea level and therefore closer to the sun. If you are going to be in the Estes Park area, it will be cooler and there will be many more opportunities to take out and wear a light/medium weight long sleeve top. At least one thing is in your favor in Colorado, the humidity is low.
Gee, now I’m wondering if my summer plans are a good idea. Thanks for the suggestion, Elaine. I do have long-sleeved tops to wear.
You are welcome, Sue! I’ve lived here for 15 years (originally from NY) and have spent many times on road trips. Other places to possibly check out is Glenwood Springs, Silverthorne, Dillion, Frisco, and Breckenridge. They are all within miles of each other. I used to camp in Silverthorne and loved it.
Loved the road trip today Sue. Especially studying the Petroglyphs. 7 toes, 5 toes , 4 toes, wheels, what looks like a crocodile…wow…really causes you to wonder. Thank you.
I had no idea the rental campers were so expensive, a camper told me that she and her husband rented one to see if they would like to buy this type of camper. Well have a good week and take Care Sue and Crew.
Hi, Diane,
You gave me a smile this morning… Glad you enjoyed this post.
Yeah, renting a Class C in order to make a decision? That’s the “throw money at it” method of decision-making. I bought the BLT based on my research, a brochure, owner testimonies, forums, etc. It didn’t cost a dime,just some effort and self-awareness.
You have a good week, too, Diane, in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. 🙂
Newspaper Rock has been an interesting learning lesson. Thanks!
You’re welcome, Eileen. I learned a lot, too.
Hi Sue and crew,
I co-misery-ate with you and Bridgette at the altitude challenges. I visited a friend once in Denver, and on the way to the park in the Rockies, I had to stop and sit by the side of the road for awhile. On the “hike”, flat terrain really that felt like Mt. Everest, I wheezed like an old lady with a heart and lung problem! Let me tell you, that was the shortest hike I ever didn’t complete. The whole experience left me grateful to live at a lower altitude.
I am chipping away at my depart list. The 110 wiring is almost done, my friend says 12v is quick and easy (I hope). I found a marine RV shop that carries the solar panel brand I want, so I should be able to pick up everything and have a one stop shopping for Solar Power, YEAH!! Having the Solar Power system up and running will make traveling north so much easier and cheaper. Being free from needing shore power will enable me to park overnight near my route, probably for free. Once I take care of family matters, I am off on my adventure, Yipee!! Next I need to start a blog of my own so family and friends can keep up with us. I am thinking of calling it “Tommie’s Travels” I would love to get some input from the blogerinos. Thanks, stay well and happy camping.
Congratulations, Lisa, on your progress! Thanks for keeping in touch. You’ll enjoy having solar power. It will give you the freedom to camp away from hook-ups without bringing city noise with you.
4th for the 31st!!! Yay!!! I don’t get email notices anymore of your new posts so I’m just happy when I find a new post. Will go back now and read.
Try resubscribing or doing a restore. Maybe an update messed it up or your firewall or any number of other reasons. There isn’t anything I can do on this end to fix it. I would if I could.
It’s no biggy, Sue. I just keep checking back til I see a new post. My above comment was a feeble attempt at humor. I love your writing style, all the pics of your fur babies, and comments of blogerinos. Be safe.
I’ve seen Newspaper Rock featured somewhere–there was a time I would assume it was on The Learning Channel or Discovery or something like that, but cable has had a nervous breakdown and is now spewing out programs that are nothing like they were before! But Newspaper Rock has been on my list for awhile, and I loved seeing your pics and reactions.
I’m thrilled it looks like you may be able to handle Colorado this summer. It’s my favorite state, but I do love mountains and trees. It has a lot of other terrain, too, though.
Poor Bridget. I’m glad she has such an attentive friend to notice when she’s not handling it well. My fingers are crossed that it all works out for you to go.
And finally–oh Reggie! That picture of him barking at the cows made my day. My little Rocksy likes to sleep on the back of our poofy sofa in our big living room window, and when something catches her eyes, watching her go into full Tasmanian Devil mode and act like she’s going to fly through the window at the letter carrier or stray cat is awesome! From behind, her haunches are so muscled, she’s like a mini-Schwartzenegger ready to tear into them. Mini being the word. She’s about the same 9 pound size as Reggie, but full Chi!
Thanks for the fun updates!
You’re weclome, kisstab-chick . . . Thanks for writing that “meaty” comment. 🙂
Isn’t it remarkable how muscled a 9-pound dog can be? Reggie’s legs are little spindles and yet they can be springs of steel when he’s motivated. I play tug of war with him and he nearly pulls my arm out of the socket. So I know what you mean about your Rocksy being a mini-Schwartzenegger…
Hi Sue!
Wow….it’s great to see Newspaper Rock again. The first and only time I’ve seen it was about eleven years ago on my first trip to Utah. I took three weeks and drove down from Seattle to see Arches, Natural Bridges, Escalante National Monument, Bryce and Zion. Plus all the cool stuff in between. I’ve been going back ever since. Travel safe!!
Thanks, Rick & Brock. You be safe, too.
Wow! You packed a lot into your three weeks! it will take me several years to see all that. I’ve seen Zion and parts of Escalante… Instead of Bryce, we went to Snow Canyon near St. George.
Great pics of your day trip, Newspaper Rock looks interesting. Thanks of sharing. I don’t have time to read all the comments right now, as I am up against a deadline. Have to finish tomorrow.
Hi, Barbara,
It’s nice of you to stop in with a few words when you’re under pressure to get things done. I appreciate that.
Y’all have the mostest fun! Love the rock formations!
Hi, Suzette! I was reading about Texas flooding today. I hope you aren’t in that mess.
Suzette, I really love your pics of Petit Jean State Park. Beautiful area, isn’t it?
Well, I’ve been reading your blog since the first of the year so thought I ought to chime in to express my thanks to you for putting me onto the Benchmark Maps. I ordered the whole set from Benchmark with a 25% discount and free shipping. They arrived today and I am in the process of putting my notes I have been taking on them. Wish I would have taken a lot more notes when I first started reading of your adventures beginning in 2011. I read all the comments so it will probably take me a couple of years to get caught up as I am only up to June 15, 2012 but am also keeping current now too. I had to skip ahead to see if Spike was still alive at one point which kind of got me to keeping current as well.
We have had many RV’s throughout the years. I am a year younger then you, born in Nov. ’49 and married for 45 years this year. I saw my first Casita 20 years ago and always wanted one. We have three kids (I home-schooled them) so a Casita wasn’t really big enough for a family. We are really enjoying our 2012 Casita-Liberty Deluxe we bought last August and always interested to read how you use your Liberty. My husband put shelves on the right side of the closet before our first trip and we keep all our folded clothes on them. It really works out well. We have a cabinet maker we have always used for the homes we have built that could probably put them in yours as well. I guess you don’t mind putting your storage units up and down off the bench as you don’t move as much as we do but it’s a thought anyway. I could get you a bid if you are interested.
I can totally relate to your frugal living as I am the queen of frugalness, at least I would give you a good run for your money.
I have to have dirt (to garden) so I doubt I will ever full time but at least I can if I am ever widowed and so inclined now that we have a Casita.
Thanks for keeping your blog going, it’s great entertainment and would miss it if it ended. I know you have heard it hundreds of times but YOU ARE A GREAT WRITER.
Hi, Gloria,
Welcome to my blog! Thank you for introducing yourself and for reading my blog. I’m pleased that not only does my blog entertain you, but it also provides you with information that will enhance your travels in your Casita . . . and I present all this free of charge!
You let me know that you ordered your Benchmarks directly from the company instead of using my links to buy them from Amazon. I checked a few of the atlases. The prices I found are as follows.
California $24.95 Benchmark/$18.29 Amazon
Colorado: $22.95 Benchmark/$18.61 Amazon
Montana: $22.95 Benchmark/$20.26 Amazon
With 25% off you saved a few dollars. Hey, a bargain’s a bargain. I understand frugality.
Thank you for the compliment on my writing. I hope you continue to enjoy my blog.
Hi Sue & Co,
It seems y’all had a good Memorial Day, I can relate to Bridge and your discomfort from altitude as it bothers me as well. As a matter of fact just driving up a couple thousand feet affects my ears, no fun. It was a stellar holiday for me, I bought the Bigfoot! Now I need a “figure out the systems for dummies” book. I have photos if you would like to see it, didn’t want to post the link unless you ok it. Take care ?
ChrisAnn
Hi, ChrisAnn,
The Bigfoot is YOURS! Hooray for you — You purchased a quality camper which I’m sure will be a pleasure to own.
I usually discourage readers from posting links, but, in this case, sure, go ahead. It’s like when a new baby arrives; you just have to show her around!
I look forward to seeing the photos.
Ok here goes, please excuse if this doesn’t work I just started using Flickr and I am not an expert operator yet lol.
https://flickr.com/photos/142084020@N05/sets/72157668449000301
ChrisAnn
That’s a beauty, ChrisAnn! I like the refrigerator! No wonder you’re excited about it. Thanks for the link. I’m sure many readers will enjoy taking a tour of your new home-on-wheels… 🙂
Congrats ChrisAnn, what a great trailer.
In fact that after much research and dreaming what you bought is pretty much my dream trailer. I really like the center bath configuration, plus the extra insulation, large fridge and an oven make it seem perfect. The only thing I’m not 100% sure of is an older/lighter 1500 series vs the newer/heaver/more insulation of the 2500 series. And yours looks to be in great shape.
Again much congrats, I hope you make many, many wonderful memories with your new home on the road. I look forward to any updates you might feel the urge to share. Starting with what will you use to tow it with? Enjoy.
Oh Chrisann! Thank you for sharing the pictures of your “Bigfoot”! May you have many happy memories and times in it! 🙂
Very nice! Does the dinette make into a bed at night?
Thanks ?? I am so happy and excited. BadgerRick, as I live in Fl and will be wintering there I wasn’t worried about the 4season aspect and would rather have the “lighter” version. As far as tow vehicle I will be taking a page out of Sue’s book and getting a van. When traveling with a giant breed dog the roomier the better is what I have found plus the extra storage is always welcome. I have been informed that I don’t want to fill the storage on the TT, with the amount of storage available it is VERY easy to get over weight. I have so much to learn it’s probably a fpgood thing I am not able to do any long cross country travel until next summer. My plan is to get the wheels and tires checked out at a good tire place, do some other basic maintenance then some short trips this summer. I will wait until I’ve done at least an entire season before ?I decide on any bigger mods/purchases.
ChrisAnn
Sounds like a perfect plan!
It also sounds like you have thought this out. Sign of a wise woman.
Enjoy, and again I look forward to hearing of your adventures and any mods or comments you might have on your BF.
We rented a Cruise America camper in March to travel from Tennessee to Arizona. I loved the class C concept… I could get to the bathroom while we were moving down the road. Hassell was driving of course. 🙂
It was wickedly expensive. And, it was really noisy inside. At one point I stuffed paper towels in the screen door, under the metal grate on the stove, and under all the plates and pots. Made it a little more bearable.
But, for us, it was worth the experience. I loved the self-contained functionality of the class c.
The positives:
1. the readily available bathroom
2. Our own place to stay when visiting relatives.
3. It allowed us to travel with our pug.
Thanks for another great post.
I’m glad you had a positive experience with the camper, Hoot. I found your report to be very interesting and informative!
Looking over the 3 positives…. I have to say that all three are available with all rigs. Unless you have a physical problem requiring frequent trips to the bathroom, there’s something to be said for pulling off the road, taking care of business, and stretching your legs. If one travels with dogs, it’s beneficial for everyone!
Thank you for sharing your experience! Re: the noise factor. Is it because Cruise America doesn’t use the better quality campers, or are they all like that?
Does anybody know?
Blogorinos with Class C experience: Is there inside noise while traveling?
When I was on the road I had a 27′ Class C Thor Four Winds. In the beginning, the noise from the stove rattling made me bonders. I took a look at it and found that the 4 rubber “thingy’s” that fit on the four corners of the “grill” part of the stove were not in good shape. I replaced them and that noise stopped. I bought one of those “thingy’s” that you put your dishes in so they are standing up and they did not move at all. I had a lot of Tupperware so they made no noise moving around and the plastic glasses that I stacked inside each other made no noise. As everything was packed so tightly I don’t remember any other noise going on. I put misc stuff that I kept on the counter in a dishpan in the sink…quiet. The one noise I DO remember was on my maiden voyage. My microwave was making all kinds of noise rattling around. Next thing I knew I heard a very LOUD noise. I looked in my rearview mirror and saw that the microware had fallen OUT OF THE CABINET and was hanging by the big silver cord. I pulled over and saw that the 4 screws in the corners had shaken loose. Hummmm what to do? I got out the trusty wooden matches, put them in the holes and then screwed the screws back in. Perfect.