Jim & Lyndi ZR-1 Road Trip to Death Valley and The Grand Canyon

[QB93Z]

Tomorrow morning, bright and early, we will get underway on a 33-day road trip across America in our 1995 Dark Purple ZR-1.

Even though it is a little chilly here in Maryland, it will be about 99 degrees when we get to Death Valley National Park. We will be staying on the western side of the park at Stovepipe Wells, CA.

We will be driving at a leisurely pace of about 425 miles a day to get to Stovepipe Wells in six days. This pace will give us time to sight-see along the way.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/Map_3_-_Westminster_to_DV_-_GC.JPG?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds (https://app.photobucket.com/u/QB93Z/a/fd695ef1-3274-43e3-94af-4f50c7786e92/p/ba8c3f9e-f371-497d-be18-2cb76cad5f89)

[garyhugo]

Jim and Lyndi looking forward to following along on your road trip. Have a safe and fun adventure.

[Corvettes White]

Jim. A few of us will be at the same hotel Saturday night the 2nd. Is that day on your schedule for Death Valley? George

[Corvettes White]

And PS. Great place to stay or eat at in the Grand Canyon.

[ZR-1Mikko]

Have a great adventure!:thumbsup:

If you are stopping in Las Vegas, feel free to reach out if you need any recommendations or want to get couple ZR-1's together.

[Matt B]

Great! Can't wait to see all your pictures!
Have a safe trip!

[Jagdpanzer]

Have a great trip Jim & Lyndi.
Always enjoy the ride alongs via your trip log posts.


Sent from my iPhone using ZR-1 Net Registry (http://r.tapatalk.com/byo?rid=90383)

[Paul Workman]

Looking forward to the pictures once again!!! Be safe!

[DRM500RUBYZR-1]

What they all said!!!

Safe Travels!

:cheers:
Marty

[QB93Z]

Jim. A few of us will be at the same hotel Saturday night the 2nd. Is that day on your schedule for Death Valley? George

BUMMER!! We arrive at Stovepipe Wells on Tuesday, 29 Mar and check out Friday 1 April. From there we go to Williams, AZ and on 2 April we ride the Grand Canyon Railway with a steam locomotive to the El Tovar Hotel in Grand Canyon Village.

Jim

[QB93Z]

Day 1 Drive to Grayson, KY:

It was raining for Thursday's departure so we decided to get the departure photo in the garage.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0005_R.jpg?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://app.photobucket.com/u/QB93Z/p/06669956-6081-478f-89b2-3186b9854027)


The packing for this trip went smoothly. We have been continuously up-dating our check lists. I added 1 item to the parts and tools collection. I decided that the AC blower fan speed controller was a good item to carry because it is easy to fit in and will cause a loss of AC if it fails.

We drove on I-68 in the rain to about Morgantown, WV, then south on I-79 and west on I- 64. Traffic was light and it was a good ride.

We got to Grayson, KY early in the afternoon so we visited Carter Caves Recreational Park. This is a very nice Park. There are lots of activity including Cave tours, Bat viewing, hiking trails, picnic areas along a nice stream. There is a well stocked and manned visitor center, a lodge with renovated rooms and a dining room and lounge.

We took a short hike to see a natural bridge:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0053_R.jpg?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://app.photobucket.com/u/QB93Z/p/b00a66ad-e1ae-48f8-889c-223772bc447b)


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0063_(2)_R.jpg?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://app.photobucket.com/u/QB93Z/p/23829a3c-33bf-427e-8df4-79090be44123)


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0083_(2)_R.jpg?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://app.photobucket.com/u/QB93Z/p/f1adec38-93c1-412b-8596-4a6416c1163d)

Jim

[QB93Z]

Are the pictures too big to view on a PC screen. PhotoBucket seems to have changed the way pictures are hosted. If I change the image size before uploading to PhotoBucket, the resize seems to be ignored.

Maybe the problem is with the Registry Forum but that used to work well so I don't think that is it.

Any ideas?

[efnfast]

Weee, here we go again.

[Dynomite]

As Always.....your great photographic Road Trips are listed on the 7th page of "Solutions" under the Heading ROAD TRIPS :thumbsup::thumbsup:

[Matt B]

That looks like an amazing start! Hope weather get better, soon!

[secondchance]

Are the pictures too big to view on a PC screen. PhotoBucket seems to have changed the way pictures are hosted. If I change the image size before uploading to PhotoBucket, the resize seems to be ignored.

Maybe the problem is with the Registry Forum but that used to work well so I don't think that is it.

Any ideas?

Images seem to be 50% too large. Unfortunately, I have no idea how to fix it.
Thanks for the online ride!

[QB93Z]

Day 2: Drive to St Louis.

We left Grayson and drove west on I-64. The weather has been less than ideal, some drizzle and temperatures in the low 40's. Later in the day the sun broke through the clouds but it was windy.

I-64 crosses the Appalachian Mountains than enters the flat lands of southern Indiana and Illinois. There are a lot of farms in the area east of the Mississippi River:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0066.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0066.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)




The always photogenic Gateway Arch:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0085_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0085_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


On our way to downtown St Louis we drove by Busch Stadium:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0092_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0092_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


Our point of interest for the afternoon was the St Louis Art Museum. Outside of the beautiful art museum building there is a three-socket electrical adapter:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0104_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0104_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


One of the interesting displays we liked was this very large creation that looks like a woven blanket but is actually constructed from wine bottle metal seal rings:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0119_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0119_(2).JPG?width=590&height=370&fit=bounds)

There is an amazing out door sculpture at a traffic circle on the museum entrance:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0135_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0135_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)

[-=Jeff=-]

Are the pictures too big to view on a PC screen. PhotoBucket seems to have changed the way pictures are hosted. If I change the image size before uploading to PhotoBucket, the resize seems to be ignored.

Maybe the problem is with the Registry Forum but that used to work well so I don't think that is it.

Any ideas?
They look and size fine on my Mac Book Pro with Firefox..

[QB93Z]

They look and size fine on my Mac Book Pro with Firefox..

Yes, I figured out how to set the size in the hosting code. Cumbersome but it works.

Jim

[QB93Z]

Day 3: Drive to Salina, Kansas
We spent most of Saturday on I-70, heading West. The rain is behind us (for now) and it was a great day to See the USA in a Chevrolet. We got past St Louis before the traffic got heavy. The speed limit on I-70 most of today was 75 mph. With a little extra margin for possible gauge error, I was rolling right along.
We passed this truck with the name "Vette City" Transportation, LLC. Do you suppose they are based in Bowling?

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0116_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0116_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


At a surface road we encountered one of my favorite things, getting run over by a train:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0149_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0149_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)

Our progress was briefly delayed by a tractor trailer that lost a coil of steel and flipped over. Apparently it took a while to get the necessary recovery vehicles on seen.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0170_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0170_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


Even though Lyndi takes a picture of this nice looking farm every time we drive I-70, I always enjoy posting it:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0181_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0181_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)

[QB93Z]

We stopped to sight see in Topeka, KS, to see the restored Union Pacific railroad station.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0220_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0220_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)

The Great Overland Station began as a Union Pacific railroad passenger station on January 27, 1927. Along the way, it survived floods, was remodeled for railroad offices, was abandoned in 1988, and was damaged by fire in 1992. Railroad Heritage, Inc. leased the building from the Union Pacific Railroad to prevent the building's demolition.

Union Pacific Corporation donated the station to Topeka Railroad Days, Inc. six years later, and the Great Overland Station Project Team was established to direct efforts to preserve the station and transform it into a railroad heritage museum. In June 2004, The Great Overland Station opened its doors.

The station is now being used by community organizations and houses a Dinosaur exhibit.

Near the station we waited as tanker car train passed the crossing. It it's hayday, 100 trains a day passed through the Overland Station area.


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0259_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0259_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


Several areas of grassland along I-70 are subject to grassfires. There appears to be no actions to "put out the fires"

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0294_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0294_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)

[Arctic91]

Another fantastic trip and series of photos - thanks for sharing these with us! Safe travels and looking forward to reconnecting with you and the rest of WAZOO again this spring.

:fahne:
Scott

[QB93Z]

Hi Scott, It is great to hear from you. I was glad to you have recovered. We will get together soon.

Jim

[QB93Z]

Day 4: Drive to Denver

We got underway early at 6:30 AM and once again headed west on I-70. Lyndi captured the sun rise in the side mirror:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0006_(2).JPG?width=0690&height=0540&fit=bounds] (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0006_(2).JPG?width=0690&height=0540&fit=bounds)


Western Kansas is FLAT and I-70 is straight. That is all that needs to be said:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0013_(3).JPG?width=0690&height=0540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0013_(3).JPG?width=0690&height=0540&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0033.JPG?width=0690&height=0540&fit=bounds] (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0033.JPG?width=0960&height=0540&fit=bounds)


I-70 in Kansas is in very good condition. BUT when we crossed into Colorado, I-70 is in poor condition:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0048_(2).JPG?width=0690&height=0540&fit=bounds] (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0048_(2).JPG?width=0690&height=0540&fit=bounds)

to be continued.....

[QB93Z]

We got our first view of the Rocky Mountains. This view always gives me a thrill because it represents a sucessful journey and the start of another journey.


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0095_(3).JPG?width=0690&height=0540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0095_(3).JPG?width=0690&height=0540&fit=bounds)


We continued West on I-70 through Denver:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0101_(2).JPG?width=0690&height=0540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0101_(2).JPG?width=0690&height=0540&fit=bounds)


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0108_(2).JPG?width=0690&height=0540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0108_(2).JPG?width=0690&height=0540&fit=bounds)


We spent a few hours in the Denver Art Museum. This museum is another stunning "big city museum". The exhibits are very well curated and we found many pieces we liked.


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0132_(2).JPG?width=0690&height=0540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0132_(2).JPG?width=0690&height=0540&fit=bounds)

Jim

[Jagdpanzer]

Brings to mind bad guy Blofeld's line about Kansas from the James Bond movie Diamonds are Forever.
"The satellite is at present over Kansas, but if we destroy Kansas, the world may not hear about it for years.

[Vette Guy]

Jim,

How are you coming back? We'd love to have you both spend a night in San Antonio!

Mark

[QB93Z]

Hi Mark, we would love to come there and see you, thanks for the invitation. But, in order to get home from this trip and then get ready for the caravan to the Gathering we can't add any new destinations to our trip.

See you at Bowling Green!!!

Jim

[Prez1967]

Lookin good Jim! Drive safe.

[billschroeder5842]

I love these road trip posts- good for you!

[QB93Z]

Day 5: Drive to Salina, Utah
On Sunday evening we had our "on the road again" celebretory pint in the lounge of the Marriot Hotel in Golden, Colorado. We have been surprised with the lack of travelers on the roads and in the hotels.


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We got an early start on Monday morning. Temperature 30 degrees. Todays travels took us accross the Continental Divide at the Rocky Mountains. Once again we drove all day on I-70. This route is one of my favorite routes in the US. It was special this time because there was still a lot of snow on the mountains.


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0166_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0166_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0204.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0204.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0251_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0251_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0393.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0393.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


to be continued.......

[QB93Z]

On the western side of the mountain pass is Glenwood Canyon, a very special area of the pass. A major reconstruction of the I-70 roadway using some remarkable engineering to protect the river and surrounding forests was completed in 1992. The Eisenhower Tunnel is the highest portion of the pass, at 11,158 feet, the highest altitude tunnel in the US.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0312.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0312.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0352.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0352.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


To make the day even better, we sighted a mixed-freight Train headed East in the pass:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0383_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0383_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


We continued West on I-70 to Grand Junction, Colorado and took a bypass to visit Colorado National Monument:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0534_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0534_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


The Colorado National Monument is a small but very informative area that has a single park road that pass through some very stunning landscapes that explain the results of 200 million years of geological mountain building by colliding plates of the Earth's crust and the effects erosion.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0591_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0591_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0600_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0600_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)

Jim

[tccrab]

Years ago I remember entering the Eisenhower Tunnel on a slightly cloudy day and exiting into a full blown snowstorm.
Having driven every major freeway from coast to coast including a few secondary routes, I70 is my favorite by far.
Drive safe and enjoy the trip.

Crabs

P.s., There is a place in Grand Junction that makes the very best Toffee on the planet:
https://www.enstrom.com/
Stop by if you are still in town.

[QB93Z]

Day 6 - Drive to Death Valley National Park

We have arrived at Death Valley NP, at the lodge in Stovepipe Wells. The connectivity to WiFi is weak so we haven't been able to post pictures yet.

I will keep trying.

Jim

[We Gone]

Love going on these trips with y'all.

Be safe.

[QB93Z]

I am doing my posting at 4 AM to get sufficient bandwidth'

Day 6... continued:

We left Salina, UT early, in a drizzly rain. There was new snow on the surrounding hills but the roads were wet and clear. Temperature was about 36 degrees. On I-70, from Salina to I-15 South is about 59 miles.


The conditions on westbound I-70:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0001.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0001.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


South on I-15, looking east:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0008.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0008.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


In St George, UT. When we bought the 1995 Purple ZR-1 we picked it up in St George. We spent some time looking around and found this interesting license plate pole:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0058_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0058_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


We visited a small recreation center called Pioneer Park. There is a Slot Canyon and a small arch. There are several hiking trails:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0076.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0076.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


Back on I-15 south:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0104_(4).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0104_(4).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


You never know what you will find on the Road. As we passed this truck, we paused for a moment of silence:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0116_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0116_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


to be continued.......

[QB93Z]

The open road:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0175_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0175_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



The closest "town" to Death Valley NP is Beatty, NV. It used to be a thriving tourist town, but today, not so much:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0216.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0216.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


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Arrived!!!!!!!!

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[QB93Z]

Day 7 at Death Valley:

We are staying at Stovepipe Wells Village on the western side of the park.

When they began to build a road to the mine at Skidoo in 1906, they made a settlement in Stovepipe Wells. At that time, it was the only known source of water and the location of the water was marked with a stovepipe. The hotel and village were started in 1925 and it is now a registered historic site.


Nearby are the Great Sand Dunes. The winds move the sand around and change the shapes, but they there are in the same place as they were when I visited Death Valley in 1975.


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0849_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0849_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


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[dandt67]

Jim & Lyndi
Fantastic photos and narratives as usual. Safe travels.
Take care.

[Matt B]

Really nice pictures! And may I say that I LOVE your Z's color!

[QB93Z]

Day 8: Sight seeing in Death Valley


We drove back towards Beatty on the Nevada side of Death Valley and went to the abandoned mining town of Rhyolite, NV. The town was working mines in 1907 but the ore ran out or cost to much dig out and the town was abandoned.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0091.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0091.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


There is an effort underway to restore the train station but progress is slow:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0097_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0097_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)

The weather in Death Valley has been wonderful. Late March is a good time to visit. The high temperatures have been in the 70's. In the summer time the temps in the valley are routinely over 110 degrees.

Driving in Death Valley is fun. The Park Service has done an excellent job of maintaining the roads and services. Some of the roads have long descending slope that you don't notice until you realize that you have "coasted" up to high speed. It is not advised to "ride the brakes" due to over heating so it is best to act like a truck and down shift to a lower gear.

Even though there is very little plant life in the Valley, this time of year has a lot of pollen in the air that is trapped in the Valley by the same forces that make the Valley so hot and dry. Lyndi has been suffering from airborne allergies.

Tomorrow we will leave Death Valley and drive to Williams, AZ.

PS-- I had to do make this post at 4 AM. Even though I am using a Verizon HotSpot for WiFi, the HotSpot has to be able to connect to a cellular provider. During the day, there is no reliable cellular connection in the Valley.

Jim

[JThomas]

Excellent pictures, and documentation Jim, Thank You! :thumbsup:

[QB93Z]

Day 9 drive to Williams, AZ:

We bid farewell to Death Valley and drove to Williams, AZ, gateway to the Grand Canyon Railway and the Grand Canyon.

We packed up early and got underway by 5 AM in the dark. We decided to drive to Bad Water and then on south to the southern end on the National Park. It was about 75 miles, mostly in the dark. We only met 3 on-coming cars on the trip. We went east to Pahrump and then Las Vegas, then to Williams, AZ.

The "darkness" of Death Valley before sunrise is really dark. Lyndi took some artsey photos of Venus and the coming sunrise:



https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0009.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0009.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0073.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0073.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



This part of Death Valley is about 250 feet below sea level:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0020(1).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0020(1).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


We crossed over Jubilee Pass and returned to civilization.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0275.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0275.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



In Williams, we checked in to the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel and got our tickets to ride the Grand Canyon Railway to the El Tovar Hotel in Grand Canyon Village tomorrow morning. We relaxed in the Pub, and enjoyed the massive historic bar that was imported from England:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0305.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0305.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


Jim

[QB93Z]

Day 10 - Train to Grand Canyon:

From Williams, AZ we boarded the Grand Canyon Railway for the 2.5 hour ride to Grand Canyon Village. On the first Saturday of each Spring and Summer month, the train is headed up by a vintage steam locomotive. Riding this train has been on my Bucket List for a long time.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0146.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0146.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0042.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0042.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0084_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_084_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


After the enjoyable ride, we took a hike along the South Rim of the most stunning landscape in the world.


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0132_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0132_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


The crowds are minimal this time of year and the weather was nice. We even got up close with a deer that did not care that we were there:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0105.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0105.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


Among the many wonderful scenes in the Grand Canyon, I found this interesting rock formation I have never seen before:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0131.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0131.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


Jim

[QB93Z]

Day 11 - At Grand Canyon:

The day started cool and cloudy. We relaxed at our lodge, The El Tovar Hotel which was built in 1905.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0479_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0479_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


We spent the rest of the day hiking on the Rim Trail. The trails were more crowded than yesterday, but not too much.
Near the top of Bright Angel Trail we found the Mules that had just completed the hike up from the Canyon floor and were returning to the stables.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0388_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0388_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


Here is a view of the El Tovar Hotel from the West:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0428.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0428.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



We hiked East along the Rim. The stunning scenes of the Canyon are stunning. In this view you can see the parts on the Bright Angel Trial that runs from the Canyon rim all the way to the Canyon floor. The trail runs 7.8 miles and has a 4460 foot elevation change.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0448.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0448.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


In this picture, another part of the Bright Angel Trail is visible and I marked the Colorado River on the Canyon Floor:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0454_(4).jpg?width=590&height=370&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0454_(4).jpg?width=590&height=370&fit=bounds)


Jim

[WARP TEN]

Day 10 - Train to Grand Canyon:

From Williams, AZ we boarded the Grand Canyon Railway for the 2.5 hour ride to Grand Canyon Village. On the first Saturday of each Spring and Summer month, the train is headed up by a vintage steam locomotive. Riding this train has been on my Bucket List for a long time.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0146.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0146.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)




A 2-8-2 Mikado! Great engine Jim, and it looks like a great train ride. I would certainly like to do that also. Maybe someday! Look forward to seeing more pics from your trip. --Bob

[QB93Z]

Day 11 - at the Grand Canyon and train return to Williams, AZ:

We spent the day hiking along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon until it was time to board the evening train for the return trip to Williams. Then we drove about an hour west on I-40 towards Las Vegas. Our lodging for the night was in Seligman, AZ, and we didn't have WiFi so we postponed the daily posting on pictures.

to be continued:

[QB93Z]

Catching up on pictures ..

Here is the grand lobby of the el Tovar Hotel at Bright Angle. The Hotel is historic and in very good condition, but it is not really a "Grand Lodge" in comparison to the Glacier Park Lodge, or the Old Faithful Grand Lodge in Yellowstone NP:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0187.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0187.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



The train car that we were in for the return trip to Williams. All of the Grand Canyon Railway equipment is in excellent condition and it was an enjoyable trip:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0194.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0194.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



Sunset behind the mountains on west-bound I40"

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0282.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_282.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


We stopped for the night in Seligman, AZ in a restored Route 66 motel. Next door was the Black Cat Bar, which Lyndi and I could not pass up.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0297.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0297.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



The Black Cat Bar is a nice "local" bar, clean and neat, nicely decorated and we enjoyed meeting some of the locals including Lyndi's new best friend who showed us the shot glass that he has drunk from for 49 years:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0307.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0307.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)

[QB93Z]

Day 13 - drive to Las Vegas:

We spent some time getting our ZR-1 storage squared away after the train trip where we only carried a small amout of our gear to the Grand Canyon. Then we took some morning photos of the Route 66 era buildings and shops:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0323_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0323_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0336_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0336_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


The west bound traffic was a little heavier than yesterday, with more trucks:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0347_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0347_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


An highway overlook of Lake Mead:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0359_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0359_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


in Las Vegas, the weather is beautiful with a pleasant 88 degrees:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0368_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0368_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)

Jim

[QB93Z]

Day 14 at Las Vegas - continued:
We got caught up on some chores including WASHING THE ZR-1, (finally) and restocking the beverages.

We are staying at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort.


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0018_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0018_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0012_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0012_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



In the evening, we caught the Las Vegas Monorail and went into the heart of the Las Vegas Strip. The crowds were about what I remember from 3 years ago. There were lots of people enjoying the sights and attractions:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0054_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0054_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



At Treasure Island, we discovered a custom motorcycle on display. It is a beautiful bike, called The Siren Of Ti. The design is amazing. The bike was built for Metropolitan Choppers by Scott Cawood of Frederick, Maryland, about 25 miles from where we live.


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0045_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0045_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



One of the new attractions on the Strip is the High Roller wheel, at 500 feet in daimeter, it is advertised as the tallest "wheel" in the world.



https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0022_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0022_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



Later in the evening we were enjoying a beer at the out-side patio when the wind picked and started blowing the beer bottles off the tables. We decided it was time to return to our resort.

Jim

[Thomas ZR-1]

Amazing Jim...really impressive, love to read about your roadtrip!

[Paul Workman]

Yes, I agree! Another "vicarious" adventure. Love it!!:thumbsup:

[QB93Z]

Day 15 at Las Vegas:

In the lobby of the Westgate Las Vegas Resort, there are many historic photographs of people that were involved with the Hotel in the past. This picture of Sean Connery was probably from one of the James Bond movies that had scenes in Las Vegas. All of that is interesting, but we were impressed by the sign behind the people that listed Breakfast for $1.17. I can attest to the fact that the food is more expensive than that now.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0017.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0017.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


Lyndi found this Dragon's face in the MGM Grand main Lobby:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0046(1).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0046(1).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


Jim hanging out with his buddies:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0060.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0060.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


A night sky with a nice shot of the Statue of Liberty at New York-New York:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0065.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0065.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


Jim

[QB93Z]

Day 16 - Driving to Mesa, Arizona:

We left Las Vegas right after sunrise and headed southeast to Mesa Arizona. Most of the trip was on US-93, some of which was built recently and didn't show up on my in-dash Pioneer GPS unit. I guess it is time to update the maps.

Interesting landscape on the way to Hoover Dam:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0093.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0093.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)

Lake Mead (again):


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0108.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0108.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


If you are paying attention you will realize that this is the third time we have made part of this drive My original plan for this Road Trip was: Death Valley, Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Mesa. I had made all the reservations in that order. Then I found out that the Grand Canyon Railway ran the steam locomotive only on the first Saturday of each month, so we had to change the sequence to Death Valley, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Mesa. We enjoyed see Lake Mead three times.


As we got south of I-40, we saw an increasing number of Saguaro Cactus:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0138.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0138.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



We took a side trip to Wickenburg, AZ, a nice looking town with a population of about 6,300 people. We may stop in again in a future trip. One interesting attractions in Wickenburg is the the Jail Tree. Before the town could afford to build a jail, outlaws were chained to a tree in the middle of the town:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0168.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0168.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0169.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_169.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



The Phoenix skyline that we passed on the way to Mesa:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0182_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0182_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


Jim

[secondchance]

Bond in Vegas was in Diamonds are forever in 71. He drives around in a 71 Mach 1, I think.

[Jagdpanzer]

https://youtu.be/9yOamj4mlnE


Sent from my iPhone using ZR-1 Net Registry (http://r.tapatalk.com/byo?rid=90383)

[QB93Z]

Good find Phil...We never found the $1.17 breakfast.

We are in Mesa, AZ, just relaxing. I will post some more pics, but we will have to do something interesting for that to happen.

Jim

[QB93Z]

Day 17 - In Mesa Arizona:

We are staying at the Painted Mountain Resort, one of the resorts in the Westgate timeshare network.


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0022.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0022.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0019_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0019_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


Mesa, AZ has a climate that supports a lot of flowering plants and cactus.


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0020_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0020_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0001_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0001_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



Jim

[QB93Z]

Day 18 - Visit to Phoenix Art Museum

We drove from Mesa to Phoenix to visit the Phoenix Art Museum


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0054_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0054_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0212_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0212_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


One of my favorite displays was the miniature rooms created by Narcissa Niblack Thorne, who spent a life time collecting miniature furniture and miniature decor items. With the assistance of a fine art wood worker, she created amazing 1 inch to 1 foot room settings of many different fashion periods from the 1700's, through the 20th century.


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0126_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0126_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


Jim

[BlackSheepz]

I signed into the registry for the first time in a while today and am tickled to have found that you are on a trip! We did the Grand Canyon and Williams Arizona road trip last year and we really enjoyed it! (*ours was not by choice though, a medical issue meant we had to drive a rental car from California to Indiana after flying to California....) Excited to see how the rest of your trip turns out and don't forget Indianapolis is still not passable via I70! (You will have to do 456 around, OR take another route).

Safe Travels!

[QB93Z]

Day 19 - at Mesa:

For our morning activity, we drove east from Mesa to see the sights on the Apache Trail. The Apache Trail is an Arizona State Scenic Highway (AZ-88). Most of AZ-88 is in the Tonto National Forest.

Our first stop was to visit Goldfield Ghost Town, the remains of an active gold mine that operated from 1892 to 1898. There are a lot of mining equipment and buildings, an operating tourist train, stores, restaurants, gift shops, a jail, gold panning, native American art and jewelry, 2 churches, and other tourist attractions.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0014_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0014_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



Lyndi in front of a steam powered tractor on Main Street:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0027.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0027.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



Mine equipment:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0090.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0090.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



The Apache trail winded its way through the mountains and landscapes with many Saguaro Cactus. Canyon Lake is one of four reservoirs that were formed by the damming of the Salt River in the U.S. state of Arizona as part of the Salt River Project. It was formed by the Mormon Flat Dam, which was completed in 1925 after two years of construction.


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0374.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0374.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



We stopped for lunch in the town of Tortilla Flat, at the Superstition Saloon.


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0453.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0453.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0438.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0438.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


Jim

[QB93Z]

Day 20 at Mesa, AZ

We stayed at the resort today, swimming at the pool and enjoying watching the golfers. The Manager at the Lounge gave us some fish food to feed the wild life in the fairway pond:



https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0003(1).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0003(1).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)




https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0011_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0011_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)




https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0028_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0028_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0033_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0033_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



We had dinner with friends of ours from home who are in Phoenix temporarily:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0062.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0062.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


Jim

[QB93Z]

Day 21 at Mesa, AZ - Visit to the Phoenix Zoo

From our resort on the east side of Mesa, it is just about a 25 minute drive to the Phoenix Zoo. On the way, we saw Hole in the Rock. There is a popular trail up to the arch that forms the "hole". Visitors to the attraction have to have a permit to climb the trail.


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0021_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0021_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


The Hole in the Rock can also be seen from the Zoo parking Lot:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0031_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0031_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


The Phoenix Zoo is a nice zoo. We had a wonderful time seeing all the animals. The habitats for the animals are well designed and the animals appear to be well cared-for. The zoo is well supported by the community and has lots of special programs on their schedule.

The big cats are always our favorite animals and we were not disappointed. The large male was fairly active for short periods. By returning to his display several times, Lyndi got some nice pictures:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0524_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0524_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0537_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0537_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


The Jaguar was very active, climbing around on a multi-platform habitat and interacting with the people:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0897_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0897_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


The Rhino was very active most of the morning:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0178_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0178_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


At the tortoise exhibit, a family had paid for a special treat of feeding the tortoises. The favorite food was carrots. Each child had a pair of kitchen tongs to present the carrot to the Tortoise:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0418_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0418_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


This rare Maned Wolf is very appealing:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0723_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0723_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


This Adean Bear climbed to the top of his tree and found a comfortable position:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0792_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0792_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


Jim

[WARP TEN]

The animal pictures are terrific Lyndi. You are a great photographer! ---Bob

[tgonyaw]

Great pictures and stories!
It's really nice of you to let us travel along with you!

[QB93Z]

Day 22 - Mesa

Thanks for the comments. We will be leaving Mesa tomorrow, so we relaxed today, did some shopping and got the ZR-1 loaded for an early departure.


Here is a map of our return route. The stops are all 1 day, with the exception of 5 days in Branson, MO. We will be averaging about 350 miles per day so we will have time for sightseeing along the way.


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/2022_DV_LV_Return_Map.png?width=undefined&height=undefined&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/2022_DV_LV_Return_Map.png?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)


Jim

[QB93Z]

Day 23 - Drive to Deming, NM

Our first sightseeing stop of the day was in South Tucson. We visited the Pima Air and Space Museum.


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0240.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0240.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0241_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0241_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



The first display if the Wright Brothers first airplane (A replica, since the original in in the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum in Washington DC):

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0257.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0257.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



This hand-made tiny plane is listed as capable of 185 MPH:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0258_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0258_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



Some of the hundreds of planes and artifacts on display in several large hangers and many more planes displayed out doors.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0265.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0265.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


One of the Blue Angles jets that the museum has:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0268.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0268.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


A carrier based fighter jet:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0287.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0287.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


One of my favorite planes, the SR-71 Blackbird:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0326_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0326_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



Lyndi enjoyed the display of civilian airlines vintage uniforms:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0357_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0357_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



There are many, many more planes outside and in other hangers:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0368.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0368.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


to be continued......

[QB93Z]

Another major portion of the Pima Air & Space Museum is an entire hanger devoted to honoring the Second World War, Air Crews and Ground crews that flew the B-17 Bombers. The display focused on one B-17 from the 390th Bomber Squadron. I encourage everyone to visit the museum and learn about the amazing accomplishments of these men.



https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0382_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0382_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


Jim

[QB93Z]

The second stop for the day was at the Titan II ICBM National Monument.


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0400_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0400_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


This site is the last remaining Titan II ICBM launch site. During the Cold War, the Titan II system provided a robust nuclear launch capability that was part of the US Triade of nuclear missiles. The area around Tucson, NM had 18 missile silos that were in service from 1963 to 1987. After the collapse of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War, the Titan II were removed and the silos destroyed.

The one preserved silo complex is a very meaningful part of US history. To see the missile complex, visitors take a 90 minute guided tour.



https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0418.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0418.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0425.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0425.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


The missile on display was de-fueled, the warhead was removed, the rocket motors were removed, and the rocket was returned to the silo.



https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0436.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0436.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)




https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0439.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0439.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0445.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0445.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



Jim

[QB93Z]

Day 24 - Change of Plans

The plan for today was to drive from Deming, NM to White Sands National Park to drive on the dunes (a little bit), then drive to Carlsbad, NM to check in, then drive to Carlsbad Canyon National Park to see the Bat Flyout from the canyon at sun set.
Problem 1: Brush fires near Alamogordo, NM cause traffic restrictions north of Las Cruces.

Problem 2: When Lyndi call the Park to get a rough idea of the Bat Flyout would occur. She found that the bats migrate in the winter (who knew?) and the program is closed until May.
So we decided to cancel our Saturday stay in Carlsbad, and drive all the way to Wichita Falls, TX on Saturday. They we could add a day to our Branson Lakes Resort stay.

So we drove 691 miles, about 12 hours and a time zone change, and the Purple ZR-1 now has more than 92,000 miles on it.

Jim

[Jagdpanzer]

Watch out driving your Corvette in sand as this knucklehead learned
https://youtu.be/sulQtCiHRrE


Sent from my iPhone using ZR-1 Net Registry (http://r.tapatalk.com/byo?rid=90383)

[QB93Z]

Good catch Phil. We would only drive on the edge and then take pictures.

Jim

[QB93Z]

Day 25 Drive to Branson, MO

We left Wichita Falls early and drove to our next stop in Branson, Mo.
We drove north and picked up I-44 (RT 66 historic highway). A morning view of Oklahoma City:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0003_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_003_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



After several weeks on flat desert and prairie, the Ozark Mountains gave us some pleasant views:



https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0020_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0020_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



We got to Branson at about 2:00PM and checked in. Here is an view of Table Rock Lake from our balcony :


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0001(1).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0001(1).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


Jim

[QB93Z]

Day 26 - Hanging Out in Branson

Here is a view of the Resort we are in:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0102_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0102_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


We spent the morning relaxing, then we drove to downtown to the area called Branson Landing, located on the White River:

There is an up-scale "Mall" with plenty of retail opportunities and interesting displays:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0062_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0062_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


We found a restaurant owned by Guy Fieri, one of Lyndi's favorite Chefs:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0087.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0087.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


We went in to have a beer and Lyndi found Guy Fieri:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0078_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0078_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


In the evening, we watched the sunset in the Ozark Mountains:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0106_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0106_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


Jim

[QB93Z]

Day 27 - at Branson

Our adventure for Tuesday was to ride the Branson Scenic Railway. The trip through the Ozark Mountains begins in downtown Branson and runs about 20 miles into Arkansas, and then reversing direction to return to Branson.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0145.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0145.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



Our train was nine cars long with three Vista-Dome cars and a locomotive at each end:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0058_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0058_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


Scenery along the right of way:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0061.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0061.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


A view of Walnut Creek:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0106.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0106.JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)
South bound on a curve:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0097_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0097_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


After the train ride, we returned to Hollister and a beer in the 114 year old Pour House:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0153_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0153_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


Branson is hosting a Custom Car Auction this coming weekend. Unfortunately we will miss the festivities since we will be on the road heading east. We did see this stunning car in Hollister:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0152_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0152_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



Jim

[QB93Z]

Day 28 at Branson

Crummy weather and thunder storms today. We didn't do anything outside and just enjoyed some down time.

Jim

[QB93Z]

Day 29 - at Branson

The day started out cool and rainy, so we visited the resort indoor pool for some swimming exercise.
We got a phone call from Paul Workman who lives about an hour from Branson. We set up to have lunch in Hollister at our favorite pub.

While we were waiting for Paul, we enjoyed the flowers that are blooming near the train station. We got to see the Branson Scenic Railway headed South:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0029_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0029_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0006_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0006_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


It was really nice to meet Paul and talk about old times. Thanks Paul for making the trip over to Branson.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0036_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0036_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


In the afternoon we stopped at a Wal-Mart for supplies and found this 1995 or 1996 Dark Purple C-4 Corvette. We waited a few minutes but we didn't get to talk to the owners so I left my card and we took some pictures:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0049_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0049_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


Jim

[viper107]

What's the odds? Unreal what a great trip you guys

[WARP TEN]

Great that you were able to meet up with Paul, Jim. But Paul, couldn't you get a "PHOENIX" license plate in Missouri? Your car looks naked without it! --Bob

[QB93Z]

Day 30 - at Branson

We expected great weather for today so we headed out early to visit the Table Rock Lake Dam and then hike along the lake to take in the scenery. Construction of the Dam was completed in 1959. It is 252 feet high and Table Rock Lake covers 43,160 acres with 745 mile shore line:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0010_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0010_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


The Shore line of the lake is interesting because the lake "bottom" is composed on horizontal rock layers the are easily visible on the surrounding landscape. This is the source of the name Table Rock Lake:



https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0033_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0033_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


At the area near the dam there is a well maintained hiking road that follows the shoreline from the dam to the Table Rock Lake State Park Marina. The trees and bushes and wold life along the shore are interesting. I watched this bird cruising the water but neer saw it grap a fish:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0036_(4).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0036_(4).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0080_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0080_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


One of the tourist highlights is the Showboat Branson Belle. We saw the Belle being loaded but when we came by the landing later in the day, The Belle was still at the dock. It turns out that the winds on the lake were to high to allow the Belle to leave the dock.


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0054_(4).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0054_(4).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


The Table Rock Lake State Park has a very large Marina. We visited and bought T-Shirts but the Marina wasn't very busy today.


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0091_(4).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0091_(4).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)


Jim

[QB93Z]

Day 31 We left Branson early and headed East for the first day of the drive to Maryland. The weather was warm but very windy. I don't know if the winds caused this cloud formation, but it was interesting:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0031_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0031_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)

The fields are starting to grow:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0078_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0078_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



We drove north on I-44 then in SE St Louis we turned on to I-64 East. We got a nice view of the Arch:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0019_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0019_(3).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



Our destination for this leg of the trip was Corydon, Indiana, just west of Louisville, KY. Corydon is a nice small town with a well restored downtown city square. Corydon has the distinction of being the first State Capital of Indiana:


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0165_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0165_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



After we checked in to our hotel we walked over the a near-by hamburger restaurant called FlipDaddy's. It was a really nice place to toast the day. I spotted Bacon on the menu and ordered some. We got a pan with bacon strips. There were sweet brown sugar glaze bacon and sweet glaze with spicy pepper bacon. It was great!


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0174_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_01740_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)



Jim

[QB93Z]

Day 32 Heading Home

We drove from Corydon, IN to Charleston, WV which was going to be an over-night stop, but we decided to push on and made it Home on Sunday Evening.

Over-all our trip covered 15 states in 32 days. We drove 6,813 miles. The Purple Z now has 94,125 miles on the odometer.

The only technical issue was low AC Freon on the last day. We made a quick stop at AutoZone to get a charging can. Problem solved!

The trip was a success. Only a couple of adjustments of lodging. We enjoyed all of the places we visited and added some things to our Bucket List for a future trip.

Thank you for all of the nice comments.

Jim & Lyndi

SEE THE USA IN A CHEVROLET!

[tf95ZR1]

Well Done!

[efnfast]

Welcome home.

[crossfire]

Glad you made it home safely. So many beautiful pics, it was kind of you to share the awesome memories. Well done.

[HAWAIIZR-1]

Wow Jim! You sure are living the dream?.
Thanks for sharing your adventure and photos. Glad to hear you are home safely.


Sent from my iPhone using ZR-1 Net Registry (http://r.tapatalk.com/byo?rid=90383)

[fastpace]

Looks like a good trip Jim! Wish I would have seen it sooner, my parents live in Hollister and could have given you some tips and a place to stop if you needed to check anything out on the car. Looks like you hit a couple highlights and enjoyed the Ozarks.

[tgonyaw]

Amazed at the wide open country spaces. Yes to the bacon strips!
:)

[staminqia]

Jim, looks like you had great fun and the purple Z did you well!

[evolutionross]

Welcome Home Jim and Lyndi! Looks like an epic trip!

[WARP TEN]

...After we checked in to our hotel we walked over the a near-by hamburger restaurant called FlipDaddy's. It was a really nice place to toast the day. I spotted Bacon on the menu and ordered some. We got a pan with bacon strips. There were sweet brown sugar glaze bacon and sweet glaze with spicy pepper bacon. It was great!


https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_0174_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/pp152/QB93Z/DSC_01740_(2).JPG?width=960&height=540&fit=bounds)

Jim

Does this sound familiar? --Bob

[QB93Z]

Yep, that's me.

Jim