Wednesday, May 9, 2018

West Coast Bound

Camped in Rock Springs, WY at an “events” complex. It was time to charge battery & get a REAL shower. Looks like they have regional rodeos & such at this place; Campground had 1,200 spots. With our 9.5’ slide in, there were six spots taken. Quiet and restful.

Got up early and drove hard toward Craters of the Moon National Monument. Southern Idaho vistas are much more varied and pleasing. It’s no surprise to most of you that snow-capped mountains are my thing.

We were so far off the beaten path that we had to share the road with a herd of sheep early in the day. Didn’t get to Craters until late afternoon. The wind was whipping pretty steadily over the petrified magma. I walked the loop solo (Greg has a hip bothering him) then we drove through the park—a large area of blackened remains from volcanic activity 2,500 years ago. Couldn’t help but think about the current volcanic activity in Hawaii. Earth changes; life changes. And then the cycle repeats. 


Found another state park campground off  the beaten path...Bruneau Dunes. Because of its remote location, there is little to no light pollution, so it’s renown in the stargazing community. There is even an observatory which is only open on weekends right now. We turned in early and were confusedly jarred awake by jet afterburn—sounded like top gunners at play. Found out the next morning that’s exactly what it was! Nearby Mountain Home AFB apparently had nighttime exercises. 


Another long day of driving put us in Tillamook in time for dinner. We are looking forward to staying put and visiting with Hannah & Nick for a few days.

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