Before we knew it we were researching/searching for trailers. Which led to more YouTube videos. This time of bumper pull trailers flipping trucks. A 5th wheel it is! We looked at several used trailers, since a new one was not even remotely in our budget. Nor did it make sense, with how fast they depreciate. The only problem is that trailers require lots of maintenance, meaning they tend to leak, which means they tend to rot. Finally, at the end of November, we found the one. A 2005 Frontier Explorer. It was exactly what we needed. A 32ft 5th wheel with a bunk room in the back, giving the boys their own bedroom/closet area. Perfect! Even better--it was owned by an older gentleman who had owned trailers for 40 years. He knew maintenance, and the trailer was very well-taken care of. Best of all--in our budget!
So now we had the trailer, and it was time to make some concrete plans! All of our reservations were made in January (necessary when everywhere you're going is high traffic in peak season). Then came the planning. Oh, the planning! I did nothing else until we left. Everything revolved around the trip. Food/meal planning was a big one. It was certainly not in our budget to eat out every meal--especially since now our plan involved 40(!) days on the road. Nor did our schedule if we were going to see everything we wanted to see. So, for months I canned food--gumbo, pork roast, taco meat, chili, veggies. And during that time, we planned routes, agendas, and logistics. All 3 kids got digital cameras for Christmas to keep them busy during the trip and document it from their perspective (a great idea, by the way). All 5 of us had hydration backpacks to carry all day everyday. Between the altitude and dry air, we drank gallons upon gallons of water. Every morning, I packed 5 backpacks with lunch and snacks to make it through the day. Everyone carried all of their own "provisions" for the whole day. It saved time, and "I'm hungry" wasn't a problem that wasted time or killed a plan or mood. Looking back, food was the main theme of that trip. All the cooking before, the packing backpacks everyday, and the time I spent making sure everyone was fed. I learned a long time ago that with my bunch, food is very important. Not to mention, we were doing 12-14 hour days of go, go, go, so we needed our energy! Of course, for Mom, that meant bed around 11pm, and up by 5 to cook a "real" breakfast and start either packing backpacks or packing up the trailer to travel. Travel days meant each boy got a gallon ziploc bag with all of their truck snacks for the day, and usually a packed lunch as well. Occasionally, I would fix a lunch in the trailer while we fueled, to eat once we were back on the road. Seriously, food was at the forefront of everything! We ended up buying meals out on only 5 occasions that entire trip.
After 9 months of planning and dreaming, we pulled out of the driveway at noon on June 15. The water was turned off, mail was stopped, Belle (the lab/dane mix) was at Grandma's house, and we were ready!
During that first Summer Trip, I kept a journal--the first half was day by day. After that, I caught it up after the fact, but I am so glad I did! I love having it to read now and remember things that I would have forgotten. I've decided to copy that into this blog. Beware, it is long, but I want it here for the future. Read it, or skip right over, your choice! Fun fact--we did this entire trip with NO SMARTPHONE!! Hard to imagine now!
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June 15
After almost a year of planning, and weeks of packing, we left at 12 noon--a full hour ahead of schedule! Headed North to Lake Murvaul outside of Gary, TX to spend the night. Cade was at Camp Pirtle for BSA Summer Camp on the lake, and we were going for closing ceremonies. It was just a small little RV Park, but it was perfect for what we needed for the night. We took Kyler and Coy swimming for a couple of hours, had dinner (stew meat and oven roasted potatoes), and went to Camp to get Cade.
Closing ceremonies at Camp Pirtle is like a very entertaining show--loud, rowdy, and fun. Coy and Kyler couldn’t have enjoyed it more had we paid for tickets to a show. There were funny skits and lots of singing and dancing with the very energetic, young, staff, all at top volume. To close the week, they had an Order of the Arrow call out ceremony, which is neat. Everyone is led, single file, by two boys dressed in full Indian dress, carrying torches, to another area. Everyone makes a very large circle where more boys in dress tell the legend that is behind the Order of the Arrow. Then, one by one, they call the names of the boys that are being added. It is all very solemn and quiet, and at the end, everyone simply leaves quietly.
We lucked out at our little RV Park--there was a washer and dryer room next to our trailer space--perfect for washing a week’s worth of stinky, got wet in the rain, Boy Scout Camp clothes and bedding. I was very glad to get it all out of the way before we headed out the next morning
June 16
We had a somewhat leisurely morning before we headed out of Gary around 11 or so to head to Eisenhower State Park in Denison, TX. One fuel stop, one trip to Walmart, where we made lunch in the parking lot, and we were on our way. I navigated, and we arrived easily late afternoon. Got set up without any fuss, and then realized we weren’t level. Sooo, we took it all down, and did it all again to get it right. Went for a short walk, and made pork chops and broccoli for supper while Cade went fishing.
June 17
Dennis and I were up at 7 Sunday morning to enjoy some peace and quiet time. I went for a short jog, and let the boys sleep in. Kyler was up when I got back, but the older two slept until just after 10, when Kyler woke them up. Eggs, bacon, and toast for breakfast outside. Had some silly time cutting up and eating on a watermelon, then it was time to go swimming. We had to drive over to the swimming area, and hike down the rocky trail to the beach. The swimming area was a little cove in the cliffs and very rocky. That water was COLD! But, it was hot enough outside, that you could adjust, and stand to be in it. I never thought I’d willingly stay in water that cold! After playing in the water a little while, Dennis and I were sitting in the shade, watching the boys, and a three foot snake slithered out from a rock, not two feet from us. It sort of made an arc around us, and slithered off behind us. I was a little nervous after that. Not 10 minutes later, someone spotted a centipede--it was 6-7 inches long, and scary looking! The boys loved checking it out, and chasing it around--it really was pretty cool, and fast! Cade and I spotted a catfish in the water, that was moving pretty slow. So, here comes Dennis, and they decide Cade’s going to pick it up--by sticking his thumb in his mouth. After a few failed attempts, he finally brought the 17 inch catfish out of the water. All the kids around took turns touching it, feeling of its skin.
Once we were done swimming, we headed back to relax, and Dennis went for a jog/circuit workout. The kids had more snacks (it's what they do), and played a few games while I started typing this. So far, we’re enjoying our trip, and ready to head out tomorrow for Palo Duro Canyon. Later the same day, we went for a short walk before supper, and spotted a tarantula crossing the road ahead of us. The boys loved that! They chased rabbits, and we saw a roadrunner. After a supper of leftover roasted chicken and stew meat with rice and oven roasted potatoes, we built a fire and had s'mores. Kyler and Dennis went to a clearing and watched a deer eat, and then we watched an owl that flew over and sat right above our heads. Before bed, baths for all, and more Lanacane itch cream on Kyler. He has at least 30 chigger bites, half of which are in his underwear. Coy has a few, but no where near as many as Kyler. I ended up giving Kyler a dose of Benadryl so he could sleep and not scratch himself raw overnight. He still woke up at 1am for more cream.
June 18
Coy woke up in tears, itching, himself about 3:45am, so I gave him some Benadryl as well. He was a little harder to wake up this morning, but in good spirits. I baked a banana/blueberry oatmeal crisp for breakfast to eat on the road. We had shadow wars in the road while Dennis finished dumping the tanks on the trailer, and watched fox squirrels play as we left. They’ve all eaten breakfast, and now they want more food--the theme of this trip! Several fuel stops, and a broken brake plug repair in a parking lot later we decided to only spend one night at Palo Duro Canyon, and take two days to travel to the Grand Canyon. We were getting really worried about trying to make it in only one day.
We FINALLY arrived at Palo Duro Canyon SP, and made our way down to the campground. It was a scary ride! 10% grade, towing the trailer down the twisty canyon road--the boys loved it, of course. We unhooked, had Gumbo for dinner, and drove around to take pictures and see what we could before dark. We arrived about 6pm, and it was 110-112 degrees down in the canyon where we were. It was well after 9 before it was dark, so we had plenty of time to see enough. It's crazy! There’s not so much as a dirt pile for a hundred miles in any direction, and then the bottom falls out and there’s this beautiful canyon. Amazing.
Kyler’s belly button chigger bites were concerning us--starting to look like cellulitis setting in. We drew a circle around the red spot (1-2” in all directions around the center. It was swollen and gross looking, so we made plans to find a clinic Tuesday morning before heading toward Albuquerque. Got everyone showered, and I sat outside and let my hair and towels air dry--super fast in the lack of humidity. Coy and Cade have started sitting at the table at night and writing down their thoughts of the day. Its fun to listen to them rehash the day and talk about their favorite parts, usually giving themselves the giggles. Benadryl for the itchers, and off to bed for a semi-early morning.
June 19
Up at 6 for me, getting everything ready for the day. Sat outside enjoying the cool air and wind while I put on my makeup. Made Cade and Coy grilled Peanut Butter and Banana sandwiches for breakfast. Coy sat at the table and painted himself up with nail polish to try and get relief from his bites. Kyler’s belly is looking better--the red is almost gone, and the center doesn’t look as angry. So, we’ve decided to watch it today, and if we need to, find a clinic in Albuquerque this evening. We made another run to Walmart in Amarillo for a few things and headed West on I-40. Didn’t get too far, until we saw Cadillac Ranch and decided we had to stop--so glad we did! I think the boys really thought it was cool. They took turns spray-painting their names on the cars, and even climbed on one of them. The wind was brutal!
It only took 5 days, but we FINALLY MADE IT OUT OF TEXAS!!!
And about 60 miles in, near Newkirk, on I-40, we had a blowout on the trailer. We took the next exit, and pulled into an empty lot to change it. Less than 30 min later, we were on the road again, looking for a tire shop to replace it, and the other one on the same side that was also bulging. Drove 25 miles to Santa Rosa, NM, and found a big rig shop that had tires for us. Waited for about 3 hrs at the truck stop next door with the kids while Dennis stayed with the truck/trailer having the tires changed. $525 later, and we were back on the road, headed for Grants, to stop for the night.
We had decided that morning, that we wanted to get on the other side of Albuquerque for the night, which would put us about halfway to the Grand Canyon. About 20 miles before Grants, we saw a sign for a casino with RV sites and full hook ups for $10 night, so we decided to call it quits for the day. The boys had been so good all day, but they were starting to wear thin. They had great fun once we got there throwing rocks at a trash can in the gravel lot where we were parked. Nothing fancy, but cheap, and water for showers, electricity for A/C and sewer for dumping the tanks. We’re all having trouble adjusting to the super dry air--we’re thirsty all the time, our noses are dried out, lips are chapped, and my skin is drying out fast. Lots of coconut oil for me!
June 20
A cool, sunny, dry, and windy morning to get us started--sooo nice! We all had oatmeal for breakfast to celebrate the cooler air. Today, we make it to the Grand Canyon! Should take about 6 hrs, but could be a long day--Kyler just asked “Are we there yet?” Oy.
After 3 days in a row, with some stressful hours in there, they were definitely wearing thin. We finally made it into Grand Canyon NP around 4 or so, I guess. We entered on the East side, which is at Desert View. We jumped out, Dennis threatened all the boys with bodily harm after the way they were acting in the truck, and we set off down the sidewalk to the look out area. Wow. You just can’t imagine what its like until you are there. It's incredible. I have been so afraid that the kids would not be impressed. That has not been a problem--they love it.
We climbed up the lookout tower’s four flights of stairs, amidst people from all over the world to see the view. Then, back in the truck for the last 25 miles (at 40mph and less) to get to Grand Canyon Village and our campground. Got all set up without any trouble, ate tacos, and set off to see the sunset.
Grand Canyon NP has a fantastic set up of shuttle buses that run on 3 or so routes through the park. You just hop on, and ride to where you want to go. So very nice that Dennis can relax, and we don’t have to drive, and park, and then walk to the different points of interest. We just throw on our hydration packs full of water and food, and take the bus. We were a little late for the sunset, so we missed the main show, which is really before the sun actually goes down, but it was still impressive. We were able to see a different view of the canyon than our first, and it was grand to see the light shining on the walls, even for just a few minutes. All of the travel irritations slipped away, when Coy, sitting at the edge of the rim, said “This is so cool.” That made it all worth it. We rode one bus, and did a little walking to get back to our trailer. Once the sun goes down, it cools off FAST!! The low for the night was forecast to be 55.
June 21
I was up at 5:45, getting ready to go do laundry (yay!) Now I remember why I stay on top of it at home--5 days worth is a lot to do at once. Dennis dropped me off at the laundry house, and I rode the bus back when I was done. Got the boys up for breakfast, packed backpacks with food, and took off to explore. We walked about ½ mile to the visitor center, and caught the bus to a lookout point. That route kept us busy all day. We would get off, walk to the lookout, take pictures, see the view, and then catch the next bus to the next lookout. That took about 5 hours or so. It was in the sun all day (I got a little too much, but not too bad).
Everyone talks about how hot the GC is in summer. Down in the canyon is much hotter than the rim, but the rim (where we are) is plenty comfortable. Yesterday afternoon was 6% humidity, and at sunrise this morning, it was 10%. There is a constant breeze, so the 88 or so degrees are not uncomfortable for us at all. Tonight is forecast to be 49.
On the walk back from the visitor center, Kyler decided he’d had enough, and tried to refuse to walk back. Well, mean parents that we are, we made him walk, because the bus route back would take 45 minutes to reach our campground. He began to cry, and set himself up for a migraine. We got back, he laid down for about 10 minutes, and then started vomiting, and crying. He finally calmed down, and slept for about 2 hours. Dennis took the other two to the Star party. There is an astronomy club here doing presentations this week. They present, and have their giant telescopes for everyone to use to look at the stars and planets. I’m sure they are going to love that.
We are hoping to go see the sunrise in the morning. I would hate to leave having not seen it. Either we’ll all go together, or Dennis and I will leave them here asleep. Kyler says he wants to go, so we’ll see. I’m ready to climb in to bed now at 7:30--this time change is killing me! And the sun I got today has worn me out.
Dennis and the boys came back early--Coy had another epic nosebleed. The dry air and altitude seem to really be bothering him. So much for early to bed--it was after 11 when I crawled in.
June 22
Up at 4am to watch the sunrise. Cade and I went, just us. Left at 4:15, walked the ½ mile to the Visitor Center where we caught the bus to Mathers Point. It was a neat experience to watch the sun come up over the North Rim, and we took tons of pictures. It was cold until the sun starting warming things up. We saw several elk along the way--and shared the path with them. Cade and I walked the ¾ mile back to the trailer where Dennis and Kyler were just waking up at 6:30. After breakfast, we rode the Orange route bus to see a few new overlooks, and pick out our sunset viewing area for our last night. After an early dinner, we headed back to Yaki Point to watch the sun go down. It was beautiful. After sunset, we rode the bus back to Visitor Center for the Star Party. There were lots of huge telescopes set up in two different parking lots where we got to see Mars, Saturn, Mercury, stars, and the Moon. The boys liked that, I think. Back to the trailer for bed--early morning coming.
All day the altitude had me feeling puny off and on in waves. A little like the early months of pregnancy. Ick.
June 23
Dennis and I were up at 4:30 to get ready to pull out for Las Vegas. The kids weren’t happy about it one bit, but they’re troopers. They had grilled cheese sandwiches and milk in the truck for breakfast as we got on the road at 6:15. Cade went back to sleep, and we had a nice, quiet drive, only stopping once before Hoover Dam.
At the dam, we had to park way up the road because of our trailer, and then walk down to the dam. It was pretty hot, but neat to be that close. The uphill going back got to Kyler until we let him know that the KOA in Vegas had a pool.
30 more miles, and we were there--and HOT!!! After being at the Grand Canyon, the black asphalt of LV was hot. Very hot. Our “campground” was a wide open black asphalt parking lot. Our poor A/C was having trouble cooling off the trailer. We immediately put on our swimsuits and headed across said parking lot to the pool. How on earth a pool can have water that cold when its that hot outside, is beyond me! It was freakishly hot outside, water was cold, but when you got wet, and got out of the water, you were cold until you dried off--crazy! We had leftovers for supper, and headed to the strip!
The boys were just soaking it all in as we walked. And walked. We stopped to watch the Treasure Island show, which was not what we were expecting, but had explosions and fire, so the boys were ok. We headed to the Mirage, and watched the volcano go off--more fire and noise, with no dancing, so they really liked that one. After that, we went into Mirage to get drinks to energize the boys to walk some more. We walked through the shops at Caesar’s Palace, watched the statue “show” about the fall of Atlantis, and enjoyed the fish tank. After that, it was on to the Bellagio to watch the fountains. After all that walking, we finally crossed the street and made use of our bus pass to get back to Circus Circus, where we walked the ½ mile from the street, back through the casino, and to our trailer. By then it was almost midnight, and we were exhausted from a long day of travel, and lots of walking.
June 24
YAY! Finally a morning that we could sleep in! Dennis and I slept until about 8, Kyler maybe 9, and the other two closer to 11. Kyler was awake, but not happy about it--he lay on the couch and groaned and moaned for an hour and a half before I’d finally had enough. Pumpkin crisp for breakfast, and we headed back out to see more. This time we caught the first bus, and rode south to New York New York. The boys really like the bus, because it’s a double decker--so we always had to ride on the upper level. They weren’t real impressed with New York, and they were getting hungry, so we set off to find food! Ended up making everyone happy with Panda Express. We also walked through Paris and the Venetian, where they got to see the gondolas and human statues, and headed back for the pool, via what seemed like 100 escalators.
While the boys swam, I did a little laundry. Then it was time for dinner, and after--Fremont Street.
Fremont is crazy! Very street party--lots of people, live music, and the screen above the street with the videos/light show going. We took it all in, and went into a couple shops for the boys to get their Las Vegas souveniers. Kyler asked to be carried, and we could tell we were losing him, so we decided to call it a night and head back via taxi, since our bus pass had expired. The front door service we got to our trailer was sure worth the $15 not to have to walk back through the casino and across the parking lot!
Once we got back it was time to clean up and get everything ready to leave early the next morning. Food has to be packed for the day, and everything has to be put away. Kids to bed at 10, and us at 11. These nights of 5 and 6 hours sleep are rough!
June 25
Up at 5 for Dennis and I to unhook and get the kids up about 5:40, and in the truck before their eyes open with their fresh cinnamon rolls, bacon, and milk. Missed our turn for I-15, and spent the next 25 minutes trying to get there. Oh well, Cade and Coy were asleep, so it was quiet. Had to stop at the border for agriculture inspection. Drove for what seemed like hours through the desert. Stopped for fuel, finally, and back on the road. Oh, and all of California is 55mph for trailers--that’s a lot of miles at 55mph!! The kids really are good travelers, but they sure have their moments where they start irritating each other, which in turn, drives us nuts! Kyler has really been giving everyone hell the last week. I don’t know if its growing pains, or attitude, but we’re all ready to strangle him. We seem to be making good time today. It's 12:45, and we should be at Sequoia Ranch, where we're staying, in a couple hours, maybe a little less.
We arrived around 2, to find an absolutely beautiful campground. There is a river (creek) running directly behind the campsites. Its clear, and shallow, and babbling over the river rocks. Just enough grasses alongside the edge to make it feel lush. I never want to leave. The temperature is pleasant. Warm, but not hot, and we’re at 900ft elevation. Tomorrow we’ll head up to see the trees. Tonight its gumbo for dinner, and we won’t even have to sweat while we eat!
June 26
After checking the road construction information in the park, we decided to head out early. Dennis and I were up at 5, and the boys at 5:45. Eggs, bacon and toast for breakfast, and we were on the road at 6:30. It was about 50 at our campsite. I’d checked the weather for Sequoia NP, and it forecasted 50/90 for the day, so we dressed in shorts and hoodies. Its only about 15 miles to the park entrance but then another probably 15 miles into the Giant Forest--a 6500ft elevation change, and all twisty, turny, narrow, hairpin turns. Between the elevation change and roads, I was green by the time we made it to the Giant Forest. I decided then and there we would see what there was to see in one day, and not make the trip again the next.
These trees are amazing. You’re driving through a typical mountain forest, nothing out of the ordinary, then suddenly, there they are, interspersed among pines, and “normal” trees. They are massive. I can’t imagine what it must have been like to have discovered them long ago. We parked at the Giant Forest Museum, which didn’t open for about 45 minutes or so. We got out to walk around, take pictures, and wait--and FROZE!! We later found out the forecast for THAT part of the park was 44/66! It felt like February. We found a patch of sun, and tried to keep warm. Without the humidity, the sun made all the difference.
Once we explored the visitor center, we took the shuttle up to General Sherman. As you get off the bus, the first thing you see on the path is a fallen Sequoia that has a tunnel carved out to walk through. Once you pass through it, its only 150 yards or so until you are standing in front of the largest tree in the world. Unfortunately, the largest tree in the world is in a lot of shade at 9:30am, so it was COLD! We waited in a small sunny patch while a tour bus group finished their chat about the tree, and headed over to take pictures. I don’t think the boys grasped the enormity of it. Perhaps a trip like we’re on, where we are seeing so many amazing things, has dulled their senses. Or, they were just cold and tired. Hard to say. Kyler was cranky, for sure. We walked around some, getting closer to other giant trees, taking pictures, and trying to take it all in.
We caught the next bus, and went up to the Lodgepole visitor center to look around. On the maybe 10 minute drive, Kyler fell asleep, so we knew then he needed to catch up on some rest. We made it back to the truck, and began our descent, timed around the road construction, so we wouldn’t be stuck waiting on the side of the mountain for an hour or more. Just up the river from our campsite (still in the campground), was a swimming hole, complete with a boulder, and water deep enough to allow jumping off said boulder. I really wish the water had been at least a little warmer. The kids played in it, but they were blue. I ventured in a couple of times, because I couldn’t NOT get in, but wow! Melted snow sure is cold!!
Tonight was declared leftover, clean out the fridge night, so it was gumbo, stew meat and rice, and pork chops. We picked mint along the water, and are having it in tea. The kids have made friends in the campground, and are playing, having a grand time. We chatted with the neighbors for a while before heading to bed around 10:30.
June 27
Last night we declared today “sleep in” day, and boy was it nice! Dennis got up around 8:45. I decided to lay in bed for “just a few more minutes” and then woke up at 10! Kyler was up just a little before me, and Cade and Coy rolled out about 11. It was very much needed for all of us. I made banana nut muffins to use up some brown bananas, using what I could remember of my normal recipe. They turned out well, considering. We spent the day swimming, lazing, and relaxing by the crystal clear, sparkling water. It is as though someone dumped glitter into the sand. Its amazing how perfect this place is--none of us want to leave tomorrow. Kyler has made a friend his age named Nate that is parked right next to us--they have played non-stop for 2 days, and are not looking forward to separating. Coy has been playing with Jack and Jackson across the street, who are 10 years old. Oh well, we must move on for the next adventure.
June 28
We only have about a 3 hour drive today to get to our Yosemite base campground in Coarsegold, so we didn’t make it too early of a morning. We left the campground about 9:45, much to Kyler’s dismay. We’re making a quick stop at Walmart for fresh stuff before we finish the journey.
We arrived at the KOA in Coarsegold, set up, and went swimming.
(I’m updating now, on July 11, so I’ll do the best I can)
June 29
Up early, and headed to Yosemite at 7am after breakfast and packing food for the day. We drove the 20 miles or so into Yosemite, and turned right to go to the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. Took a .8 mile hike to the Grizzly Giant. Not as big as General Sherman, but to me, prettier. It had much more character in its branches. Then we headed back the other way, and stopped in Wawona to check out the hotel and visitor center there. Back in the truck again, and it was 25 more miles of non-stop curves. Seriously, non-stop, no relief. Our first stop was a lookout just before the tunnel. We finally reached the valley, a little green around the edges, for sure. We drove through the tunnel, then immediately stopped to take in the iconic tunnel view of the Half-Dome and Falls. Took a few pictures, tried not to get run over by Asians, and back in the truck. We made the short hike up to Bridal Veil Falls, which was pretty, and fun to see the waterfall up close. We continued on the trail a little further just enjoying the peaceful stream and rocks, and sun shining through the trees.
We parked in the large lot, and took the shuttle over to the Visitor Center where we watched the park video and looked around. Another shuttle to the trail head for the Lower Falls. A short hike, and we were standing on the bridge below the falls. There were loads of people wading through the stream, and making it look so refreshing! So, off the bridge, and into the water we went. That was the coldest water I’d felt in my life! It takes about 20 seconds for pain to set in, and 5 more seconds for numbness. It's insane!!
We made a stop at the gift shop, and trekked back to the truck. From there we headed to Glacier Point to take in the sites of the valley. After that we set off on the windy, long trip back to the campground. We decided somewhere along that trip that we’d come back the next day to do the north part of the park, and find a different way to Nevada, rather than tow the trailer back through the park, making 3 days in a row to drive that horrid drive. Made a quick stop for frozen pizza on the way back to have for dinner. It was a really long, 13 ½ hr day, and everyone was stretched pretty thin.
June 30
Off again to Yosemite, to see the northern part of the park. It took about 3 hours of driving (stressful driving for Dennis) before we were ready to stop at the first lookout/scenic view. Olmstead Point was pretty--reminded us a lot of Enchanted Rock. The kids liked it a lot, and had fun taking pictures that made it look like they were struggling to climb up the edge. After that we stopped at Tenaya Lake, where the kids decided it would be fun to get in the water and “swim.” This water was JUST as cold as the stream water the day before. They didn’t last long! Then they laid on the hot rock in the sun to dry out. We stopped at the Tuolemne Meadows Visitor Center, and took a little drive through the meadows. Sadly the flowers don’t bloom out full force for a few more weeks. We didn’t want to wear everyone out to the point we did yesterday, so we started the 3 ½ hour drive back. We’ve decided to head out a day early tomorrow to break up the long trip to Grand Tetons.
July 1
On the road again! We’re planning to make it to Reno today to spend the night. Made it to the KOA in Boomtown (just outside Reno) at about 2 or 3. Set up, and went swimming. Finally! Water that is a decent temperature! We decided to go into Reno to have Mexican food for dinner since it would likely be our last chance for a while.
July 2
Back on the road at 6am, headed for at least Wells, NV. Drove for 3 hrs or so and stopped in Winnemucca for groceries--our last Walmart before we leave Yellowstone. We made it to Jackpot, NV, right on the Idaho border around 3. Pulled into a Cactus Pete’s Casino RV Park to stay the night. Once again, set up, and go swimming. One more day on the road tomorrow, and we get to relax for a whole week!
July 3
We had another good day of driving, stopping in Jackson, WY for fuel before we head up into the park. We’re planning to come back here tomorrow for fireworks. We had looked up a Barber Shop, and found it, but there is no where to park the trailer, so we headed into Grand Teton NP. Takes another hour or so to get to our campground--Colter Bay RV on Jackson Lake. It's gorgeous! The campsites are a little close together, but all pull thrus, lots of trees, and picnic tables at each one. And just a very short walk to the lake, with the Tetons on the other side. Just beautiful. Snow capped mountains, and trees, and water, edged by smooth rocks for the beach.
The water, of course, is cold, but the rocks are warm for laying on, and the boys don’t mind at all.
July 4
The state of Wyoming has cancelled all firework shows due to fire danger, so we’ve decided to just enjoy the day sleeping in, relaxing, and swimming.
July 5
The day dawned overcast with a chance of thunderstorms, so we headed to Jackson for haircuts, and to look around. We also hit the grocery store and had burgers for lunch. It started raining as we were ready to head back, and spirits were not high. We’ve all reached a point of too much togetherness for a while.
July 6-8
We’re sleeping in everyday, and loving it! Sleep late, have breakfast (at 11 or so), take a walk, build a fort and swim. Oh, and of course, do a little laundry. Kyler is having a ball meeting everyone in the campground, and getting to know them. Thankfully no one seems to mind. He will strike up a conversation with anyone anywhere. We only left to explore one day, driving over to Jenny Lake, where we saw a female moose, so that was neat. We also drove to Moose, where we saw the iconic Church of the Transfiguration, the Ferry crossing over the rushing river, old cabins, and coaches. We saw the Moose Visitor Center, and watched their video, before heading back to camp.
July 9
We left Grand Teton about 10 this morning. It's not a long drive to our park in Yellowstone. Our first stop was at the Thermal Basins at West Thumb. Really it was a stop for the restroom, then we realized it was stuff we wanted to see. The thermal pools/pots are amazing. Some are clear and deep, others cloudy and shallow. Some are crystal clear blue, and others are just bubbling mud. There are hot ones and acidic ones. It was a perfect introduction into Yellowstone. From there we drove a little further to Fishing Bridge RV where we set up, and headed out to sightsee.
We only got a few miles before we stopped at the Mud Volcano, which is a boardwalk trail that goes around several thermal features. And whew! Are they smelly!! All that sulfur will literally make you feel sick. We saw our first buffalo up close, then another, and another. Our favorite part of this trail was the Dragon’s Breath Cave. It's a hole in the side of the mountain with steam that just billows out, and makes this sound that is just creepy. It truly is what you would imagine a dragon in a cave to be like. The boys loved it. All along the road you can see the steam rising, making it look like lots of little campfires just spread out randomly. And, of course, it all stinks.
From there we found the Upper and Lower falls of the Yellowstone River in the “Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.” It's a 109 ft drop of the river, which is just incredible. All that water rushing so fast and loud, and the lookout is right at the edge where it falls over. There was even a rainbow created by the water falling and late afternoon sun. We drove through the beautiful Hayden Valley to reach our last stop for the day--Canyon Visitor Education Center. We saw the video, checked out the exhibits on the Super Volcano, and browsed the bookstore.
July 10
This morning we set out for Old Faithful. Got all the way there, started putting on packs, and realize I don’t have my camera. Crap. We decided to see the geyser, and come back again later with the camera. Old Faithful is reliable, I can say that. We drove back to the trailer, got the camera, did a restart, and headed out again. We decided this time to go north on the loop to Canyon, then over to Norris and maybe down back to Old Faithful if we had time. We turned on a side road to see Virginia Cascade, and the kids got out for a few minutes and threw rocks in the water, which is just what they do.
Next stop was Norris where we set off to explore the Norris Geyser Basin with Steamboat Geyser. It was a longer boardwalk trail over the thermal area. We weren’t sure how long Kyler would last, so we kept an open mind, expecting to turn around at any moment. Well, he led the pack, and we did the whole thing without any fussing or complaining. It was wonderful! That Geyser basin looks like an end of the world movie. Just desolate except for steaming, gurgling, holes of water. It really is a site to see.
Our last stop for the day were the Artist Paintpots just down the road. This was another almost mile loop, some of it uphill. Kyler’s favorite pit was here--it was bubbling mud that was making funny noises and sometimes shooting mud 6 feet into the air. On the way back to the truck it starting raining, and we made use of our ponchos for the first time. It was 6 o’clock already, so we decided to head back.
July 11
This morning we’ve decided to go back to Old Faithful, and take the road all the way up to Mammoth Hot Springs. We were trying to get on the road, and sent the boys to get in the truck while we gathered up the last few things. They came back almost immediately, and said, “Um, there’s a buffalo." Sure enough, there’s a buffalo walking in front of the truck, down the road in front of our camp. They thought that was pretty cool. After snapping a few pictures, we were on our way. We stopped at a Falls along the way, where we met a couple and son from LaGrange. It was funny that all 8 of us TX people were shivering as we stood watching.
Once we made it, Old Faithful had just erupted, so we had about 90 minutes before the next one. We watched the Visitor Center video and decided to walk the loop boardwalk trail around Old Faithful. There are several more geysers and features on the loop. We took another trail that went up a little ways, and decided to watch the show from a bench that gave us a good clear view. Shortly after we sat down, and were having our snack, one right behind us starting spewing! We were not expecting that, and we all loved it! That’s about the time we looked up and saw the thunderclouds coming in. We made the decision to head closer and be that much closer to shelter for when the rain started. The geyser was slow to get started, after going about 100 minutes before spewing. But when it did, it was impressive.
We took off on the road again, spotting several thermal features from the road. We stopped at Midway Geyser Basin. There is a foot bridge over the Firehole River where one of the large geysers spills over into the river at an amazing rate. Something like 4000 gallons a minute. Walking along the boardwalk, the steam washes over you, making you very warm, especially on this overcast, cool day. THEN, the dry air suddenly gusts at you, and leaves your damp skin freezing! Along the length of the geyser it continues--warm, cold, warm, freezing. This is also where the huge Grand Prismatic Spring is--it is stunning. It was overcast today, so there was more steam, making it harder to see the size and brilliance of it, but you could still see the different colors.
Back on the road, still watching the thermal features from the road. We turned down Firehole Canyon Drive, close to Madison, to see the Firehole Falls. This one-way road runs along the Firehole River. We were driving along, watching the river for the falls, and I see a woman standing in the creek. “That looks like Stephanie Allen,” I tell Dennis. “I really think that was Stephanie! And there’s a boy that could be Blakely. And that girl could be Morgan.” This conversation is happening as we are driving past, with no where to stop, so we continue on to the falls, and park. We walk to the edge, where of course, immediately, the boys begin throwing rocks to the river. I’m still convinced that was Stephanie, and watching all the cars that pass, looking for her. We were just about to head back to the truck, when a minivan came down the road. Dennis could tell it was them, and stopped them on the road. They were shocked to see us on this side road in Yellowstone, thousands of miles from home. They had flown in to Jackson the day before, and were in the park for the day. It was so fun to see them in such an unexpected, out of the way place!
From here, we headed on towards Mammoth Hot Springs, stopping along the way at Sheepeater Cliff. This is a cliff made up of basalt lava that has cooled into columnar rock, that of course, the boys had to climb. They scrambled up to the top while I took pictures, and watched the marmot run among the rocks. We made our way farther north, and made it to the Upper Terraces viewing road, at the same time as the thunder clouds and wind. We decided to drive down into Mammoth, look around, and see what the weather was going to do. By the time we parked at the General Store, it was raining. Not SETX hard, but more than a sprinkle. So, we decided we would wait it out for five minutes, and see if it passed. It did, and we headed into the “Grill” for a snack. After the boys’ burgers and ice cream, we set out to wander around Mammoth. We checked out the Lower Terraces, which are very interesting, even though the water isn’t flowing all that well right now. We drove back up to the Upper Terraces, and walked down to see Canary Springs. Its amazing how much these terraces look like ice. It would seem that we were there in January, not July, with the way that it looks. After the tour around Upper Terrace, we plugged the DVD players in for the boys, to give us some quiet time, and started the 50 mile drive back to the campground. With all the clouds from the storm, there was a gorgeous sunset that we got to see once we made it back to Hayden Valley.
July 12
Our last day in Yellowstone, we’ve decided to travel North to finish out the Grand Loop. And of course, you can’t drive through Yellowstone without stopping to wait for the herds of buffalo to cross the road. This morning, we watched a herd with at least 2 dozen calves, move across the road around our truck. Our first stop was an overlook where we admired the wildflowers, and of course, threw rocks towards the valley. Along the drive, they boys were begging to climb the mountains and play in the snow. I wish there had been some accessible for them--maybe next time. We stopped at Tower Fall, where Tower Creek falls 132 feet into the Yellowstone River. Kyler was determined to take the hike down to Yellowstone River, which the sign said was ¼ mile, so down we went. It was a decent grade, which left us dreading the back up. It was dirt, that was quite slippery at times. We made it to an overlook for the river, but the trail was just a little too treacherous for us to want to take the kids all the way down to the water--especially as slippery as it was. We sat and watched the water flow around the bend for a while, just enjoying the view. Then, we got up to go back up. The climb itself wasn’t bad, but the altitude is still getting to us. You huff and puff to get up, and try to drink water, but you can’t catch your breath enough to suck the water our of your pack.
Back on the road, we took a short road off the Grand Loop to see the Petrified Tree. Directly across the tree, there is a small valley, full of green grass, and a small creek. We had the good luck of getting there while a black bear and her 2 cubs ate their way along the valley. We were so excited to finally see a bear! We stood and watched, taking pictures for probably half an hour, the tree forgotten. We watched the cubs play, and tumble, and race up separate trees and back down. It was a really neat experience for all of us. We left there, and drove the rest of the way to Mammoth Springs, to complete the Grand Loop, celebrating with ice cream. 50 miles back to the campground, driving through the herds of buffalo along the way.
It's time to do laundry, and we’ve decided to check out in the morning, and head towards Cody, on our way to Rushmore.
July 13
Friday the 13th, and we’re on our way out of Yellowstone. I’m sad to go, but oh so glad we came. We made it to Cody around 9 or so, where we stopped at Walmart for fresh fruit, and supplies. Then we walked down the main street of Cody, and decided to have Mexican food for lunch. After lunch, we spent some time in the museum of dug up guns. This museum is only for guns and swords that have been found while digging for roads, houses, etc. We also spent some time in an outdoor store. The kids liked that, because upstairs they had one of the giant snow vehicles on the tracks, that they use to get into Yellowstone in the winter. They let the boys climb inside and check it out. Of course, now they need one.
We left Cody to drive another 50 miles or so to find a spot to stay the night. We ended up at the KOA in Greybull, WY. It is officially hot here. Ugh. I’m missing the cool mountain air already. The boys swam for about 2 hours, enjoying the heated outdoor pool, which made the water 87 degrees. After all that cold water, they were having a ball. Supper, and more laundry, then off to bed for another early morning.
July 14
We set out at 6:15 again this morning, which seems to be our sweet spot for getting out on the road. We had to stop for gas, and needed to put air in the tires after all the elevation change. This ate up quite a bit of time before it was over, but the boys are sleeping through it all. Then we hit some road construction where the road was gravel, and bumpy, so that was slow going. Once we were past that, we stopped in Ten Sleep for a restroom break. We eventually made it to Custer, SD to stay the night at a KOA, and be a base to go see Mt Rushmore. We set up, had a snack, and off we went again, going to Rushmore. We drove past the Crazy Horse site on the way, and you could see it well from the road. We took lots of pictures at Rushmore, and explored the museum, learning the history of how they managed the work on the mountain.
Back at camp, more swimming, and dinner, and an early bedtime for the boys. Dennis and I planned out our travel and nightly stops for the remaining 4 days of the trip home, sticking to our 350 mile limit. We’ve learned that should be our goal for the day--anything more, and it goes downhill quickly.
July 15
I attempted apple cinnamon muffins this morning for breakfast, but it was an epic fail. No recipe, combined with whatever altitude we’re at today, was as bad combination. On the road again at 6:15, headed south. The boys are wide awake this morning.
We stopped for gas, I think in Alliance, NE. Shortly after we got back on the road, Lynelle called Dennis to tell him his Dad had passed away. We haven’t told the kids about him being put on hospice while we were gone--we wanted them to enjoy their vacation. Because they don’t know what’s going on, Dennis had to keep quiet about it. I feel so bad that he’s had to deal with the stress of knowing what was coming while we were on such a fantastic trip.
We decided to drive an extra 100 miles today, and the next two, to make it home in 3 days instead of 4. We stopped once more for fuel and to get food from the trailer, and arrived at the Grand Island, Nebraska KOA around 3:45. The temperature in the trailer was the hottest yet--97 degrees. So, we set up quickly, turned on the AC, and went swimming again. We decided on breakfast for supper, and I made an apple crisp using the failed muffins as the topping. We sat the kids down and told them about Alex. Coy was upset, Cade was quiet and went to his room, and Kyler went outside to sit at the picnic table. It never gets easier to do. I hate that we have to go home and directly to the funeral, but it can’t be helped.
We let the boys rent the bikes that the KOA had--they were like fancy hot wheels, where you lean your weight to steer, instead of handlebars, with 2 wheels in back, and only one in front. They had a ball riding them. Then they jumped back in the pool to cool off. We’ve decided to drives 520 miles tomorrow, to Ardmore, OK, so it will be a long day.
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I don't remember where we ended up the next day, only that it was somewhere between Dallas and Tyler, Texas, and we drove for 13 long, stressful hours to get there. The next morning, July 17, we headed out at 6 am. We arrived home, changed clothes and went to Port Neches for the visitation for Dennis's Dad. We were sad, exhausted, and elated that we had made such a monumental trip with no actual problems. We were home safe and sound, and so not ready to be back to reality.
That trip ended up being 33 days and 6,800 miles. Done with 3 boys, 7, 9, and 12 shoulder to shoulder in the backseat of the truck. It was long, exhausting, and the best thing we've done. We learned a lot about what works for us, and what doesn't. We've done 3 Summer trips since and we're planning #5 right now. Sadly, I didn't keep a journal on those trips, but I'll put together a post about them the best I can. Sarah
