We Are Home

Just about everyone gathered in the breakfast area for the last time. The day was to be cool but sunny; perfect for riding. I would be leading a group of 7 people on 6 bikes home; our plan was to ride all the way home but to stop about every hour or so for a short butt rest. Two other groups left about the same time we did but they were going to ride much harder with maybe 1 stop for gas. Our little group did fine; cruising 65 and 70 on major highways. We ran into rain about 100 miles from home and had to stop to put on the rain suits. The rain slowed us down considerably and we made it home by 5:15 PM. 10 hours in the saddle but it didn’t seem bad; the 15 minute rest breaks helped. One of the other groups arrived home 1 to 2 hours earlier. The ride home was 408 miles and we traveled a total of 1700 miles from day 1 to arriving home. We visited a lot of places; had a lot of fun and rode some of the best motorcycle roads in the USA. Now it’s time to begin thinking about next year’s travels.

The Banquet

The banquet was good food of course but also a lot of awards were given out this year. Cindy lost her glasses on the trip out so she was given some eye glass holders; Dale just couldn’t get his GPS to work correctly and was so lost without it he was given a compass; Roger was given duct tape to fix his bike with; Bill was given a box of Kleenex because he has cried all week because he is in a car and not on two wheels (due to a broken wrist); Mike and John were given a ball of string because they travel together but usually get separated and lost on their travels; Leon was given Monkey Butt powder because he is always complaining about the ‘butt burning rides’ we take; Mike was given a box of band-aids to patch up his road rash; Betty was given a sweater clip because she lost her sweater on the ride here; Lucy was given a mask representing a river captain because on the paddlewheel boat ride she was given the wheel to steer the boat and Bernie was given a green sparkle hat because he left home without a hat and he was all upset every time we stopped about his helmet hair.

Bernadette had a great game of guess what is in the bag. There were 15 bags and we had to guess what was in each one just by feeling – and surprise surprise – Bernie won. He only missed one item. Our 50 – 50 winners were Bill Venable; Sandra Venable; Roger Whaley and Andy Hale.

Now the banquet is over and some are heading to their rooms to pack and some of the guys are planning to play one last game of cards. Parting words were “let’s meet for breakfast at 7 and plan to pull out at 7:30” and about two-thirds of the group will be leaving at the same time. I’m sure we will get separated along the way as some stop more often for rest and/or gas but what an awesome sight a dozen bikes make traveling down the highway.

Sternwheeler Festival

Roger’s bike was finished today so as soon as he returned to the hotel we headed to Marietta Ohio to check out the Sternwheeler Festival. There were thousands of people milling around with chairs and blankets spread out on the banks of the Ohio River where dozens of Sternwheelers were docked along with one of the war ships that carried our troops to Normandy beaches during WWII and lots of vendors selling crafts and food.

After a couple of hours some headed back to the hotel and Bernie, Shirley, Glenn, Kathy, Don and I headed cross hill and dale to find the Berdine’s 5 & Dime store in Harrisville, WV. Shirley had read about this store in the Sunday paper and thought it would be a neat place to visit. Apparently this is the America’s oldest 5 & dime store still in operation. She was right. There were toys, bulk candy, china, doilies, dolls, postcards, stationary, marbles, kitchen gadgets, joke items, jams and jellies, and the list goes on and on. The lady running the store was so nice and more than happy to show us everything. And of course we all came out with something special we had purchased.

We arrived back to the hotel in time to shower and pack before heading to the banquet. Tomorrow we head for home with all our memories.

Pictures of The Wilds

The Wilds

Pulled out at 8 AM and traveled some great back roads in Ohio reaching the Wilds by 9:35 as planned. This place was more than I had expected. We boarded the open air bus and pulled through the automatic gates. Ronnie, our tour guide and bus driver, drove slowly over the bumpy dirt trails stopping at various locations in the open fields where animals were grazing or wondering; buffalo, zebras, giraffes, rhinoceros, elk, and many, many more. After our safari they had prepared us a lunch which we ate on the overlook and then headed out to find some back roads on which to play. I had the directions from the Internet for the Ohio Dragon, route 536; 11 miles of twists and turns, uphill and down scraping floorboards as you first lean left and then lean right. I don’t think there is one single straight stretch in the whole 11 miles. Then we got on Ohio 7 which runs right along the river. Dinner was pizza ordered in and shared in the social room where the ladies talked and the men played cards.

This and That

This group just isn’t right! 21 of us went to the Texas Roadhouse for dinner and they put us all in one area together. We had noticed about 2 or 3 times the servers came dancing past clapping and singing for someone’s birthday. Someone, and I cannot tell you who because I don’t know for sure, told the servers it was Andy’s birthday. So here they come, about 8 or 10, clapping, shouting and singing to Andy. His eyes were as big as saucers and his mouth wide open. Everyone in the group was hooting and yelling. Then they brought Andy the complimentary large piece of cake with ice cream piled on top with chocolate syrup. He was nice enough to pass the plate around to anyone who wanted to have a bite. Andy’s birthday is really in June. And this was the one time I left the camera in the room; what a picture this would have made for the newsletter.

We’ve had a few hitches along the way. Roger was having a problem with his bike on the way out and it just got worse so he took it to the shop on Tuesday afternoon. Needs a driveshaft and they are calling all over the place to find one. The factory said they are on backorder for a month. Found one on e-bay which is being shipped overnight to the shop. Hope they get it finished before Roger and Ginny plan to leave on Sunday.

We have 4 people who want to go on the Wilds Tour but I had to give then the final count two weeks ago. Not sure if we can add 4 more people since lunch is being provided. They are going to ride with us since I am planning a nice ride after our safari tour. Several of us want to find the Ohio Dragon.

Blennerhassett Island Tour

Left the parking lot at 9:45 to wind our way downtown Parkersburg to the Blennerhassett Museum; easy trip. I rode on the back of Don’s bike to navigate the streets. The building was built in 1904 and operated as Star Grocery Company until 1940 but it was well maintained and held loads of interesting items from the Blennerhassett family as well as artifacts from earlier history in this area. Getting back on the bikes we rode about 3 miles to Belpre where we boarded the paddlewheel boat for the short trip across the Ohio River to the island. The boat captian motioned for Lucy to come to the front and she was given the wheel to steer the boat. The Blennerhassett’s were very wealthy and the mansion was a showpiece in the area. But he became involved with Aaron Burr and was labeled a traitor and lost everything and ended up moving back to London to live with his sister. After touring the house we took a wagon ride around the island and the young lady handling the horse was a bundle of information. A sign said you can tip the driver and kiss the horse so Bernie got to kiss the horse. Back on the boat we headed to the shore for our ride back to the hotel where some of the ladies plan to go shopping, a few men want to take naps or share stories over a cold beer and one game of cards before dinner. I think it was a good day; most of our group enjoys museum trips once in awhile.

West Virginia State Penitentiary

Kickstands up at 9:30 heading north on route 2; George was leading today and we were heading about 80 miles to the West Virginia State Penitentiary which was built in 1866 and closed in 1995. The tour, which was 2 hours, was very informative and well worth the visit. The stories were chilling and mindboggling as to why someone would continue their life of crime and return to such a place over and over again. The cells were maybe 4 by 6 with a metal cot hanging from the wall and a toilet with a wash basin just above it; cement walls with iron bars on the front facing the walkway. We were given a chance to get inside a cell and the guide ‘locked down’ and it was a strange feeling hearing those metal doors slam shut. I found it very interesting that the warden lived on the 4th floor with his family; his children played in the same yard as the prisoners and the people caring for his children, cleaning his house and even cooking his meals were the ‘ trusties’ meaning they were prisoners but very well behaved prisoners. Give me a break! The ride to and back was wonderful. A mountain range to our immediate left, the Ohio river to our right and then another mountain range just past the river. In the distance you can see the trees on the mountains are just beginning to display some fall color. The air was crisp today. After our tour George lead us to a cafeteria for a late lunch so tonight we will probably eat at the Pub right here in the hotel and socialize.

West Virginia Pen Tour

Everyone listens as Donna our tour guide tells about a prison riot in the room where we are standing.
4X6 home to almost 800 people at one time.

Bad feeling to have these doors lock shut.

Glenn’s Mystery Ride

All 25 members on 16 bikes lined up in the parking lot ready to follow Glenn even though no one, not even his wife, knew where he was leading us. We rode along the Ohio River for awhile and then headed off into farm country. We ended up at the Hillybilly Hot Dog. I understand this place is rated 15 out of 101 places on the food channel. But how do I describe it? No matter what I say if you have never been there it is going to sound awful. The parking lot is up hill all stone and gravel and right away I got myself in a bad spot which required 6 men to push my bike back to a partway level spot before I could pull out to leave. But let’s get back to describing this place. First it is two old, broken down buses parked next to each other and then a room built on with something like a porch built on to all that. The door to enter opens from the side you think should have the hinges; names of people who have visited are written all over everything. Of course I had to sign one wall before I left. Hanging from the walls, ceilings, outside and inside, the trees and even the roof are all types of junk is the only word I can think of. Things I saw were a toilet seat, bells, shovels, underwear, toys, dolls, truck parts, and so much more. We walked around for over an hour and I’m sure we didn’t see everything. The menu had pizza hotdogs, fried hotdogs, hillybilly hotdogs, and more. The food was great and the little girl behind the counter joined the fun. We rode 100 miles to get a hotdog – does that make us crazy? I don’t think so a 200 mile day on the bike is always good. A dip in the pool at the hotel and then off to find dinner. Now it’s time to socialize and play cards.

Hillybilly Hot Dog

Andy and Bonnie

Junk and more junk

George and Andy can't believe their eyes.

Day of Riding

After dinner we enjoy some down time

Bernadette at the Oil and Gas Museum

Started the day with a great breakfast and good friends even though it is a small group right now. We gathered in the parking lot ready to leave at 8:30. The plan was to head south to Point Pleasant then cross the Ohio River head north to Belpre and then over to the Oil and Gas Museum in Parkersburg. Our first turn was onto county route 13 which was not much more than a cow path but some of those roads are the best for wondering around the countryside. In just a couple of miles the road gets smaller and then it turns to dirty and stone and is nothing more than a path in the woods for ATV travels. First U turn of the day! We travel south on 68 and 33 which are wonderful roads running beside the Ohio River through small towns and farmland. Reaching Point Pleasant we turn north and have to back track about 20 miles on route 2 but still a pleasant ride. However, to reach route 2 Gabby takes us on a short cut over which starts out like route 13 and George asked if this was an instant replay. The only gravel is about 20 feet at the end but there is also a sign that says ‘do not enter’. Well that’s for the birds! We completed the short distance to get on route 2. Finally crossing the Ohio River the GPS tells me to take a right and as soon as I do there is a sign “no outlet” and a police car sitting beside the road with a radar gun. Now exactly what is he expecting to nab if there is no traffic? We stop and as I approach the policeman he smiles and says “you can’t get there from here”. The road had been closed and we had to go around. He suggested we take Ohio 124 and what a great road. Not great in the condition of the road but great in the scenery. We rode beside the Ohio River and through corn and soybean fields. You could almost reach out and touch the corn and at other times look down the banks to the river. As we pull into a small town and are instructed to turn right we again are greeted by a sign stating it is a dead end – 3rd U turn. Seems roads are closed frequently around here. As we reach Parkersburg George found the Oil and Gas Museum in his GPS so he took over the lead. After circling the general area 3 times and the GPS saying “you are here” we were just about ready to give up when we stopped at a light and low and behold there is was. I guess passing it the 4th time was the charm. And I am so glad we didn’t miss it; the history in that old musty building was amazing. West Virginia was ‘created’ or sliced out of Virginia by oil reach men who did not want to be involved in the Civil War. The state in the 1800’s was one of the wealthiest once they realized this awful black stuff that kept contaminating the water wells was really good stuff. The rest of the group began arriving around 3:30 pm and by dinner we had 25 members present. The hotel has given us a meeting room for the week and it didn’t take us long to start the story telling and laughing about past trips; of course every mistake, U turn and time someone was lost gets bigger with every time the story is told. The cards were brought out for that first game of quarter knock. The rally has officially begun.

Arrived at Comfort Suites

Wow what a difference in the weather when we got up; sun was shining and there was no wind but it was very chilly. Need the heated jackets almost all day. Had a great breakfast at the Hilltop Diner and then headed west. Traveling 50 takes you through old towns with stately homes and old churches made of stone with stone walls around their yards or fields. But passing through the many unincorporated crossroads you find small houses in need of some repair or log cabins; not the new expensive versions but the real deal from a hundred years ago. Many yards or fields held rusted shells of old cars and trucks that had been parked where they stopped running and were only a reminder of better days. I could not count the number of houses with Christmas lights hanging from their front porches – either way too early for this coming year or just too much trouble to take down last year. Leaving Romney we were immediately in the mountains with open valleys to our right dotted with large round bales of hay. Many corn fields have already been harvested in the area. As we climb and twist and turn through the hairpin curves we down shift to maintain the power. We reach the top of Saddle Mountain and then begin the decent; ride the ridge for awhile and then climb Cheat Mountain and again thrill to the downhill run with 9% grades where you have to use the lower gears to hold down the speed. We don’t want to ride the breaks for fear of overheating them and the last thing we want is a runaway bike on these roads. I see many things that are very familiar from last year’s trip on 50 but these mountains and twisties will never get old to me. Then all too soon we reach Clarksburg and from here to Parkersburg and then Mineral Wells the road is a 4 lane divided highway much as route 1 is in Delaware. We still have the mountains and we climb a little but you never reach the top because they have dynamited the mountains to level the roads for better travel and greater speeds. We cover more distance in a shorter period of time but not near as much fun. We reach the hotel by 3pm but have to wait over an hour to get our room. We ordered pizza and then saw George and Bernadette ride into the parking lot. After 10 hours of riding they are ready to call it a night. Plans are to meet tomorrow morning for breakfast and then take a ride along the Ohio River and hopefully go to the Oil and Gas Museum. Covered 189 miles today.

Romney WV

We pulled out of the driveway at 6:35AM, stopped by Bernie and Shirley’s and pointed the bikes towards the west. Sun was shining and the temp was cool actually needed jackets. First stop was the McDonalds on Kent Island for breakfast. We found a lot of construction on 495 in the area of our exit for route 50; so much so that we could not get off so we rode on to the exit for route 66 and found the same problem. Thank goodness for Gabby the GPS! We got off on an exit for Vienna and then immediately began weaving our way around city streets in Vienna and Fairfax and even into the parking lot of a large mall (my mistake on that one) before we finally got back on track for 50 west. Added 17 miles to the trip which was an extra 30 minutes but getting around Winchester was a breeze. I have ridden through Winchester 4 times and got lost every time except this one. By 11 AM it was warm and the jackets had to be packed in the trailer. We must have passed more than 150 motorcycles today on route 50 all heading east. By noon we had the 20 mph winds and dark clouds above us. Reached the Koolwink Motel in Romney around 2:20 in time to sit outside and visit and give Bernie and Shirley time to go to Mass which the Internet stated was at 5:30 but when they got there no one was there. They went inside and waited and finally found a bulletin and mass had been changed to 4 pm – guess someone forgot to update the web page. Covered 230 miles today.

Ready to Leave

We pull out early tomorrow morning. Trailer has been packed for a couple of days and maps checked and changed several times. I think I have every turn memorized by now. I don’t understand why this big trailer is always full to the top when we could pack everything we needed on two bikes before. I think it is true – the more space you have the more you take. Instead of travel size containers I find myself packing the regular size of shampoo; hair spray and etc. never the less we have what we need and/or want.

I’ve been watching the weather, especially with Earl and another front moving east, and I’m a little concerned about the wind gusts tomorrow; they are calling for 15 to 22 mph winds which are not fun riding on two wheels but we’ll take what we get and be happy just to be out and riding. Well, it’s early but if I go to sleep maybe the morning will come faster. You know when you are on vacation if you get up early your vacation is longer.

The rally committee did a great job on the design for the rally shirt but then every year the rally shirts look great.

And Away We Go

Five days and we head for Parkersburg West Virginia; Mineral Wells to be exact, and some of the best riding roads in the east for the UTR rally. We have a lot planned this year, museums to visit, an African Safari, a visit to prison and all include a great ride. The bikes have been serviced, lights and oil checked again, polished and shined and the trailer checked. I finished packing today (I know maybe a little early) but I am ready to point the bike towards the west and have cool breezes in my face. Did I say cool? Well weather.com is predicting highs in the low 80’s and lows in the mid 60’s through the first half of the rally. So join me as we climb mountains and survey the valleys below as the residents of the sleepy villages go about their daily lives. Smell the sweet hay being mowed or the wood smoke from a kitchen stove as breakfast is being prepared in a log cabin near the road as we pass. What will we find? No one knows what waits for us around each turn but we do know that at the end of each day we will enjoy laughter with some of our dearest friends.

Just a Few Pictures

Mile Marker 469 - End of the Blue Ridge Parkway

Wheels Through Time Motorcyle Museum

Bill and Sandra Relaxing at the Azalea Garden Motel in Blowing Rock

Grandfather Mountain and the Mile High Swinging Bridge

Riding the Blue Ridge Parkway

Home Again Home Again

Up early and what a beautiful day for riding; mid to upper 70s. Had 290 miles to do today in order to get home; arrived around 2 PM. We have covered 1910 miles total for this trip. Just ordered a new CB because mine went bad on our first day out. Bill led today because he is very familiar with this part of Virginia and traveled home by way of the Bridge Tunnel. Leaving the hotel at 7 put us around Hampton and Norfolk at morning rush hour but we only had major traffic for about 30 minutes or so. Don kept referring to me as "iron butt" yesterday because of the distance and time between rest stops but I noticed today Bill rides for 100 miles or 2 hours before stopping as well. Of course not a peep out of Don! But I must admit there is a big difference between riding an hour when teh teop is close to 100 compared to riding an hour when the temp is 75. Well, this trip is over all except for printing pictures, doing the laundry and putting everything away.

Heading Home

Breakfast at 7 and on the road by 7:30. Up and over the mountains and down into Maggie Valley for the last time; well the last time for this trip. I’m sure it will not be the last time – I love this area and there are still so many places I’d like to visit here. It’s pretty warm at 7:30 and by 10 it is very warm. We travel 19 and then 40 for more than 150 miles; a few miles on 29 around Danville and then 58 across Virginia. The heat is stifling and by 3:30 we are just hoping to reach our goal for the day and get a room. Three stops for gas and one for lunch, I think we have done very well. Don says I’m going to make all our friends not want to ride with us if I don’t start stopping more often. We have covered 393 miles by the time we stop at the Quality Inn in Emporia Virginia.

Last Day to Play

Breakfast at 8:30 for Bill, Sandra and us; Dwayne and Sherry slept in planning to leave around noon. We said our goodbyes last night knowing we would be out on the bikes before they even thought about getting up. When we walked out of the room for breakfast it had started raining – and was coming down in buckets. Then the sun came out so we were climbing the mountains heading for Maggie Valley by 10 AM. We were heading to the Wheels Through Times Museum. This would be our 3rd time to visit this museum but every time is different because Dale continues to add new bikes. All the bikes are American made and almost every one runs. We were so fortunate to have Dale’s son wonder around the museum with us and start up many of the old bikes and tell us about the bike, where his Dad bought it, how they put it back together. He even suggested I sit on one of the old antique bikes to see how the old seats felt; gee I had been wondering if they would let me sit on one but I hadn’t worked up the nerve to ask him. It was such a thrill to be in the saddle of a bike built in the early 1900s. Of course I had to buy some raffle tickets for a 1947 Harley Davidson; get a T-Shirt and a couple of DVDs. Then off to find lunch at the Bear Den and then ride the last 14 miles of the Blue Ridge again. Back at the hotel Bill, Sandra and I head over to the Bear Zoo to feed the bears and watch them dance and beg for food. Packing is next on the list so we can pull out early in the morning.

Meet the Cherokee People

Today is the Festival of Voices for the Cherokee and located at various locations throughout the village are two or three Cherokee in full ceremonial dress singing and dancing. We went to the Museum and there were many tents setup outside where the Cherokee people were displaying their talents; stone carving, pottery making, jewelry making, bow and spear making just to mention a few. There was storytelling, singing and dancing by the Cherokee people. The museum was so interesting and a really good place to start since we were going to the show tonight. Leaving the museum we wondered down town to check out the stores but as normal for any tourist location one was just like the next. After dinner we called the Cherokee Transit and arrived at the Unto These Hills outdoor theater by 6:45 PM. The show was fantastic. I’m of the Blackfoot decent but I felt a deep respect for the Cherokee people and the unforgivable treatment they received at the hand of the white man. They tried so hard to live in peace with the new settlers only to be pushed out and killed for their land. They have been true to their heritage and even during the years when they were hunted down, and their children were forbidden to speak in their native tongue the Cherokee people held fast to their beginnings. They are a proud people and everyone we have met has been warm and friendly. The Cherokee believe in taking each day as it comes and I can relate to that.

Great riding today

Left around 9:30 heading out on route 19 for Fontana Dam. The dam was built in 1945 and is the highest dam east of the Rockies. Fontana Lake, which was created by the creation of the dam covers over 10,000 acres and covers a small town and the access roads to many other small communities. The lake is drained every 5 years and you can still see the town sleeping quietly beneath this watery grave. The Fontana Dam generates electricity for much of the Tennessee Valley. Next we traveled route 28 which is a very curvy road and is beginning to be recognized by the motorcycle crowd as one of the best riding roads in this area. This route is called the Moonshiner Run because it was a famous route for moonshiners to travel to avoid the Feds. As I slowed to a safe speed around some of the tight turns and then climbed the next grade I imagined the old cars speeding up and down the mountains loaded with illegal liquor. Then we arrived at our second destination for the day – The Tail of the Dragon. The Dragon can be entered from the North Carolina side and the whole 11 miles traveled but at the Tennessee end you have to turn around and travel the whole 11 miles back again. A stop first at the Tail of the Dragon resort and store. There must have been a hundred bikers – some had just ridden the Dragon and others, like us, were just getting ready to tackle this monster. Ok – I’m ready so off we go with Bill and Sandra in the lead. The first few curves were pretty smooth and then I see a tight hairpin up ahead. Around the curve, pull it tight, then up we climb into another tighter turn. No guard rails, just low shoulders and grass or woods. Another easy turn then suddenly you are upon a tight turn again; down shift and get ready to pull it tight and go into a climb. I do not like to drag my floorboards but it happened several times. At first I heard the metal scraping on the blacktop and instinct told me to straighten up slightly but no I cannot do that or I’ll be off the side of the road, in fact, I must lean even more to maneuver this turn. I feel the vibration of the metal dragging on the road. Don was behind me and he said he could hear the metal scraping the road. Along the way you see Killboy and a couple of others parked in a safe location taking pictures of the riders. You also see at least 4 police cars parked ready to pull over anyone riding this Dragon at unsafe speeds or passing illegally. Today or at least during our 22 miles trip everyone is enjoying their ride and testing their skills. Reaching the end we find a very nice turnaround. Bill stops and asks if I’m ready for the next 11 miles. I nod my head and off we go to tackle these curves and master this Dragon in the other direction. I’m ready as I first turn right, down shift, climb left, turn right and drag floorboards again. The Dragon is an 11 mile stretch of mountain road with 318 curves. The official name is Deals Gap. I found the Dragon fun to ride and yes challenging but I have found myself on many mountain roads with curves just as tight and challenging but never with so many curves in such as short distance. Coming down from the Dragon we head back to the motel and meet Dwayne and Sherry. We had dinner and sat and talked until late.

A Relaxing Day

Slept in this morning and didn’t get on the road until 9:45. Woke to pouring rain which isn’t a surprise here and low hanging fog on the mountains but by 9:30 the rain had stopped. We headed over the Smokies on the Great Smoky Mountain Parkway (441) to ride the Tail of the Dragon but found the Tennessee side closed due to a rock slide. You can still get on the Dragon from North Carolina but cannot ride the whole 11 miles because there is no way to get off other than to turn around and retrace your ride. Guess we won’t do the Dragon this trip. Bill led us over some beautiful mountain roads along rivers and then ended in Gatlinburg where we took a Cable Car to the top of the mountain some 2000 feet above sea level and over 300 feet above the town of Gatlinburg. At the top is a recreation park, indoor ice skating rink, shops, flume ride, toboggan rides, and more. We had lunch and enjoyed watching the kids ice skate and then headed back over the mountains on 441. It was very warm in the valley but true to form as we climbed the mountains it had been raining and the roads were wet, the fog was settling in places and it began to get cold. Back at the motel by 3:30 for some sightseeing and a nice relaxing dinner. Tomorrow Dwayne and Sherry arrive.

Last 14 miles

Cherokee was right over the mountain; only 14 more miles on the Blue Ridge and I would have one more goal completed. We climbed out of Maggie Valley at 8:30 and back on the parkway. The morning was cool and looking like rain. The last 14 miles of the Blue Ridge pretty much wraps up the whole of the parkway. You have several tunnels, easy rolling curves and then some spiral curves which lacking a few yards would be a complete circle; tree covered mountains and then some mountains that are sheer rock wet from the mountain streams trickling through the cracks; assorted flowers and awesome views of the valleys below. I felt a sense of accomplishment as we pulled to a stop at the southern entrance to the parkway only a mile from Cherokee. We were too early to check in at the hotel but they did let us drop the trailers and we headed over the Smokies to Pigeon Forge to see the new Titanic Museum. This is an awesome museum with lots of pictures, artifacts, video presentations and even some locations reconstructed so you feel like you are walking in the Titanic. The rain started while we waited to enter the museum and a light drizzle continued as we headed back over the mountains to Cherokee several hours later. The mountains are called the Great Smokies for a reason – the fog rolls in and covers the tops like smoke from a wood stove with the damper closed; and as expected with the rain and cool temps the fog began floating in until you could not see the vehicle ahead of you but then it was gone as fast as it came. The Best Western in Cherokee has been our home base twice in the past for UTR Rallies and we are not disappointed this time either; very nice accommodations.

Almost To The End

On the parkway by 8 AM heading south with no place other than the end in sight. Very cool again this morning but we stopped at Mt. Mitchell, the highest point in the east for coffee. More times than not the mountain is fogged in but this morning was crystal clear. We are now traveling through the higher elevations of the Blue Ridge; 5000 and up in elevation. The Mountain Laurel are blooming as well as the Rhododendron with various wild flowers all along the roadway. More animals cross our path each day, deer, turkey, chipmunks, squirrels, a red-tailed hawk flies over head and snakes are curled on the blacktop warming their bodies in the morning sunshine. I’m still looking for that ever elusive black bear. 195 miles today which is pretty darn good for parkway riding. We pulled off for the night at Maggie Valley – which is only about 12 miles from the end but since we cannot get into our hotel at Cherokee until tomorrow we thought this would be a nice place to call it a night.

Happy Birthday

What a day this has been. On the Blue Ridge by 8 and it was very cool; even had to stop in 40 minutes to put on the heated jacket. We pulled off at Doughton Park and had a great breakfast and warmed up with a cup of coffee. I have been on the top of the world all day; passing places listed as 3000 + feet high. A lot of times you don’t even know how high you are because the road seems to climb so slightly until suddenly the view drops away and you see the valley below. Knowing we wanted to see Grandfather Mountain we stopped at Blowing Rock and found the most wonderful motel. There are flowers everywhere and little waterfalls; the rooms are very homey and absolutely the neatest I’ve ever seen. There is a gazebo outside with music playing softly and white wicker chairs with red cushions. A large patio is out front with more white wicker rockers and red cushions. Candles and yard lights are positioned to add just the right touch to the yard after dark. A little pricy but it’s my birthday! Grandfather Mountain is a must see if you make it to this area. The road up the mountain is 2 miles of switchbacks and hairpin turns. I had left my bike at the motel and was on the back of Don’s which was good. Couple the hairpin turns and the 50 mph winds up the mountain and it would have been very difficult to enjoy myself. The climb to the top required holding the railing and a short walk across an open patio area got us to the swinging bridge 5280 feet high. It was amazing to walk across that bridge and feel the wind blowing you. The bridge seemed to be singing as the wind blew through the openings in the floor boards. Back to the motel to relax around the gazebo and then a great dinner at a local restaurant put the finishing touch on my special day.

Mt. Airy NC

I told Sandra we would meet them for breakfast at 6:30 or 7 but she didn’t hear the or and thought I said 6:37. LOL she doesn’t know me very well if she thinks I am that precise. They had been waiting when I entered the little kitchen area at 5 of 7. By 8 AM we were back on the Blue Ridge heading south in the cool air and bright sunshine. All is well as I round one curve to find 2 of the cutest deer standing by the road watching as I pull to a stop not knowing if they are going to bolt across the road, up the hill or just stand there. They decided to go up the hill. There were at least a half dozen deer today crossing my path or watching me glide through their homeland. Then a hen turkey with a handful of chicks crossing the road at the fastest pace the young chicks’ legs would carry them called for another stop. A must see was Mabry Mills. You will find a true Appalachian Mountain home, farm and saw mill with folks on hand to answer questions. Reaching the Days Inn at Fancy Gap around noon we unhooked the trailers and headed the 14 miles to Mt Airy, where we found most things closed. We did find a great little diner open (they closed at 4 PM) the Bluebird Diner where we had a great lunch/dinner. Walked around a bit and then went to the Andy Griffith Museum which was very interesting. Just about 160 miles today.

Day 1 And We Are Off

We met Bill and Sandra Venable at the McDonalds on Kent Island at 7:30 AM and were on the road by 8 making pretty good time. Lunch in Orange VA at our favorite restaurant at the intersection of 15 and 20 and then we arrive at the entrance to the Blue Ridge Parkway by 2:30 PM. The temp was 70 when we left home and had climbed to sweltering by noon, but as we entered the Parkway and began climbing the mountains the temps dropped by at least 20 degrees. I am never disappointed when I get on the Blue Ridge; the soft breezes, sweet smells of the wild flowers floating on the air and the sunlight dancing through the openings in the canopy of green leaves over the ribbon of asphalt winding its way over the top of the most beautiful mountain range. Every once in awhile the canopy opens to reveal a stunning view of the valley below and you can only steel a quick peak while riding because this ribbon is barely more than a path through the wilderness with no guardrails or shoulders. The speed limit is 45 but with one curve after another turning you left then right then left again you seldom reach speeds above 40. Plus you want to watch for the residence – deer, bear and turkey to name a few. Didn’t see the deer or bear today but we did see the turkey. The parkway is not the most challenging of roads to ride even though it does have some very sweet curves with some so tight you cannot see through them and wonder if there is even a road on the other side but it seems to extend a sweet southern invitation that you cannot resist as it rocks you back and forth. Covering over 350 miles today we landed in Bedford for the night. A nice dinner and shower to remove the road dirt and everyone is ready to retire and plan for an early start in the morning.

Never Been This Unprepared

Well we are down to less than 24 hours before we leave and I still have all the packing to do yet; check the air pressure in the bike tires and the oil. I was beginning to think I was going to have to change our departure date due to illness but after two trips to the doctor’s office and 3 different meds I think I’m back on track. Weather.com is showing possible T storms most days but I’m thinking that might be due to the constant heat conditions. They have been calling for T storms for over a week now and we had a small shower last night and that was it. Let’s hope. Don has his garden tilled, fertilized and looking good so it should be fine. So the order for today is work til noon; do laundry; pack, check the bikes, hook up the trailer and then try to sleep. Sleeping is always difficult the first night before leaving. I’m like a small child on Christmas Eve when it comes to taking a trip on the motorcycle.

Counting Down

We have 11 days to go and it seems like time is moving slowly. This past weekend we purchased a driver's seat back rest for the Wing. In years past Don always had a full duffle bag strapped to the passenger seat which also served as a really good back rest but now with the trailer there is no need to pack everything on the bike. Sure cramps me up if I sit on the back seat but just how often is that going to happen (not much). Still looking at the maps and found a new place to visit - Fields of Wood. We've been to Cherokee twice and never saw this place. It is a Bible Park and they say you can see the whole 10 Commandments written on the mountain side; a replica of Golgotha and The Tomb, Christ's burial place plus much more. Not bad for a free place to visit only 70 miles from Cherokee. Bikes were washed and polished but this past weekend messed that up so I'll have to pull out the bucket and hose again before we go. Found the greatest way to dry the bikes - the leaf blower gets all the water and leaves no spots at all. Much better than towel drying.

26 Days To Go

We have 26 days until we head out for the Blue Ridge. Bessie was in the shop last week and had the front brakes replaced and a new front tire. We hooked the trailer up yesterday and all the lights work. We unloaded the items we will not need and checked how the new suitcases will fit. I've looked over the travel budget several times and made adjustments as needed due to constantly rising gas prices. Wow if this doesn't stop even traveling by motorcycle is going to be expensive. We just heard from our son in New York the other day and when we return from Cherokee he is planning to ride down to spend the weekend with us. Just purchased a new bike and we can all ride together Father's Day weekend. So I'm very excited about this vacation. We will spend time wtih both of our sons.

Another Year Another Trip

Winter has come and gone and it is time to begin traveling. Well the beginning actually began months ago while snow covered the ground and the heater was cranking out warm air. Routes were charted and maps created to include everything possible during the 14 day vacation. This year I will mark one more item off my bucket list – travel the Blue Ridge Parkway from start to finish. I plan to take my time and enjoy the ride so I’ve allowed 4 full days before we reach Cherokee where we will spend a few days. Stops along the parkway include Grandfather Mountain and Mt. Airy (Mayberry USA). I’m sure everyone reading this blog remembers the Andy Griffith Show. While in Cherokee we will get to see the Outdoor Drama Unto These Hills which should have been on the bucket list because I have wanted to see this show for over 5 years. There are a couple of rides in the Cherokee area that are on the plans; the Cherohala Skyway and a route Bill read about labeled to be better than the Tail of the Dragon. Our riding buddies for this trip will be Bill and Sandra Venable and our son and daughter-in-law will meet us in Cherokee (4-wheeling it). Abigail has been in the shop for her spring check-up and all is well. Bessie, the wing, goes in the shop this coming week and we know she needs a new front tire. We need to check the trailer out and make sure all lights are working. This will be a new way to travel – not loaded down with 50 extra pounds on my bike. The countdown has begun – 36 days remaining.