Day 23 and 24... Baker City to Springfield, OR to Trinadad, CA!!!
6/9-6/10 2012
Milestones!! 50,000 on the Valk, over 5000 for the trip, and 74 feet below sea level!!
What an incredible two days!! Rain, Snow, Sleet, and finally some sun!!
Yesterday was a long one. Left Baker City late, about 10:45am, as I was experience a slight coolant leak. After some investigations and replies from the Valk Board, I traveled to the local Honda Dealer. Cliff explained when the fluid gets cold, and the temp overnight was 37, the coolant has a tendency to leak at loose fittings. He told me not to worry about it, (for now).....I purchased a bottle of Honda Coolant and took off. But first a few shots of Baker City.
The Hells Canyon Rally was in full stride.
Now this is an engine......
The Classic Lobby is the Gieser Grand Hotel
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I was planning to make the Coast, but ended up in Springfield, as the drive was cold, and longer than expected. A very nice ride across the middle of Oregon on 26, 126, and 20. Very little traffic, and very scenic. Just outside of Baker City was yet another narrow gauge railway, and stopped for a few quick pictures.....
Heading up into the mountains, the weather changed, and yet once again a bit of snow! In June!!
Here are some images from the day......
While Oregon is very beautiful, the state has its quirks. Speed limits of 65 on Interstates, and 55 on the “rural” highways. (At least what I experienced.) They also have this REALLY dumb law that an attendant must be present to pump gas. Yes, no self serve. So of course, the gas is high. Actually, here is a picture of the most I've ever paid for a gallon...(or three)....
Today I was getting gas and asked the Goober when is Oregon going to get rid of this stupid law. “Never”, he replied...”It creates jobs”......So I mentioned it also raises the cost of gas. He disputed that fact by telling me it is more expensive in California, and they are self serve. I guess the amount of tax didn't figure into his argument. And not everywhere in California. It was less in several places!!
Arrived in Springfield about 7:30, and way too tired to camp, so I hotwired a deal and actually got a really decent place for a change.....Holiday Inn Express. It was nice after the long, long day.....
Arose early and was on the road by 7:30am. Headed West towards the coast! I was finally going to see the Pacific!! First shot of the day, and a beauty it is......near Florence, OR
Traveled South and soon was on 101!! Yes, the famed road. Was very happy to finally be heading South!! Warmer weather was soon to come. At least not 40 degrees!!
Got some great images along the route.....
And some quirky California Art!!
A little preview of the Redwoods I would see tomorrow...
Ended up in Big Lagoon County Park just outside of Trinidad, CA. Very nice spot. Humbolt County has a quite a reputation......Very green around here!!
Camp is set....Enjoying the ocean breezes looking very forward to tomorrow, where I am meeting up with Sheets...who is going to escort me around the area!! Going to be a great day in the California Forests!!!
And what a great image to end a fantastic day....
