As I've mentioned, Big Blue is my RV. After retiring in 2011, and leaving Michigan (thank heavens!) I no longer had a permanent address. It was time to do what I'd always wanted to do...visit ALL fifty states! Okay, Big Blue never has been to Hawaii, and she won't be going to Alaska, but other than those two, she has been in every other state except Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Delaware. I'm not sure she would even fit in those small states!
In 2016 I started in Arizona and drove to Tahoe where my son lives. While there, I planned the course to follow to hit all the other states that I'd missed up to then. In the end, the roads took me along most of the perimeter continental states, traveling to over 36 National Parks, more National Monuments, State Parks, gorgeous scenery and some pretty frightening roads for a big rig. Highlights were:
Olympia National Park-Washington. The Hoh valley is lush and dense, protecting massive elk, gorgeous streams, quiet trails that allowed such peace and natural beauty to soothe me. Hurricane Ridge was stunningly high in the clouds, but worth the drive. If you haven't been there, do go. The Park is unique in its variety and wilderness. I'm not a hiker but those who are (my niece) say they love the quiet and sereness of the area.
Glacier National Park. I was lucky to be joined by my brother. We had a wonderful time on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, seeing the rugged mountains, clear lakes and wildlife. He enjoyed hiking, and I just relaxed, taking in the mountains and their majesty. We've enjoyed occasional travels together, always enjoyable and a welcome opportunity for family connections.
BEST FIND! Theodore Roosevelt National Park (several sections) Of all the Presidents, Teddy (as he became known) was an enthusiastic outdoorsman. He came to SW North Dakota following the passing of his wife and mother on the same day in 1884, he returned to the area to heal and mourn. The main part of the park is just outside Medora, North Dakota. If you visit in the summer, enjoy the open-air amphitheater there and show. Camping in Medora is easy, but that section of the park did not have camping for RVs.
I've been to the Badlands of South Dakota. Part of this park is also 'badlands' but much more attractive. For me, ever the lover of equines, the wild horses living in the park were a bonus. And the large prairie dog village such fun to watch as the little animals scampered about and into the various tunnel entries. If I go back and I'd love to, I'd like to see the other parts of the TRNP. It is the only National Park named after one person. The man was unique and it shows in this dedicated park.
Second Best find? Easy. Voyageurs National Park-Northern Minnesota. Why? Easy. Lakes galore. Dark skies for stargazing, plenty of hiking and fishing opportunities. Northern lights often seen. Winter is a special time for those prepared for the cold and demands of the area. The Park Service had a boat trip to travel through the islands and lakes. The area is called "River of Lakes." One lake leads to another without any evident of ending or beginning. Founded and named in honor of the French-Canadian fur trappers of the mid-1700's the area has been occupied for over 10,000 years by indigenous people. History is great in the area and the scenery is terrific.
So, this blog has been a bit longer than I expected but I hope you enjoyed my comments. If you travel in these areas, take advantage of the parks, camping, nature and sports. Our country has wonderful scenery, fabulous history, and provide such opportunities to share with friends and family the history, culture and nature that make our country so wonderful. Another blurb on the next travel will be added. For now, I return to my writings and Stannis. I wonder where he will take me next?
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