Patrick's Roadtrips

Actually to Rochester Hills, just north of Detroit, to visit Peter’s brother Dan and his family.

Another day of plain plane driving: more cornfields than you ever knew existed.

Arrived at ORD (in the rain) about the same time as Peter’s flight.  Connections made.

Flat, with a continuous view of corn fields.  Getting good gas mileage, if that’s any consolation for the boredom.

Most interesting part of the day: a rest stop, with an historical marker plaque.

Driving I-70 through the Colorado Rockies. Most beautiful freeway anywhere.

Stopped in Vail for a cookie.  The Aspen’s fall color was in full swing, the skiing not.

Nor was the wild life very active – at least not this one.

Moab, UT

Spent the day hiking the park.  Most amazing rocks I’ve ever seen.  And most awesome trails I’ve seen in a National Park.

On a “fin trail” that goes along the top of the narrow rock formation.

Under the “Double O” Arches.

Holding up “Balance Rock” (everybody does this)

All across Utah. More high desert and impressive scenery.

Took a side trip to the top of Great Basin Nation Park.  There’s a campground at 10,000 ft. (Not crowded. Bring warm clothes.)

 

Campground parking lot – cool and Fall colored already.

The bugs on the front bumper are former Nevadans who were out after dark.

 

 

Heading out

Have to start out by driving back up to SF and crossing the new Bay Bridge (very symbolic).

 

 

Then across California and into Nevada.

 

Made it to Ely, NV the first night.

From Los Gatos

Johanna takes co-pilot position for the first leg from SF to Denver.

The big send-off party on the back deck.  Family, friends, FrontRunners, and neighbors.

They all seem pretty happy to see me off.

Travel prep:

• Car all tuned up, oil changed – check
• New tires, aligned – check
• Gas tank full – check
• Top down – oh yes

Ready to go!