Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Montana, Snowmobiling In Bozeman

 

Having just returned from Antarctica, I have been around enough snow to last me a lifetime. However, I have never gone snowmobiling. In Bozeman, Montana for a day and a half, the opportunity to do so presents itself.

The weather forecast is for a nice fall day although the surrounding mountains have a fair amount of snow from a recent storm. With a forecast high of 41F, I may have picked just the right day.

I am up early enough to begin my search for a snowmobile rental. I am finding out it is not cheap but I am hoping I will get some “Priceless” MasterCard moments out of the deal. I am sure the best riding is in West Yellowstone which is 90 miles away but my options are limited. My search ends with Big Boys Toys All Terrain Rentals which is located a few miles out of town (406 587-4747).

A few minutes completing “too much” paperwork and we are on our way to a local trail head. I am taken as far as the Chevy Suburban will make it on the snow covered gravel road. Last minute follow up instructions and I am cautiously on my way.

 

 

SAM1215 023 As a motorcycle owner I am familiar with the basic operations of the snowmobile but this is just a little bit different animal to maneuver. Having trees around along with an uneven surface and a cliff on one side of me is at first a bit unsettling.

I am almost content to remain stationary and enjoy the scenery.

 

 

 

 

SAM1215 025 In and out of each rut and around each curve my confidence is slowly building. Since I am alone on the trail each slide forward is virgin territory for my sled.

For now I am enjoying the riding challenge more than I am the scenery. A light falling snow forces me to contemplate the beauty around me as flakes melt against my face.

 

 

 

 

 

 

SAM1215 029 The snowmobile comes to a stop and with the push of a button I silence it.

 

The only sound that remains is the whistling wind as I overlook the trail's edge to capture pure white snow, rolling green mountain hills and a streak of blue skies. So breathtaking I am almost reluctant to awaken the silent snowmobile.

 

 

SAM1215 024 Reaching a sign post I continue a climb towards Little Bear Cabin which is 4 miles away.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SAM1215 026 Beep, beep, beep and a flashing red light gets my attention. With an overheat light on I bring the snowmobile to a stop.

No panic, I will just give it time to cool off. The area where I have stopped reveals some fresh animal tracks but a little too small to be Sasquatch.

I get my camera ready just in case.

 

 

A quick basic diagnosis and I make a start attempt without success. Does AAA make snowmobile emergency calls? A call to Big Boys and the machine starts up on my next attempt. Apparently, sometimes you have to open the throttle a little while pull starting, easy enough.

 

 

SAM1215 031 At the 4 Mile Marker, Little Bear Cabin is no where in sight. It may be down one of the now closed trails. I press on into more uncharted territory.

For an inexperienced snowmobile rider, in some areas the trail is becoming more and more challenging. My comfort level is starting to fall as the elevation rises above 7,000 feet.

 

 

I am looking for a spot to turn around on the narrowing trail. That spot comes when I hit a deep bank of snow that puts me in a sliding tilt which I manage to swiftly correct. I am no longer willing to play Christopher Columbus. With no room to safely turn around, I dismount and manually do a 180 by lifting the rear end of the snowmobile in a series of movement.

 

 

 

SAM1215 032 Overlooking Bozeman

 

 

 

SAM1215 033 My mission accomplished, I take in the best views of the day then begin my journey back.

This time the ride is more comfortable and delightful as I follow three previously made sets of lines down the hill.

 

 

 

Reaching the lower elevations I now have a warm sun on my back but a wall of gray clouds in front of me. It has started to snow heavily in the valley below me. For a moment I think I have made a wrong turn until I see cars parked in the distance. Families are out cutting fresh Christmas trees.

I am back at my pick up location where the snowmobile is loaded up. We drive back into town slipping in a few spots as the snow continues to fall.

 

 

SAM1215 035 1960’s Ski-Doo

I am now just under $200 into my trust fund but the experience and adventure has been “Priceless.”

Thanks, Big Boys Toys!

 

 

 

 

Friday, October 29, 2010

Georgia, To Conquer A Dragon

 

Arriving at Atlanta Hartsfield Airport, I am about to take a step back in time. Equipped with just a backpack, Samsung SL605 point and shoot camera and a helmet, I am about to become a dragon slayer.

 

MARTA Train I will need some assistance to complete my mission so I pay a $4.50 fare and board MARTA, the Atlanta transit system.

I am headed to see the dragon slayer master who will meet me at the Lindbergh station.

 

 

 

 

SAM 004 About an hour after arriving in Atlanta, I am at Dan's Motorcycle where I suit up and take command of a dark blue Honda ST-1300.

Dan provides some local information then escorts us to the Georgia 400. A wave off at 70 miles per hour and we are now alone on our way to meet a dragon.

 

 

 

 

 

SAM 007 Georgia 400

 

 

Along some areas of the highway, the median is covered with brilliant pink and purple flowers which provide a stark contrast to the bright reds, orange and yellows in the background.

 

 

SAM 010 I am soon beginning to sense the dragon's far reaching powers as the surrounding scenery soon becomes captivating and requires an inner strength to press on to my destination.

I am told the further north I travel the more engaging the scenery will become.

I have no doubts.

 

 

 

 

SAM 013 Today, traffic flows well along what has now become 19/60 North.

Weakened by the gorgeous landscape and feeling the need to stand and stretch, we make a stop at a Georgia institution, Chick Fil A.

 

 

 

 

 

While dining on a Spicy Chicken Sandwich along with a Polynesian Sauce, Diet Lemonade and Waffle fries, I encounter a Merlin who gives me more insight for my journey. With a magic touch he fires up his electronic information capsule and together we go over a heavenly view map of the area courtesy of the Google gods.

 

 

 

SAM_3770Dragon Slayer?

 

 

Calculating the time of the falling sun, we are given cautious warnings of the north wind and falling temperatures as our journey will now take us to higher elevations.

 

 

SAM_3772 With a blessing from the “Great Wizard” we are soon snaking our way on 60 North toward Suches, Georgia.

The temptation to stop and be engulfed by spectacular scenery is becoming more and more irresistible even as I race against a westward sun.

 

 

 

 

 

SAM 014 A sparkling blue lake accented with fall foliage against a perfectly clear blue sky and my ST-1300 comes to a complete stop.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SAM 021This is a view that must be enjoyed at zero miles per hour.

 

 

 

SAM 022 A calm lake surrounded by beautiful fall foliage.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SAM 017 Continuing the journey, we begin to ride the back of a snake as it slivers it’s way through a mountain landscape that is as peaceful as it is beautiful.

 

 

 

 

 

 

SAM 016 Sneaking between tall trees the sun becomes a lighting technician on a movie set, highlighting some areas and shading others.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SAM 018 Setting the right mood and spotlighting the right colors to enjoy nature's fall foliage.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SAM 025

 

 

 

SAM 028 Open areas along the highway show wide  farmlands and a chance to feel the sun’s warmth against the autumn temperatures that are starting to fall.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SAM 020 Passing through Ducktown, Tennessee, we now join Tennessee 68 North. It is not long before the views are displaying more curves and brilliant colors.

 

 

 

 

 

As previously warned, the north wind is beginning to make it's presence felt. Somewhere along 68 North another temptation crosses my path in the form of a Kawasaki Voyager.

 

 

Kawasaki Voyager For $1500 cash this requires further investigation and serious consideration.

 

 

 

 

 

 

We have lost the battle with the westward sun as we make a fuel stop at Tellico Plains, Tennessee but I am within striking distance of the dragon. Only about 50 miles and one mountain pass separates us.

 

 

SAM_3608 As the moon climbs higher in the night sky and a cold wind crosses my face, I take on the last challenge before I become a Conqueror or conquered.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

New Hampshire, Kancamagus Highway

 

 

CAN 473 Joining the Kancamagus Highway the sun is beginning to say a colorful good-bye to the day.

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAN 492 It's soft orange farewell adds to the surrounding fall foliage and gives it a warm feeling despite the chill developing in the air.

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAN 475

 

 

Headed to Conway, New Hampshire from I-93, the town of Lincoln provides the best opportunity for dining as the next 34 miles will only fill your scenic appetite. Hoping to spot moose dining along the highway, I discard my hunger and press on.

 

 

CAN 494 My first scenic spot rewards me with the rushing sounds of the Pemigewasset River and the fall colors along it's banks.

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAN 495 I also get the chance to meet one heck of a cute Chinese kid traveling with his parents.

Carrying a picture of a 747, I take a quick liking to this kid.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAN 505 Kancamagus Highway

 

 

With tall trees on either side of the highway blocking the setting sun, in some areas it seems as if I am driving in and out of the edge darkness. Where the sun breaks thru it enriches the already bright red and warm orange leaves.

 

 

CAN 503 Pemigewasset River

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This evening I am guessing all the moose are seniors and have opted for the early dinner specials. I have been told the grassy areas along the river bank and highway is where they are normally spotted in the early morning or evening hours. In Lincoln there are “Moose Tours” that guarantee sightings but I imagine this is in areas away from the highway.

 

 

CAN 512 Despite the lack of moose sightings the scenery along the Kancamagus Highway is still worth the drive.

The Kancamagus Highway is open year round and offers lots of outdoor activities.

 

 

 

Arriving at the other end of the Kancamagus Highway in Conway, although it is dark I am in search of a famous New England covered bridge. Stopping at a local gas station for information I am approached by a young kid and asked...

“Do you know anyone going to Albany? I have just been punched in the stomach and need a ride home.”

We are both in a predicament and work out a nice compromise. He will show me a nearby covered bridge and I will give him a ride home. I am not one to pick up hitch hikers even if they are just 11 years old but I sense this kid is not a mass murderer. He turns out to be funny, quick witted and a good storyteller as he quizzes me and becomes an on the spot tour guide.

 

 

 

CAN 521 Not far from my original stop we are crossing the Saco River and a covered bridge built in 1890.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SAM 018 “If you look down there, you can see the river. I go swimming there and last week my friends found a dead shark in it”

Maybe just another fish story but told by an 11 year old, it's believable.

 

 

 

 

Fulfilling my end of the deal, I am navigating off the beaten path but minutes later I am dropping a polite and appreciative kid home.

 

 

SAM 010 Now traveling south on Highway 16 it's time to feed my hunger.

A stop at Sammy's and I am enjoying a sandwich and a hot tea to warm my bones.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SAM 003 Chicken Pesto, Homemade Potato Chips

 

 

My sandwich on focaccia is a little heavy on the bread but it is not bad for a joint named after a cute dog.

 

 

Monday, October 18, 2010

Washington, Mount St. Helens

 

 

Map picture

“Vancouver!, Vancouver!, This Is It!”

From downtown Portland, Oregon I exit from Interstate 5 North onto Highway 504E. I am on my way to the Johnston Ridge Observatory at Mount St. Helens.

 

 

CAN 155 It is a scenic drive along Highway 504 with glimpses of Mount St. Helen's always in the distance on this clear and beautiful day.

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAN 234 Fall is in the air and this seems as nice a time as ever to relive a momentous piece of history.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAN 271

 

 

 

CAN 186 From desolate hillsides to a Ford Granada covered in a black soot my route to Mount St. Helens is still filled with reminders of what happened on that morning over thirty years ago.

 

 

 

 

 

CAN 231 Passing gorgeous mountain scenery, I arrive at Johnston Ridge Observatory about 42 seconds before the next movie presentation of the May 1980 events is about to begin.

 

 

 

 

A $8 admission fee that supports the park and allows usage at nearby trails and lakes is a worthwhile investment.

 

 

 

CAN 245 Coldwater Lake

 

 

 

CAN 275 Although the movie is 1980's low tech, it is a powerful reminder of nature's awesome power.

Months prior to Mount St. Helens eruption scientists had been monitoring a huge growth on the mountain.

 

 

 

 

CAN 302 It seems the lady was putting on a little weight at a rate that so surprised the scientists that at one point they sent their equipment back to be re-calibrated.

At a growth rate of 5 feet per day, the equivalent of a human gaining 200 pounds per day in “doggie years”, this was astounding!

 

 

It is said that on May 18th, 1980, Mount St. Helen lost the “Battle of The Bulge”. Unfortunately, David A. Johnston a geologist working on his day off for a colleague witnessed this defeat but lost his life in the process.

 

 

 

CAN 256 The eruption of Mount St. Helens is the largest ever recorded landslide.

 

 

 

Half of the mountain fell that day spreading it's contents in all directions with up to 180 miles per hour winds preceding it. The “Blast Zone” from this extended up to 14 miles in some directions leaving a path of destruction behind.

 

 

CAN 556 Imagine an uprooted 100 feet tall over 15 inch diameter tree hurling towards you at 180 miles per hour.

This force knocked out bridges, destroyed an entire landscape, buried a river with up to 600 feet of debris and even created new lakes.

 

 

 

As the movie ends the stage curtains rise and we get a view of Mount St. Helen while still seated in the auditorium, a nice touch to the presentation.

Inside the observatory informative exhibits and first hand accounts from those that experienced the eruption and effects of Mount St. Helens on May 18th, 1980. Heroic stories and amazing photographs.

 

 

CAN 281 Ever thought you were a heavy weight?

Well, here you can get a chance to measure up. Activating a seismograph on display, I am proud to say I measure a warping 0.0000000001 on the Richter scale.

I bet you are impressed.

 

 

 

CAN 283

Press a button at the observatory main display and you can relive St. Helen's eruption in a colorful light display.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAN 282 The Blast Zone

 

Outside, I join up with a few other park visitors for the last Park Ranger talk of the day at 5:15pm. We appreciate the humor and presentation as we learn a little more about life and the events in the area before and after the eruption. It is amazing to learn that since the eruption, frogs, snakes, rats and even elk have been found living in the crater since 1980.

 

 

Mount St Helen Crater Today, one of the youngest glaciers in the world is also forming inside the crater wall.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mount St Helen Elk At one point it was believed that another major eruption was imminent.

However, on further investigation it was discovered that it was just an elk doing some butt scratching on the equipment in the crater that was giving unusually high seismographic readings.

 

 

 

 

 

From the 1980 eruption at Mount St. Helen scientists have learned so much about our ever changing world and what goes on beneath the surface of it. This knowledge is being made useful to predict and provide warnings of other possible eruptions worldwide.

At Mount St. Helens, nature has been on it's best behavior since 1980 with only a few minor exceptions. Although we know of it's destructiveness, today I am fortunate to observe a part of it's spectacular beauty.

 

 

 SAM 006 Awesome!