Imagine tearing through a blizzard with nothing but sheer will, a sense of adventure, and a trusty wheel at your fingertips. That’s how our unforgettable escapade began, right from the heart of Missoula, cruising towards the Winchester Rest Area in Washington.
Our journey was a rollercoaster from the get-go, thanks to Mother Nature’s snowy surprise. But with a bit of luck and some deft driving (yours truly to the rescue!), we emerged from the storm unscathed. The next day, we greeted the mighty Columbia River Gorge with awe, crossed into Yakima, and refueled for the daunting trek over White Pass.
Alongside us, giant semi-trucks barreled down the road, their haste a thrilling yet chilling sight. We paused at Bevin Lake Rest Area to catch our breath and feast before diving into the foggy embrace of Astoria, cutting through Ilwaco, and finally, halting at Cape Disappointment. But don’t let the name fool you — it was anything but. Two days of fat biking and beach hiking awaited us, a true treat for the soul.
Our quest then took us up the coast to Twin Harbors State Park. A tad underwhelming, we swiftly shifted gears to Westport for some wave-watching, then to Aberdeen for the famed Breakwater Seafood and Chowder. A quick pit stop at Denis Company Ace Hardware, and we were equipped with rain gear and set for Pacific Beach State Park.
Next up was the peculiar Seabrook. A town cloaked in mystery had us speeding to the Olympic Park and South Beach Campground, where a close encounter of the canine kind left us with stories to tell. Our brush with a spirited pit bull was, let’s say, memorable.
The Hoh Rain Forest greeted us next, with days spent in the company of waterfalls and ‘mossy beards’. A brief detour to Forks for supplies was met with a political rally we promptly side-stepped, preferring the tranquility of Salt Creek County Campground, single-lane roads notwithstanding.
Mountain biking on stunning singletrack and tidal pool explorations filled our days before we settled at Fort Worden State Park. There, we indulged in the local flavors, conversed with ghosts, and even spotted a few sea lions and, yes, illegal surfers.
The journey back was as thrilling as the one out, with Tacoma’s bustling roads and the mountainous Snoqualmie Pass. I took the wheel for a nocturnal drive, pushing towards Kellog Ski Area, and we raced against the clock to cross Lookout Pass before another storm hit.
And now, here I am, reminiscing about the sheer magnitude of our adventures. It felt big, it felt massive, and oh, it felt good.
Resources to Enhance Your Day
- Pacific Northwest Adventure Guide – Your go-to for planning the ultimate trip.
- Storm Driving Tips – Stay safe on the road with these expert strategies.
- Hiking Trails of the Hoh Rain Forest – Immerse yourself in the lush greenery.
- Fort Worden Ghost Tours – Dare to explore the paranormal.
- Cycling Safety Gear – Gear up for your next biking adventure.
And remember, every journey, no matter how treacherous or peculiar, adds a new chapter to our book of life. Keep turning the pages!
On This Day in History
- 2023: J8 – Prison log j8, 2023. We attempted winter camping, driving north on I90 to St. Regis and then up 135. Our search for a campsite was met only with snow and closed gates. It seems no one camps in winter!
- 2021: Holiday Hike – (Description not available)
- 2015: Fat Pursuit 2015 Info – Follow the dot at trackleaders.com/fatpursuit15 for updates on this thrilling race. My personal updates might be scarce due to coverage, but you can check them on Twitter @boneshakerbike.
- 2012: Zion memories – Mix a 25-hour race with a spontaneous trip to Zion National Park, and you get an unforgettable adventure. Sore muscles, relentless enthusiasm, and the majestic Angels Landing were all part of this unique experience.
- 2010: 2010 TNR #1 – A Chilly Trail, Warm Spirits. The inaugural Missoula Thursday Night Hike of 2010 was a blend of adventure, crisp air, and the fresh start of a new decade. The night sky was our canopy as we embraced the promise of new experiences.
- 2008: Leaky Pipes – Winter in Missoula brings its usual surprises: a mix of warmth, snow, and longing for spring. Here’s a tale from my eclectic life, weaving in Lynn, ROAR, and the ever-changing weather.
- 2006: University Mountain Ridge – Discover the magic of hiking in Missoula on University Mountain Ridge. The contrasting elements of sunshine, brisk winds, and chilly afternoons made for a memorable experience.
- 2005: Get Off Your Ass – On this chilly day in 2005, a voice within whispers, “Get off your ass!” A call to action and a battle cry against inertia. Embrace the day and break free from the comfort of routine.
- 2005: Ho Hum, It is Saturday – A quirky Saturday scenario unfolds: bright sun, a pleasant day, yet an inner struggle to leave the house. Dive into this tale of peculiar eating habits and a sunny yet puzzling Saturday.
- 2004: Mount Greylock Overnighter – Starry Skies and Snowy Peaks. Embrace the frosty charm with an overnight adventure at Mount Greylock. A heart full of excitement under the clear, chilly sky made for a memorable journey.
- 2002: NHL 2000 All Nighter – Waking up to a winter wonderland after an epic NHL 2002 marathon. The first snowfall of the year sets a magical scene, still buzzing from last night’s gaming thrill.
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