
Heading into ghost town territory in Idaho-Aug 2015
Looking back the past few years, there were some amazing places right here in the good ol’ U.S.A. where I started my moto journeys. Looking at these places and reflecting on my experiences, helped shape my ideas for 2016. Here are a few throwbacks:
Moto excursions consisted of a 2-week long solo journey of the Southwest, a week-long adventure to the Saw Tooth mountains of Idaho, and several shorter weekend explorations to ghost towns of California and Nevada. Some trips I set up a tent in the woods, while other trips offered the comfort of a hotel room.
After much thought, I decided to save my 2-week long solo trip for next year. This year, I’ll join friends and take two trips, both about 1 week long. In between those two bigger trips will be many weekend adventures, maybe solo, likely camping out somewhere under the stars.

Camping on the river near Downieville, CA July 2015

Photo courtesy of Death Valley Nat’l Park
For the first time, we’ll be trailering our bikes to our destination (don’t hate). Anyone from California knows the ride from NorCal to SoCal is pretty unremarkable. Long, traffic-ridden super slab for 520 miles. Sure, you can take the (even longer) 395 for more of a view, but we want to maximize our ride days in Death Valley, so hauling the bikes in a trailer will be just fine.
We’ll be riding to most of the major sights including: Ubehebe Crater, Sailing Stones at Racetrack, Lippicott Canyon, Scotty’s Castle, Artist’s Drive and so on. The area I want to see most is the road to Barker Ranch which was the final hiding place for Charles Manson and his “family”.

Barker Ranch: Photo source unknown

Photo courtesty of Moab Tourism Office
Goodbye to many things in 2015, and hello to a new sun rising. I hope you’ll follow me on my excursions, both big and small, but always ending with good stories, great photos, and hopefully a smile.

New Mexico desert sunrise
Two great sounding trips.
With many more little trips before, and after
DW
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Sounds awesome. I’ve had two attempts to try and get to Death Valley and I’m not going to try this year so I look forward to hear all about yours. Hopefully you don’t run into the obstacles that I did!
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Hope not! Although there’s usually something that happens to provide a “learning experience” ha! Also, I’ve heard the 3rd time is a charm so maybe next year? Thanks for reading and hope you enjoy.
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“Hello to a new sun rising…” Love that. Looks like you are in for some awesome adventures! Yay, 2016!
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Hello to a new sun rising!! Wishing you excellent adventure in 2016.
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Absolutely love this blog. Everything!
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Sweet thank you!
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I’m excited for you sis! One of these days I’m going to meet you where you are. :)! Have a great year out there. Julia & Griz are planning to go to Death Valley possibly, while they’re here in February! Maybe you’ll run into them. They’re trying for Furnace Creek but no dates set in stone yet.
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