OK, hopefully this works... I've created the route using google maps. Its a little over 3,800 miles, my math (actually my calculator) tells me that's about 270 per day, which I think should be ok. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity so I want to make sure we have plenty of time to make the most of it. That said I won't be too surprised if we're scunnered toward the end and doing hundreds of miles a day. In the end the kids and dog will probably determine our route!!
I could not get the link to work so: cut and paste the URL below into your browser. (If the previous sentence doesn't make sense this whole blog thing probably isn't for you. Just kidding, if it doesn't make sense, ask someone. Its not hard. Honest.) The URL is the string of letters and numbers below that starts with http://maps.... etc. This comment mainly goes out to my lovely parents ;-)
http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF&msa=0&msid=212537687397522934245.0004a1219270023ba5c5f
Notes on the trip:
ReplyDeleteYour "Area 51" marker on the map is near Roswell. That's where the alleged "alien spaceship" went down. (Which was more likely a secret military device instead.) Area 51 is actually north of Vegas in Nevada. According to your route, you will be going right by it as you drive down hwy 95 to Vegas. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Area_51
Marker in Winslow: I believe the reason you are looking for is in these lines of the Eagles song "Take it Easy":
Standing on a corner in Winslow, Arizona, such a fine sight to see. It's a girl, my Lord, in a flat bed Ford, slowin' down to take a look at me...
Mono Lake: definitely worth a stop. Especially cool are the caverns/crevices you can go into.
Another thing I noticed: this is a trip DESIGNED for barbecue. I meal REAL barbecue. You have to go to the Salt Lick when in Austin. Then, in Memphis, try the ribs. They like the dry rub style there. Of course, your destination in NC has the pork with vinegar-based sauces. I expect a full report on the variety of bbq you try! http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barbecue_in_the_United_States
Hmmmm, thanks for the ideas. I like the idea of reporting back on all the local delicacies and brews I encounter along the trip.
ReplyDeleteProbably open again by the time you get there...
ReplyDeletehttp://articles.cnn.com/2011-06-13/us/new.mexico.carlsbad.closed_1_carlsbad-caverns-national-park-air-tankers-second-largest-fire?_s=PM:US
Ooh, just realized Meteor Crater is right near Winslow! Check this out:
ReplyDeletehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meteor_Crater
You gotta go!
Wow, it's only 5 miles off your proposed route.
ReplyDelete