Eureka to Healdsburg California through the Redwoods

What a beauty drive that was, sometimes windy and really narrow in some places, but was nice to see the huge redwood trees are still alive in what seemed like huge amounts. Polly and I took a turn off 101, and went to what was a small town, Pepperwood. On our way there the road wound through the huge redwoods, and we stopped off the road in Humboldt Redwoods State Park to check out the trees up close. Like what we see in MacMillan Park closer to home, but  much bigger around. We met a couple visiting here from  Michigan, they had camped the night in the forest, in their tent. They were on a 2 week holiday, and were trying to see all they could of the west coast too. We talked for about 1/2 hr, and went or separate ways, was nice to hear what they liked and saw on their trip.

Soon we were over the mountains that separated the coast from the vineyards of Sonoma, and stopped at a campsite close to a town called Healdsburg on the Russian River, called Alexander Valley RV Park. The pictures looked much better than the site, but was a nice warm place to spend a couple nights, and visit Healdsburg.  

Setting up the trailer now is a little more organised, and we are establishing what each will do and when we make our way to complete setup. Choosing a campsite is something that will take some time to get right, taking a good look around once you get there is better than just driving in and then looking around. We did the drive in before we looked, and well that was another exercise in backup... I am getting better at that, not that I want the practice. The whole process, once you have traveled a good portion of the day, you just want to get set up. Easy to jump ahead and make an error while just wanting to get set. We took more time this time once we got the layout of the place, and decided where we wanted to be, then decide exactly where the trailer should be. Level it and then we are on our way to getting all done.

All finishes with a beer, and a talk about what we could have done better, and what we will do next time, as well as... OK What's next?

This time we cooled off in the river, which was more of a creek now as the summer has taken its toll on this area as it has many places this year. Water was colder that I thought it was going to be, but I did get right in eventually. Polly just her legs got cooled, but she was happy to get a little cooler. We had our air-conditioned on for the first time, was nice to have the warm sun, but liked the cool air from the AC. All is working good with truck and trailer, Polly always says knock on wood when she says that.

 

   

Redwood Acres RV park in Eureka was less than we expected.

This RV park was just a strip of serviced sites packed close with people having to share service two on each pipe, with extra sewage dumps in front of the next sites front door. The woman who is the hostess, was very helpful, and did what she could to make our stay good. Pay before you see what you have is a problem. So is it to not to have a place booked and being ready to pull over and stop traveling. We are learning how to get what we expect, and mostly it has to do with how much you pay. We have joined Passport America, as we were advised by others before we started out, and this can be a problem, as the places that honor this discount are sketchy to say the least. As with most things in life, you get what you pay for.

We had wifi after some moving around till we got on the site, bathrooms were decent, but somewhat primitive, and the place is attached to the fair grounds, so Saturday evening was races at the track. Didn't bother us too much, as we stayed inside as was a little cold out. We are learning how to pick a site, and how to make the best out of what we get. We didn't hang around during the day much, but did go for a walk in the morning Sunday before we went to look around Erica and area. Was nice to go

 up to the track and see what was still there after the nights races. One car on a trailer, and a couple with their 3 dogs. We talked with them for a short while, then walked around, and got up close to the track and saw all the rubber chucks from the tires that was shot off the track out of the fenced in area. Stands were close to the corner here. Would have been a rush to sit here during the races, and could have been dangerous as pieces were strewn all around the bleachers.

After our tour of the Eureka, Polly an I came back to our site, and made a couple Margaritas, been enjoying these in the trip, as have found a new mix. We sat in the sun, and talked about what's next, and how nice it was to just sit and enjoy the warm sun, and cool drinks.

Tomorrow off through the redwoods toward Healdsburg, Santa Rosa area.  Planning to stay at the Alexander Valley RV Park, another Passport America place? See how this goes.

 

Today Polly and I went into Eureka city.

We saw the best and worst of the city. Before we left a neighbour in the park said the town was not a great place to visit, go to Arcata, much better place to visit. Now looking at what we saw, I see why he said that. More rubies, and people that had seen the worst in life. Polly and I talked about how they got where they are? I shake my head, and Polly does too. Polly says she feels bad for them, and how did they get there? Abuse when young? I say who knows. Have to deal with what comes, and do yer best, my take on life. Many people as we drive through town are marginalized, and a friend of ours labels them. I see people camping close to Wal-Mart, and where they can get free something. Shit happens, what you do about it has to do with you! My take on it...

What we did see that was interesting, even more a few miles north in Arcata was Hippies doing same as we saw in the 70's... Wow if I had my camera, I would have some 60's pics. head bands, dread locks, and all the garb I call hippie crap. Dancing around, smokin pot, and giving hugs, while ignoring the town next door that could use some help. Gee I guess the well to do hippies are still doin OK! They had a festival as they called it, tents all around the square with many things that didn't sell over the summer, for one last chance to make a buck, while saying love and peace and a hug for your $... LOL

I saw when we left this town they had the university above the town, I wonder aloud how much this played on what was going on? The guy I talked with this morning said there is a separation between people that have education in this town, and others. I wonder what that does here, and all over the California, gee the world?! He also said that he had the same experience when going to small towns, and rural areas, he was helping people that had children that needed special help. They would say you are not from here, and would reject him, as he was not  from their town, area!  

Yes I Learned again today, and will continue. I also learned I can cook a sirloin steak like I did last night, with thin strips, on a shish kabob that was tender, and tasty. I also learned that salmon on the BBQ is great in tacos, soft tacos. Mmmm I like this dinners late,  and Margaritas in the late afternoon, in the sun is just the best. Polly and I are happy to know we are so happy, and are doing what we want, before we can't.  

Depoe Bay was a beauty, staying put for a couple days here in Coos Bay at Lucky Loggers RV Park.

What a drive that was, nice weather to start, but a windy road, and made a wrong turn to start, and made it a little worse going into a place with tight turn around, that I had to get Polly out to make the turn. After that we made good progress and saw many beauty beaches, but windy, bumpy roads made for quite a day, by the time we got here Polly and I were ready for a beer, and a review of went good, and what didn't... LOL we do well together, GPS helps, but Polly and GPS, may be best! Difficult to keep eyes on the road, trailer and directions. We are learning, no bang ups so far.

The stop at Depoe Bay was great, we stopped early, and walked a ways, but was best place to pull in. Many places you can't get into with a truck trailer combo. Whale statues, and whales in the bay was a nice touch. There is a whale interpretive center, and was a good view of the bay from there, as well as good to look at the displays of whale parts, and explanations about whales. Got to see one boat make its way into the harbour, but was a small boat, still good to watch.

We managed to go into a candy making store on our way back up the street, and of course had to buy some made in Depoe Bay salt toffees, Mmmm.  When we got back to where we had parked, car behind, and car in front! Dam I thought, but by the time we were about to leave, the car in front pulled out, and Vola, we were off with no pain! That was nice.

Now we get into the windy roads, and narrow, well just hope that further down from Coos Bay we get better roads. We pull into Lucky Loggers RV, and see that it is close to full, good we called ahead. 2 spots left, and we could have had one facing the water, but chose the pull through anyway, easier, and now I didn't want any frustrations. Back and forth a few times, and OK good enough. Not, after blocking front and taking truck off, realized couldn't get truck in, so up and on it goes again, now Polly guides me to take all the site to the line, and OK, now was good. Learning all the time right now. Set up, and plug in, and beer. That feels good to stop for awhile. BBQ is out, dogs on and lunch is served. Polly did make quick lunch, and now a nap for the old guy.

After nap, went to look at an RV Super store they call themselves. More $ than I wanted to spend for some stuff we needed, so off to Wally World. Polly went for the groceries, me off to the RV stuff. I got talking with a guy that needed a water filter, as I did, and he told me he is a vet from Vietnam War, and wow, he had much to say. He was nice enough, but had many things to say about war, and what it was like coming back. I heard about this, but never talked to someone who was treated badly. I can understand people being angry at that war, but to take it out on the men that fought, well that is just stupid. He was so angry with Jane Fonda, and all in that war he says are as well. I have to look up why that was so bad. Yep he was interesting to talk with, and could have talked more, but Polly came and so did his wife, and all went south! I got the filter he recommended, and a hose extension for the sewer, and a jack and flares for in case we get a flat. Oh and I met a Canucks Fan in an auto store here in Oregon, got to love that! No team here so he is a of our team. Nice...

Today we took a walk to town, and will again, as got cards for many birthdays to send, end September, and beginning of October. Got  the sewer hose on, and working, and got the water filter on, and working too. All is good here in Coos Bay, Lunch and a snooze now.

Long Beach Washington, to Lincoln City, Oregon. Chinook Winds Casino

We started the day with a drive to look around the north end of Long Beach peninsula, as we had spent most time south so far. Was a beauty morning to go for a drive. Rain on and off, with sun mixed in. As we traveled north, we saw the area in the center of the peninsula, was mostly 1-2 acre lots, and beach side had access, and other side was often less developed, and rural settings. As we got to the town at the far end, we saw more single lots on the road close to the beach, houses looked like subdivision most places, just on beach, and had protection from the winds, plastic deflectors on sundecks, to ward off the winds.

As we got close to the wild life refuge/park at the end of the peninsula, we took a road that led to the other side of the peninsula, to where they harvest and grow oysters. Where the workin folks of the area live. We ran right into history of this place we didn't expect, an oyster shuckin place, where they were about to start their day. This place had been around for many years you could tell, and so was the whole neighbourhood. Homes that had been here since the late 1800, and early 1900's. Was nice to look around here in the early morning, before people started moving too fast, not like they did here!

Polly and I talked about what this place reminded us of, and how well maintained it was, like a historical place, then we started to notice signs on the fences, and yes it was a designated historical place, here in the middle of nowhere, and we were wondering how we ran into this, as we hadn't seen anywhere in all we had read, about this place. But as we got back on the main road, there was a little sign telling you about it. Oysterville, was a nice treat for us before we packed up, and left.

Got fuel in this little town Ocean Park before we left, diesel was cheaper here than anywhere so far, $2.49 cash, or $2.54 on card. All in all a good drive before we left Long Beach.

Cranberry RV Park is where we stayed for the 2 nights on Long beach was mostly still asleep when we got back, except Gary, whom we met the afternoon we pulled in. He hangs his hand out the window of his motor home, and looks around the park, he knows all that goes on, and was really friendly. Gave us a bag of ice to make Margaritas that first day we pulled in, so we didn't have to drive to get it. He also gave us a package of his fresh caught salmon for our dinner. He has old cars, like most people here do, a 55 Chevy, that he has no place to work on right now. Like many he had a job, that quit on him, before he wanted it to. His wife works here now, and soon he will collect his pension, till then he will fish, and enjoy what he has.

Terry the park manager was real nice, gave us some local info, and helped me with getting parts to repair the water valve on the toilet. The evening before we left Terry and her husband pulled up beside Polly and I in their car as we sat and enjoyed a margarita in the afternoon sun.  They had just got back from a Dr. appointment, her hubby wasn't impressed, didn't like what he was told to do... Like most of us, don't want to make a change as we are used to doing what we do, the way we want to. Before they left, Terry's hubby dropped a couple beers on our table, and said enjoy. Nice people, and we will remember or stay here.

While Terry was gone, Julie came over, she helped when Terry was gone, as park hostess. We had a good talk as she kept looking around corners as who was coming and going. I am learning that some people are here for a short time, and some are here as this is it, no house will be there's again. Circumstances have been dealt late in life, and this may be it! Sickness can really make things shitty, we just don't know how shitty till the day comes, then it is too late to change it. My learning going forward is take care of myself, and do what I want to before I fall by the wayside. Polly and I are on the same track when it comes to doing what we want, before we expire!  LOL, I like that way of saying done, finished, the end... LOL

Today we are off to Depoe Bay, one of my favorite places on this coast, one of the shortest distance between open ocean, and the harbour. Bridge goes right over the inlet that boats have to maneuver. Then we will visit Newport, and check out the Aquarium there, touted to be 1 of the best around.

Now for a walk on the beach before we leave.

Deception Pass Park and Campsites

Today we went to Deception Pass State Park, to have a look around. Bought a day pass, and had a good look around at the light house, and the beaches. Beautiful views, and park is nicely done up, paved mostly, even trails. We took a few pics, and drove through, walked a trail to the North light house. Went to campsite area and took a good look at where we would have stayed, and what to expect if and when we return in the future. Nice paved parking spots, and close to beach sports more untidy than back from the beach a ways. Would have been nice place to stay if we were to just enjoy the park, but this time through we wanted to look around Long Beach.

Eureka! No not the city, but a small celebration, Polly and I went for a drive to Warrington today, and picked up a part we needed for our toilet, a water valve that makes it so we can leave it on and turn on the hot water tank. Installed the valve, and put toilet back on and we now have a complete operating water system again.

The trip to Warrington was interesting. I have had a tough time sleeping lately, and wake way to early, so when we were driving over the bridge I was having a tough time staying awake, Polly kept saying "are you OK?" but yes is all I said, and on we went. After we got the part, and returned I was OK, and when home I installed the valve, and no nap. Had a good time in the late afternoon, sitting out in the sun talking with Park Host yakking, and having a few beers. We followed the sun moving in our chairs, till it was time to start dinner. Salmon BBQ and salad... Nice.

Morning now, and had a good sleep till 6am. Today we travel to Lincoln City or there about.

Cape Flattery Trail

 Today we took a hike to the furthest north westerly part of Washington State. What a beauty drive there, all along the water's edge that separate Vancouver Island and Washington. Sunny, warm and sunny as we head from Forks to Neah Bay, Mostly second growth Spruce Fir Hemlock forest, with much Alder overhanging the road at times. I really love how this shades, and gives the tunnel effect to our trip.

Neah Bay was as expected, maybe a little bigger, an Indian reserve with some disorganization, and some newer places. There were yard, garage, and other sales all the way, we found out that it was an organised peninsula sale day, sell yours and buy someone else's is what we were told. We didn't participate, as we are working at reducing our stuff!

Bumpy, but paved road from Neah Bay to trailhead to Cape Flattery was a nice drive, many signs all the way saying no drugs, or Alcohol here on the reserve, as well as many letting you know AA meeting's available. Beauty drive here, and parking was easy, as people are leaving often. Polly has a pee in "the worst smelling toilet she has ever been in" not impressed. Me I will pee behind a tree somewhere.

The trail was just dam perfect, dry mostly today, and wide at the start through older forest, with light filtered in through the canopy. As we got further narrow boardwalks walks of thick, split cedar boards were built, and well built. No broken boards, and well done, with some 90degree corners.  Made for some interesting photos. As we approached the water's edge, we were treated to some of the best views, foggy edges, with clearing spots, and sun making its way through. Polly always concerned I go too close to the edge, but I was careful, and she was ok with my looking.

Trails end was a 20' by20' viewing deck, with a steep, set of steps.. Well more like a ladder, that had huge spaces from step to step. Not really good for older people. Once on the deck though was a beauty view of the immediate waters, but fogged in toward the light house on the island close by. Talking to one person there I was told they had a viewing of an Orca about 1/2 hour before, so some action. I was saying how not many birds, and all of a sudden a immature Bald Eagle sores over us, about 20' above, was really nice! All in all was a nice walk on a beauty day, fog treating us on and off to varied, beauty views.

Our trip back was nice, looking forward to the best burger around, I was told by a man at the hardware store in Forks. On the road to La Push, we stopped at Three Rivers resort restaurant that many in the area stopped in at, and were treated to a great burger, and a show when someone ordered the wolf man burger, that you had to howl to be able to get it. Twilight is huge here around Forks, and we saw many places that made a big deal out of it. The movie made the area a draw for lovers of the movie.

After our burger we headed to the beach al La Push, and soon were treated to many cops in trucks, stopping people for Speeding? Signs posted were 25mph, so easy to make the mistake and go too fast. La Push was a nice place, but trying to mix a commercial marina for fish boats, and all the trucking of stuff needed, along with a resort area didn't work for us. We took a few pics, and off we went before we got a ticket.. Tired now, wanted to be home, we went past Mora rd, and though to look at Rialto beach, but time to be home. Next time will have to check this out.

Wind was coming up, and I was worried as we left the awning out , and didn't want to have that problem. A beer and Guacamole and Nachos was the plan, and get ready to leave tomorrow. After lowering the awning to deflect the wind, I fueled up, and made sure we had most all ready to go tomorrow, just in case rain was here in the morning.

As we were getting ready, we got a message that we couldn't get on our cell, now I had a different job, get the phone working, with no service. Well that wasn't  fun. Between trying to talk with new neighbours, and going back and forth to the office down the road a couple blocks, to get wi-fi, I missed the sunny evening I was looking forward to enjoying. Finally got service, but now not clear, so good the neighbour had service, and asked if I wanted to use their phone.  The message was from the next RV park we would stay at, so good we got that cleared up.

Poker that night Polly got the jump on me, and beat the pants off me, so off to bed. Another fun day, and travel to Long Beach tomorrow.