Journey South

Our first stop on our journey east then south was at Hat Creek in northern California. While looking at different routes, Dan noticed Lassen Volcanic National Park. We have never been there and decided this would be a nice place to visit and to get a little hiking in along the way.

Despite the glowing reviews, Rancheria RV Park in Hat Creek turned out to be a bit of a disappointment for us. You can read our review in RV Park Reviews. That aside, we did enjoy our trips to McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park and to Lassen Volcanic NP. 

Webshots album: NE California

At McArthur-Burney Falls SP, Dan asked the Ranger which way was the best to get close to the falls. The Ranger pointed out that we could see the falls from the parking lot, but we would be far above it. If we wanted to get closer there were three trails. One was closed for repairs, the second one was fairly short, but a little steep and hot. The third trail, two miles each way, started at the lake a couple of miles away. The lake trail went through a canyon and connected with the falls trail at the Rainbow Bridge. The ranger also mentioned the last trail would be cooler in the canyon. We took his advice and hiked the lake/falls trails through the canyon. When we started out, the sky was a little overcast. This is perfect weather for taking pictures of the waterfalls. By the time we got to the waterfalls, the overcast was threatening rain and there was thunder in the distance. So, we hustled a little faster. The waterfall is not that tall, but it is awesome to see. Water seems to be coming from everywhere and dropping into the most beautiful deep blue pool of water below. It is a must see if you happen to be in the area. Oh, and we made it back to the car with only a few drops of rain.

The following day we drove through Lassen Volcanic NP. Lassen Peak last erupted in 1915. It was interesting to see how the devastated areas have changed and evolved since the last eruption with new growth growing around ghostly trees and lava rock. We hiked a little over 2 miles each way to Mill Creek Falls. We were told many families walked the trail, but it would have some patches of snow and fallen trees to climb over. Turned out the trail was longer than we were told and there were some very steep areas with loose gravel. The falls was worth the hike. We could have stopped at the lookout point, but we decided to hike down to the falls and cross two bridges for a closer look. From one bridge, we could see two falls coming together and following a river down through a valley for a couple of miles. Gorgeous view!

Our most recent stop this week has been at Fallon Naval Air Station. This is a nice Military FamCamp located on the base and within walking distance of the main shopping areas.  It is a bargain at $15 per day or $90 per week with 50 amp full hook-ups, cable tv, fast internet, and free laundry all provided.  It is close to the flight line, but the jets did not bother us. We spent most of our time just relaxing and taking evening walks, except for one day when we drove to Reno for a Quilt Show at the National Automobile Museum. While Dan took pictures of vintage cars, Sandy enjoyed the quilts hanging among them. Sandy thinks more quilt shows should be held at car and motorcycle shows. Can you think of a better way to get a couple to go to the same show?

Afterwards, we drove to Carson City and stopped at Red’s Old 395 Grill. This place was a museum by itself with vintage cars, antique chandeliers, and other items hanging from the ceiling. We sat out on a patio with a gas fireplace and a water fountain made with old washtubs and wood carved bears. Sandy had a Buffalo Chicken salad. The chicken was soaked not drizzled in hot sauce. She loved it. Dan had a beef brisket (shredded) sandwich that was so thick he could barely get his mouth around it. The atmosphere, the food, and the prices were wonderful.

On our way home, we drove through the old mining town of Virginia City, home of the Comstock Load. The town was packed with people so we did not stop. Got to expect that on a Saturday in the middle of summer, right? We just decided it was not worth fighting the crowds or the 100+ degrees to look around.

We resume our journey east and south again on Tuesday, 20 July. Plans are to start early before the temperature gets too hot. We are traveling east on Hwy 50 a.k.a. “The Loneliest Road” to Ely, Nevada, then on to Delta, Utah.  Up to 12 mountain passes and 100 degree weather forecast on the Loneliest Road.  Hmm, sounds ominous, or it could be interesting.  Dan topped up all the fluids, checked all the tires, and loaded 70 gallons of fresh water for the drive.   We will keep you posted!