Thomas & Deborah - Soo Locks, Canada, and more!

Friday August 5

Thomas and Deborah Craig here again. Please check our earlier blogs regarding how these two middle-age school teachers got all the way from California to Michigan.

We've made our way down to Muskegon. It's near Grand Rapids. We haven't had internet for a few days, so here's a quick synopsis of our journey on motorcycle: The first day out of Manitowoc, WI we had rain, so we checked into a Country Inn and Suites early. The next day, Wednesday, however, we made some miles and traveled along the Circle Tour of Lake Michigan as far as Mackinac City. Thursday we ran an hour up the Mackinac Trail to Sault St. Marie and saw the Soo Locks.

They first were built in the mid-1800s to facilitate shipping between Lake Superior and Lake Huron which are separated by about a mile of shallow rapids. Seeing the attractions there was well worth the trip. We crossed into Canada, but just long enough to snap a photo. Friday was another long day of riding that brought us most of the way down the east shore of Lake Michigan.

The weather has been wonderfully agreeable, but one thing's for sure: on a bike you know you've been somewhere. The wind, the temperature, and the scents bombard you every mile. After eight hours in the saddle, all but the heartiest are ready to call it a day, unlike driving a Monaco. Although this is fun, we're looking forward to getting back to comfort. We don't expect to return home in the 2006 Executive, however, because it's expected to sell since it's such a beautiful coach. The mystery of how we're getting home is part of the fun...

Thomas & Deborah - Nebraska flat lands

Saturday July 30

All this flat land of Nebraska and Iowa is a nice break from the Rockies. About dusk last night we ran through a swarm of some winged Nebraskan insect. It covered the windshield and nearly blinded us from finding the North Platte Walmart. (OK, even in a 44’ Monaco Executive, Walmart still makes for a convenient sleeping pad, and they’re everywhere. Some local ordinances, however, have disallowed spending the night. Be certain to look for signs, or better yet, check with the management.)

This morning we knew we would have to wash the windshield before driving much farther. Next door we found the Tornadoes 16 and Under, a local female sports team offering a “donation only” car wash. To see their eyes when we pulled up to their little buckets of soap was quite likely the highlight of the trip. “It’s free, right?” Thomas asked. “Uh, free-will donation…” one of the girls stammered. There was certain relief when we explained we just needed the front washed. Great group of kids and sponsors.

Another bonus of North Platte, NE was the Bailey Rail Yard of the Union Pacific. It’s the largest in the world, so they constructed an observation tower for the general public. The yard encompasses 2,800 acres and sorts some 3,000 rail cars a day. Well worth the stop.

Only about 350 miles to go. We should be in Manitowoc, Wisconsin tomorrow afternoon.

Thomas & Deborah - Departure Day

Wednesday July 27

Yesterday we wrote about planning a road trip, and we’re about to see how we’ve done. These excursions Deborah and I take for Paul Evert’s RV Country are logistically challenging because we must plan three trips before we leave home.

We begin with a nice long road trip in a luxurious roomy Monaco; this year it’s a 44’ Executive, one of the best. We’ll spend 4-5 days working our way across country listening to books on CD, sightseeing, and watching the landscape go by in opulent comfort. The leather, ceramic tile, Corian countertops, and fine woodwork are of a quality that exceeds our home (remember, I teach school for a living). It’s a relaxing, pampered life with many easy miles covered each day.

Once we get to the Monaco Pre-rally, however, all that comfort comes to an end. Within minutes of arriving, we move out completely. The pre-owned coach we drive will serve as the sales office at the rallies, and the sales staff is all too eager to move in. Most of our belongings go in a large box stowed in the show trailer. We go from royalty to minimalists and begin life on our Honda Valkyrie with very little luggage space. Deborah is very proud of the fact that she fits clothing for 12 days in a saddlebag half the size of a piece of carry-on luggage. The GPS, tourbooks, toiletries, tools, and rain gear all need to be carefully tucked away into very small spaces along with our clothes. We’ll cover far fewer miles in a day and avoid the interstate if at all possible.

At the end of the FMCA rally we’ll return to Madison, load the bike into the show trailer, and begin the third leg of our endeavor: another road trip back home. This year will be a marathon sprint because of the late date; I have to be back for the start of school.

We’ll keep you posted on how we manage… these blogs are about to get MUCH shorter.

RV Country Road Trippers, This is For You!

Hello fellow road trippers!  We all love to get out and hit the open road, see the sights, explore, and go where we have never gone before... Below you will find 7 different road trips mapped out for you with all the pertinent highlights and not-to-be-missed attractions, according to CNN Travel.  It's just about time to head out for your summer adventures, and we wish you all happy and safe travels!


Pacific Northwest to Montana
This big loop is all about National Parks, National Forests and some of the most unique terrain and wildlife anywhere in the world. Taking anywhere from 2 to 4 + weeks, you can go from the coastal rainforest of the Olympic Peninsula all the way to the alpine montane, geysers, and hot springs of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
*STARTING POINT: Seattle, Washington or Portland, Oregon
*Follow Highway 101 to the Olympic Peninsula
*Try camping along the Wild Coast
*Special stops: La Push, Washington (for good camping, hotels and a classic Washington surf spot), Hoh Rainforest
*Take the ferry from Kingston to Edmonds, Washington, and back to Seattle
*From Seattle, take I-90 East to the Missoula, Montana area (7 hours) with good camping along Clark Fork River near Alberton
*Go from Missoula to Yellowstone National Park via Livingston ( Highway 89)*On the return trip, head back from Yellowstone via 287 along the Madison River
Matador: Road trip planning -- staying sane, well-fed and entertained

Nova Scotia Loop
This trip is a great choice for people who don't like long driving days. All the stops are close to one another, and the loop features local towns and roads as opposed to interstates.
Nova Scotia is "Canada's ocean playground" -- a land of salty old towns, friendly locals and stretches of wilderness coastline along the North Atlantic.
*STARTING/ENDING POINT: Halifax
*Take Coastal Highway 3 to Peggy's Cove
*Stop in Mahone Bay. Check out the LaHave Bakery, which also doubles as a hostel in peak season
*Visit the port town ofLunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Outstanding folk art galleries and veggie-friendly cafes are scattered between the seafood restaurants and tiny B&Bs.
*From Lunenburg, cut inland via Bridgewater to Kejimkujik National Park for world-class canoeing and camping
*Follow Highway 8 north from Keji to Annapolis Royal
*Detour west along the Annapolis Basin to Bear River
*Head east on Highway 1 to Kentville and then north to Cape Split for a classic day hike
*Highway 1 will take you back east and south to Halifax
Notes: This loop could be extended by following Highway 3 west from Lunenburg all the way to Yarmouth, on the western tip of the peninsula, where it connects to Highway 1.
Tourism Nova Scotia offers further detail about both routes -- check out The Lighthouse Route (south shore) and The Evangeline Trail (Fundy shore).

Southern Appalachia to the Sea
The south starts warming up nicely come May. You can also find sweet tea and chefs that know how to cook collard greens and black eyed peas. This loop has a good mix of local towns / culture as well as varied terrain and wilderness from the coast to the sea.
*STARTING/ENDING POINT: Atlanta, Georgia
*Special restaurant mention: Greenwoods in Roswell. Fuel up for your trip at this Southern eatery
*Take 85 N to 316 to Athens
*Follow 441N from Athens through Clayton, Georgia to Franklin, North Carolina
*The Nantahala National Forest offers excellent camping options
*Continue to Asheville via 74 / US 40 (Special brewery mention in Asheville: Pisgah Brewing)
*Take the Blue Ridge Parkway north from Asheville
*Stop at Linville Falls (there's outstanding backpacking in Linville Gorge)*Continue North via Skyline Drive into Shenandoah National Park or take I-64 East to Charlottesville, Virginia
*Head back south through Richmond to Raleigh. The coastal North Carolina city of Wilmington is just a couple of hours from Raleigh on I-40.
*For another coastal drive, head south to Charleston, South Carolina
Notes: For an alternative loop that leaves out Athens but takes you through Nashville, Tennessee, and moves faster, take I-75 North from Atlanta through Chattanooga to Nashville, then reconnect to Asheville via I-40.

Vancouver, British Columbia
Canada's wild western frontier offers some of the most intense but still accessible wilderness on the planet. It's also among the coolest road trips, temperature-wise, during the summertime.
From the innumerable coves off the coast, to the high peaks of the coastal range, a summer BC road trip is all about exploring the pacific northwestern terrain.
*STARTING/ENDING POINT: Vancouver
*Take Highway 99 to Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal, then hop a ferry to Vancouver Island
*Head west until you reach the coast, then head up Hwy 4 until you hit the surf town of Tofino. Spend a day on the waves (bring your wetsuit)
*Horseshoe Bay. Head east to the ferry terminal and ride it back to Vancouver
*Whistler. Drive north again on Hwy 99 until you hit Whistler, home to some of the best trails in the world for mountain biking, hiking and camping
*Head north from Whistler on Hwy 97
*The mountains will give way to gold miner's country in Cache Creek, followed by Kamloops (the tournament capital of Canada)
*Stop in Kelowna, the center of Okanagan wine country. Special Mention: tour of Summerhill Pyramid Winery. Props if you can spot the mysterious Ogopogo, BC's version of the Loch Ness monster, said to live in Lake Okanagan
*From Kelowna, head west. Don't miss Hell's Gate for a tram ride over the abyss
*Continue until you join up with Hwy 1 (Trans-Canada) and make your way back to Vancouver
Matador: Top 20 microbreweries in America

Front Range to Montana
The high passes of the Rockies fill up during the summer with RVs, motorcycles and everyone else enjoying the mountains, rivers and open stretches of highway.
This loop features two major National Parks and true cowboy towns.
*STARTING/ENDING POINT: Denver metro area (including Boulder, Ft. Collins)*Take 287 N. through Wyoming (Chief Joseph Highway)
*Check out some truly off the beaten path exploration options (backpacking) in Wind River range
*Near Lander, Wyoming, Sinks Canyon is an excellent campground / first night's place to stop if making a big push to Yellowstone or the Tetons
*Continue on 287 N to Tetons *Special Mention: Dubois -- a true cowboy town. See if you can spot a local who isn't driving a pickup truck
*Teton National Park
*Yellowstone National Park
*Drive Bear Tooth Scenic Highway -- Hwy 212 winds its way over the spine of the Rocky Mountains at 10,970 feet, linking Red Lodge to Cooke City at Yellowstone National Park's Northeast Entrance
*Stop at Little Bighorn Battlefield for a reenactment of Custer's last stand
Notes: Additionally, Jackson, Wyoming (known by non-locals as "Jackson Hole") -- is less than an hour south of Teton National Park, and totally worth the detour.
Jackson is one of the most unique towns in America, and has some of the most hardcore communities of skiers, snowboarders and adventure athletes in the world. Check the local terrain and you'll know why.

Best of the Southwest
This road trip is one of the hottest on the map, but visitors will be surprised how much the temperatures cool off in the desert southwest, especially at high elevation. Bring layers.
More than any other loop, the Best of the Southwest has a high concentration of National Parks. Give yourself several extra days for camping / local options around the Grand Canyon. This loop could easily be extended for an entire month or more.
*STARTING/ENDING POINT: Phoenix, Arizona
*Head north on I-17 through Flagstaff on to the Grand Canyon
*Follow 89 N to the North Rim and Marble Canyon
*Various loops are possible using 89 and 191 to visit Glen Canyon, Canyonlands, Archesnational parks and recreation areas
*To visit Mesa Verdetake 491 South to 160 East into southern Colorado via Durango
*Stop at Pagosa Springs for an excellent family hot springs experience
*Head south into New Mexico via Chama, to Santa Fe
*Drive south on 285 through Roswell to Carlsbad Caverns
*Head south into Texas through Guadalupe Mountains National Park and farther south to Big Bend National Park
*Then go northwest through El Paso to White Sands National Monument
*To get back, head west on 10 to Tucson, then back up to Phoenix

Northern New England Loop
The Northern New England Loop is all about cooler temps, short driving days on winding country roads and local hiking in the Appalachians. This is a great choice for families with young kids or those looking for an easier road trip.
*STARTING/ENDING POINT: Burlington, VT (or surrounding area)
*Take 89 south through Waterbury, Vermont
*Take Route 100, a great winding country road, south past Warren Falls swimming hole
*Go east on 4 through Woodstock and cross into New Hampshire at Hanover, where Dartmouth College is located
*Drive east to New Hampshire's Lake Winnipesaukee and continue to Portland, Maine
*Follow Route 1 along the coast past beaches and art towns, through Camden, to Acadia National Park
*Then head north through Bangor and up to Baxter State Park
*Turn west through nowhere-land to the Moosehead Lake Region
*Cross back into New Hampshire after Grafton Notch State Park
*Continue into Northeast Kingdom, Vermont and back to Burlington via Stowe

Leavenworth, Washington... A Dreamy Getaway, Close to Home

Are you dreaming of visiting a Bavarian Village, but lack the desire to actually leave the country? Well, as luck would have it, you can have your Bavarian Cream Cake and eat it too!

Welcome to the beautifully quaint mountain town of Leavenworth, Washington. Once a thriving lumber town, Leavenworth suffered greatly when The Great Northern Railway Company  re-routed the railroad and the sawmill closed down. The resulting depression, which lasted over 30 years, was nearly the end of the once bustling hub.  In the early 60's, the community leaders of Leavenworth came together and made a plan to save their town. They decided to capitalize on the beautiful Alpine backdrop of their hamlet, and reinvent themselves as a Bavarian themed village. The result is nothing short of stunning. 

Drawing in more than a million tourists each year, Leavenworth has become a dreamy destination getaway. With local shops selling everything from sausages and beer steins to handcrafted soaps, specialty chocolates, and holiday decorations, there is truly something for everyone. There are a few RV Parks to chose from, but our favorite is the Alpine View RV Park, located just 3/4 of a mile from downtown. 

If you're looking for a getaway that's not to far, but feels like another world, Leavenworth, Washington could be just the place for you...  I mean where else can you find a Starbucks that looks like this?

Outdoor Activities for children living the RV lifestyle

There's a new website in town and its taking over your computer and your kids. Hopefully, its going to get them moving and shaking OUTSIDE. How, you ask is a website going to get my kid off the computer and outside?! Read on and prepare to be amazed.

Children ages 6 to 12 will be shown parks they can visit and suggestions for outdoor activities. Activities include camping, walking barefoot on the beach, climbing a tree, fishing, and playing in a nearby park, among others. There is even an area to search by map or activity, depending on what you and your child feel like doing that day. The site is very interactive.

Kids can even download a passport from the website and then check off each activity they complete. But that's not all. Once they have completed all activities, they can then send the passport to the Oregon Recreation and Park Association and in return the kids receive a certificate honoring them as an official "Oregon Outdoor Seeker"! For more details, you can go to the official Outdoor Seekers website. And don't forget to take pictures of all your adventures on these activities, we love hearing your stories and seeing your photo's!

Happy Outdoor Seeking!

Oregon's Scenic Columbia River Gorge

The Columbia River Gorge Scenic Area is famous for it's collection of stunning waterfalls... 77 on the Oregon side alone! From the majestic tourist attraction of Multnomah Falls (which is the second highest year round waterfall in the U.S., cascading a full 620 feet - see the gorgeous picture), to lesser known little falls (such as Punchbowl Falls, still beautiful at only 15 feet) that must be hiked to. All of these waterfalls reside within only about a 15 mile span, and can be reached by a nice, slow drive down the Historic Columbia River Highway. This scenic old route winds through some of the most awesome beauty in Oregon, and with so many waterfalls packed into such a small area, you can plan on spending at least a full afternoon here.

There are waysides, rest areas, picnic areas and parks throughout, but there is no RV camping available on this highway. However, should you mosey just a bit further through the Gorge on Interstate 84, about 14 miles from Multnomah Falls, you will come to the cozy little town of Cascade Locks, Oregon. Cascade Locks is situated along the beautiful Columbia River. This small town is deceptive, as there is so much to do! You can hike the Pacific Crest Trail, visit the newly unveiled bronze statues of Sacajawea and Seaman the dog and learn the history of this noted stop on Lewis & Clark's trail. You can stop by the Eastwind Drive-In for the best burgers and shakes, and the Port of Cascade Locks RV and Tent Campground will provide you with all the amenities you need, plus the most stunning view of the river and gorge you could hope for.

It is also located right next door to the local historical museum, as well as a huge, beautiful, park full of acres of green grass and a giant playground for the kids. Book a dinner cruise on the historic Sternwheeler, or take a stroll across the foot bridge to Thunder Island and let your kids and dogs run free and explore... There you will find the most beautiful view of the Bridge of The Gods and a new appreciation for all of natures glory.

Amusement Parks Unveil Many New Attractions for 2011

With nationwide gas prices on the rise, you may expect that tourism to family theme parks will drop, but the theme parks aren't sweating it. After a disappointing season in 2009, they saw revenues on the upswing in 2010 and are anticipating that the upswing will continue as we head on into summer this year.


"We don't anticipate rising gas prices will have a significant impact on attendance," says David Mandt of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions. "Most Americans live within a one-tank trip of a major regional park, so patterns won't change."

With the cost of admission generally around the $35 to $50 range, amusement parks are regarded as "recession-proof". However, that was not the case when in 2008 and 2009 when many saw attendance and revenues stay flat or take a significant drop.  In an effort to lure in repeat as well as new guests, them parks are always coming up with new and exciting attractions. Here are just a few of the new roller coasters, character themes and even a whole new park coming in 2011. Here, we've broken it down for you geographically:

CALIFORNIA
Debuting May 27 at Disneyland Resort in Anaheim is Mickey's Soundsational Parade featuring live musicians and dancers boogieing down Main Street to Disney tunes and "jamming like never before."

Premiering June 3: The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel's Undersea Adventure , part of an ambitious, multi-year expansion at Disney California Adventure park. The dark ride spotlights characters from the movie in a simulated underwater journey.

Also opening on June 3: Star Tours – The Adventures Continue, in Tomorrowland, a re-engineered version of a ride that opened in 1989, with Star Wars characters rendered in 3D. (The attraction débuts at Disney's Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort on May 20.)

Comedian/talk show host Jimmy Fallon signs on as the new video host of Universal Studios Hollywood's Studio Tour. He'll debut in June via the ride's hi-definition monitors, supplementing live commentary by tour guides. Last summer, the studio tour unleashed King Kong 360 3-D, created by Peter Jackson and billed as "the world's largest, most intense 3-D experience." This ride alone is worth the price of admission.

At Legoland California in San Diego County, the new Star Wars Miniland, created with 1.5 million Lego bricks, includes life-size models of Chewbacca and Darth Vader and interactive animated scenes.

Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia has adding three new coasters, bringing the total to 18. The DC Comics superhero-themed Green Lantern: First Flight is a spinning coaster with a vertical zigzag-pattern track and 360-degree head-over-heel spins. Superman: Escape from Krypton, an enhancement of an earlier ride, propels riders backward up a tower at 100 mph. A third coaster will offer a tamer experience targeted for children. (Green Lantern also opens May 25 at Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, N.J.)

Knott's Berry Farm in Buena Park will unveil WindSeeker, a ride with two-person gondolas that spin around 30 stories off the ground.

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo opens SkyScreamer, a 150-foot tower ride that spins at top speeds of 43 mph. (A similar ride is opening at Six Flags St. Louis.)

FLORIDA
Opening this October in Winter Haven, about 40 miles from Walt DisneyWorld, is the all-new Legoland Florida. Targeted at the age 2 to 12 set, this is the largest of the five Legolands to date. Its 10 "lands" will house 50 rides, shows and attractions on the site of Cypress Gardens, the state's first theme park.

At Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, the two-decade-old Star Tours ride gets an upgrade with new footage shot in George Lucas' studio and more than 50 ride variations. Coming to Disney World's Disney's Hollywood Studios is Disney Junior – Live on Stage! featuring entertainment for the pre-school set.

At Busch Gardens in Tampa Bay, the new Cheetah Hunt coaster runs over simulated Serengeti terrain with a stop-and-start rhythm that goes from 0 to 60 mph several times during the ride. A new habitat area, "Cheetah Run," features real cheetahs
.
MIDWEST
Bay Beach Amusement Park in Green Bay, Wis., adds the 2,500-foot-long roller coaster "Zippin Pippin" with drops of up to 70 feet at speeds of up to 40 mph.
The new WindSeeker ride at Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio, spins and dangles riders 30 stories above the Lake Erie shore in two-person swings. (A similar ride debuts at Kings Island in Mason, Ohio.)

NEW ENGLAND
The Wooden Warrior, a 1,200-foot-long wooden roller coaster, debuts at Quassy Amusement Park in Middlebury, Conn. The three-car train reaches a top speed of 35 mph and takes riders down a 40-foot drop.

Six Flags New England near Springfield, Mass., adds a 10th coaster, Gotham City: Gauntlet Escape from Arkham Asylum. The four-person cars climb five stories then twist through a maze of 17 hairpin turns and dips.

THE SOUTH
The swing ride, Barnstormer, opened recently at Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tenn. It reaches heights of 81 feet and speeds of 45 mph and is surrounded by a barnyard-themed play area.

The coaster Dare Devil Dive opens May 28 at Six Flags Over Georgia in Austell, Ga. The ride reaches 10 stories and speeds of 52 mph, putting riders through diving loops and zero gravity.

THE WEST
Lagoon Park in Farmington, Utah, adds a ninth coaster, Bombora, billed as a family-friendly ride.

Six Flags Over Texas in Arlington, Texas, marks its 50th anniversary with a revamped Texas Giant. The classic wooden coaster is faster and steeper, thanks to a a $10 million makeover that includes a new track.

RV Country Destinations: The Best National Parks To Visit In The Wintertime

Zion National Park, Utah
Winters in Zion National Park are beautiful and mild, allowing hikers to experience many of Zion's trails in the winter. Some of the paths that get little sun might be icy, so check with the Zion Canyon Visitor Center before heading out. Use common sense and turn back if trail conditions are unsafe. Crampons are used by many who like to hike in the winter. Cross country skiing and snow shoeing are the top winter activities.

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Bryce Canyon is even more beautiful in the wintertime! The casual visitor will enjoy hopping in and out of the warm car at the overlooks to see the striking contrast of white snow, red rock, and blue sky. However, for the more adventurous winter recreation enthusiast, many opportunities beckon. Before setting out on your adventure, stop at the Bryce Canyon Visitor Center to get up-to-date weather and safety information.

Banff National Park, Canada
The winter brings crisp, snowy days for tracking, skating, and alpine and nordic skiing. Visitors should always be especially careful of the wind chill. A temperature of -20°C on the thermometer may feel like -30°C with the wind chill. Regardless of the season, the temperature will fall about 1°C for every 200m of elevation gain.
After a day spent skiing, ice skating, or snow shoeing, be sure to hit the hot springs!

Olympic National Park, Washington
Hurricane Ridge is the place to be for outdoor winter recreation! Opportunities abound for snowshoeing, downhill and cross-country skiing, childrens' sledding and more. 
Miles of downhill and Nordic ski tracks are open late December through March, and a ski lift, towropes, and ski school are open 10am to 4pm weekends and holidays. Tubing areas for adults and children are open Friday through Sunday across from Hurricane Ridge Lodge.

Jasper National Park, Canada
Jasper is the largest and most northerly Canadian rocky mountain national park, part of a spectacular World Heritage Site. Comprised of delicate and carefully protected ecosystems, Jasper's scenery is none-the-less rugged and mountainous. In this special corner of Canada you can thrill to the thunder of Sunwapta Falls, enjoy the serene beauty of Mount Edith Cavell, connect with nature along 1,000-plus kilometres of trails, experience Athabasca Glacier up close or just resign yourself to a relaxing soak in Miette Hotsprings.


Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

Mount Rainier National Park is a popular place to enjoy winter activities. The mountain receives abundant snowfall and the scenery is spectacular. With the arrival of snow in late October, Mount Rainier's beauty changes and so do its challenges. Visitors planning to travel to the park in winter should familiarize themselves with winter travel tips, road status reports, and be prepared for potential winter hazards. 

In winter, recreational opportunities are numerous. A winter visit to Mount Rainier can include ranger guided snowshoe walks, Paradise snowplay, camping, snowboarding, and skiing.

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado 
Winter means snow in the Rockies and snow means fun! Snowshoeing and cross country skiing in the lower valleys, winter mountaineering in the high country, downhill skiing at Eldora and Winter Park, sledding and tubing at Hidden Valley. Access roads are kept open and provide the winter traveler with a panorama of the high mountains. In the Park, Moraine Park, Longs Peak, and Timber Creek campgrounds are open all year. Once the snows begin, Longs Peak and Timber Creek are not plowed, so you have to carry supplies to your campsite. Moraine Park is the only campground with water in winter. Park dump stations are closed.

Yellowstone, Wyoming

There is so much to see and do at the Nations most famous of National Parks. Why not go skiing, snow shoeing, or snowmobiling in the most beautiful of places! Winter dates, activities, rules, etc. can change unexpectedly. Always check at the gate or visitor centers for the most current information. A winter visit to Yellowstone National Park will give you lasting memories of snowy landscapes, steaming geyser basins, and incomparable wildlife viewing.  Remember,Yellowstone can be the coldest place in the continental United States in winter with temperatures of -30°F not uncommon, so be ready to bundle up! Way up!

Joshua Tree National Park, California 

Joshua Tree National Park offers visitors endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. October through May, call ahead and reserve a spot on the popular Keys Ranch guided walking tour. If solitude is what you are after, plan an all-day hike into the backcountry. If you would like to experience the desert from the seat of a mountain bike, the park offers an extensive network of dirt roads that make for less crowded and safer cycling than the paved main roads. Joshua Tree is a popular rock climbing area. Many visitors enjoy just watching the climbers in action. Winter brings cool days, around 60°F (15°C), and freezing nights. It occasionally snows at higher elevations. 

Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite National Park, one of the first wilderness parks in the United States, is best known for its waterfalls, but within its nearly 1,200 square miles, you can find deep valleys, grand meadows, ancient giant sequoias, a vast wilderness area, and much more.Yosemite is full of opportunity! Badger Pass ski area is home to the oldest downhill skiing area in California and offers downhill skiing and snowboarding from mid-December through March. An outdoor ice skating rink in Yosemite Valley (at Curry Village) is open from mid-November to mid-March.

RV Lifestyle: Livermore Park Districts, taking reservations for Tahoe campground

For the first time ever, early group reservations can be made for Camp Shelly, The Livermore Area Recreation, and Park District's campgrounds at Lake Tahoe beginning Tuesday March 1st, reported the Contra Costa Times. The early reservation option is being offered in an effort to boost visitor-ship, according to district spokeswoman Lea Blevins.

• The minimum group reservation is five sites for a minimum of two nights, with a maximum of eight people and two vehicles per site.
• The cost is $35 per campsite per night, plus a service fee of $3.50 per site per night. The first vehicle is free, and a second vehicle will cost you $5 for parking. Individual reservations can be made in person beginning on April 9th, or by phone on April 20th. 

For the complete story from the Contra Costa Times, and all the details including the address and phone number for reservations, click here.

Put a little "Spring" in your step, and your travels!

Got a little case of Spring fever? Nothing lifts the spirits like visiting a beautiful garden of amazing blooms, and here are some of the top botanical gardens to visit this Spring. All are gorgeous, all are affordable, and some are even free! Let's hear it for FLOWER POWER!


Missouri Botanical Garden's Orchid Show
When: Through March 27
Where: St. Louis, MO
Cost: $4 to $8
For an unforgettable display of orchids, the Missouri Botanical Garden offers 7,500 individual orchid plants. This year's Mayan theme pays homage to the Long Count calendar, which some say predicts the world's end in 2012.
Moss-covered mannequins wearing imposing headpieces made of dried botanicals, a serpent fountain and replicas of Mayan stone sculptures are mixed into the tropical display.
"You're going to see a pretty diverse landscape when you go to Missouri," Daniel J. Stark, executive director of the American Public Gardens Association, said of the Botanical Garden. "They have wonderful and different kinds of gardens."

Chicago Botanic Garden
When: Spring
Where: Chicago, IL
Cost: Free
Lauded as having the most notable display gardens in the Midwest, the Chicago Botanic Garden features four natural areas and 24 display gardens, all on nine islands surrounded by lakes.
"They have unbelievable blooms in the spring," Stark said.
The Graham Bulb Garden, for example, has narcissus, tulips, ornamental onions, fritillaries and lilies. A double-planting technique utilized in the garden makes it look like the bulbs are blooming longer.
"People travel from all over to see spring flowers at the Chicago Botanic Garden because of the quantity, quality and diversity of flowers," said Kris Jarantoski, the garden's executive vice president and director.

Dallas Blooms
When: March 5 to April 10
Where: Dallas, TX
Cost: $8 to $12
For the "greatest flower display" in the Southwest, the Dallas Arboretum is home to more than 500,000 spring-blooming bulbs, said Justin Hancock, senior garden editor for Better Homes and Gardens. The arboretum's Dallas Blooms festival is now in its 27th year.
Tulips, daffodils and hyacinths populate the 66-acre garden, and "bluebonnets and Indian paintbrush offer a fun red and blue combo," Hancock said.
Beginning at the same time, the Fairy Tale Castles exhibit will feature castles from "Beauty and the Beast," "Aladdin" and "The Little Mermaid," to name a few -- all interspersed between the flowers.
"[Dallas Blooms] is a world-class tulip show," said Terry Lendecker, public relations manager for the Dallas Arboretum. "In fact, it is the spot this side of Holland to see the most tulips in the world."


The New York Botanical Garden
When: March 5 to April 25
Where: Bronx, NY
Cost: $6 to $20
The New York Botanical Garden's "The Orchid Show: On Broadway" utilizes a Tony award-winning set designer to bring the charm of the theater outdoors. The show stars 5,000 orchids.
"They're spectacular in the spring," Stark said. "They're going to be focused on making sure everything is popping at the right time."
There will be more than 300 types of orchids on display, showcased with high drama in curtains, arcades and chandeliers.

Canada Blooms
When: March 15 to March 20
Where: Toronto, Ontario
Cost: $14 to $75
For those willing to make the trek north of the border, Canada Blooms is the biggest flower show in Canada and includes six acres of display gardens, Hancock said. There will be more than 250,000 plants, trees and flowers on exhibit.
Started in 1996 by the Garden Club of Toronto and Landscape Ontario, Canada Blooms is now a spring destination for visitors across Canada and the United States.
Canada Blooms will include five JUNO Rocks gardens, paying homage to Canada's music awards, now in their 40th year.

Atlanta Blooms
When: March 22 to May 1
Where: Atlanta, GA
Cost: $13 to $19
The Atlanta Botanical Garden promises 100,000 new bulbs, spread out to span early, mid- and late blooms. The spring-blooming bulbs will include tulips, daffodils, hyacinth and crocus, among others.
"By March, people are starved for springtime," said Danny Flanders, a spokesman for the Atlanta Botanical Garden. "After this particularly cold winter in the Southeast, we think visitors are going to be mesmerized by all the color."
The bulbs will join existing perennials, pansies, phlox, daphne, spring wildflowers, native azaleas and deciduous magnolias.

Tulip Fest
When: March 25 to May 1
Where: Woodburn, OR
Cost: $5 to $20
The 26th annual Tulip Fest will highlight tulip and daffodil fields and display gardens at the Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm, 45 minutes from Portland in Woodburn, Oregon.
"It features 40 acres of spring-blooming bulbs," Hancock said. "That's more tulips than most people can even imagine in one place."
Guests can buy cut flowers or order bulbs for fall planting. There is food, a gift shop and lots of fun for kids!
"There is nothing like wandering out in the middle of a tulip field in full bloom," said Barb Iverson, representative for Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm. "On those warm days in the spring when we are in full bloom, the field literally glows."

National Cherry Blossom Festival
When: March 26 to April 10
Where: Washington, D.C.
Cost: Free for most events
Commemorating the gift of 3,000 cherry trees from Mayor Yukio Ozaki of Tokyo to Washington, D.C., the National Cherry Blossom Festival is a celebration of the "lasting friendship between the United States and Japan and the continued close relationship between the two countries," according to the website.
More than 1 million people visit each year to take in the blossoming cherry trees and attend events such as the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade and the Lantern Walks
The website estimates April 4 as the peak bloom date, though an accurate prediction won't be available until 10 days before peak bloom. The blooming period can be as long as 14 days.
"The particular arrangement of the cherry blossom trees around the Tidal Basin and monuments is truly spectacular," said Danielle Piacente, communications manager for the National Cherry Blossom Festival. "When the cherry blossoms are in bloom, you know it's springtime."

Longwood Gardens
When: April 2 to May 27
Where: Kennett Square, PA
Cost: $8 to $18
Longwood Gardens is one of the best-known gardens in the United States for a good reason: There are 1,050 acres of gardens and meadows, covered in 11,000 types of plants and more fountains than any other garden in the country.
"They draw audiences from long distances to see their spring blooms," Stark said. Those blooms include azaleas, dogwoods, hyacinth, irises and tulips.
The 20 outdoor gardens are teeming with lively flowers and beautiful fountains, and cover about one mile in distance.
"There is a renewed energy and vibrancy at Longwood in early spring," said Patricia Evans, a spokeswoman for Longwood Gardens. "Our visitors delight in seeing spring blossom throughout the outdoor gardens and to see the Longwood's famed fountains once again jet to life."

Bluebonnet Festival
When: April 9 and 10
Where: Chappell Hill, TX
Cost: Free
Though Texas is chock full of wildflowers and bluebonnet festivals, Chappell Hill's is the only "Official Bluebonnet Festival of Texas," as declared by the Texas Legislature.
"Bluebonnets and other wildflowers are very, very plentiful in Washington County," said Ladonna Vest, administrative director of the Chappell Hill Historical Society.  "Visitors can 'come to the country' and have a wide variety of choices of sites to see."

With more than 250 exhibitors, country-style food and live entertainment, as well as fields filled with the iconic bluebonnets, it's easy to see why the festival was voted one of the most popular in Texas.

Why wait for summer to enjoy the beach? Here are the 6 best beach destinations of the NW

Visiting the beautiful beaches of the Pacific Northwest is probably not quite like you imagine a "day at the beach" to be.  These areas offer cozy coastal towns, jagged, rocky coastlines teeming with sea life, and often temperamental and cooler weather, but don't be fooled... You don't need to have a sunburn and a bikini to enjoy the beach!  Of course, like most coastal towns, in the warmer months these beaches and downtown streets are crawling with visitors who've come to build sandcastles, surf, eat saltwater taffy, and fly kites, but if you slip on over in the off-season, an entirely different experience awaits you. Here are six of the best beach vacation destinations to explore and appreciate all the wonders the Pacific Northwest has to offer any time.

1. Indian Beach, Ecola State Park, Cannon Beach, Oregon

Located off of Hwy 101 – from the north take the first Cannon Beach exit; from the south take the last Cannon Beach exit. Signs to Ecola State Park are clearly marked. The narrow road will wind uphill for about two miles through dense forests.

Best beach vacation spot for: Outdoor enthusiasts.

Why it's great: Even on dark and stormy days, Indian Beach is dramatically beautiful and wonderfully relaxing.

Don't miss: "Terrible Tilly" or Tillamook Rock Lighthouse. Whale spotting from this viewing spot is excellent during migration – bring your binoculars. Spend the night in the park's new cabin (very small and primitive) on Tillamook Head, a 1½-mile hike from Indian Beach.

2. Alki Beach, West Seattle, Washington

Located about 15 miles west of downtown Seattle, this two-and-a-half mile stretch of sand runs from Alki Point to Duwamish Head on Elliott Bay. It is easily reached by car via the West Seattle Bridge.

Best beach vacation spot for: Beachcombers.

Why it's great: A lot of Seattle-area beaches are covered in rocks and shells, but this beauty is covered in powdery sand with seawalls for walking and people watching. You'll love the stunning views of the Seattle skyline, Olympic and Cascade Mountains and Puget Sound.

Don't miss: During busy summer months, avoid parking problems and take Seattle Metro's water taxi, which leaves from between Piers 55 and 56.

3. Long Beach, Tofino, Vancouver Island B.C., Canada

Getting to Long Beach can be tricky, but the trek is well worth it. Sound Flight offers regular flights from Seattle. It is also possible to take a ferry from Washington State to Victoria and then drive five hours across Vancouver Island to reach the tip of the Esowista Peninsula.

Best beach vacation spot for: Surfers.

Why it's great: With 35 kilometers of perfect beach break, Long Beach is somewhat of a cult surfing destination. It's popular year round – in summer for surfing and water sports, in winter for windswept storm-watching.

Don't miss: Participate in a grey whale observation tour led by a park naturalist. Start at the Wickaninnish Interpretive Centre – the entrance is adjacent to Hwy 4 at the end of Long Beach Rd.


4. South Beach, San Juan Islands, Washington

Located on American Camp on the south side of San Juan Island, this driftwood haven is reached via a short flight from Seattle or a 90 minute drive to Anacortes terminal and then a scenic ferry ride.

Best beach vacation spot for: Anyone seeking a slow paced "time out."

Why it's great: It's the longest stretch of public beach in the San Juan Islands and locals are especially outgoing in sharing their beachfront beauty.

Don't miss: Work off the effects of a beach barbecue with a short hike along the bluff trails to the Hudson's Bay Farm site above Grandma's Cove.

5. Kitsilano Beach, Vancouver, B.C., Canada

Known by locals simply as "Kits Beach," this popular Westside destination and one of Western Canada's best beach vacation spots is located off Cornwall Ave., between Yew St. and Arbutus.

Best beach vacation spot for: Four-legged friends.

Why it's great: During the summer months (April-Oct), dogs are not allowed on the main stretch of the beach, but there is a designated "Dog Beach" area that is open all year round for playing and swimming. The views of English Bay and downtown Vancouver are spectacular.

Don't miss: The beach is home to the longest outdoor swimming pool in Canada, the salt-water Kitsilano Pool is open during the summer months.

6. Lincoln City, Oregon

Seven miles of pristine white sandy beaches have long served as an artist's Mecca. Approximately two hours from Portland, this resort town is an easy and scenic drive through the beautiful Coastal Mountain Range.

Best beach vacation spot for: Families.

Why it's great: There are tons of activities to keep the kids busy from tide pooling and surfing to flying kites and fishing.

Don't miss: Voted "Kite Capital of the World," Lincoln City hosts three fun-filled kite festivals annually on its beaches. Stay at Surftides, where vintage old-school charm collides with contemporary style and activities for all ages abound.

RV Country Destination Highlight: America's Dozen Distinctive Destinations

For the past 11 years, the National Trust for Historic Preservation has selected 12 towns to be at the top of America's Dozen Distinctive Destination list. They may not always be your most obvious vacation destinations, but they are beautiful towns full of plenty of opportunities for recreation, learning, culture and history. According to the NTHP, they choose areas that "exude an authentic sense of place".


The list of the top 12 destination finalists is out now.  With something in every region of the USA, any one of these destinations is accessible, and may be just the place for your next RV road trip!  Maybe you have already been to see some of these places? Maybe they're already on your RV bucket list? The public is invited to weigh in on their favorite through March 15th. All voters are entered to win a 2 night stay at any Historic Hotel of America, and you can vote once per day! Just click here to be transported to the voting page!

Alexandria, Va. – The culturally rich Washington, D.C., suburb sports an "extraordinary blend of early America and modern chic, (with) an eclectic mix of neighborhoods, historic sites, dining and shopping."
Chapel Hill, N.C. – Well-preserved historic districts and a bustling downtown are some of the assets in a city nicknamed the "Southern Part of Heaven."
Colorado Springs, Colo. – The historic Rocky Mountain town has fabulous views of Pikes Peak from almost everywhere in town.
Dandridge, Tenn. – Set in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, the southern Appalachian town has "a welcoming small town spirit and a charming historic downtown."
Eureka, Calif. – The beautifully preserved Victorian seaport on the state's northern coast boasts "a lively Old Town, the Carson Mansion -- one of the most photographed homes in America -- and nearby forests of majestic old growth redwoods."
Muskogee, Okla. – Once the unofficial capital of Indian Territory, the town has a multi-cultural history that blends Native American, African American and Euro American influences. It celebrates that history with a number of festivals in its vibrant downtown.
New Bedford, Mass. – Scenic beaches, maritime history, architectural and historical riches and a growing arts community make this former whaling port an attractive place.
Paducah, Ky. – The river town has thriving historic districts with one-of-a-kind shops and eateries. It's a community that "creatively celebrates its cultural and artistic heritage."
San Angelo, Texas – "A bustling downtown historic district and vibrant cultural offerings" exude authentic Old West ambiance.
Saint Paul, Minn. – "Visitors can browse the quaint shops of Grand Avenue, dine in the strikingly restored warehouse district, or be awed by the stately mansions along Summit Avenue."
Sheridan, Wyo. – The town has a lively Main Street commercial district, plus lots of recreational opportunities in the shadow of the Big Horns.
Sonoma, Calif. – "The town offers all the perks of being in the heart of wine country, with the added benefit of a laid-back vibe that complements the award-winning wine and food."

RV Country Destination Highlight: The Rebounding Gulf Coast

The oil spill scared many tourists away, but the Gulf Coast is ready for business. The shoreline has been spruced up and its kitchens have been restocked with local shrimp. The average daily rate at regional hotels is down between 12 to 43 percent since 2009 depending on the destination, and tourism levels aren't expected to rebound until late 2011, which mean deals abound. Keep in mind: there's more to do than just sunbathe. In November, Biloxi unveiled its Frank Gehry-designed Ohr-O'Keefe Museum of Art, a 12-years-in-the-works project dedicated to Mississippi potter, George Ohr (admission is $10).

There are also 11 casino’s to choose from, and a choice of 20 golf courses, many of them created by the top course designers in the world - Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Davis Love III, Mark McCumber, Jerry Pate and Tom Fazio!

Golfers could also tee up at Kiva Dunes in Gulf Shores, Alabama, ranked one of the top three public greens in the state by Golf Magazine (18 holes cost $78 after 1pm).

For sun worshippers, Florida's Panama City Beach averages 320 days per year of blue sky, flip-flop fun! Coconut Creek offers fun for all ages... Its an 18 hole mini golf course, and kids under 6 play free. 18 holes not your ideal vacation? Spend a day getting pampered at one of the best spas in Florida! Lounge beside a sparkling pool, then watch the sun set into gorgeous Gulf waters, and you can feel awfully good about ordering that third Piña Colada when you know that your money is helping rebuild this beautiful region.

Summertime Fun in Winter

Tired of the cold, the snow, and the dreariness of winter? Can’t wait to get in the water and have some fun? Well, until summer gets here we thought you might enjoy some indoor water parks! One of the greatest things about RVing is you don’t have to wait for summer to come to enjoy some summertime activities, just pack up the family and head to one of these super fun parks…your family will thank you!

Wilderness Territory Waterpark Resort, Wisconsin Dells

Four distinct parks make up this massive 600-acre resort, which stays a balmy 88 degrees regardless of the temperature outside. The park's big attraction  is the Hurricane—a family raft ride that drops 58 feet then spins into a funnel that mimics a hurricane in enough detail (lightning and fog machine alert!) to be as terrifying as it is fun. Not interested in the Hurricane, you may like their idea of  filling up the kiddie pool with "Bumper Boats" and a word to the wise: The Great Wave—a 15,450-square-foot wave pool that pits swimmers against five-foot swells—is addictive. 511 E. Adams St., Wisconsin Dells, Wis., 800/867-9453, wildernessresort.com 

Splash Lagoon, Erie, Pennsylvania

The first water park in the U.S. opened in 1989, and 13 years later Pennsylvania finally caught on onto the trend with Splash Lagoon. The Tiki Treehouse is right at the top of the park's greatest hit list—half fortress, half obstacle course, the attraction is a favorite among kids who love the bridges, slides and the huge bucket of water that periodically deluges unsuspecting guests. Of course, waterslides feature prominently here and the two standouts are: Shark Attack, a furiously fast body slide that twists and turns outside the building; and the Black Hole, a tunnel slide that leaves you in the dark until the very end. 8091 Peach St., Erie, Penn., 866/377-5274, splashlagoon.com. 

Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark, Boyne Falls, Michigan

In Michigan's northwestern region, Boyne is best known as a ski escape. But the area is also home to the 88,000-square-foot Avalanche Bay, where skiers often thaw out in the 84-degree temperatures. Adventure-seekers should head to the South Wall, a 25-foot-high climbing wall that pours H2O on daredevils attempting to summit. Those keen to stay on the ground should listen for the Splasherhorn's rumblings—the four-story play structure dumps 800 gallons of water on passers-by throughout the day. The park is also home to Michigan's only surf simulator, the Rip Zone, where guests can try either stand-up surfing or boogie boarding. 1 Boyne Mountain Rd., Boyne Falls, Mich., 800/462-6963, avalanchebay.com. 

Kalahari Resort, Sandusky, Ohio

The African-themed Kalahari is an expansive 173,000 square feet (it's the largest water park under one roof in the U.S.) and features a spectrum of thrill rides, from the 55-foot-tall Cheetah Race waterslide to the speedy, 400-foot-long Rippling Rhino tube ride. But a must-do is the 500-foot-long Zip Coaster: Utilizing a conveyor belt system, it launches two-person rafts into a series of free-fall drops, on-a-dime turns, and tunnels, all in a 30-second blur. 7000 Kalahari Dr., Sandusky, Ohio, 877/525-2427, kalahariresorts.com/oh.

Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Indoor Waterpark, Galveston, Texas

Meet the chain that invented the lazy river—a concept so popular that it's now practically a requirement at any water park worth its salt. The latest outpost from Schlitterbahn—a family-owned operation with four parks in the Midwest—has put a twist on the concept by adding waves to a river that is nearly a quarter-mile long (called Torrent River, this splashy adventure is anything but lazy). The company has another first under its belt with this Galveston Island park, too; it's the first "convertible" water park in the world, which means that it can convert from indoor to outdoor, depending on the weather. 2026 Lockheed St., Galveston, Tex., 409/770-9283, schlitterbahn.com/gal.

Water Park of America, Bloomington, Minnesota

This 70,000-square-foot water park is right next to the gargantuan Mall of America, refreshing tired shoppers with more than 300,000 gallons of water daily. The park's signature is a 10-story-tall tower waterslide for raft riders that drops and curves for more than a mile (the enclosed-tube ride is so long that it even takes a loop outside the building!). 1700 American Blvd. East, Bloomington, Minn., 952/ 698-8888, waterparkofamerica.com.

Great Wolf Lodge, Grand Mound, Washington

America's largest family of indoor water park hotels, Great Wolf has 12 lodges to its name. Its only West Coast location is in Grand Mound and draws much of its attendance from nearby Seattle. Those looking for thrills either head to the Howlin' Tornado, a raft ride that swirls riders up its funneled 30-foot sides, or the River Canyon Run, where a round raft drops six stories through a chute, sailing over 500 feet of water in all. 20500 Old Highway 99 SW, Centralia, Wash., 800/640-9653, greatwolf.com/grandmound/waterpark.

Massanutten Resort, McGaheysville, Virginia

Massanutten offers more than just warm water temperatures and eight big attractions: The 42,000-square-foot glass-walled, pyramid-shaped structure also has views of the beautiful Shenandoah Valley. As for rides, the Melting Mogul body slide sends folks on a heart-stopping descent into total darkness, and the Peak Splash slide is more than 440 feet high and moves 2,000 gallons of water per minute. Parents can recover from it all in the Shenandoah Hot Springs, an indoor/outdoor hot tub that's open year round. 1822 Resort Dr., McGaheysville, Va., 540/289-9441, massresort.com.

Silver Rapids Indoor Waterpark, Kellogg, Idaho

Idaho's largest indoor water park was built especially with teens in mind. The park's calling card is Hoop Lagoon—a court-sized, three-foot deep, warm-water pool with real basketball hoops suspended overhead for friendly games. There's also a Flow Rider surf wave that moves at 35 mph and the Crossing, where kids can jump between floating obstacles like lily pads. For together time, families flock to the Moose Sluice, a raft waterslide that sends parties of four careening through a dark tunnel. 610 Bunker Ave., Kellogg, Idaho, 866/344-2675, silvermt.com.

The President that Brewed more than Politics.

Ah, the open road! Perhaps you’ve decided to plan a vacation centered around U.S. history? You’ll set off and tour the cities where our past presidents lived! Remember the old days, back in school when a history lesson may have bored you? If the history books had told you all that you can learn about now, you may have enjoyed it a little more! Here’s a little information about one past president… We think that after reading this, you just might want to take a ride to the estate.

Thomas Jefferson was our third president. He’s known for many things, but did you remember him for his beer crafting skills? That’s right! Jefferson's beer-making records date back to 1772 at his Monticello estate, when his wife, Martha, oversaw periodic brewing. The enterprise produced 15-gallon casks of low-alcohol beer about every two weeks, and then expanded its scale with some outside help. Not the information you learned about in school, but it sure is an interesting fact!

Well, now the Thomas Jefferson Foundation is bringing the beverage back. They will be  working with Starr Hill Brewery in Crozet to offer Monticello Reserve Ale, inspired by what was produced and consumed regularly at Monticello. Brewing beer was among the plantation's important activities, Monticello officials said.

Starr Hill's master brewer, Mark Thompson, will brew Monticello Reserve Ale using a combination of lightly hopped wheat and corn, as Jefferson did in his day. Local ingredients will be used, including some hops grown right at Monticello. 

The ale will make its public debut at the Thomas Jefferson Visitor Center museum shop with tastings on Feb. 21. The ale will be sold at Monticello and Charlottesville area restaurants. They also plan on doing some renovations to the estate’s downstairs quarters and beer cellar, but the actual location of the new brew house has yet to be determined. Now that's our kind of history lesson!

Its winter, let's go camping!

A little winter never stopped a Californian from camping!  We ran across several campgrounds and RV parks at various elevations in the Sierra that stay open throughout the winter in an effort to accomodate cross-country skiers, snowshoers, snowboarders and snowmobile enthusiasts.

Mammoth Mountain RV Park:  Campsites offered include 30a or 50a electrical service and cable TV hookups.  The park also features an indoor swimming pool and spa, showers and a laundry facility.

Cisco Grove Campground and RV Park in Soda Springs: Located near Donner Pass, this park not only stays open through the winter, but rents snowmobiles and grooms 26 miles of snowmobile trails. The park also has a snow play area and snow tubing hill. The park currently has seven RV sites available, three with electricity and water and four with water, power and sewer connections. Additional campsites can be plowed depending on demand. The park also offers six motel rooms.

Coachland RV Park in Truckee: This park provides water, sewer and cable TV service as well as 30 and 50 amp electrical hookups and wireless Internet or Wi-Fi service.

Lake of the Springs RV Resort in Oregon House: This Equity LifeStyle Properties park sits on a 950-acre property in the western foothills of the Sierra.

Pioneer RV Park in Quincy: This 62-site park, which is about 10 miles from a popular snowmobile area, is open throughout the winter.

Snowflower RV in Emigrant Gap: This Equity LifeStyle Properties park is located off I-80 at Exit 160.

Tahoe Valley Campground in South Lake Tahoe: This Equity LifeStyle Properties park has about 40 sites that are kept open during the winter months. Campsite amenities include water, sewer, 30 and 50 amp electrical hookups and wireless Internet or Wi-Fi service.

Yosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging in Groveland: This park, located near one of the western entrances to Yosemite National Park, features park model cabins and yurts in addition to RV sites. “During the holidays we stay fairly busy,” said park manager Mary Betram. She said reservations are recommended for cabins and yurts, but RV sites are often available during the winter months.
 
For more information visit Camp California

This would never happen in an RV...

Budget Travel magazine recently reported the 9 Worst Luggage Incidents of All Time and all we have to say is, there is a much better way to travel!

• 40 suitcases swamped by raw sewage
• United Airlines set a woman's luggage on fire
• Suitcase soaked in jet fuel
• Luggage falls overboard on cruise ship
• Airline loses $50,000 worth of luggage
• Suitcase valuables regularly stolen by airline employees
• Heathrow leaves luggage outside to rot
• Local man routinely steals suitcases off the conveyor belt
• Checked luggage subject to storm

Spring will be here before you know it!

For those of you who were unable to escape the short winter days to Quartzsite, Arizona - HANG TIGHT, spring will be here before you know it! Have you been day dream about your next RV Road Trip?

What better way to honor the 100th anniversary of the RV than by selecting the 100 most scenic drives in America? The following list covers each of the 50 states – from the Blue Ridge to the White Mountains, from Beartooth Highway to Sawtooth Drive, and from Death Valley to Going-to-the-Sun Road. And wouldn't you know it, some of them are near Paul Evert's RV Country:

1.  Big Sur Coast Highway (Hwy 1, California)
2.  San Juan Skyway (Hwy 550/145/62, Colorado)
3.  Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia/North Carolina)
4.  Columbia River Highway (Hwy 84, Oregon)
5.  Beartooth Highway (Hwy 212, Wyoming/Montana)
6.  Monument Valley (Hwy 163, Arizona/Utah)
7.  Salmon River Scenic Route (Hwy 75/93, Idaho)
8.  Natchez Trace Parkway (Tennessee/Alabama/Mississippi)
9.  Going-to-the-Sun Road (Glacier National Park, Montana)
10.  Avenue of the Giants (Hwy 254, California)
11.  Acadia Loop Road (Acadia National Park, Maine)
12.  A Journey Through Time Scenic Byway (Hwy 12, Utah)
13.  Crater Lake Rim Drive (Crater Lake National Park, Oregon)
14.  Vermont 100 (Hwy 100, Vermont)
15.  Custer Scenic Byway (Hwy 87, South Dakota)
16.  Skyline Drive (Shenandoah National Park, Virginia)
17.  Historic Route 66 (Seligman to Kingman, Arizona)
18.  Teton Park Drive (Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming)
19.  Cape Hatteras National Seashore (Hwy 158/12, North Carolina)
20.  Tioga Pass (Yosemite National Park, California)
21.  Peak to Peak Scenic Byway (Hwy 119/72/7, Colorado)
22.  Kaibab Plateau-North Rim Parkway (Hwy 67, Arizona)
23.  George Parks Highway (Hwy 3, Alaska)
24.  North Shore Oahu/Kamehameha Highway (Hwy 83, Hawaii)
25.  Pacific Coast Scenic Byway (Hwy 101, Oregon)
26.  Trail Ridge Road (Hwy 34, Colorado)
27.  Oak Creek Canyon Drive (Hwy 89A, Arizona)
28.  California 1 North (Hwy 1, California)
29.  Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway (Hwy 24/91, Colorado)
30.  Lakes to Locks Passage (Hwy 4/27/9N/9, New York)
31.  Sawtooth Drive (Hwy 21/75, Idaho)
32.  Zion National Park Scenic Byway (Utah)
33.  Overseas Highway (U.S. 1, Florida Keys)
34.  El Camino del Rio (Hwy 170, Texas)
35.  North Shore Scenic Drive (Hwy 61, Minnesota)
36.  High Road to Taos (Hwy 76/75/518, New Mexico)
37.  Catskill Mountains (Hwy 28, New York)
38.  Maine’s Big Sur (U.S. 1/Hwy 186/187/189/190, Maine)
39.  Badlands Drive (Hwy 240, South Dakota)
40.  Mather Memorial Parkway (Hwy 410, Washington)
41.  Hells Canyon Byway (Hwy 39/82, Oregon)
42.  Bicentennial Highway (Hwy 95, Utah)
43.  Rim of the World Scenic Byway (Hwy 138/18/38, California)
44.  Seward Highway (Hwy 1/9, Alaska)
45.  Northwest Passage Scenic Byway (Hwy 12/13, Idaho)
46.  Moapa Valley Drive (Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada)
47.  Lake Tahoe Loop (Hwy 50/28/89, California)
48.  Newport Loop and Ocean Drive (Rhode Island)
49.  Cherry Orchards Drive (Hwy 119/31, Michigan)
50.  The Adirondacks (Hwy 30/28/3, New York)
51.  Dunes Drive (White Sands National Monument,  New Mexico)
52.  Snowy Range Road (Hwy 130, Wyoming)
53.  North Cascades Highway (Hwy 20, Washington)
54.  Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway (Hwy 234/62/230/138, Oregon)
55.  Black Hills Drive (Hwy 385, South Dakota)
56.  White Mountains Scenic Drive (Hwy 16, New Hampshire)
57.  Highland Scenic Byway (Hwy 55/150, West Virginia)
58.  Western Trails Scenic and Historic Byway (Hwy 26, Nebraska)
59.  Harrison to Hot Springs (Hwy 7, Arkansas)
60.  Globe to Show Low (Hwy 77/60, Arizona)
61.  Kings Canyon Scenic Byway (Hwy 180, California)
62.  Mohawk Trail Drive (Hwy 2, Massachusetts)
63.  Talladega Scenic Byway (Hwy 281, Alabama)
64.  Kancamagus Highway (Hwy 112, New Hampshire)
65.  Centennial Scenic Byway (Hwy 26/287, Wyoming)
66.  Strait of Juan de Fuca Highway (Hwy 112, Washington)
67.  Colorado River Scenic Byway (Hwy 128, Utah)
68.  Cherohala Skyway (Hwy 165/143, Tennessee/North Carolina)
69.  Land Between the Lakes Trace (Kentucky, Tennessee)
70.  Creole Nature Trail (Hwy 27/384/385, Louisiana)
71.  Billy the Kid Trail (Hwy 48/70/380, New Mexico)
72.  Silverado Trail (Napa County, California)
73.  Missouri Ozarks Drive (Hwy 19, Missouri)
74.  Kentucky Heartland Drive (Hwy 68, Kentucky)
75.  Loess Hills Scenic Byway (Hwy 183/37/175, Iowa)
76.  Death Valley Scenic Byway (Hwy 190, California)
77.  Glenn Highway (Hwy 1, Alaska)
78.  Champlain Islands (Hwy 2, Vermont)
79.  Santa Fe Trail Scenic and Historic Byway (Hwy 385/50/350, Colorado)
80.  Grand Army of the Republic Highway (Hwy 6, Pennsylvania)
81.  Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway (Hwy 17/180/348/75A, Georgia)
82.  Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway (Hwy 11, South Carolina)
83.  Great River Road (Hwy 35, Wisconsin)
84.  Sakakawea Trail (Hwy 200/200A, North Dakota)
85.  Ohio River Scenic Byway (Hwy 7/52, Ohio)
86.  Midland Trail (Hwy 60, West Virginia)
87.  Payette River Scenic Byway (Hwy 55, Idaho)
88.  Panhandle Scenic Drive (Hwy 98/30A, Florida)
89.  Turquoise Trail (Hwy 14, New Mexico)
90.  Amish Country Drive (Hwy 772, Pennsylvania)
91.  Chesapeake Country Scenic Byway (Hwy 213/20/45, Maryland)
92.  Delaware Valley Drive (Hwy 29, New Jersey)
93.  Lincoln Hills Scenic Drive (Hwy 62, Indiana)
94.  Flint Hills Scenic Byway (Hwy 57/177, Kansas)
95.  17-Mile Drive (Monterey Peninsula, California)
96.  Connecticut State Route 169 (Hwy 169, Connecticut)
97.  Talimena Scenic Byway (Hwy 1, Oklahoma)
98.  Mouth of the Delaware Drive (Hwy 8/9, Delaware)
99.  Lake Shore Drive (Chicago, IL)
100. The Loneliest Road in America (U.S. 50, Nevada)