After finishing Route 66, I really did not have an exact planned trip to return home. My friend Ed suggested taking Hy 50 across Nevada. I did ride up California Highway 1 to Oxnard and then stayed overnight in Bakersfield. I pulled uo Mapquest and it showed me a different route to Carson City, NV.
Between Bakersfield and Mojave, I drove through part of California's farm region. Dairy cows, hogs, oranges, almonds, peaches, grapes, sod, corn and other crops that I could not identify proliferated the landscape. Then I drove over another small mountain pass and was back in the desert.
So, I eventually got to US 395 which is called the East Sierra Scenic Highway. I started out in the desert (again) and headed north. As the elevation climbed, the temperatures dropped. Trees surrounded this beautiful cruise which came complete with winding roadway during the ascents and descents. There is a distinct advantage to riding on a motorycyle - you get to use your sense of smell. Everything from the aroma of pine trees or fresh cut grass to the smell of roadkill (can you say skunk?) add to the riding experience.
Enjoyed lunch in a small town called Big Pine. Had prime rib in a casino in Carson City because the price was right. From now on, the bike will be headed east. I have logged over 3,500 miles on the trip odometer.
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To bloggers following Ken's adventure - I just spoke to Ken's wife Janet. A few hours ago (3 a.m. CT on 6/7)Janet had a call informing her that Ken was involved in a fatal accident near Ely, NV. She asked if I would make this posting for her. What a tragic end to Ken's great adventure. You may send your condolances and support to Janet and their wonderful family to: JanVetro@aol.com. Janet has been traveling with her sister and is now enroute to her home in Racine, WI to make arrangements. - Terry
ReplyDeleteKen Vetrovec was a class guy who always had the best interests of his family and his community at heart. A warm smile and a giving nature are how I will remember him. My sincerest sympathy to Janet, his son and his entire family. He will be sadly missed but fondly remembered.
ReplyDeleteWe will miss you Ken!
ReplyDeleteMr. Vetrovic was a former county board member in Racine County, Wisconsin. Coverage from a Racine news blog here:
ReplyDeletehttp://news.racinepost.com/2009/07/ken-vetrovec-killed-in-nevada.html
RIP, Ken. Everyone else remember that life has no guarantees; live like you mean it.
Forever in the Wind ... Forever in our Hearts.
ReplyDeleteRIP Ken ... You will be missed.
Condolences to Ken's family.
Victoria, Fellow Lone Wolf Rider