Grand Canyon to Boulder Dam

Saturday May 5

It's been fun, but it's time to get on the road again. My original plan was to go to Hoover Dam and Las Vegas. Since my progress is a little less than anticipated, I'm considering bypassing those two and head straight for the coastal highway just north of Los Angeles.

While packing up, a young couple arrived at the campsite next to me. I can decipher that they are not English speaking Americans and it sounds to me like German. This is a stroke of luck because I am on the verge of ditching my coffee pot and burner; I'm tired of lugging it around and not using it. I head over and make my sales pitch. I discover that they are from Switzerland and are on an extended vacation in America roaming the country and seeing the sights. We had a pleasant conversation and they accept my gift of the coffee pot and burner.


Sophie and Jonas, I hope you enjoy the coffee pot and wish we had more time to get acquainted. Your friendly cheer was a happy start to my day. Good luck on your journey through America.

Sophie and Jonas

On the road again, I ultimately decide to visit the Hoover Dam and Vegas. I've always wanted to drive across the dam and I want to see the new bridge. I was in Vegas two years ago and visited the dam while the bridge was under construction. I would like to see the completed structure and drive across the thing.

The ride was uneventful with the usual strong winds gusting across the road. I arrive at the Hoover Dam mid-afternoon and proceed to cross the new bridge. It sure is high, but you don't know it because the guard rails block the view. There's a walkway on the bridge, but it's too hot and I have my riding pants on which eliminates me walking around without major chaffing. I do ride across the dam though. Cross that one off the list.

Hoover Dam From the Cockpit

Off to Vegas I go. After much struggle, I find a hotel room that's not too expensive and I head out to the Cannery. I was told by a Las Vegas couple that I met at a rest stop, the food was very good and that it was one of the more popular casinos with the locals. They were right. The food was excellent and very reasonably priced. I ate way too much and still had food left over.

Another day is done. Tomorrow, the coastal highway.

Photos:  https://plus.google.com/photos/117227791501639555776/albums/5740061255560733089?authkey=CKDsgpHm57Wh7AE