Traveling the Mother Road

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In mid August, to escape the Florida heat and humidity, we embarked on a 5 week road trip. By flying to Denver we were able to get right to the heart of our destinations. First, on the itinerary was to drive Route 66 from Amarillo, Texas to Santa Monica, California, with a stop at the Grand Canyon. From Santa Monica, we traveled north along the California and Oregon coast. Next, we headed east through Oregon, Idaho, and Montana to arrive at Glacier National Park. Then, we turned south, with stops in Yellowstone National Park and Tetons National Park. We completed the loop with a visit to Rocky Mountain National Park and to the Maroon Bells in Aspen, Colorado. After 7000 miles we were back in Denver for our flight home.

Doing one BIG blog would be overwhelming, so I'll give you some photo highlights in several smaller blogs. Today's entry will be our Route 66 adventure. We did the 4 southern states of Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. The highway is sometimes hard to locate and not in the best condition. But, the Americana present in the small, forgotten towns is charming and nostalgic. Tucumcari and Seligman were two of our favorite towns along the way. Unfortunately, a camera malfunction at the start of the trip prevented me from getting photos of Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo. We plan to catch that when we do the portion from Chicago to Amarillo. So, buckle your seat belt and come along for the ride.

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Photos

Gettin' Our Kicks on Route 66
We started in Amarillo, Texas and drove the Route to Santa Monica, California.

The Arizona map
The route, directions, and recommended stops are included on each map.

The Mother Road
Texas to California

Burma Shave
And another stated:
If hugging on highways,
Is your sport,
Then trade in your car,
For a davenport.

Tucumcari, New Mexico
Neon Lights and Murals line the streets of Tucumcari

Blue Hole in Santa Rosa, New Mexico
This is a favorite spot for divers to practice their skills. This artesian well is 80 feet deep and stays at a constant 61 degrees cold.

The El Rancho Hotel in Gallup, New Mexico
Preserved in its 1930's style, this was a favorite getaway for many Hollywood movie stars.

Wigwam Motel
Loving the old cars

Comments

[D MJ Binkley]

Escaping Florida Heat
I'm not sure you escaped much heat by going from Texas to California but looks like you had a great time.