TomUSA06s Blog on RealTravel

Corpus Christi journal: Gulf Coast

Mon, 04 Dec 2006 21:17:02 GMT

Between South Padre Island and Houston is Corpus Christi a good stop at the Gulf. Downtown has some small cafes and pubs and the seafront is nicly arranged with palm trees and harbor facilities.

Zwischen South Padre Island und Houston ist Corpus Christi ein angenehmer Stopp am Golf. Die Innenstadt ist gemuetlich mit kleinen Cafes und Pubs, die Promenaden sind huebsch angelegt mit Palmen und Yachthaefen.

Houston journal: Closed the loop: Back in Houston

Mon, 04 Dec 2006 21:10:27 GMT

After 13,000 miles in 75 days and MANY great impressions, I arrived back in Houston. I was welcomed with a traffic jam on Hwy 59 ;-)

Now, there are a couple of days left to sell my car and do some other errands. Thanks for joining my online on that page and: Goodbye Houston, Welcome Zurich!

Nach 20'000 km in 75 Tagen und vielen Eindruecken bin ich zurueck in Houston. Empfangen wurde ich mit einem Stau auf dem Highway 59 ;-)

Nun habe ich die naechsten Tage einges zu erledigen, wie etwas das Auto verkaufen. Vielen Dank fuer das miterleben meiner Reise auf dieser Seite und: ...

South Padre Island journal: Hanging out on the Beach

Thu, 30 Nov 2006 19:14:50 GMT

It's really getting warmer, the more South you go. And humidity is raising... The season is quite low on South Padre Island (SPI). Busy times are starting on Christmas, many "Winter-Texans" spend their winter in the warmer South. I can agree to that. Laying on the beach end of November is kinda cool!

Es wird wirklich waermer, je suedlicher man geht. Die Luftfeuchtigkeit steigt aber auch... Zur Zeit ist es ziemlich ruhig auf South Padre Island (SPI). Es wird belebter ab Weihnachten, wenn viele "Winter-Texaner" den Winter im warmen Sueden verbringen. Da kann ich durchaus zustimmen. Es ist ...

Mcallen journal: Still along Rio Grande

Tue, 28 Nov 2006 18:47:51 GMT

Not much to mention between Del Rio and McAllen. Except that I went to a Starbucks in Laredo (first Espresso after 6 days!) Long distances between towns/villages, many miles to drive! Ah, and the weather was not sunny, that's about the first time since 2 weeks that the sun was not always out. Temperature 84F.

Nichts erwaehneswertes zwischen Del Rio und McAllen. Ausser ein Besuch bei Starbucks in Laredo (erster Espresso nach 6 Tagen!) Lange Distanzen zwischen Doerfern/Staedten, viele Meilen zum durchfahren! Ach ja, das Wetter war nicht sehr sonnig, das erste Mal seit 2 Wochen! Temperatur: ...

Del Rio journal: Big Bend - Along Rio Grande Eastwards

Tue, 28 Nov 2006 18:40:04 GMT

The way out of Big Bend is a scenic drive, especially when you don't use the highways ;-) Even after a couple of hours in the car, it looks still like desert. And after that just like everywhere else in Texas: flat and bushy... :-D

Die Strecke durch Big Bend nordwaerts ist landschaftlich recht schoen, sofern man nicht auf dem Highway faehrt ;-) Sogar nach einigen Stunden im Auto, gleicht die Landschaft immer noch der Chihuahua-Wueste. Und danach wie ueberall in Texas: flach und buschig... :-D

Study Butte journal: Just West of Big Bend

Wed, 22 Nov 2006 18:47:13 GMT

I was lucky to get a room for the next days that close to Big Bend National Park. The drive along the Rio Grande was very scenic today and I'm looking forward to the river rafting tour tomorrow!

Mit etwas Glueck habe ich noch ein Motelzimmer so nahe am Nationalpark ueber Thanksgiving gekriegt. Die Fahrt entlang des Rio Grande ist landschaftlich sehr schoen und ich freue mich auf die River-Rafting Tour morgen frueh!

Alpine journal: Going South to Big Bend

Wed, 22 Nov 2006 18:41:49 GMT

I left Carlsbad to visit the Big Bend National Park. As it is quite far away, I made a stop at Alpine. Staying at the Holland Hotel was pretty nice: Brewery in the house and an Espresso just across the street! ;-)

Ich verliess Carlsbad, um den Big Bend Nationalpark zu besuchen. Da dieser recht weit weg ist, machte ich einen Stopp in Alpine. Im Hotel Holland war ich gut aufgehoben: eine Brauerei im Gebaeude und auf der anderen Strassenseite ein Espressoladen! ;-)

White Sands journal: White Sands National Monument

Mon, 20 Nov 2006 20:17:17 GMT

White Sand? Actually, it is grinded mineral crystals which are left after evapourating water. With the wind, the dunes are moving eastwards. It's like walking on snow in the heat of the sun!

Weisser Sand? Eigentlich besteht der Sand aus geschliffenen Mineralkristallen, welche entstehen, wenn das Wasser im See verdunstet. Der Wind haeuft den Sand zu Duenen, welche ostwaerts ziehen. Es sieht aus, als wuerde man auf Schnee gehen, unter der Waerme der Sonne.

El Paso journal: West Tip of Texas

Mon, 20 Nov 2006 20:11:20 GMT

Staying at friends (Michela and Andre) in El Paso, we enjoyed interesting talks and good food. And the hot tub on the patio, of course!

Bei Freunden (Michela und Andre) in El Paso wohnend, haben wir interessante Gespraeche und gutes Essen genossen. Und den Whirlpool auf der Terrasse natuerlich!

Carlsbad journal: Guadalupe Mountains - Carlsbad Caverns

Mon, 20 Nov 2006 20:07:38 GMT

East of El Paso is the highest point of Texas: Guadalupe Mountain. Interesting, how those mountains towering from the desert-like surface. A little further north, the Carlsbad Caverns (New Mexico) are open to the public and accessed via a 750ft elevator.

Oestlich von El Paso ist der hoechste Punkt von Texas: Guadalupe Mountain. Interessant, wie diese Berge aus der wuestenaehnlichen Ebene hervorragen. Ein bisschen weiter noerdlich sind die Carlsbad Caverns (New Mexico), welche oeffentlich sind und durch einen 225m 'tiefen' Lift zugaenglich sind.

Truth Or Consequences journal: Very Large Array - Going South

Mon, 20 Nov 2006 19:29:43 GMT

Los Alamos is close to the Bandalier National Forrest and is a scenic drive going South. On the way is the Very Large Array (VLA) which is one of the space surveillance stations of the US (3x9 satellite dishes). The movie "Contact" was made here a couple of years ago.

Los Alamos ist nahe am Bandalier Nationalwald und ist ein landschaftlich interessante Strecke gegen Sueden. Auf dem Weg ist das Very Large Array (VLA), eine der "Weltraum-Horchstationen " der USA (3x9 Satellitenschuesseln). Der Film "Contact" wurde vor einigen Tagen auch hier gedreht.

Los Alamos journal: Great Sand Dunes -> New Mexico!

Thu, 16 Nov 2006 18:20:24 GMT

Today, we went to the Great Sand Dunes NP. After that we crossed the border to New Mexico and we are staying in Los Alamos.

Heute besuchten wir den Great Sand Dunes Nationalpark. Nach diesem fuhren wir nach New Mexico und uebernachten in Los Alamos.

Alamosa journal: Going South - Pikes Peak

Thu, 16 Nov 2006 15:47:45 GMT

The travel party consits now of two! Susanne arrived today in Denver and we drive together to El Paso! It is very nice to have my girlfriend with me after 8 weeks alone.

Die Reisegruppe besteht nun aus Zwei! Susanne ist heute in Denver angekommen und wir fahren zusammen nach El Paso. Es ist sehr schoen nach 8 Wochen die Freundin dabei zu haben.

Denver journal: Mile high city

Thu, 16 Nov 2006 15:37:34 GMT

The mile high city is layed on a plateau with a beautiful view to the rockies. Downtown is relatively small and can be explored on foot easily.

Denver ist auf einer Hochebene auf 1600m gelegen. Deshalb der Titel "Mile High City". Downtown ist recht klein und kann bequem zu Fuss erkundet werden.

Boulder journal: Snowfall... Boulder: University Town

Thu, 16 Nov 2006 15:31:20 GMT

Boulder is a town with a lot of students. There's a lot of cafes, restaurants and bookshops. I like that! Even a car free zone for enjoying downtown.

Boulder ist eine Studentenstadt. Es hat viele Cafes, Restaurants und Buchlaeden. Das gefaellt mir! Vor allem die Fussgaengerzone in der Innenstadt ist huebsch.

Estes Park journal: Rocky Mountain NP

Sat, 11 Nov 2006 19:20:16 GMT

After that very cold night. I crossed the Rockies in direction Estes Park. But before resting for the night, I did a short hike in Rocky Mountains NP. All trails are covered with snow!

Nach der sehr kalten Nacht habe ich die Rockies in Richtung Estes Park ueberquert. Aber bevor ich mich dort niederliess, habe ich noch eine kurze Wanderung im Rocky Mountain NP gemacht. Alles auf Schnee, versteht sich.

Winter Park journal: Winter Park - Rocky Mountains NP (west)

Sat, 11 Nov 2006 16:46:22 GMT

Leaving Aspen was a bit hard as the ski season will soon start. But vacation never last forever, so I drove eastwards to the Rocky Mountain National Park. In winter time, the pass is closed to Estes Park, so I stayed in Winter Park for the night. It was very cold that night (14F) and the wind was blowing quite hard.

Aspen so kurz vor der Saisoneroeffnung zu verlassen ist schade. Aber Ferien dauern halt nicht ewigs, so fuhr ich Richtung Osten zum Rocky Mountain Nationalpark. Im Winter ist der Pass nach Estes Park gesperrt, so blieb ich fuer die Nacht in Winter Park. Es war sehr kalt in ...

Aspen journal: Living at 8000ft...

Thu, 09 Nov 2006 16:24:04 GMT

Yesterday, I drove from Moab to Aspen. The weather was beautiful and so was the forecast for today. That's why I made another bike tour today. The trail was very steep and led me up to over 10000ft! Up there, the air is very thin and there was snow laying in the shades of the trees. I realized too late, that I'm driving the wrong direction of the trail.... Down to Aspen was a muddy-snowy forest trail and it was quite cold. But It was fun!

Gestern fuhr ich von Moab nach Aspen. Das Wetter war herrlich und auch die Prognosen fuer heute. Deshalb machte ich noch eine Biketour heute (wohl die ...

Arches National Park journal: There is an arch, there is another one, and another one...

Mon, 06 Nov 2006 19:49:42 GMT

I can recommend the hike from Devils Garden to Dark Angel and back. Take the 'primitive trail', you'll get some difficult hiking and beautiful views. It's about 7.5 miles with all viewpoints included.

Ich kann die Wanderung vom 'Devils Garden' zum 'Dark Angel' und zurueck. Auf dem Rueckweg unbedingt den 'primitive trail' nehmen, er ist zwar ziemlich schwierig (steil und rutschig) aber er bietet herrliche Aussichten. Die ganze Tour ist etwas 12km und man braucht ca. 4h.

Canyonlands National Park journal: Death Horse State Park - Castle Valley

Sun, 05 Nov 2006 15:08:38 GMT

As there were no ATV tours available today, I made my on 4x4 tour with my car ;-) I visted Death Horse State Park and made a loop trough Castle Valley.

Da heute keine ATV (All Terrain Vehicle: Quad) Touren verfuegbar waren (bin der einzige, der das will...), machte ich meine eigene 4x4 Tour im Auto ;-) Dabei genoss ich die Aussicht vom Death Horse State Park und mache eine Rundfahrt durch das Castle Valley.

Moab journal: Slickrock - Bike Mecca!!

Sat, 04 Nov 2006 16:16:28 GMT

Top notch trails here at Slickrock, Moab! The main loop is quite strenous and only for advanced bikers (unless you like walking...). The uphills are sometimes so steep, you loose traction at the read wheel, while your front wheel is loosing contact to the ground! Although, the traction on the sandstone rocks is unbelievable great. I think, when you're a mountain biker, you have to come here and ride this trail! You'll never forget!

Erstklassige Bike Trails im Slickrock Bike Park. Der Haupttrail ist sehr anstrengend und nur fuer geuebtere Biker (wer geht schon gerne neben dem Bike ...

Moab journal: Needles Overlook - Arches National Park

Fri, 03 Nov 2006 20:15:07 GMT

Along Hwy 191 are a couple of dirt roads leading to overlooks. For a 75 mile distance, it finally took 140 miles ;-) And with the Arches National Park having some 4x4 routes too, the total milage today was 180. Including my first night 4x4 experience on a very rough road: GREAT! It is fun, driving in the dark and looking out for tire tracks to follow. As Moab is a bike mecca and offers many tours from here, I'll stay a couple of days.

Entlang dem Highway 191 hat es einige Dirtroads, welche zu Aussichtpunkten fuehren. Fuer die 75 Meilen lange Strecke, brauchte ich 140 ;-) Und mit den ...

Blanding journal: Monument Valley & Valley of the Gods

Fri, 03 Nov 2006 09:30:03 GMT

The Monument Valley: red and stunning! Highway 163 is famous for several movies. I think Forrest Gump was running on that highway... There is a dirt road guiding through the National Monument, which gives great looks at those impressive rock formations. Back on Highway 163, I headed North to drive to the (again) dirt road through the 'Valley of the Gods'. Also this is a very scenic drive and my camera was heavily used!

Das Monument Valley: rot und umwerfend! Der Highway 163 ist beruehmt durch eine viele Filme. So viel ich weiss, ist Forrest Gump mal hier gejoggt... Es fuehrt eine ...

Mexican Hat journal: Canyonlands - Capitol Reef National Parks

Fri, 03 Nov 2006 09:22:03 GMT

On a dirt road, I left Torrey early morning. First, I visited Capitol Reef National Park and then I drove southwards to Lake Powell. The dirt road "Notom-Bullfrog" is along the Waterpocket Fold, a 100 mile 'opening of the earth' revealing magnificent rocks in all colors. Just beautiful! At Bullfrog, I went on a ferry carrying me over Lake Powell. Further, my path led to direction Monument Valley. I stayed at Mexican Hat, a tiny village close to the border of Arizona.

Auf einer Naturstrasse verliess ich Torrey frueh am morgen zum Capitol Reef Nationalpark. Danach suedlich Richtung Lake ...

Torrey journal: Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

Tue, 31 Oct 2006 19:20:56 GMT

Day 42! Exactly six weeks ago, I left Houston. Comparing the scenery of today and six weeks ago, it's like day and night!The 'Canyonlands' of Utah are a never ending beauty. After every bend of the road or the trail, impressive landscape is revealed. Hundrets of miles of dirt roads (most of them only for high clearance and 4x4 vehicles -> Jeep) lead to dramatic viewpoints far away from civilization.It's like being on a different planet. Well, I think it is, never been outside our world. ;-)

Tomorrow, I'll visit Capitol Reef NP and then drive in direction Monument Valley on dirt roads, of ...

Escalante journal: Bryce Canyon - Grand Staircase National Monument

Mon, 30 Oct 2006 19:37:05 GMT

Highway 12 is a very scenic route which I will explore the coming days. On that highway, Bryce Canyon, Grand Staircase, Capitol Reef Parks are located. And there is much more! I think you could easily spend several weeks in this area of Utah.

Der Highway 12 ist landschaftlich sehr faszinierend und ich werde die naechsten Tage entlang dieser Route verbringen. Klingende Parks wie: Bryce Canyon, Grand Staircase, Capitol Reef etc. liegen alle in dieser Gegend. Und es gibt noch viel mehr hier! Man koennte wochenlang hier die Gegend erkunden.

Beaver journal: Great Basin National Park, going to Utah

Sun, 29 Oct 2006 19:16:13 GMT

Continuing on higway 50, I visited Great Basin National Park. Main attraction is the over 13000ft high Wheeler Peak. The road ends at a little over 10000ft and from there, several trailheads lead to alpine lakes and even the summit of Wheeler Peak. Back on the road, I left to highway 21 in Utah. Also quite lonely...

Weiter auf dem Highway 50 liegt der Great Basin Nationalpark. Hauptattraktion ist sicher der knapp 4000 m hohe Wheeler Peak. Mit dem Auto kann man auf ca. 3200 m hochfahren und von dort fuehren einige Wanderwege zu Alpseen und sogar den Gipfel. Zurueck auf der Strasse bin ich ...

Eureka journal: Desert is calling...

Sun, 29 Oct 2006 18:57:01 GMT

Highway 50 in Nevada is called 'the lonliest highway in the USA'. It leads through great desert-like scenery and small mining towns. And it is really lonley!

Der Highway 50 wird als "Lonliest highway in the USA" genannt. Er fuehrt durch faszinierende Steppenlandschaften und kleine Minen-Staedte. Und er ist wirklich einsam!

Reno journal: Lake Tahoe - Reno

Fri, 27 Oct 2006 21:48:53 GMT

On the way to Reno, I made a 6 miles hike around Mount Tamarack. It was pretty cold in the shade but nice and warm at the sun. Some of the little creeks were frozen. Altitude was around 9000ft!

Auf dem Weg nach Reno habe ich noch eine kurze (10km) Wanderung um den Mount Tamarack gemacht. Es war ziemlich kalt im Schatten, aber schoen warm an der Sonne. Einige der kleinen Fluesse waren schon gefroren. Die Hoehe war ca. 2700 muM!

Tahoe Vista journal: Biking on Lake Tahoe

Fri, 27 Oct 2006 16:26:26 GMT

Lake Tahoe has great bike and hike trails! The weather was stunning, but cold... Starting altidude is over 6200ft!

Am Lake Tahoe gibt es wunderschoene Biketrails und Wanderwege. Das Wetter war ausgezeichnet, aber kalt... Ausgangshoege ist ueber 1900 muM!

Tahoe City journal: Cutter Creek - Sierra Nevada

Wed, 25 Oct 2006 18:23:47 GMT

On the way to Sutter Creek, there is a chocolate factory which I visted. I was impressed about the quality and the taste of all chocolates they sell! My lunch was 8 candies and a double espresso ;-)

Sutter Creek has old buildings but the main street is very busy and there is no way to relax there. So I went on in direction Lake Tahoe which I reached around 5pm. I'll stay at least 2 days here to explore the mountains with my bike. It is very chilly up here at 6225ft altitude!

Auf dem Weg nach Sutter Creek ist eine Schoggi-Fabrik, welche ich kurz besucht habe. Die Qualitaet und der ...

Antioch journal: Leaving the coast

Tue, 24 Oct 2006 21:35:47 GMT

Point Reyes just north of San Francisco is very special. Huge waves on the shore, strong winds and cows feeding on the grass. Unfortunately, fog was along the coast and the view and light somehow impaired.

When I drove over the Golden Gate bridge, I closed the gap from the year 2000 travel (SF to SD). So, I have now seen the complete US-Westcoast! I just drove through SF to go a little further east to find a spot for the night. Bad idea, as I left SF during rush hour...

Point Reyes noerdlich von San Francisco ist sehr speziell. Maechtige Wellen an der Kueste, kraeftige Winde und ...

Fort Bragg journal: Going South along the coast

Mon, 23 Oct 2006 17:57:01 GMT

After a "little" detour, I came back to highway. There are more redwoods along the "Avenue of the Giants" which is worth taking. Fort Bragg is a town with a brewery and many choices of accomodation. There is also an Old Town with some historic buildings. In one of the Cafes (forgot the name), they play live music (mostly Jazz, but tonight Classic), I had a nice espresso while reading the newspaper. Lifestyle as I like it!

Nach einem "kleinen" Umweg an die Kueste, kam ich zurueck auf den Highway. Auf der "Avenue of the Giants" faehrt man durch weitere Redwoods Waelder und dieser Abstecher ...

Bodega Bay journal: Highway No. 1

Mon, 23 Oct 2006 17:51:06 GMT

Highway No. 1 is very scenic. It takes quite some time with all the views and the winding road, but it is a must when being in this region. One of the famoust lighthouse is Point Arena. There are many beaches and coves just waiting to be visted!

In Bodega Bay, Hitchcock's "The Birds" was filmed here. That was the time, when they actually got out of the studio to make a movie... ;-)

Der Highway Nr. 1 ist sehr eindruecklich. Es braucht einiges laenger als auf dem 101 mit all den Aussichtspunkten und der kurvenreichen Strasse, aber ein Muss, wenn man hier ist! Einer der beruehmtesten ...

Eureka journal: Californinan North Coast - Redwood NP

Sun, 22 Oct 2006 09:57:07 GMT

Driving through the Redwood forests is very impressive. Huge trees and spectacular view of the coastline. Some of the trees have diameters of more than 14ft! Eureka has a nice Old Town with lots of Victorian houses and good seafood restaurants.

Die Fahrt durch die Redwood Waelder ist sehr beeindruckend. Maechtige Baeume und spektakulaere Aussichten auf die Kueste. Manche der Baeume haben Durchmesser von ueber 4m! Eureka hat eine huebsche Altstadt mit viktorianischen Haeusern und guten Fischrestaurants.

Grants Pass journal: Crater Lake - Grants Pass, OR

Fri, 20 Oct 2006 21:35:17 GMT

The forecast was right, it was a beautiful day up on Crater Lake. Pretty cold and windy, but the sun was warming up quickly. I asked an employee at Crater Lake Lodge how much snow they usually get. He told me to look at the three storey lodge: it will be covered with snow! Only the top of the roof will be visible! That's 30ft of snow minimum! Now I understand, why they close the services until June...

Yesterday, I realized that it is not allowed to fill in gas by yourself in Oregon, it is a state law. Now I understand, why the gas station attendents usually looked grim at me, when I ...

Roseburg journal: Going East

Thu, 19 Oct 2006 21:52:23 GMT

Rain showers and strong winds accompanied me all along the coast. Somehow I liked it, it was a special atmosphere with the diffuse light. When I heard that the weather forecast for Friday is quite good, I decieded to go to Crater Lake and leave highway 101 for the moment.

Regenfaelle und starke Winde haben mich heute den ganzen Tag an der Kueste begleitet. Irgendwie hat mir die Stimmung sehr gefallen mit dem diffusen Licht. Als ich in den Wetterprognosen hoerte, es sei morgen besser, entschied ich mich den Highway 101 in Richtung Crater Lake zu verlassen.

Newport journal: Astoria - Newport

Wed, 18 Oct 2006 21:49:08 GMT

The sky was overcast today and it rained a bit. Oregon's coastline is beautiful and invites for many stops on Hwy 101. North of Newport, some grey whales (?) could be seen. Those large animals are very impressive and I had to force myself back in the car as it was getting cold...

Der Himmel war stark bevoelkt und es hat ab und zu geregnet. Die Kueste Oregon's ist sehr schoen und laedt zu vielen Stops entlang des Highway 101 ein. Noerdlich von Newport kann man Grauwale (?) beobachten. Diese grossen Tiere sind sehr eindruecklich und ich musste mich zwingen, ins waermende Auto zueruck zu ...

Astoria journal: Oregon Coast

Tue, 17 Oct 2006 20:39:20 GMT

Astoria is a San Franciso style small town with a cafes, seafood restaurants and hairdressers (it was about time for me...)

Astoria ist eine Kleinstadt, im San Francisco Stil. Es hat Cafes, Fischrestaurants und Coiffeure (es war an der Zeit fuer mich...)

Portland journal: Mount St. Helens - Portland, Oregon

Tue, 17 Oct 2006 20:21:36 GMT

On the way South, Mt St Helens is one of my stops. This volcano erupted in 1980 and left a completely new scenery behind. Unfortunately, there was thick fog the higher I drove and the crater was not visible. No wunder with 80 yards of visibility...

Portland is a modern city with some old parts. Downtown has a couple of breweries with tasty beer.

Auf dem Weg nach Sueden liegt Mount St. Helens. Dieser Vulkan brach 1980 aus und hat die Landschaft in der Umgebung stark veraendert. Leider hatte es den ganzen Tag dicken Nebel je hoeher ich fuhr und der Krater war nicht zu sehen. Kein ...

Seattle journal: Seattle

Sun, 15 Oct 2006 17:56:36 GMT

In Seattle, I visted a friend (Philipp, we worked together in Switzerland and in Houston) and his family. Philipp showed me around in Seattle, which is a interessting city. Lots of people walking on the street, many cafes, restaurants and markets. This city is living!

In Seattle besuchte ich einen Freund (Philipp, wir haben zusammen in der Schweiz und in Houston zusammen gearbeitet) und seinen Familie. Philipp hat mir Seattle etwas gezeigt, eine interessante Stadt. Viele Menschen gehen auf der Strasse, etliche Cafes, Restaurants und Maerkte. Diese Stadt lebt!

Seattle journal: Leavenworth - Seattle

Fri, 13 Oct 2006 10:47:37 GMT

From Walla Walla, I drove to Leavenworth which is on the way to Seattle. Leavenworth is a Bavarian style village with lots of German-alike things to see. I had a Bratwurst, which was very nice! East Washington looks quite dry and the 'Evergreen State' shows its color only when you come closer to Seattle.

Von Walla Walla bin ich nach Leavenworth gefahren, welches auf dem Weg nach Seattle liegt. Leavenworth ist ein Staedtchen gebaut im Bayrischen Stil, es hat viele Deutschstaemmige Sachen zu sehen. Natuerlich musste ich eine Bratwurst essen, welche vorzueglich war! Washington ist im Osten ...

Walla Walla journal: Walla Walla, Washington

Wed, 11 Oct 2006 21:06:54 GMT

On the way to Seattle, I took a "short cut" through the mountains between La Grande and Walla Walla. It took about 3 hours more on this route, but it was a great experience driving in the woods. Walla Walla is a nice town with excellent wines from the region. But first thing in the morning, I have to fix one of my tires as I've got a nail in it. That's the first incident for over 4500 miles. Not bad, considering all the off road driving.

Auf dem Weg nach Seattle habe ich eine "Abkuerzung" ueber das Gebirge zwischen La Grande und Walla Walla genommen. Es hat etwa 3 Stunden laenger ...

Baker City journal: Hells Canyon - Baker City

Tue, 10 Oct 2006 18:05:10 GMT

It was below freezing tonight but the sky was blue this morning. Everything was covered with a thin layer of ice. The road to Hat Point is gravel and it was an easy drive as everything was quite dry. I've spent over 100 miles on gravel roads today and enjoyed awesome views to the canyon.

Es war einiges unter Null Grad diese Nacht, aber der Himmel war wieder mal stahlblau heute morgen. Alles war mit einer duennen Eisschicht ueberzogen. Die Stasse zum Hat Point ist unbefestigt und es war eine angenehme Fahrt, da alles sehr trocken war. Ich habe ueber 160km auf solchen Pisten runtergespuhlt ...

Enterprise journal: Coeur d'Alene - Hell's Canyon, Or

Tue, 10 Oct 2006 17:42:41 GMT

Quite a long trip today! From Sandpoint over Coeur d'Alene to Enterprise, Oregon. Long distances between villages and lots of uphills and downhills...

Ziemliche eine lange Fahrt heute! Von Sandpoint ueber Coeur d'Alene nach Enterprise, Oregon. Zwischen den Ortschaften hat es lange Distanzen und viel rauf und runter dazwischen...

Sandpoint journal: Montana -> Idaho

Sun, 08 Oct 2006 20:00:20 GMT

Not much to tell today. It rained on my way from Whitefish to Sandpoint. On the way there were a couple of espresso stands with really nice espresso... Hmmmm...

Heute gibt's nicht viel zu berichten. Es regnete auf dem Weg von Whitefish nach Sandpoint. Unterwegs gab es zahlreiche Espresso-Haeuschen, welche vorzueglichen Espresso anbieten.... Hmmm...

Glacier National Park journal: Logan Pass and Many Glaciers - East Glacier National Park

Sat, 07 Oct 2006 16:53:09 GMT

Arrived at the Glacier National Park, I was told that Logan Pass is closed and I have to drive around the park to get to the other side... Well, that's ok, I don't have a tight schedule anyway. The ranger told my to go to Many Glaciers as this morning a couple of bears have been seen. And there were! I say a Grizzly mom with her two little ones. They were far away but the pictures are not too bad.

Im Glacier NP angekommen, hat man mir gesagt, der Loganpass sei geschlossen und ich muesse um den Park herum fahren... Na ja, das ist ok, habe ich keinen fixen Terminplan einzuhalten. Der ...

Whitefish journal: Whitefish - West Glacier National Park

Sat, 07 Oct 2006 16:49:12 GMT

I decided to stay a night longer in Whitefish to enjoy a full day in the West Glacier National Park. After driving up to the road closure, it started snowing a bit and it was bitterly cold. A little further down, the weather was much more comfortable and I did a hike to Avalanche Lake. The hike itself is nothing special (all in the woods) but walking around the lake is very beautiful.

Ich entschloss mich heute noch eine Nacht laenger in Whitefish zu bleiben, um einen ganzen Tag im westlichen Glacier Nationalpark zu verbringen. Nachdem ich bis zur Strassensperre hochgefahren bin, hat es ...

Browning journal: Going North to Glacier National Park

Fri, 06 Oct 2006 16:16:54 GMT

The weather was awesome today; clear blue sky the whole day! I made my way over Helena up to Browning, MT the gateway to East Glacier NP.

Das Wetter war heute einfach wunderbar; blauer Himmel den ganzen Tag! Meine Route fuehrte mich heute via Helena nach Browning, Montana ein Ausgangsort fuer den East Glacier Nationalpark.

Butte journal: Salmon River Valley to Montana

Wed, 04 Oct 2006 18:22:47 GMT

It was raining during the night and the dirt roads were quite muddy this morning. Perfect for a 4x4! I spent 3 hrs on dirt roads and also made a little bypass over a very rough road. Along the Salmon River is a beautiful valley where a lot of stops were necessary for taking pictures. My destination today: Butte, MT. An old mining town, which I will explore tomorrow morning...

Es regnete in der Nacht und die unbefestigten Strassen waren ziemlich schlammig heute morgen. Perfekt fuer einen 4x4! Ich bin ca. 3 h auf unbefestigten Strassen gefahren und habe mal einen Abstecker auf eine sehr ...

Sun Valley journal: Biking in Sun Valley/Ketchum

Tue, 03 Oct 2006 19:12:54 GMT

I'm glad I stayed another day in Ketchum. The weather changed to beautiful and Sun Valley made it's name all honor. As it was quite cool in the morning, I started my bike tour around noon. Although still cool, I dressed to warm and did regret it during the uphill on Adam Gulch trail. The scenery was gorgeous and the single trails the first real challenge for me and my bike since I'm in the US. My bike passed the test, I didn't: I'm out of condition... But I enjoyed every mile and feet in elevation (20mi/1800ft).

Ich bin froh, noch einen Tag laenger hier geblieben zu sein. Das Wetter ...

Ketchum journal: Crater of the moon NP - Ketchum, Idaho

Mon, 02 Oct 2006 17:24:21 GMT

I decided not to stay longer in Jackson, WY as the weather went bad over night and I was not in a mood for a muddy/cold bike ride... On the way westwards, I visted Crater of the moon National Park which has a very nice lava scenery. Unfortunately, it was pouring down to whole time. Ketchum, ID was my target for today: here I am. Depending on the weather, I'll go biking tomorrow...

Ich entschloss mich nicht laenger in Jackson, Wyoming zu bleiben da das Wetter recht schlecht wurde. Hatte keine Lust auf eine nass-kalte Biketour... Weiter gegen Westen besuchte ich den Crater of the moon ...

Jackson Hole journal: Teton National Park - Jackson, WY

Sun, 01 Oct 2006 22:00:33 GMT

After Yellowstone, I passed through the nice landscape of Teton National Park. Golden Aspen trees all over and impressive mountains. Jackson is a nice place to stay after a while in the wilderness.

Nach dem Yellowstone Park habe ich den Teton Nationalpark durchquert. Viele Birken mit "goldenen" Blaettern und eindrucksvolle Berge saeumen den Weg. Jackson eignet sich gut fuer einen Stopp nach der Wildnis.

Yellowstone National Park journal: Yellowstone - WOW!

Sun, 01 Oct 2006 17:18:49 GMT

September 27th: Bighorn Mountains were rainy and cold. I didn't do any hiking or off-road driving due to the wet condition. The closer I got to Cody, WY, the better the weather was. Arriving early in Cody, I made a reservation for 2 nights in the Grant Village Lodge in Yellowstone NP. The ride to that lodge is very scenic and I stopped in many places. Grant Village is quite modern, but has no Wi-Fi or TV. Good to have a book and some broschures of the park to read.

Es war sehr regnerisch und kalt in den Bighorn Mountains. Deshalb habe ich keine Wanderung und keine Fahrten abseits der ...

Sheridan journal: Arrived in Wyoming, home of Yellowstone and Teton NP

Tue, 26 Sep 2006 19:47:48 GMT

please check the updated pictures yesterday!

Today was mostly spent in the car. The drive from Hot Springs SD to Sheridan WY took longer than expected. Yesterday, I felt very lucky to get some pictures of deer in Custer Park. Today, the same deer is in herd just besides the highway!! Tomorrow, I'll pass the Bighorn Mountains in direction Yellowstone!

bitte schaut die zusaetzlichen Bilder von gestern an!

Heute war ein Auto-Tag. Die Strecke von Hot Springs, South Dakota nach Sheridan, Wyoming hat laenger gedauert als angenommen. Gestern war ich sehr gluecklich, als ich die Rehe ...

Custer State Park journal: Mount Rushmore - Custer State Park - Hot Springs, SD

Tue, 26 Sep 2006 19:32:47 GMT

Mount Rushmore is only 1/2h from Rapid City and the 4 heads are visible from the street. Custer State Park is very nice and there are a lot of dirt roads to go a little off the busy roads. Hundreds of Buffalos are in this park and it's quite easy to come across them. Further down in Hot Springs, there is an indoor swimming pool in the river. The water is 82F all year round, crystal clear and the bottom is gravel. Very relaxing after a long day...

Die vier Koepfe vom Mount Rushmore sind nur eine halbe Stunde von Rapid City entfernt und gut von der Strasse sichtbar. Der Custer State Park ...

Badlands National Park journal: Badlands National Park

Sun, 24 Sep 2006 17:17:38 GMT

Today, I crossed the State line of South Dakota to go to the Badlands National Park. This is a very fascinating area, like a different planet. That's why "Starship Troopers" had there set here: I was looking for Denise Richards, but she wasn't there... ;-) Unfortunately, one of the roads was closed due to the bad weather yesterday, so it was a rather short visit to this beautiful scenery.

From the Badlands, I took I-90 to Rapid City where I stay for the night.

Heute habe ich die Staatsgrenze nach South Dakota ueberschritten, um in den Badlands Nationalpark zu gehen. Es ist wie ein ...

Omaha journal: Strategic Air & Space Museum...

Sun, 24 Sep 2006 06:58:52 GMT

Should be point no. 5, not 6! The musuem near Omaha shows planes in orginal condition and it is very impressive to see these large beasts!

It was a stop on my way to Norfolk, NE.

Dies sollte Punkt Nr. 5 sein, nicht 6! Das Museum ausserhalb Omahas zeigt echte Flugzeuge und diese grossen Biester sind echt beeindruckend!

Ich bin nur zum Zwischenstopp nach Norfolk, NE hier vorbeigekommen.

Norfolk journal: Norfolk, NE: Pitstop

Sun, 24 Sep 2006 06:57:13 GMT

This should be point no. 6 not 5! I stay here for the night, before I continue tomorrow on Hwy 20 WB... see the pictures made out of the car.

Das sollte Punkt Nr. 6 sein, nicht 5. Ich bleibe hier nur zum Uebernachten, bevor ich dann morgen auf dem Highway 20 in Richtung Westen ziehe... die Fotos sind aus dem Auto gemacht.

Valentine journal: Sandhills in Nebraska

Sat, 23 Sep 2006 16:22:50 GMT

It was raining the whole day and quite cold (48F). On my way from Norfolk, NE to Valentine, NE, I stopped in O'Neill (largest Irish community in NE) for an ESPRESSO. Yes, you read correct, I saw an espresso sign at a movie rental and turned over to ask about an espresso. It was delicous!!

As I was a little early in Valentine, I decided to go a little South through the Sandhills which was worth the trip: first time on dirt road with my Jeep ;-)

Heute hat es den ganzen Tag geregnet und es war sehr kalt (8C). Auf dem Weg von Norfolk, NE nach Valentine, NE habe ich einen Stopp in ...

Eureka Springs journal: Lovely Town

Thu, 21 Sep 2006 19:21:20 GMT

Wow what a beautiful town! Cafes and restaurants along the road, old and historical buildings. The historical downtown is a must when you are in this region!

Wunderschoene Altstadt! Entlang der Strasse hat es Cafes und Restaurants und unzaehlige alte Gebaeude. Die historische Altstadt ist ein Muss, sofern man in der Gegend ist!

Kansas City journal: Going North

Thu, 21 Sep 2006 19:14:59 GMT

My next destination will be Badlands National Park. And on the way there, I've to go North... Kansas City is on this route and I'll stay the night here...

Probably the best bakery in the US: Fervere Bakery. See Fred and his crew in the picture section.

Meine naechste Destination ist der Badlands National Park. Auf dem Weg dorthin mache ich einen Zwischenstopp in Kansas City und uebernachte gleich hier.

Wahrscheinlich die beste Baeckerei in den USA: Fervere Bakery. Fred und sein Team sind bei den Bildern zu sehen.

Kansas City journal: Excellent quality!

Thu, 21 Sep 2006 19:14:08 GMT

Houston journal: US-Tour: Fall 2006

Thu, 21 Sep 2006 15:17:50 GMT

Next week (Sept. 19th), I'm leaving Houston for a 2 1/2 months trip in the US.

Hot Springs journal: Historical Ride

Thu, 21 Sep 2006 15:11:00 GMT

Hot Springs is a small and old place. Many historical buildings (especially bath houses). Unfortunately, many buildings are not kept in a good condition and are closed to the public. It's worth staying one or two nights!

Hot Springs ist ein kleines Staedtchen, welches seine besten Jahre hinter sich hat. Die huebschen und alten Gebaeude sind teilweise etwas vernachlaessigt. Die Badehaeuser werden renoviert, aber nicht fuer Publikum geoeffnet. Es lohnt sich auf jeden Fall ein bis 2 Naechte hier zu verbringen!

Houston journal: Travel Preparations

Thu, 21 Sep 2006 15:09:08 GMT

Right now, I'm preparing my trip. This actually means evacuating my apartment and decide what to take with me... On Tuesday Sept. 19th, I'm leaving here in direction Northeast (Arkansas). More later...

Momentan bin ich dabei, meine Reise vorzubereiten. Das heisst: raeumen meines Aparments und entscheiden, was ich alles in mein Auto laden soll... Am Dienstag, 19.09.06 werde ich Houston in Richtung Nordosten (Arkansas) verlassen. Mehr spaeter...