Day 1 - Home to Barstow, California

Up an hour earlier than planned. Coffee, cereal, load the car and we were off at 7:08 AM. Unfortunately, the first 179 miles were on Interstate 10, a road we have traveled much too often and one that has few redeeming qualities. Ok, there is the Starbucks in Blythe, which has always been a must stop.

Another 49 miles and we left the trucks and traffic of the Interstate at Desert Center for a lonely drive North on Highway 177, followed by an even more lonely drive West on Highway 62. There is nothing out there except sagebrush, mountains and roads that are straight for 15 miles.

We decided to stop for lunch in Twentynine Palms. Barb worked her magic, using data of course, and found a 5 Guys. Now splitting a 5 Guys hamburger would be the highlight of the morning drive, so she punched the ‘Take Me There Button’ and off we went. It seemed like where we went was off the grid. Finally, after several turns and miles on roads that hadn’t seen maintenance in years, we were within a quarter mile. Only problem was the 5 Guys was located on the base of the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center. About 100 feet before the gate I made a quick U-turn and made for higher ground. Backtracking we passed a dozen shops advertising Marine Haircuts. The one I liked was Marine Haircuts and Window Tinting. We ended up at Subway for a quick shared sandwich.

Back on Highway 62 for a few miles and then North on Highway 247 for a direct drive into our overnight in Barstow. Arriving too early to check in we spent an hour at the factory stores, without purchases. Dinner was at Oggi’s Sports Bar Brewhouse and Pizza. Highly recommended for anyone stopping over in Barstow.

We had hoped to get out of the heat, but today was a bust and tomorrow doesn’t look any better as we head for an overnight in Carson City. Tomorrow we will finally meet someone we have been in a small email group with for over a year. Good to put a face to a name.

370.2 miles so far