This was a long day of driving, but we wanted to set ourselves up for a nice stay in Glacier. Plus, most of the eastern part of Washington is pretty desert like, as well as hot, so it was kind of ok to rush through it.
We got a nice early start, only to be delayed by some kind of motorcycle event that got us stuck and waiting at the gas station until they all pulled out. There must have been hundreds gathered there, getting ready to head out on an organized memorial ride. After that it was clear, though somewhat monotonous, sailing. This part of the state seems reminiscent of the golden hills of California. Quite a dramatic contrast from the lush, western end of the Columbia River.
Between Spokane and Coeur d’Alene, there was a Cabela’s store and I had in mind a pair of hiking pants that could convert from shorts to pants, in the case of mosquito filled hikes. Here I will complain just for a moment over the lack of outdoor clothing for plus sized women. It was a challenge, but I did find something that I think might work. Also, it was almost worth the drive to Idaho just to experience this Cabela’s. It was huge. There was a mountain with running waterfalls in the middle of the store and a huge aquarium. We enjoyed this stop quite a lot and purchased several items geared towards battling mosquitos. I felt mildly compelled to buy a gun there and outfit myself all in camo, but was able to resist the urge.
We got to Farragut State Park with time left in the day to go for a paddle on Pend Oreille Lake (aka “Ponderay”). That was a nice campground, with spacious sites, nice bathrooms, lots of greenery between campers. We got a place in the Whitetail campground, and there were, I think, four other named loops, so it’s a big park. I must be getting lucky with cancellations at these places because they have been completely booked. I’m sure it helps to only be looking for one night stays. Nice places so far!
Total miles: 311.4, 17.9 mpg, 6 hours 11 minutes
