Forum Discussion

Ramblin__Ralph's avatar
Jun 24, 2013

On the road to Montana

I'm heading to my usual destination of Dillon, to visit my cousin for a couple of weeks and maybe even catch a few fish (usually do). Be a 3+ month trip. Not due there until mid August, so I'm not in a rush. I usually average around 100 miles a day and change my campground every day (except holiday weekends).

Currently in the NE corner of California, after attending a fun bluegrass festival in Susanville, CA. I plan on checking out the Warner Mountains area in CA and the Steens Mountain area in SE Oregon in the next few days. Never been to either. After that I'll work my way up to the Lake Wallowa area of NE Oregon. Last time I was there it was very smoky from forest fires. Hopefully clearer skies this time.

I've made this trip to MT six years, taking various routes. Going to try and take some secondary roads I've never been on this year. I try and avoid the Interstates. Any suggestions are welcome on places to see.

I keep a good website (see signature below) with location info and descriptions of every place I camp, along with photos. Check it out and ride along with me. :)

Ramblin' on,
  • Beautiful Ralph. The last time we were there was the Memorial Day weekend in 2010.
  • After 16 days in Eastern Oregon, I crossed the Snake River and entered Idaho. Really enjoyed OR, except for the 5 days or so of "too hot". :) Plenty of FS campgrounds, which are my preference. Took the FS paved backroads from Joseph, OR to the Snake River at Oxbow, OR. Saw plenty of motorcyclists on those roads.

    Now I'll head up the Western edge of Idaho. Probably be in ID for 10 to 14 days. Like I did in OR, going to try some roads I've never been on. I think I'll get a fishing license for a few days and try my luck. :)

    FYI, just brought my website up to date through last night.

    Ramblin' on,

    Ramblin' Ralph
    www.RamblinRalph.com

    Hells Canyon Overlook in Oregon

  • Thanks for the suggestions. Having been to MT for six summer trips, I've already visited many of them. Might check out some of the new ones, though.

    Currently in Alturas, CA and crossing into Oregon this afternoon. Nice and warm here, as opposed to 50s and rainy in the nearby Warner mountains the last 2 days. :)

    Ralph
    RamblinRalph.com
  • I've been going from Phoenix to NW Montana for the last approx. 20 years. It is a nice drive and is sure is nice to get out of the heat. This year I'm going to the Glacier TC rally first. Usually, I go that way coming home. It must be nice to be away for 3 months.
    Enjoy your trip and be safe.
  • Hey Ralph! Looking forward to your pics especially of the Steens Mountain area. You might want to check out Unity Lake and CG and the mountains around Sumpter and Granite. Oh, wait, you've been that way before. Just remmebered you posted photos of the John Day CG. Going by Ennis, MT? Check out Virginia City, just north of there are the Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park and up by Bozeman is the Missouri Headwaters State Park and don't forget Pompey's Pillar. Right now I will have to live vicariously through your travels since my vacation time is limited. Have fun.
  • how about jumping over to hwy 12 up the clearwater to lolo pass after wallowa? are you going to stay in wallowa state park? it gets very very busy and hard to get a spot there during the summer time. maybe the weekdays would be better though.
  • If you are interested in ghost towns at all I can highly recommend Bannack State Park near Dillion. Very well preserved with lots of exciting history. They hung their own Sheriff on the gallows he built!!!

    IIRC there are no hookups in the camp ground.