Category: Excursions

Summer RV Tour 2023: The Journey Along Brother Highway Continues

February 5, 2024 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

The week of the Fourth of July marked a turning point in the journey as we set our sights on the return trip. Heading towards Idaho, I embarked on a two-week visit with Jeff Roper in Idaho Falls. The Idaho Falls Luxury RV Park offered a haven, and together, Jeff and I embarked on a fishing expedition on the Henry’s Fork.

The guide’s expertise put us on the fish, but nature had a surprise. An audacious osprey made my fishing experience more enjoyable by snatching one of my prized catches right off my line. The unexpected encounter added a touch of wild beauty to the Idaho waters.

Hanging with Richard and Charlene

Leaving Idaho Falls, the road unfolded its chapters with a promise of more stories. In Island Park, Idaho, I had the pleasure of meeting Charlene and Richard Guidry and their 2019 Tiffin Allegro Red 37PA. A week exploring Yellowstone National Park set the stage for a journey that would unfold into the heart of Wyoming.

A day on Yellowstone Lake with our Yellowstone National Park Guide, Lindsey, became a highlight as Charlene, Richard, and I fished for lake trout and cutthroat trout. Trolling spoons deep in the crystal-clear waters brought forth a bountiful catch, creating memories that shimmered like the ripples on the lake.

Cody, Wyoming, became a familiar stop once again, where Charlene, Richard, and I, along with our motorhomes, hung out for a week and enjoyed one more day of fishing on Lake Yellowstone.

FMCA Rally in Gillette, Wyoming

Our motorhome convoy continued to Gillette, Wyoming, for the grand finale of Summer RV Tour 2023 – the 107th International Convention of the Family Motorcoach Association. Taking RV Basics classes, we discovered more tips and tricks for maintaining our cherished motorhomes. The week became a blend of camaraderie, shared experiences, and the inevitable required upkeep of our beloved RVs. As always, new friends quickly became old friends, and old friends became family. All too quickly, one of the best weeks of the year came to an end.

The Journey Home to Kick Back

Thursday, August 31, marked a bittersweet moment as I bid Richard and Charlene adieu at the Rapid City / Black Hills KOA Holiday. The open road stretched before me, a 1,556-mile journey to the final destination – the Kick Back Ranch & Event Center in Ramer, AL. The miles ahead promised reflections, lessons learned, and the echo of laughter shared with newfound friends.

The journey reached its poignant final destination on Sunday, September 3, when Bertie Bea and I arrived at Kick Back Ranch & Event Center. Summer RV Tour 2023 and Brother Highway took me through 13 states and countless adventures with friends who’ve become family. Once again, the experience was worth the effort. Remember to follow your dreams and live life to the fullest.

Summer RV Tour 2023: Brother Highway Beckoned

February 4, 2024 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

Bertha, a 2015 Forest River Sunseeker 3050s provided me with two years of enjoyment on the road, and I sold her to a new owner to continue her journey. On March 31, 2023, I welcomed the newest member of the family – a 2016 Tiffin Allegro Open Road 34PA. A majestic road companion, that I have affectionately christened Bertie Bea. Bertie became my home away from home for my next journey along Brother Highway. We wove our way through the heart of America, seeing sights and visiting friends. From the moment I first turned the key, Brother Highway beckoned, and Bertie Bea answered with a purr that promised countless adventures.

The Journey Begins

The journey unfolded from April 22, 2023, to September 3, 2023, carrying us through a tapestry of states – Missouri, Nebraska, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, and Washington. Each state offered a unique chapter, a patchwork quilt of experiences stitched together by the hum of the road beneath us.

Nebraska saw me visit Tim Brewster and hang out for a week in Kearney, Nebraska. It was off the Cheyenne, where I visited the rodeo grounds of the Daddy of’em All, Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo. The week was spent preparing for the first epic stop of the trip, Alcova, Wyoming, and the chance to fish the epic Grey Reef section of the North Platte River.

The sun danced on the waters of the North Platte River, and the promise of a day filled with fishing adventures beckoned. Brian and Rowdy, my trusty companions, and I shared laughter, stories, and the thrill of reeling in catches against the scenic backdrop of the river. To find out how I earned my new handle, Mr. Botangles, check out my post about our epic day on the waters of the Grey Reef Section of the North Platte River – An Unforgettable Day on the North Platte with Rowdy and Brian.

Next on the map was Kaycee, Wyoming, the hometown of the legendary rodeo cowboy and musician, Chris Ledoux. Chris’ son Ned continues delivering the music that drives my passion for life on the road and living the western lifestyle. A visit with Larry Sandvick added a touch of rodeo flair to Bertie Bea. The bareback rigging coozies I picked up became cherished souvenirs, serving as a nod to the spirit of the West.

Cody, Wyoming, became a rendezvous with a couple of old friends, Sid McFarland, a rodeo clown from Prattville, Alabama and Timber Tuckness from Meeteetse, Wyoming. Sid’s fiftieth year in the rodeo business infused the legendary Cody Night Rodeo with nostalgia where he performed from Memorial Day through August 9. Sid’s professional antics kept the crowd in stitches and his fire truck act left the crowd wanting more each night. For two weeks, we shared laughs, applause, and stories beneath the starlit Wyoming sky until the call of road beckoned me to continue my journey along Brother Highway.

Melrose, Montana, and the Sportsman Lodging and RV Park introduced a new challenge – my first back-in parking spot for the 36-foot Bertie Bea. The skies threatened rain, adding an extra layer of complexity. A decision to leave early and camp at Indian Creek Campground in Deer Lodge, Montana, spared us the potential mud wrestling match.

Loon Lake, Washington, presented a humorous twist in our journey. The camping spot at Teri and Paul’s lake house was a challenge – a narrow driveway, a tight parking space, and the need for precise maneuvering. Describing the process of backing a colossal RV into a postage stamp spot became a tale of comedic trials, turning what could have been a stressful situation into an adventure punctuated by laughter.

Spending two weeks with Teri, Paul, and their son Grayson on Deer Lake brought a deeper connection. Fishing off their dock, exploring the scenic wonders of Central Washington, and sharing stories added warmth to the journey. The humor and camaraderie infused the journey with memories that would linger long after the road ahead unfolded.

Brother Highway called, and after spending the week of the fourth of July in Washington, I started the journey east towards Idaho.

The road beckoned me in the Summer of 2023 and the trip was one of not only seeing what was around the next bend but fishing pristine waters along with hanging with old friends and new. From Belmont, North Carolina to Loon Lake, Washington, Bertie Bea and Brother Highway kept me excited about what life will hold over the next hill or around the next curve. Follow your dreams and look for the next installment of Life on the Road during the Summer 2023 RV Tour.

RV Tales: Embracing Nature’s Symphony in Yellowstone

November 23, 2023 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

As an avid nature enthusiast and a firm believer in the therapeutic power of the open road, embarking on an RV adventure through Yellowstone National Park has been a dream come true. The journey began with the selection of two remarkable campgrounds, Bridge Bay and Madison, both promising a perfect blend of tranquility and accessibility to the wonders of America’s first national park.

Stan, Rowdy, and Mike – 2021 Trip to Yellowstone National Park

Bridge Bay Campground: Lakeside Bliss

Our RV found its temporary home at Bridge Bay Campground, perched along the serene shores of Yellowstone Lake. The view from our campsite was nothing short of mesmerizing, with the sparkling waters of the lake stretching out before us along with the elk that routinely traverse the campground. The RV, with all its amenities, became our comfortable oasis amidst the wilderness.

Old Faithful – Yellowstone National Park

Guided by the call of exploration, we hopped into my trusty Chevrolet Equinox, ready to unravel the mysteries of Yellowstone. The first stop on our adventure was the legendary Old Faithful. The Equinox effortlessly navigated the winding roads, delivering us to the iconic geyser just in time for its majestic eruption. Watching Old Faithful shoot a column of steam and water into the sky was a humbling reminder of the untamed forces at play beneath the Earth’s surface.

Madison Campground: Forest Retreat

2021 with Bertha in the Madison Campground

Transitioning to Madison Campground felt like entering a secluded forest retreat. Our RV nestled amidst towering lodgepole pines, creating an intimate connection with nature. After a day filled with exploration, the RV became a haven of comfort, providing a perfect setting for sharing stories and savoring the moments.

Driving my Equinox from Madison, Mike, Rowdy, and I set our sights on the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. The car allowed us to effortlessly traverse the park, reaching the canyon’s edge to witness the majestic Yellowstone River carving its way through the rugged landscape. The Equinox became the ticket to the diverse landscapes and wildlife that make Yellowstone an ever-unfolding masterpiece.

Paint Pots and Beyond: RV Adventures Unveiled

The Paint Pots and Grand Prismatic Springs of Yellowstone National Park

Returning to the RV, we eagerly set out for the Paint Pots, a geothermal wonderland that painted the ground with vibrant hues. The RV served as our command center, allowing us to plan our exploration and immerse ourselves in the surreal landscapes that surrounded us.

To cap off our Yellowstone odyssey, we booked a guided fishing trip for cutthroats and lake trout in the pristine waters of Lake Yellowstone. Loading up the Equinox with fishing gear, we set out for a day of angling against the backdrop of the lake’s tranquil beauty—a perfect finale to our RV adventure.

In the end, camping in an RV at Bridge Bay and Madison Campgrounds was not just a vacation; it was a personal journey of discovery and connection with the wild. Yellowstone, with its geysers, canyons, paint pots, and serene lakes, became a canvas where memories were painted with each mile traveled and every site explored. As the RV rolled out of the park, the echoes of nature’s symphony lingered, leaving us with a profound appreciation for the beauty that our great outdoors hold.

An Unforgettable Day on the North Platte with Rowdy and Brian

September 23, 2023 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

In the heart of Wyoming, where the North Platte River weaves its serpentine path through the rugged landscape, adventure called to us like a siren’s song. With my good friend Rowdy and our seasoned guide Brian, we embarked on a fly fishing expedition down the Grey Reef section of the North Platte River. Little did we know that this journey would be etched into our memories, not just for the pristine rainbow trout we would catch, but for the unforgettable mishap that would unfold in true Hemingway fashion.

The Promise of the River

Our journey began at dawn as the sun cast its golden hues across the vast expanse of the Wyoming wilderness. The North Platte River, shrouded in mist, was a picture of serenity. Rowdy and I eagerly listened to Brian’s instructions, the river’s soft whispers guiding us into its secrets. The promise of a day filled with rainbow trout and tales spun from the river’s depths hung heavy in the air.

The Tumultuous Pursuit

The Grey Reef section of the North Platte was known for its feisty rainbow trout, and our pursuit of these elusive fish was an adventure in itself. As we floated downstream in our trusty drift boat, Brian’s eyes never left the water. Rowdy and I cast our lines with precision, letting the flies dance beneath the surface. The river became a silent observer of our dance, where man and fish engaged in a timeless battle.

In the true spirit of Hemingway, our pursuit was intense and unyielding. We felt the tug on our lines and the thrill of the fight as the rainbows tested our mettle. The river’s currents were our battleground, and every catch was a triumph over nature’s forces.

Release of another North Platte Rainbow by Brian

The Tangle of Fate

But in the midst of this epic struggle, fate had its own plans. As I cast my line with a fervor only rivaled by Ahab pursuing Moby Dick, disaster struck. The trolling motor, a vital instrument in our quest, caught the line, and the propeller was ensnared in a web of my own making. Brian, the stoic guide, tried to assist, but his efforts only led to further entanglement.

We found ourselves in a comical tableau, three men grappling with a trolling motor, a propeller, and a mess of tippet and flies wrapped unmercifully. In true Hemingway fashion, this mishap became a metaphor for the chaos of life and the unpredictability of the wilderness.

Laughter Amidst the Chaos

Instead of frustration, we found ourselves overcome with laughter. Our guide, Brian, a man of few words, couldn’t help but chuckle at the absurdity of the situation. Rowdy, with his trademark irreverence, made light of my predicament. In the midst of our tangled mess, we discovered the camaraderie that comes from shared misadventures.

At that moment, the North Platte River, the fish, and the tangled mess of equipment faded into the background. We were three friends, bound by the chaos of the moment and the shared laughter that echoed through the canyon walls. It was a reminder that the best stories are often born from the most unexpected circumstances.

The Redemption of the River

After what felt like an eternity, we finally freed the trolling motor, disentangled ourselves, and got back to the business of fishing. The river, seemingly amused by our antics, rewarded our persistence with a flurry of rainbow trout. Each catch or miss was a testament to our tenacity and the resilience of the human spirit.

As the sun began its descent over the Wyoming landscape, we returned to the landing, tired but triumphant. The North Platte River had tested us, tangled us both literally and figuratively in its mysteries, and ultimately rewarded us with its treasures.

Painting by Julie Thurston from one of the beautiful rainbows of the North Platte River in Wyoming

Conclusion

In the spirit of Ernest Hemingway, our day on the North Platte River was a reminder that true adventure lies not just in the pursuit of fish but in the unpredictable twists of fate that shape our journey. It was a day of laughter, camaraderie, and, yes, several epic tangles that tested our mettle.

As we drove away from the Grey Reef section of the North Platte River, the sun setting behind us, I couldn’t help but smile. Our adventure had all the elements of a Hemingway story – the pursuit, the mishap, and the enduring friendship forged on the water. It was a day that would be etched in our memories, a tale to be told any time we gathered for years to come.

The Call of the Road

March 6, 2022 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

The road and I have been like brothers
From all the miles and time we’ve spent together
Yeah, we’ve seen it all
We both seen changes in our time
Busted dreams and detour signs
We keep rolling on
“Brother Highway” by Ned Ledoux

Since the day I was born, I have been traveling the highways and backroads of the United States with my parents or as a solo traveler. I don’t know why the road has such a hold on me, but I know that it’s my happy place.

The roads that appeal the most to me are the long, straight two-lane roads that have hills or mountains in the distance, or roads that end in Small Town America where neighbors still help neighbors. My travels take me to small towns and big cities which have broadened my horizons to see the differences in the American experience which include food offerings, mores, and the cultural differences.

Enjoy these images from the 2022 RV Adventure:

Kick Back Ranch & Event Center
Poche’s RV & Fish Camp
Kemah, TX

I know that I have been blessed to be able to see the many facets of the United States of America during my RV road trip of the past almost two years. The views are breathtaking and the people I’ve met give me confidence that, as a nation, we are not as divided as the media might lead you to believe.

Pre-Christmas Fishing Trip

December 28, 2021 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

Cherokee/Great Smoky Mountains KOA Holiday Campground

I had been trying to plan a fly fishing trip with Capt. Kevin Merritt since we’d reconnected back in the early summer of 2021 while recuperating from my fall in Fredericksburg, TX. This pre-Christmas trip was the perfect chance to do just that.

It had been twenty years since I’d been fishing with Capt. Kevin Merritt, but we picked up right where we left off back in 1998 when he guided me fishing in the Florida Keys for tarpon, snook, and other saltwater species. On this trip, we were after trout and it was also an opportunity to test all of the recent upgrades to Bertha before I embark on the Winter 2022 RV Tour on December 30.

We left Barker’s Boat and RV Storage at 7:00 AM on Thursday, December 23 for the four hour drive to Cherokee. The drive would give me the opportunity to test the new Kenwood Dash Cam and the RVI Command Center which provide tire pressures for Bertha and Rosie. I had also installed a towed battery charger on Rosie to keep her battery charged. During the 2021 Summer RV Adventure, Rosie’s battery would die after four hours of towing and would need to be jump started. This new addition would prevent the discharge and allow me to use Rosie immediately without the need to worry if the jumpstart battery could get her started. The RVI Command Center also provided charge information during the drive. The upgrade to the RVI Command Center keeps all my RV drive time information in one place.

We arrived about two hours early at the Cherokee/Great Smoky Mountains KOA and weren’t allowed to check-in early. But, they accommodated us by parking us in their check-in line and allowing us to leave Bertha there while we went fishing. The first stop was River’s Edge Outfitters to get the lay of the land and purchase our tribal waters trophy and regular fishing licenses. With fishing licenses in hand, we headed back up Big Cove Road towards the KOA and found some likely waters about a mile up the road. Kevin rigged us with an indicator ahead of a weighted nymph and a midge dropper. The length of the entire tippet was almost twelve feet which made for interesting casting with a seven and a half foot four-weight fly rod. I looked like I was doing hand-to-hand combat; whereas, Kevin being the professional he is, made it look like poetry in motion. It only took me three hours to get the hang of it.

Rainbow Trout from the Raven’s Fork – Cherokee, North Carolina

At two o’clock, we checked back in at the KOA and were able to move to our site and set up. Once set up, we walked across the campground road to the Raven’s Fork Creek and set up for some more fishing. We were now fishing in keeper waters. About ten to fifteen casts into our fishing, I hooked a nice rainbow and brought it to hand. A couple more hours of fishing netted a few more fish, but we didn’t keep any of them.

My wading stability is not what I need it to be, and twice I went to my knees in the very cold stream. I’m thinking I need a wading staff to help with walking on the uneven and slick river bottoms because the fly-fishing bug has definitely bitten me.

As the sun started going, thoughts turned to supper, and we decided to head into town and pick up a couple steaks and potatoes for dinner. With dinner cooked, we sat down to enjoy a couple jiggers of High West’s Rendezvous Rye with the meal. All in all, a perfect day fishing in the mountains.

Overnight the temperatures plunged to 24 degrees and the city water hose and filter froze and left us without water for a period of time. I was washing my hands when the water went from good pressure to nothing; so, I went outside and noticed that everything was frozen. I turned off the city water, and made sure once back inside the motorhome that we could use the fresh water from the water tank. All was perfect when I turned on the water pump. We had running water again. I’d missed the weather report where it said it was going to be that cold. The last one I looked at had shown 34 degrees for the low. In the future, the only question left in my mind is whether I need to purchase a heated hose or just fill the water tank until temperatures rise.

Once the sun came up and it warmed up a little, we went back to fishing before the 11 AM checkout time. We missed a couple of really nice fish, but all too soon, we had to check out and head back to Belmont for Christmas Eve festivities.

There are already plans in the works to do this again in the spring after I return from my Winter 2022 RV Adventure. I can’t wait to do more fly-fishing in the North Carolina mountains or wherever the opportunity presents itself to wet a line.