We wondered why Google Maps always directed us to take I-84 to Rt 95 through Winnemucca to get to Reno. Now we know. Today we made 200 miles in a mere 7 1/2 hours over the eastern Cascades. Up and down 5000 feet to sea-level and back again. 70 degrees to 95 degrees and back again, spending most of the day in the Malheur National Forest. Switch-backs and climbing - breaking hard down the mountains. I-395 is a two-lane road here, recently paved and smooth, but it's a white-knuckle drive all the way. Double-trailer log trucks sped past us going northward and going very fast - obviously familiar with the curvy, narrow road.
We drove through brown plains dotted with basalt, climbed pine-covered mountain, crawled through tiny towns (with no gas stations). A few farms appeared, mostly working on bringing in the hay. We crossed the 45th parallel (there's a sign) half-way between the equator and the North Pole. Toward the southern end of our route, we passed into Mojave-like grasslands and granite, not basalt formations. The temperature climbed and puffy white clouds became thunderheads that became squalls here in Burns.
So Google Maps was probably right. The longer route is the faster and more comfortable. Never mind about that now; we're committed to I-395. Steve met a guy here at the campground who is headed north and from what he said we're in for the same kind of day tomorrow. The scenery is beautiful, though.
We did a ton of laundry, sauteed some pork chops with a nice wine reduction, and have good internet and good phone access tonight. All in all, a good day.
