Heading North

So the goal today was to get through the Hoover Dam and Zion National Park....we did not make Zion. For some reason- neither one of us got out of bed at 5am. We thought it might be cooler and less traffic through Las Vegas if we got going earlier. We finally left the Monte Carlo at about 7am but first we had to make a stop to get bolts. Mike discovered that the bolt holding his seat on was missing. He had adjusted his snap on bag bracket and did not locktite the bolt....it had vibrated out on our way to LV. Thank goodness he discovered it prior to leaving....that would have been very bad to lose your seat!!! A quick stop at Home depot and he was all set. At 7am- it was about 75 degrees...not bad but the day changed after that. Amazing that just two days ago we were complaining about being so cold....

We went to the Hoover Dam and also got to see the new "Pat Tillman" bridge that diverts all traffic. The dam is no longer used to cross the canyon. After Sept 11, I guess they decided they should really do something about that security issue. You can take your vehicle across the dam, park and walk down to viewing areas or you can take tours for $30.00/person. We elected to just park (charge $7/vehicle x 2 for us), walk the visitor's center (they charge you there too- $8/person). You can just walk the area after you park and skip the visitor center.

After the Hoover Dam we headed north on Hwy 15 and the temperature soared to 90-95 degrees. Back throught LV and tons of traffic....they drive crazy there. Both Mike and I were suffering from the heat....we are not used to such temps. The helmet and leathers made it even worse. About 3pm, Mike decided it was time for lunch and I suggested we stop for the day. He was tired and has a head cold (read grumpy). So the Holiday Inn it was for the night- we got the last room. Washington, Utah is a hot, red earthed place. No trees, no green- just sand and crazy hillside shapes.

Tomorrow we go through Zion and the Grand Canyon. Now that we are in Utah...no more required helmet. Sorry Mom....