22 October, Thursday
Harry S Truman State Park
The drive from Johnson’s Shut-In State Park to Harry S Truman State Park wasn’t too bad, as we primarily traveled on Missouri highways and interstates. However, Google Maps routed us onto a very hilly, winding road for about seven miles near Lebanon, passing through the small town of Sleeper. It was a route I’d rather avoid next time. Adding to the challenge, strong wind gusts ahead of an expected evening storm made the drive more difficult, especially for Lisa, who had to work hard to keep the trailer steady.
We arrived at the park mid-afternoon, and after a quick stop at the dump station to fill our water tank, we parked at our reserved campsite. The setup was smooth, and we explored the park with plenty of daylight left.
As we drove through, we were surprised to find the park almost empty, which was frustrating since the state park’s reservation system had shown limited availability when we booked our site. It made us wonder if the reservation system might be overly conservative in showing what’s available or if cancellations had freed up spots. Either way, it was a reminder to double-check availability closer to our trips in the future.
The park itself was beautiful, with sprawling views of Truman Lake. The best campsites with direct water views were in the basic (non-electric) camping areas. While we admired the prime locations, we debated once again whether we could give up the convenience of utilities for a better view. The idea was tempting, especially since we’ve grown accustomed to our setup, but going off-grid might make for a fun experiment on a future trip.
We also noted how well-maintained the park appeared, with clean facilities and well-paved roads winding through scenic wooded areas. Though the wind gusts reminded us of the incoming storm, the tranquil beauty of the lake and the solitude of the nearly empty campground made it a pleasant start to our stay.
Truman Dam
After finishing our Harry S Truman State Park tour, we headed into Warsaw’s nearby city to fill up on gas. While there, we decided to treat ourselves to a cold beer and find a scenic spot to enjoy the sunshine.
We ended up at Truman Park, located near the outlet of the Truman Dam. This impressive structure spans the Osage River, creating Truman Lake, a reservoir known for its vital role in flood control, hydroelectric power, and recreation. The dam, named after Missouri’s own Harry S Truman, is a remarkable feat of engineering and a key feature of the area.
We set up our chairs at the park with a perfect view of the water below the dam. The warm afternoon sun bathed the area, and we soaked in the peaceful atmosphere. Fish frequently jumped out of the water, sending ripples across the surface, while squirrels and chipmunks darted around in the nearby trees and brush, adding to the lively scene.
The park was quiet and serene, with a few others scattered about, fishing or simply enjoying the day. From our spot, we could appreciate the contrast between the dam’s power and the surrounding nature’s calmness. It was a wonderful way to relax after a day of driving and exploring.
Evening
When we got back to the campsite around sunset, I set up the grill so that Lisa could cook us up some chicken and corn on the cob. We had no internet or TV channels, so we watched some Netflix shows I had downloaded until we wandered off to bed.
23 October, Friday
Morning
We were expecting rain overnight, but instead, it started around 8 am, and it was a cold rain. We took our time enjoying our fireplace and eating breakfast before getting showers. We then decided to drive south, connect with Route 66, and do some touring since it promised a cold rainy day.
Route 66
We left about mid-morning and drove about 1 1/2 hours south to connect to Route 66 just east of Springfield. Route 66 mostly followed I-44 as it went east from there, but now and then, it would veer off into the countryside, where beautiful fall trees would come closer to us on either side of the road. Sometimes, a glimpse of the original concrete road was visible, especially when you saw the upward slope of the concrete curbs. It was very nostalgic.
Candy Factory and Nearby Stops
Our first stop along Route 66 was at the Candy Factory, a large candy store promising sweet delights. The exterior was cheerful and inviting, with colorful signage that hinted at the treasures inside. When we stepped in, the air was filled with the aroma of chocolate and sugar, and rows of shelves were packed with candies of all shapes and sizes—an impressive sight for any sweet tooth.
Unfortunately, we noticed that none of the employees were wearing masks, and many customers weren’t either, which made us uncomfortable. After a quick look around, we decided to cut our visit short.
Adjacent to the Candy Factory was another intriguing attraction: a building proclaiming itself as the World’s Largest Gift Store. The massive structure seemed to stretch endlessly, adorned with signs touting its variety of goods. While the promise of such a unique stop was tempting, we decided to skip it and continue our journey along Route 66.
Despite not spending much time here, the Candy Factory and its neighbor added to the quirky charm of the Route 66 experience, offering a glimpse into the type of roadside attractions that have made the Mother Road famous.
Exploring Lebanon and Its Route 66 Legacy
Our journey eventually brought us to Lebanon, a town deeply connected to the history of Route 66. We were greeted by vibrant Route 66 murals in a small park as we entered. The murals depicted nostalgic life scenes on the historic highway, making them perfect for a quick photo stop.
Route 66 Museum
Next, we visited the Route 66 Museum, conveniently located in the same building as the Laclede County Library. The museum was a treasure trove of memorabilia and displays. It highlighted local Route 66 attractions, both past and present, and provided fascinating insights into the broader history of the highway itself. From vintage signs and photographs to interactive exhibits, the museum captured the essence of Route 66’s golden era. It was an unexpectedly rich experience that gave us a deeper appreciation of the road we were traveling.
Lunch and “Camp Joy” Cabin
The weather was still cold and wet when lunchtime rolled around, so we ate in the truck back at the park with the murals. From our cozy spot, we enjoyed the charm of the park and the nostalgic feel of the surroundings.
Afterward, we explored the park further and discovered a fascinating piece of Route 66 history—the Camp Joy cabin. This lone surviving cabin from the historic Camp Joy complex was a tangible reminder of the early days of Route 66 tourism. Established in 1927 by a Nebraska family, Camp Joy began as a small campground catering to the growing number of road trippers. The family had carefully chosen Lebanon as the site for their business after counting passing out-of-state cars on either side of the gravel highway for three days. Over time, the campground expanded with cabins of various sizes and became a popular stop for travelers.
Over the years, the cabin had hosted some intriguing guests, including notorious outlaws Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow, infamous gangster Pretty Boy Floyd, and even Western movie star Tex Ritter. While the cabin was locked, we could peek through the windows and see it was fully furnished, as if ready to welcome guests from a bygone era. Informational plaques outside the cabin shared the rich history of this local attraction, making it a highlight of our visit.
Munger Moss Motel
Before leaving Lebanon, we quickly stopped at the Munger Moss Motel, another Route 66 icon. Built in 1946, this historic motel exudes classic mid-century charm. Its restored neon sign, glowing brightly in the courtyard, was a nostalgic reminder of the heyday of roadside motels. The motel’s rooms are reportedly renovated to retain their vintage Route 66 appeal, offering travelers a step back.
Lebanon proved to be a delightful stop on our Route 66 journey, blending the charm of historic preservation with the vibrant spirit of the Mother Road.
Exploring Waynesville and Roubidoux Spring
After leaving Lebanon, we made our way to Waynesville, a charming town along Route 66 with its own unique history and natural beauty.
Roubidoux Spring in Laughlin Park
We made a spontaneous turn onto a road leading to Roubidoux Spring, located in Laughlin Park. The Ozarks had treated us to so many gorgeous springs, and we were eager to see what this one had to offer.
The spring emerged from the side of a large bluff, its crystal-clear water flowing just a short distance into Roubidoux Creek. However, the immediate area around the spring was marred by a concrete wall built into the bluff, detracting somewhat from the natural beauty of the site. Despite this, the water itself was mesmerizing. A viewing platform above the spring allowed us to look directly into its depths, where we could see the vibrant blues and greens of the clear spring water.
This spring is part of the Roubidoux Spring Cave system, a popular destination for certified cave divers. Divers come from all over to explore the underwater passages, making it a hotspot for adventure seekers. While we didn’t see any divers during our visit, signs in the park highlighted the significance of the spring as one of the most popular freshwater cave diving locations in the United States.
Relaxing in Laughlin Park
The surrounding Laughlin Park was peaceful and inviting. It featured walking paths, benches, and plenty of shaded areas for relaxing. The park also served as a historic site, with informational plaques describing its significance to the local area, particularly its connection to Route 66 travelers and its importance to the Osage people before European settlement.
While the concrete walls around the bluff were disappointing, the serene atmosphere and the beauty of the spring itself made our stop at Waynesville a worthwhile detour. It was yet another reminder of how much natural beauty and history the Ozarks offer, even in unexpected places.
Uranus: A Quirky Stop on Route 66
As we continued our journey down Route 66, we arrived at the tourist trap known as Uranus, a playful and quirky destination that leaned heavily into humor and double entendres.
Exploring the Uranus Complex
This sprawling roadside attraction featured a variety of shops, attractions, and humorous props scattered throughout the area. The atmosphere was lighthearted and intentionally over-the-top, making it a fun stop, even for those passing through.
We started at the Uranus Fudge Factory and General Store, which had many fudge, candies, and novelty gifts. The employees were friendly, wearing their masks properly and greeting customers with their trademark tongue-in-cheek humor. The overall experience was far better than what we had encountered at the Candy Factory earlier in our trip. Lisa picked up some fudge to bring back for her family, and we couldn’t resist browsing the shelves packed with hilarious merchandise, including t-shirts, mugs, and other gag gifts.
Outdoor Props and Attractions
After shopping, we wandered the outdoor area, snapping photos of the quirky props and funny signs adorned the grounds. There were oversized statues, retro-style advertisements, and cheeky wordplay at every turn. The humor might not be for everyone, but we found it entertaining and very much in the spirit of Route 66’s eclectic roadside attractions.
Attractions We Missed
While Uranus has a number of other features, many were closed during our visit. This included attractions like the Sideshow Museum, which showcases oddities and curiosities. Tickets were $6 each, but since we were short on time and not entirely sure what to expect, we decided to skip it. Other parts of the complex appeared to be undergoing remodeling, and some seasonal attractions weren’t operating during our off-peak visit.
Final Impressions
Uranus may not be a must-see for everyone, but it perfectly captures the whimsical spirit of Route 66. Its playful charm and the nostalgia of classic roadside stops made it a memorable detour on our trip. Even if you’re just there for a laugh or some delicious fudge, it’s worth the stop for the experience and a few good photos.
More Route 66
When we left Uranus, we continued down Route 66 and over the Gasconades River, passing an old Route 66 girder bridge. We had seen this bridge earlier that year when rafting, so it was fun to see it again. We then descended an early alignment that took us over another beautiful girder bridge near the Devil’s Elbow.
We eventually hooked up with a rare divided four-lane section of Route 66 with its original concrete for a few miles. Route 66 then merged with I-44 for a couple of miles before we could get back on Route 66.
UM-Rolla Stonehenge: A Unique Route 66 Stop
Continuing along Route 66, we made a detour into Rolla to visit a fascinating and unusual sight—a half-sized replica of Stonehenge outside the University of Missouri-Rolla Engineering School.
The Creation of a Modern Monument
The replica, constructed between 1982 and 1984, was no small feat. Using 160 tons of Georgia granite, the stones were meticulously crafted with high-pressure water jet equipment from the university’s lab. This high-tech method was far from the ancient methods used to create the original Stonehenge, but it brought the iconic monument to life in a modern context.
The monument was dedicated during the summer solstice of 1984 in a ceremony led by a druid priest, adding a ceremonial touch to this scientific and engineering marvel. The alignment of the stones, much like the original, was designed to track the movements of the sun and the moon—an impressive feat of artistry and precision engineering.
A Functional Astrological Clock
The replica stones were more than just a visual curiosity; they were designed with a purpose. Several plaques on the pillars explained how the monument could be used as an astrological clock to track the sun and the moon. The stones’ positioning allowed for observing celestial events, such as solstices and lunar phases, making it a fascinating intersection of history, science, and art.
While the scale and design of the replica were undeniably striking, it was the educational aspects that made this stop particularly interesting. The blend of ancient symbolism and modern engineering offered a unique take on the Route 66 experience, combining the historical significance of Stonehenge with the cutting-edge technology of the university.
Final Thoughts
UM-Rolla Stonehenge was a fun and educational stop that showcased the creativity and ingenuity of modern engineering while paying homage to one of the world’s most iconic monuments. If you find yourself on Route 66 in Rolla, this replica is worth visiting for its historical relevance and impressive craftsmanship.
Drive Back to Campsite
When we returned to the truck, I checked how far away we were from our campsite and discovered we had to drive 2-1/2 hours to return. It was already 5 pm, so we decided that even though there were some more attractions we wanted to see, we better head back. I took the shortest path Google Maps offered, but unfortunately, I discovered too late that it took me down some very curvy and dark roads most of the way home.
Evening
Luckily, we got home safe. We had a quick microwave dinner and watched Netflix before heading to bed.
24 October, Saturday
It was a cold and overcast day when we woke up, but the rain chances were very low. We planned to explore some local attractions and possibly start with winterizing, but the day worked out differently.
After breakfast, we headed to the Truman Lake Visitor Center. The center was located on a high bluff overlooking the dam and was supposed to be something worth visiting. Unfortunately, when we arrived, it was closed for the season.
So we wandered up to the local county museum to check it out. Unfortunately, it was closed also.
Walmart was next door, so we headed there to buy winterizing supplies. While we were in the parking lot, I desperately looked for some attractions that we could go see. I finally found some interesting stops north of us, so we skipped going to Walmart and immediately headed north on MO-65.
Bothwell Lodge State Historic Site: A Glimpse into the Past
Our first stop of the day took us to the Bothwell Lodge State Historic Site, about an hour away.
A Castle on a Bluff
The 31-room, 12,000-square-foot lodge is often described as castlelike, and for good reason. Perched on a high bluff just north of Sedalia, it offers sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. Built between 1897 and 1928, this grand home was the summer residence of John Bothwell (1848-1929), a prominent lawyer and philanthropist in the Sedalia area.
A Generous Gift to the State
John Bothwell, a man known for his success and generosity, originally constructed the lodge as a private getaway. However, in 1969, he offered the lodge to the state of Missouri, and it was accepted five years later. The surrounding area was transformed into a picnic area, and several hiking trails were developed, offering visitors a chance to explore the beautiful natural surroundings.
Exploring the Lodge
When we arrived, the lodge was closed for tours, but the porch provided an excellent vantage point to take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. We couldn’t explore the grounds as much due to the chilly weather, which made our stop relatively brief.
Even so, the sense of history and the grandeur of the lodge made the visit memorable. The combination of both architectural beauty and its location on the bluff gave us a glimpse into the past. It allowed us to appreciate the quiet elegance of Bothwell’s summer home.
Final Thoughts
Though we couldn’t tour the interior, Bothwell Lodge State Historic Site is a special spot, offering visitors a peek into a more opulent time and a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of Missouri. For those willing to brave the elements, the hiking trails and picnic areas are perfect for a longer visit in warmer weather.
Jim the Wonder Dog Memorial: A Tribute to an Extraordinary Canine
After continuing north for another half hour, we arrived in Marshall, stopping at the Jim the Wonder Dog Memorial.
The Amazing Jim the Wonder Dog
Jim the Wonder Dog (1925–1937) was a Llewellin Setter who achieved legendary status due to his astonishing abilities. Among his talents were the uncanny ability to guess the sex of unborn babies, follow commands in multiple languages—even though his owner, Sam Van Arsdale, spoke only English—and predict winners of major events like the Kentucky Derby for seven consecutive years. He also correctly picked the winner of the 1936 World Series. Jim’s reputation as a “wonder dog” spread during the 1930s, particularly after psychologists from several universities tested his remarkable skills in public demonstrations.
The Memorial Park
The Jim the Wonder Dog Memorial Park, established in 1999, is a small but meticulously cared-for area. The park is filled with lush flowers and neatly trimmed bushes and a water feature with a bridge that adds to the charm. At the center of the park stands a life-size statue of Jim, capturing his legendary stature. At the same time, the surrounding sidewalk is lined with information kiosks that tell the fascinating story of Jim’s life and achievements.
The Visitor Center
Adjacent to the park, we found the Visitor Center open during our visit. We later learned that this was the last day the center would be open for the season. Inside, an older gentleman greeted us warmly and briefly introduced us to the various exhibits within the shop. The center housed a collection of newspaper articles, photographs, and numerous artifacts related to Jim’s extraordinary life. There was also a small gift shop where visitors could purchase souvenirs.
A Pleasant Surprise
We were pleasantly surprised by how much more there was to see at the memorial and visitor center than we had initially expected. The blend of history, memorabilia, and beautiful surroundings made the visit much more engaging and memorable than anticipated.
Jim’s story was much more than just a local legend—it’s a heartwarming tale of a dog who captured the imagination of many and left a lasting impact on the community. The Jim the Wonder Dog Memorial is a tribute to a remarkable canine and an excellent stop for those passing through Marshall, offering a touch of whimsy and wonder.
Annie and Abel Van Meter State Park: A Hidden Gem of History and Nature
After another half hour of driving, we arrived at Annie and Abel Van Meter State Park, a small but historically significant park nestled amidst the vast treeless plowed fields of the region. The main road leading directly to the park was closed for bridge repairs, so we had to take a gravel road detour to reach the entrance, adding a bit of adventure to our visit.
A Forested Oasis in the Heart of Farmland
The park itself was an unexpected oasis, with lush forested areas starkly contrasting the surrounding farmland. This unique setting made it feel somewhat out of place yet provided a serene and peaceful environment.
Rich History of the Missouria Indians
Annie and Abel Van Meter State Park is home to important remnants of Missouria Indian history, particularly the remains of a Missouria village that once thrived at the Great Bend of the Missouri River. Jacques Marquette and Louis Jolliet noted the village on a map in 1673, making it a site of significant historical value. The park features several key cultural sites, including an Old Fort earthwork and burial mounds. These sites are a testament to the rich history of the Native American tribes who once inhabited the area.
Indian Cultural Center: A Learning Experience
We were fortunate to find the Indian Cultural Center open during our visit, and we had the place mostly to ourselves. A park ranger greeted us and led us to a room where we watched a short film about the early Native Americans, with a focus on the Missouria tribe. The film was a great introduction to the history of the region.
We then explored the exhibits, which included several large paintings depicting important Native American figures from the area. One of the highlights was a static display of a traditional Missouria Indian shelter and an exhibit on the St. Louis “office” where Meriwether Lewis served as the governor of the Louisiana Territory from 1807 to 1809. There was also a cultural room with a fake fire and benches, where cultural events were occasionally held. While the center wasn’t particularly large, it provided a fascinating glimpse into the area’s Native American heritage.
Exploring the Park: Mounds, Trails, and Scenic Views
After leaving the Cultural Center, we drove around the park. The campground was small, with only 21 sites and nine without utilities. Despite this, nearly all the sites were occupied. As we continued, we discovered several trails leading to the burial mounds and remnants of the old village. Due to previous farming activities in the area, the mounds were largely overgrown with trees and were difficult to distinguish.
We stopped to eat lunch in a parking lot overlooking a field that was believed to be the site of one of the burial mounds. It was a peaceful spot, but it was hard to truly appreciate the site’s significance due to its overgrown nature.
We then made our way to the small lake at the end of the park. There, I walked a short trail that led to an overlook of the Missouri River, where a kiosk provided a map showing the locations where Lewis and Clark encountered various Native American tribes along their journey. It was a fitting spot to reflect on the historical importance of the area.
A Quiet Park with Preservation Efforts
While Annie and Abel Van Meter State Park may not have been the most visually stunning or impressive park we visited, its historical significance made it worthwhile. The preservation of the Missouria burial mounds, the cultural center, and the park’s natural beauty were commendable efforts in maintaining the area’s rich heritage. The park played an important role in preserving the history of the Missouri River and the tribes that lived along it.
The Giant Pecan: A Quirky Landmark in Brunswick
After a 30-minute drive north, we arrived in Brunswick, a charming small town known for its quirky yet impressive attraction: The World’s Largest Pecan.
Scenic Drive Through the Missouri Landscape
As we made our way to Brunswick, we crossed the Missouri River, taking in the scenic view of the water winding through the landscape. The fields around us were mostly harvested, their golden and brown hues adding a rustic touch to the picturesque scenery. The rural expanse set the tone for our stop at the Giant Pecan, a unique landmark that piqued our curiosity.
A Monumental Nut
The World’s Largest Pecan stands proudly in Brunswick, making it an unexpected yet delightful detour for travelers. The massive sculpture, made of concrete and painted to resemble a pecan, is a playful nod to the town’s love for this beloved nut. Brunswick is known for its pecan trees, and the monument celebrates both the town’s agricultural roots and its fondness for this iconic tree.
The pecan is not just a tourist attraction but also a symbol of the town’s history and its connection to the surrounding landscape. A few informational signs near the sculpture explained the significance of the pecan in local agriculture and a bit about the town’s efforts to promote its heritage.
A Quick Stop Worth Making
While the giant pecan may not be a grand historical monument or natural wonder, it adds a fun and lighthearted touch to the day’s journey. The sculpture is in a small park, making it a perfect spot to stop, take a photo, and stretch our legs while learning a little about this unusual claim to fame. After our visit, we continued our exploration, feeling amused by the novelty of the experience and the warmth of Brunswick’s hospitality.
We had trouble finding the giant pecan and had to U-turn back through the downtown area. We eventually found it in a small park next to the post office.
The giant concrete pecan was built in 1982 and sat outside the farms of George and Elizabeth James until it was moved to its present location in 2013. This 7-foot x 12-foot pecan weighs 12,000 pounds.
This stop was even more comical for us because Lisa is severely allergic to pecans.
Boone’s Lick State Historic Site: A Glimpse into Missouri’s Early History
After our stop at the World’s Largest Pecan, we went to Boone’s Lick State Historic Site, about an hour away. Though we had heard much about the site’s historical significance, the reality of what remained there was a bit more understated.
The Historical Significance of Boone’s Lick
Boone’s Lick is deeply tied to the early history of Missouri and its role in developing the American frontier. The site was established in 1960 around one of the saltwater springs that was pivotal in the region’s early economy. The springs were used in the early 19th century by Nathan Boone and his brother Daniel Morgan Boone, sons of the legendary Daniel Boone. The Boones produced salt from these springs, a valuable commodity in the fledgling Missouri settlement.
The importance of salt production in the region was not limited to local trade. It also lent its name to the larger region known as Boone’s Lick Country, the first major American settlement in Missouri. Additionally, Boone’s Lick Road, a critical pathway during the early 1800s, connected St. Charles, Missouri, to Franklin, a boomtown that was one of the earliest settlements in the state. The road helped to open up new lands for settlement and trade, becoming a crucial route during the westward expansion.
What Remains at the Site
Unfortunately, when we arrived at the site, we were greeted with little more than a few rotted timbers and a lone boiling pot — remnants of the once-bustling salt production operation. It was a bit of a letdown, considering the site’s significant historical role. Despite this, Boone’s Lick State Historic Site offers a chance to reflect on the early days of Missouri’s settlement, even if much of its physical evidence has been lost to time.
Exploring the Trail
To fully understand the history of salt production, a short, steep trail guides visitors through the fields where salt was once boiled. Along the way, several information kiosks provide context, explaining how the salt was produced, the challenges the Boones faced, and the importance of their work to the local economy. Though the site itself was minimal, the trail offered a small but immersive way to connect with the history of the place.
While there wasn’t much left to see, the site provided a valuable learning experience about the early settlers of Missouri and their resourcefulness in tapping into the land’s natural resources. We left with a greater appreciation for the pivotal role that salt production played in the early development of the region and its eventual growth into the state of Missouri.
Swinging Bridge: A Historic Landmark in Warsaw
After leaving Boone’s Lick State Historic Site, we returned home, but I couldn’t resist making one last stop in Warsaw. It was already after 6 pm, but I had passed the Swinging Bridge several times during our trip and had been curious about it. So, I decided it was the perfect way to cap off our day.
The History Behind the Swinging Bridge
This 600-foot-long swinging bridge, which spans the Osage River, was constructed in 1904 by Joe Dice, the same engineer responsible for other iconic swinging bridges, such as those at Lake of the Ozarks State Park. The design is typical of the time, with sturdy steel cables supporting the wooden planks, making it both functional and nerve-wracking to cross.
In 1924, the bridge was tragically destroyed by a tornado, a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the Ozarks weather. However, the bridge was rebuilt in 1928 and continued to serve as an important crossing for pedestrians and automobiles for many years.
It wasn’t until 1979 that a new bridge (the 7 Highway bridge) was constructed, and the Swinging Bridge was closed to vehicle traffic. Today, it is a beloved pedestrian bridge primarily used by hikers and bicyclists. The bridge’s suspension structure allows it to sway with the movement of its users, giving it its signature “swinging” characteristic.
The Experience
While Lisa wasn’t too keen on walking across the swaying bridge, I took the opportunity to venture out onto it. I made my way quickly to the middle, where I paused to take a few pictures of the surrounding landscape and the river below. The swaying sensation was just enough to make you feel like you were truly suspended in time, walking across a piece of local history. The bridge felt peaceful yet exhilarating, and the view of the river was stunning, especially as the sun was setting.
It was a fitting end to our trip, a reminder of the ingenuity of the past and a peaceful place to reflect on our journey. The Swinging Bridge is one of those small, unassuming landmarks that adds a sense of adventure and nostalgia to the journey.
Evening
While we were driving home from Boone’s Lick, Lisa checked the weather forecast and found that they were expecting snow on Monday. We had planned to spend two nights at a campground close to home so that we could winterize the trailer, but we decided that we would just head home early. Our plan was to get the important winterizing done the following morning and then drive straight to the trailer storage that afternoon.
It was around 7 pm when we got back. As we drove into the park, I finally saw a herd of deer grazing and we took a few minutes to watch them.
Lisa cooked up some hamburgers for dinner which we ate with a big salad while watching more Netflix shows that I had downloaded.
25 October, Sunday
After breakfast, I gathered up all my personal belongings and loaded them into the truck. Then, I drove over to Walmart to pick up some antifreeze for the water system. While I was away, Lisa finished packing up everything else we needed to take home, and I quickly got it all loaded into the truck when I returned. After that, I emptied the freshwater tank and replaced it with the antifreeze.
We worked efficiently and were at the dump station by noon. There, I drained the other tanks and added antifreeze to them as well.
The drive home took us about two hours, and by 3:25 pm, we were sitting in front of the TV watching the Chiefs’ kickoff. I used the time during the game’s timeouts and halftime to unload the truck.