So much of our trip lately has been in winter weather. We planned it that way. So we could ski a lot on the Tramper Voyage. If we wanted lots of warm weather first, we would have left in the Spring, not the Fall.
David could have stayed in Colorado, skiing every day until Monarch Mountain closed in mid-April.
David, happy in the snow!
But me? I need me some warm weather! So, being the wonderful husband that he is, and also thinking that a little warmth sounded good, David was all for seeking Spring.
It was cold in the Mojave Desert in March
We found it! You would think that the Mojave Desert would be warm and sunny. Not! It was pleasant enough to hike but we were still wearing gloves and hats.
After the Mojave we went to see the big trees in Sequoia (in the snow), and camped in a tiny town just down the valley from the Park entrance. It’s called Three Rivers.
Three Rivers was down in this valley – in a warmer climate from the Sequoias so close by. The elevation change makes all the difference!
We spent 3 nights in the Hidden River Campground. Here we found a totally different world from that of the big trees, high in the Sierra Nevada. It’s seventy degrees and sunny! Woohoo!
Look at all that Spring green.
Few bugs were around so the Tramper door stayed open. Folding lounge chairs were brought out. The hammock was unpacked and swinging in the shade. We ate meals outside. We could walk outside into the gentle, warm, sunny day and breathe a big sigh of relief! A bonus – the stars were incredible and we didn’t have to bundle up to gaze at them.
It was warm enough to make David’s radiator replacement job almost pleasant
Flowers were blooming. Birds were singing sweetly in trees that had tiny leaves unfurling. The rivers, all 3 of them, made happy splashing noises with peepers and frogs in full chorus.
Storksbill
Does anyone know this flower’s name?
The town was friendly and looked to have a healthy economy. The main street was short with lovely side streets winding into secluded little dells. Just down the highway was the San Joaquin Valley, bursting with orange and almond trees and vineyards.
We thought it was possible that, on the Voyage of the Tramper, we might find an area to invest some more time in. A place to stay, to be off-grid, grow our own food and welcome family and friends. With the beauty of the area and the temperate weather, Three Rivers would seem to fill the bill exactly. But, California is so far away from Maryland. The entire expanse of the country is between Three Rivers and Baltimore. Too far to see family and friends…
So, we continued on the Tramper Voyage, saying goodbye to a sweet little town in a beautiful area. We so enjoyed the respite from Winter. Maybe we’ll visit again someday.
– Jane
The Voyage of the Tramper 