Our drive from Williams was really uneventful in the scheme of things. I-40 from Williams to Kingman was very rough in a lot of areas. What took us most by surprise were the dark patches of what looked to be new asphalt. After we hit the first one, we knew to avoid the rest if possible. They were rougher than the old concrete surface.
We stopped at the Flying-J in Kingman for a break and one last torque of the tires. That was when Gene discovered our new license plate, which he just put on yesterday, was hanging by a thread. He was able to buy new bolts or screws or whatever he needed at Flying-J and make the repair. I was inside fixing us a sandwich when I heard a gentleman ask if he was switching plates. I wonder if he reported us as thieves to the authorities. Perhaps that was why they searched our rig at the checkpoint before going over Hoover Dam.
We got off I-40 in Kingman and onto US 93. Gene had called yesterday to be sure we would be allowed to tow our trailer over the dam. US 93 was a much better drive than I-40, with a better road surface and much less traffic. The view out the window was pretty bleak, however. I know, there are those who can see the beauty in this rugged landscape. I, however, failed to see it and once more was missing the spring growth of the east.
Within 20 miles or so of Hoover Dam, we ran into road construction which lasted until we reached Nevada. In a couple of years, when this project is finished, it will be a fine new road. Today, however, the concrete barricades were a little to close on this stretch of winding road to make for a relaxing drive.
I made a few photos out the window as we drove over the Dam. This is Saturday, of course, so there were many, many visitors and traffic was bumper to bumper. The road isn’t straight, the dam isn’t even straight. With all the people milling about and cars pulling in and out of parking lots, Gene was totally focused on getting from one side to the other without hitting a person, a car, or a concrete barricade. He commented that it reminded him of that time he pulled the Montana through the garden department at Wal-Mart on his very first day of towing.
We did not stop at the Dam. We have both been there and done the tour so it is not a priority on our list for this visit. For anyone who hasn’t been there, I would strongly encourage a visit. It is definitely well worth a trip.
Once in Las Vegas, we got into the traffic jam on I-15. It must have taken us an hour to get to our exit. One of our new neighbors who pulled in right behind us could not understand our dismay with the traffic on I-15. To him, it was normal. To us, not having seen that many cars since January, were a bit overwhelmed.
We’re in the process of getting settled in now; but may go down to the strip later this evening.
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