One train, an Amtrak coach & two buses & bit of a walk later. We finally arrived at the depot & began our introduction to ‘Big Bertha’. Although in RV terms it was probably amongst one of the smallest it suited our needs perfectly.
Given our schedule sadly we had to leave sightseeing smog bound Seattle for another day. Instead we headed North towards Everett to collect our home for the next couple of weeks.
The smoke that had enveloped the city didn’t really dissipate until we had traveled for many miles. Wild fires were still raging in the region at time.
Based on my previous trip I had suggested a trip to a supermarket. Mainly to stock up on the essentials of life such as tea bags. I’m a Brit & I can generally move mountains providing I’ve had a cuppa.
Found Ice Creek Road
My niece had shared a website for wild camping sites. So we set off in search of a wild of the one I had found. Therefore I was nominated first to drive. So cautiously pulled our wagon on to the trail that I had set.
Whilst not really much longer than the previous camper I had driven. It took a bit of getting used to having no rear mirror. Still as the miles rolled by we chatted & listened to music. Whilst dear old google maps kept us on course.
Turning off the main road we headed towards Icicle Creek Road in search of the wild camping site. However as the track up the mountain started to run out of tarmac I began to have my doubts of locating it.
Given sun was rapidly sinking & the road was becoming narrower . Doing what felt like a 97 point turn in the van seemed our best option at that stage.
Heading back down I was inwardly panicking a little. I felt bad about potentially stuffing up the trip on the first day. With the prospect of having to park on the side of the road because it was getting dark. We were elated almost cheering when we rolled up towards what turned out to be a National Camp site.
A little unsure of how to get a slot we tentatively pulled in & parked. With darkness imminently upon us we hunted about for information. Jackpot!
Bed Making
The notice board had all the instructions we needed. For $19 we could park up overnight. Safe in the knowledge we weren’t transgressing any laws by camping on a roadside.
Hanging the ticket in the van & we laughed as we considered all the events of the day. More hilarity ensued as we tried to sort one of the beds by converting the dining table.
First step involved strong arming the reluctant central support before making it finally clicked into place. Followed by trying to assemble random legs & cushions into place.
Beds made we both secretly prayed that by the end of the trip we would have nailed this process. Getting the bed making into a slick routine. Being shorter I had opted to sleep above the cab. It was infinitely easier to throw the sheets & quilt aloft.
Not so simple was the climbing ninja style up to my bunk by balancing on the edge of the sofa. Generally I think kids sleep in this space & get lift up there!
National Camp Sites
Darkness fell & the woodland was remarkably quiet except for the rustle of the trees overhead. Except for the odd chipmunk who decided to use the van roof as a trampoline.
Next day the sun was shining the smog that had followed us from Seattle started to lift. We awoke & were greeted by a beautiful view of the mountains.
The Ranger called by for a chat & check our ticket. Discovering campsites such as these were dotted around we determined we would make use of this type of facility if possible.
Once on the open road we started to relax into the trip a bit more. Enjoing the scenery as we meandered along the road through the state of Washington. We took a day or two but kept to schedule as we had deadline to make in Boulder, Montana.
If travelling in USA in a van then the link below is to the camp sites t