Jan and Dean's New Adventure: Grants Pass to Florence, Oregon

This morning we began our journey to the Pacific Coast. We traveled north on I-5 for about 40 miles then took a cut-off road to OR 38. Of course we had a lot of ups and downs again on the interstate, I think there were four summits, all with 6% downgrades - fun. After getting off the interstate, the going was a lot smoother, some small hills, but nothing big. On both roads we were in the valley's following a river. It was really pretty with the hills filled with various trees and the fields and the river. On Rt. 38 we came to an area that had signs for elk viewing. Well, we had been seeing signs for miles to be aware of elk so we really didn't pay attention and didn't stop. Well, just a short piece down the road, there they were - about 20 elk laying in a field! Fortunately there was a pull off and dean was able to get in and stopped. I took a picture but again, I need a better zoom lens.

When we reached Hwy 101, the coastal road, I figured we would begin to see the Pacific Ocean - NOT!!! A lot more hills and millions of pine trees as we traveled north about 30 miles toward Florence.

We found the 1000 Trails South Jetty Preserve without any problem and were directed to a great site where we had no problem getting internet and tv signal with the dish.

After getting set up and having a bite to eat, we took a drive through Florence to see if there was a Wal-Mart and what else might be there. No Wal-Mart, but we came across our first Fred Meyer's store. I really liked it and will return before we leave here on Sunday.

This weekend is the Rhoddy, (Rhododendron) Festival in Florence and we will probably go see what it is all about. The area is absolutely filled with the beautiful flowers. I'll try to get some pictures to post with the Festival pictures that I'm sure I'll take.

OK, now to todays pictures....

View of the river as we were driving along side......