More fall color, smoke, lava, soak and Reno

Two hard driving days got us through Southern Washington, Oregon, over the corner of California and to Reno.  Although we saw more lovely fall colors, smoke from the wild fires in California and south of Reno continued to obscure the horizon.  We changed our plan to go into California due to the 
fires and smoke.  

Hillsides of fall color thrilled us as we left the Cascade Mountains in Washington State.








A tunnel that appeared to be made without the help of modern technology or equipment seemed as solid and safe as any modern one.



Mt. Hood, east of Portland, was far in the distance and obscured by smoke.



Visibility ahead on the road was often impaired.



These pictures show the extent of the lava fields from volcanic action 1500 years ago south of Bend, Oregon and the smoke that shrouded ,over evergreens not so very far away.










I am wearing out this coat.  We look forward to warmer weather during the southern stretch of our trip.

We made one fun stop in California, to soak in some mineral hot and warm springs.  I loved the sauna and the quiet hot pool in the geodesic dome.  Alan preferred the warm pool overlooked by forest and giving us a panoramic but smoky view of the prairie land. Our skin was silky and hydrated when we left; our moods mellow.





Three days and two nights in Reno gives us a chance to get out of the car for a bit.  We have had some success gambling (like 4 of a kind in pai gow for a $200 bonus).  We get moving on the urban walk next to the Truckee River which drains from Lake Tahoe into Pyramid Lake on Native American lands.  We golfed today for $18 per person with cart.  Enjoyed the cute ground squirrels.  Did not enjoy the Canadian geese only because of the tons of poop they leave everywhere.  

Truckee River rapids create their own natural art in downtown Reno.





It will be hard to leave Reno tomorrow, but the night is young here and the casino is calling.

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