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Motorcycle Rides USA

Motorcycle Rides is a personal blog of my motorcycle trips. Welcome to Motorcycle Rides USA. I'm Brad, and this is where I share my motorcycle adventures.

There's nothing like the thrill of the open road. The wind in my face and the vast landscapes are exhilarating. But, to me, riding isn't just a hobby. It's a way to soothe my soul and spirit. As I explore on my bike, I feel deeply connected with a higher power. The long, quiet highways offer time for reflection, helping me gain insights into my life.

04/17/2024

WILD WEST TRIP - Headed Home but first Butch Cassidy's childhood home.

After spending the night in Kanab, Utah, the next morning I headed home on hwy 89 to Nephi, then I-15 to Salt Lake. On the way, I stopped at the childhood home of Butch Cassidy (Born Robert LeRoy Parker in 1866) located right next to hwy 89, just outside of Circleville. Butch was made famous by the movie "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" starring Robert Redford and Paul Newman. I think I've watched this movie a dozen times or more.

As I was leaving the site, I said hello to an elderly gentlemen who was just coming, and we chatted for a bid. He said that he had a dear friend who had written several books on the life of Butch Cassidy, and proceeded to relate to me one of the stories in one of the books.

He said that Butch had rode up to a home in eastern Utah and asked the woman who answered the door if she would feed him and put him up for the night. She said she would be glad to, then she shared with him that she was about to lose her farm because she was behind on her mortgage. Butch asked her how much it would be to pay the mortgage off. When she let him know of the amount, he went out to his saddlebags on his horse and came back in and gave her the exact amount. He then instructed her to have the banker come out to her home to receive the full amount to pay off her loan, and to make sure he signed her mortgage that it was paid in full. Then Butch left the next day. The banker came out, signed off her mortgage, and then left. On his way back to town he was held up by Butch Cassidy. So, the woman's mortgage was paid in full and Butch got his money back.

As I left Butch Cassidy's childhood home and was driving home my thoughts were how interesting it is that sometimes we are charmed by some people who are criminals. I guess the same could be said of Robin Hood.

Well, another trip is in the books. I thoroughly enjoyed visiting these old western sites, meeting new friends and learning the stories and history of these places and people.

Thanks for coming along and sharing your comments and likes.

Now to start planning and dreaming for the next trip... Stay tuned.

04/17/2024

WILD WEST TRIP - Kanab, Utah

I loved my stay in Kanab, Utah. I've stayed here several times before, and it has never disappointed. This town was very popular and very busy during the 1950's and 1960's with the filming of hollywood westerns. Just east of town, up Johnson's Canyon, is the old movie set of Gunsmoke, or what's left of it. In town, there is a place called " Little Hollywood Museum", where they have a lot of buildings and props that were used in many of the westerns.

As a side note, according to local legend, Montezuma's $3 billion lost treasure could lie beneath the water at a pond on HWY 89 just north of Kanab. I stopped and took a picture of it. See my pic below.

Here's a little bit of history on Kanab:

Kanab, Utah, fondly known as "Little Hollywood," has a history steeped in the glitz and glamour of the silver screen. Nestled in the rugged beauty of Southern Utah, its scenic landscapes have been the backdrop for many western movies.

In the mid-20th century, Kanab became the shooting location for a slew of western films. Big-name stars like John Wayne, Clint Eastwood, and Frank Sinatra graced the dusty streets of this small town, bringing an unexpected touch of Hollywood to the Utah desert.

Frank Sinatra, in particular, left a lasting imprint on Kanab. He starred in the film "Sergeants 3," shot in the area. Off the set, Sinatra made significant contributions to the local community. His generous donations helped fund various infrastructure projects, enhancing the town's development.

The flurry of film production slowed down in the late 20th century, but Kanab hasn't lost its charm. Today, it stands as a monument to its cinematic past, attracting movie buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The legacy of the stars who once walked its streets lives on, adding a dash of stardust to this slice of the American West.

04/16/2024

WILD WEST TRIP - Monument Valley, Arizona/Utah

My original plans were to go north into Colorado and visit Silverton and Ouray. Due to the storm blowing through I really didn’t want to ride in snow, although I have a time or two. So I headed more south to Monument Valley. I never tire of the beauty of the area. Because of the storm in the north, the winds were a little crazy. At one point in time I was in the middle of a sand storm just outside of Monument Valley.

I found an RV Park just right next to Monument Valley. The wind blew most of the night. In the morning, from the Visitor’s Center, I watch a little snow squall blow through. While waiting for the storm to past I met some new friends, Frank and Rose, from St Augustine, Florida. Nice folks. They are professional photographers.

Pulling into the National Park I was informed that I can’t take my motorcycle into the park area, so I saw the park from the visitor’s center. I’m not sure why they don’t allow motorcycles. Maybe someone here can explain why.

Here’s some information on Monument Valley:

Monument Valley, located on the Arizona-Utah border, is a region of the Colorado Plateau characterized by a cluster of vast sandstone buttes. Its history is as grand as its landscape, with the area being the ancestral home of the Navajo people. The valley was relatively unknown to the outside world until the 1930s when Harry Goulding, who operated a trading post there, pitched it as a filming location to Hollywood director John Ford.

Ford's 1939 film "Stagecoach," starring John Wayne, showcased the valley's stunning geography, and it subsequently became an iconic setting for the Western film genre. Ford filmed several of his best-known Westerns in the valley, including "The Searchers" (1956) and "Cheyenne Autumn" (1964).

Since then, Monument Valley's unique landscape has featured in many other films and TV productions across various genres. The towering sandstone buttes and vast skies have provided a distinctive backdrop for films like "Easy Rider" (1969), "Forrest Gump" (1994), and even science fiction epics like "2001: A Space Odyssey" (1968). Its unique beauty continues to captivate filmmakers and audiences alike.

04/15/2024

WILD WEST TRIP - Santa Fe, New Mexico

After Tombstone, Arizona, I headed diagonally across New Mexico to Santa Fe. I have to say, I am not a big fan of NM roads. They are cracked, rough, and full of potholes. I stopped in Madrid, just south of Santa Fe, to eat at Maggie’s Diner, made famous by the movie Wild Hogs. By the time I got there, it was closed. ☹️ But I did take a couple of pics. I arrived in Santa Fe early evening, gassed up and then went looking for an RV Park for the night. It took me 3 different RV Parks to find one with a space. The 3rd one I pulled into the office was closed. A friendly camper came over and suggested I take a spot, pointing to it, and settle up with the office in the morning. So I set up my tent trailer and jumped on the bike to get dinner. When I got back at the camp, I was greeted by a couple that were the managers. They were yelling and screaming at me for setting up my camp without their permission. They said there were absolutely no late check ins. They said they called the cops on me for trespassing, and they would be there in an hour if I wasn’t packed up and gone. It was about 10 o’clock at this time. I apologized letting them know I wasn’t aware that there were no late check ins. I packed up, rode down the street to the nearest motel for the night. Hense my picture of my rig at the motel.

Before I post the history of Santa Fe, I want to express my feelings of the town. (I hope I don’t offend anyone) When I first rode into the town, and at the gas station, I had an uneasy feeling about this place. The area was dirty and run down. The people at the gas station were sketchy-looking and unfriendly. I didn’t feel safe. Then to be kicked out of an RV Park, was the icing on the cake. I doubt I will ever return here again. So, because I was eager to get out of town the next day, I didn’t personally go to the historic district. I found a few images of some historic buildings and posted them below.

Now, here is the history of this town, that I think at one point in time was a nice place to live:

Santa Fe, the capital of New Mexico, is a city steeped in rich history, particularly that of the Old West. Established in 1610, it's one of the oldest cities in the United States. Santa Fe was a significant hub during the western expansion, with pioneers, traders, and prospectors passing through on the famed Santa Fe Trail.

The city's Old West history is vividly preserved in its architecture, museums, and historic districts, like the Old Santa Fe Trail and the Barrio De Analco Historic District, which transport visitors back in time.

Santa Fe's historic charm and picturesque landscapes have also caught the attention of Hollywood. Over the years, it has served as the backdrop for various films, capturing the essence of the Old West. Notable films shot in Santa Fe include the western classic "The Cowboys" and the modern hit "No Country for Old Men."

In essence, Santa Fe's Old West history is not just preserved in its streets and buildings, but also immortalized in the silver screen, making it a fascinating destination for history buffs and film enthusiasts alike.

04/14/2024

WILD WEST TRIP - Mescal Movie Set

While staying in Tombstone, I took a day and went to see the Mescal Movie Set. It is only open on Fridays and Saturdays, and you need to book a tour time. For me it was well worth it. The likes of John Wayne, Clint Eastwood, Glenn Ford and many others acted in films on this set. The 1993 filming of Tombstone, starring Kurt Russell, Val Kilmer and Sam Elliott, was mostly filmed here and not in the real Tombstone.

A History on this movie set:

Nestled in the heartland of Arizona, the Mescal Movie Set stands as a symbol of the Old West, immortalized in countless Hollywood classics. This iconic set was first constructed for the 1979 film, "The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean." Since its inception, it has served as the dramatic backdrop for a myriad of western films, each contributing to its rich cinematic history.

Taking a leisurely stroll through Mescal is akin to embarking on a journey through the annals of film history. One of the most notable films shot here is the 1993 hit, "Tombstone," starring Kurt Russell and Val Kilmer. The film brought to life the infamous shootouts at the OK Corral, deepening the set's historical significance.

The Mescal Movie Set has also played a pivotal role in other well-known films. Movies such as "The Quick and the Dead" and "The Outlaw Josey Wales" have utilized this authentic backdrop to recreate the raw essence of the Wild West. Each film shot here has added a layer to the set's character, making it a timeless piece of cinematic history.

The set resonates with the spirit of the Wild West; its vintage buildings and dusty streets capture an era long past but not forgotten. The Mescal Movie Set, thus, is more than just a film set. It is a testament to the enduring allure of the Wild West, a tangible connection to our cinematic past, and a must-visit for any movie enthusiast.

04/13/2024

WILD WEST TRIP - Bisbee, Arizona

I really enjoyed Bisbee. The Crown Mine tour was amazing. I also met some new friends Mike and Kristie Andrus from Texas. They are just some good, fine folks, salt of the earth.

Here is the history of Bisbee:

Bisbee, Arizona, nestled in the Mule Mountains, is a town steeped in history. Established in 1880, it was among the richest mineral sites in the world, producing nearly three million ounces of gold and more than eight billion pounds of copper, not to mention the silver, lead, and zinc that also came from its mines.

The town's mining heritage is evident in its Victorian structures and stately mansions, once home to mining magnates. Bisbee's charming streets and architecture drew Hollywood's attention, and it became the backdrop for several classic Western films.

One of the most notable films shot in Bisbee is the 1955 production "Violent Saturday." The movie, directed by Richard Fleischer, used Bisbee's iconic Brewery Gulch and the Copper Queen Hotel as primary filming locations. The film's storyline revolves around a bank robbery that happens in a small mining town, mirroring Bisbee's own history of mining and the wild west.

Another film, "Midnight Run," released in 1988, also features scenes shot in Bisbee. Although a modern film, it still captures the old western charm inherent to Bisbee. The protagonist, played by Robert De Niro, travels across the country and finds himself in Bisbee, adding a touch of modern intrigue to the classic western backdrop.

Bisbee's history and its role in classic cinema extend beyond these two films. The town's unique blend of old and new, history and modernity, has continued to attract filmmakers and tourists alike. Today, Bisbee is more than just a former mining town. It's a destination for those seeking to experience a slice of the Old West, whether through the lens of a camera or the eyes of a tourist.

So, whether you're a fan of classic Westerns, a history enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a unique travel experience, Bisbee, AZ, with its rich history and Hollywood connections, is a place worth visiting.

04/12/2024

WILD WEST TRIP - Gleeson, Az

After Tombstone, I rode out to Gleeson, an old abandoned mining town. There wasn’t much left.

Here’s some interesting information about the town:

Gleeson, Arizona, is a ghost town that holds a captivating history dating back to the Old West era. Initially inhabited by Native Americans, the area was later discovered by prospectors in the 1870s, who were drawn by the rich deposits of copper, gold, and silver.

The town was officially established as Turquoise in 1896 but was later renamed Gleeson in 1900, after Patrick Gleeson, an Irish miner and entrepreneur. Gleeson played a significant role in the town's prosperity, owning the Copper Belle Mine, which was the largest mine in the area.

The town thrived during the early 20th century, housing saloons, a jail, a hospital, and even a baseball team. However, as the mines depleted, the town's population started dwindling. The post office closed in 1939, marking the end of Gleeson as a mining town.

Today, Gleeson stands as a symbol of the past, attracting history buffs and adventurers alike. The remnants of the town, including the jail and several other buildings, have been preserved and are open for public tours.

Interestingly, the rugged and authentic old west look of Gleeson has caught the attention of Hollywood as well. The town served as a filming location for the 1990 Western movie "Young Guns II", starring Emilio Estevez and Kiefer Sutherland.

Gleeson, AZ, with its rich history and old west charm, is a fascinating destination that offers a glimpse into the life of the miners and settlers of the Old West era.

04/12/2024

WILD WEST TRIP - Tombstone, Arizona

After arriving at Tombstone, which is close to the Mexican border, I got a camping site at the Tombstone RV Park, and met Blaine and Patrice, originally from Fresno. They sold everything and travel across the country in their 5th wheel. After setting up camp, I sat in my camp chair for a beautiful Arizona sunset.

Here’s the history on Tombstone:

Tombstone, Arizona, is an iconic location in Old West history. Founded in 1879 during the silver boom, the town quickly gained notoriety for its lawlessness and violence.

The most infamous event in Tombstone's history is the legendary Gunfight at the O.K. Corral. This 30-second shootout between lawmen and a group of outlaws known as the Cowboys took place on October 26, 1881. The event has been depicted in numerous films and books, marking Tombstone as a symbol of the Old West's lawlessness.

Tombstone's rich history has made it a popular backdrop for Hollywood. The town has been featured in many films, most notably the 1957 movie "Gunfight at the O.K. Corral" and the 1993 film "Tombstone." These films have contributed to the town's continued popularity, drawing fans of Westerns from around the world.

While the real-life Tombstone might not be as lawless as it was in the 1880s, the town has managed to keep its Old West charm. Visitors today can walk the same streets that Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday once did, savoring the history and legends of one of America's most famous frontier towns.

04/10/2024

WILD WEST TRIP - Oatman, Arizona

After touring Calico today, I headed to Oatman, Arizona in time for a gun fight in the street and pet a couple of wild donkeys. Then I ended up in Kingman, Arizona for the night. While setting up my tent, this nice guy by the name of Joe, ask if he could help. Then he spent an hour visiting with me. I learned his life history. A really nice guy.

Here’s the history of Oatman:

Oatman, Arizona, a small town nestled in the Black Mountains of Mohave County, carries a rich history dating back to the Old West era. Originating as a tent camp for gold miners in the early 1900s, the town quickly grew after two prospectors struck a $10 million gold find in 1915.

During its peak, Oatman was a flourishing gold rush town with a bustling population of more than 3,500. The gold mines were prosperous until they were shut down during World War II. Despite the closure, Oatman thrived, transitioning into a tourism hub, its streets a reminiscence of the Old West, drawing travelers from around the world.

A unique feature of Oatman is its resident burros, descendants of the pack animals brought by the miners, which freely roam the streets today. This adds to the authentic Wild West experience, giving visitors a glimpse into the past.

Oatman has also caught the attention of Hollywood. The town served as the backdrop for several films, most notably "How The West Was Won" (1962). In this movie, Oatman was depicted in all its glory, showcasing its classic western architecture and rugged mountainous landscape. Another notable film shot here is Universal Pictures' "Edge of Eternity" (1959), further cementing Oatman's place in Hollywood's depiction of the Old West.

Today, Oatman continues to preserve its rich history and Old West charm, attracting tourists and film enthusiasts alike, offering a unique step back in time.

04/10/2024

WILD WEST TRIP - Calico, California

On my first day (Monday), after visiting Nelson, Nevada, I decided to head to Calico instead of bushwhacking it at Nelson. So I rode a little over 600 miles that day and spent the evening in the Calico campground. And my bed that night never felt better.

Now for the history of Calico:

Calico, California, has a captivating history dating back to the Old West era. Established in 1881 during the largest silver strike in California, Calico was a bustling town, home to over 500 mines and a population of 1,200 people. The town thrived for over a decade, yielding over $20 million in silver ore over its short lifespan.

By the late 1890s, however, the value of silver plummeted, and Calico's residents began to leave. Despite its decline, Calico didn't fade into obscurity. Instead, it became a ghost town, a poignant reminder of the transient nature of mining booms.

In the 1950s, Walter Knott, founder of Knott's Berry Farm, purchased Calico and restored it to its original condition. He donated the town to San Bernardino County, and it has since become a regional park, preserving the history of the Old West for future generations.

Adding to its allure, Calico has served as a backdrop for various Hollywood films. Notably, "The Hitcher," a 1986 action horror film, was filmed here, using the eerie, deserted landscape to create a palpable sense of dread. Besides, several episodes of the 1950s television series "The Cisco Kid" were shot in Calico, contributing to its image as an authentic Old West town.

04/09/2024

WILD WEST TRIP - Nelson, Nevada

My first town is Nelson, Nevada.

Nelson, Nevada, is a historical gem tucked away in the Eldorado Canyon, southeast of Las Vegas. This tiny town, once known as Eldorado by the Spaniards who made the first discoveries of gold in the area, offers a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved remnants of an Old West boomtown.

In the mid-19th century, Eldorado Canyon was the site of a mining boom. The Techatticup Mine, the most significant and oldest gold mine in southern Nevada, was established here around 1861. This area was infamous for its lawlessness, with disputes often settled by gunfights rather than by law. The mine was in operation until 1945, yielding millions of dollars in gold, silver, copper, and lead. Today, visitors can tour these mines and learn about the grueling conditions the miners endured in their search for precious metals.

In the 1970s, the town's name was changed to Nelson after the Nelson family, who owned many of the area's mines. Now, Nelson is a popular tourist destination, known for its rustic buildings, vintage gas pumps, and old cars that are scattered around the town, offering a stark contrast to the neon lights and modernity of nearby Las Vegas.

The town's unique and well-preserved setting has made it a popular location for Hollywood films. The rugged desert landscape and the ramshackle buildings have been featured in several movies, including "3000 Miles to Graceland" and "Breakdown." The most famous of these is the classic 1971 film "Vanishing Point," which features a high-speed car chase through Nelson's dusty roads.

04/05/2024

WILD WEST TRIP - I'm headed out on Monday for a trip around the Southwest to visit Old West Ghost Towns. I grew up watching western movies and shows like Gunsmoke, True Grit, Tombstone and Silverado. I'll be visiting about 12 different old west towns:

Nelson, NV
Calico, CA
Oatman, AZ
Old Tucson, AZ
Mescal Movie Set, AZ
Tombstone, AZ
Gleeson, AZ
Madrid, NM
Santa Fe, NM
Silverton, CO
Ouray, CO

Come along with me, as I'll have a daily post of each town I visit. Who knows, I might encounter some old western ghosts from the past, the likes of Jesse James, Billy the Kid, Butch Cassidy, Wild Bill Hickok, Wyatt Earp, Doc Holiday, Annie Oakley, and others.

Wyatt Earp - "In the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years."

03/08/2024

For the past year I have thinking and planning a Spring 2024 trip to visit as many Wild West Towns and Movie Sets in the western US. Here is my list thus far:

West Towns

Tombstone
Calico
Dodge City
Oatman
Amarillo
Virginia City
Santa Fe
Deadwood
Bandera
Silverton
Cody

Movie Sets
Monument Valley
Mescal Movie Set
Old Tucson Studios

Any other suggestions?

01/02/2024

Decided to take a New Year’s Day ride around the Oquirrh Mountains. What a beautiful day and enjoyable ride.

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WILD WEST TRIP - Nelson, Nevada My first town is Nelson, Nevada. Nelson, Nevada, is a historical gem tucked away in the Eldorado Canyon, southeast of Las Vegas. This tiny town, once known as Eldorado by the Spaniards who made the first discoveries of gold in the area, offers a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved remnants of an Old West boomtown. In the mid-19th century, Eldorado Canyon was the site of a mining boom. The Techatticup Mine, the most significant and oldest gold mine in southern Nevada, was established here around 1861. This area was infamous for its lawlessness, with disputes often settled by gunfights rather than by law. The mine was in operation until 1945, yielding millions of dollars in gold, silver, copper, and lead. Today, visitors can tour these mines and learn about the grueling conditions the miners endured in their search for precious metals. In the 1970s, the town's name was changed to Nelson after the Nelson family, who owned many of the area's mines. Now, Nelson is a popular tourist destination, known for its rustic buildings, vintage gas pumps, and old cars that are scattered around the town, offering a stark contrast to the neon lights and modernity of nearby Las Vegas. The town's unique and well-preserved setting has made it a popular location for Hollywood films. The rugged desert landscape and the ramshackle buildings have been featured in several movies, including "3000 Miles to Graceland" and "Breakdown." The most famous of these is the classic 1971 film "Vanishing Point," which features a high-speed car chase through Nelson's dusty roads.