Annual summer ride

[franksam]

8 states....8 days....3,514 miles..... YEAH!!!

Just returned from my annual summer ride. This year it was a solo ride for 8 days. Left Southern Illinois and scooted down to Birmingham, Alabama by taking 2 laners west of the Land Between The Lakes in Kentucky and Tennessee. Stayed one night at 29 Dreams Motorcycle Resort just south of Birmingham. I HIGHLY recommend visiting the resort. Great folk, food, fun, and place to camp or stay in one of their small cabins.

The next day I visited the Barber Motorsports Museum in south Birmingham ... UNBELIEVABLE !!! Five floors of vintage motorcycles.

Then off to the Natchez Trace at Jackson, Mississippi and the night in Natchez. Unfortunately, the once beautiful river town of Natchez has been hit by plight...but one can see the history that is there.

Quick cruise across Louisiana through Alexandria to east Texas and down to Kingwood/Houston. Then several days riding near College Station, San Antonio, Austin and the Texas Hill Country.

Two places for everyone to see....
1. Royers' Round Top Cafe in Round Top Texas...you will have a dining experience beyond anything you've had so far. Wonderful folks...the best pies in the country...and fellowship as an extended part of their family.
2. D'Rose Inn for Motorcyclists in Leaky, Texas. Deb runs this lodging only for motorcyclists, and she is a gracious hostess. The riding is right in the middle of Texas Hill Country and the 3 Sisters...routes 335, 336, and 337. Truly amazing riding.

Then the power trip home after visiting Texas...804 miles on Sunday from Kingwood, Texas to Christopher, Illinois.

Total trip... 8 days, 8 states, 3514 miles, and one 804 mile day.

Anyone know of a sanctioned Iron Butt ride??? I've gotta try it!!!