We awake to a pretty morning with the sound of the Columbia River flowing past the campground. It is cool but not uncomfortable with warmer temperatures compared to the past few days and NO WIND!  It is quiet.  The campground is just beginning to stir. A few kids are starting to get out and about (there are a lot of families camping here).

As has been our habit, we take a leisurely start to the day, not rushing, not being pokey, just doing what we need to do without any pressure to go. NOW there’s no pressure? What happened to that schedule??

It is easy to break camp. The Westy packs up efficiently, though again, it is difficult to leave this pleasant campground and scenery.  We are making mental notes of places to return to for longer visits–this is one of them!

Heading up river, our first stop is for gas and ice just a few miles up the road. We always seem to forget the ice. The ice box in the camper is efficient but still needs to be replenished regularly!  With that done and the fuel tank full, we head for Coulee Dam.

Driving away from the river and starting a slight climb. it is only 6 miles to the summit but  it seems straight UP!. Starting at a 7oo+’ elevation, it is a steep climb to the 1300’ summit. A Volkswagen bus is slow but steady and our trusty westy  camper bus seems quite capable, especially in the early morning coolness (and minimal traffic!).

And there on top – only 6 miles later – we are in a totally different world! We have arrived in Big Bend Country.