On The Road - Day 22 - Barstow to Redlands

Sunday 27^th May

Barstow to Redlands

This morning we ONCE AGAIN had to backtrack.  To Barstow to collect some photos before doing a little detour to Redlands to catch up with our young relatives.

In particular the El Rancho Motel, where we had planned on staying overnight but was rudely told there was nothing available before I even asked for a particular date.  Pity.  The Route 66 Motel has a great sign and collection of old cars and I would make that my choice if there is ever a next time, despite the fact rooms are described as spartan but clean. 

Another neat sign was the Palm Café.

Heading back on track on a very peaceful drive past Helendale where Polly  the parrot advertises gasoline at long gone prices; past the old stone Sage Brush Inn where Saltbush Annie ran a roadhouse of questionable repute.

Pulling in quickly to take photos of the ingenious Bottle Ranch.  Very clever display of thousands of bottles with various memorabilia collections.

We did miss getting a photo of Roy Rogers Double R Bar Ranch (his  hideaway) signage due to is laying beside a fence and there will be no turning back again today!!

The navigator announces another tight squeeze through a 1925 era railroad underpass and wonders if we have an alternative -  it turned out just fine and we had no problems at all. 





Although we didn’t have time to stop and browse at the Oro Grande Route 66 Antique Station, it was very tempting however I don’t think we could ship any more containers.

Another truss bridge, haven’t seen one of those for a while and it has ornate guardrails either end.

Approaching Victorville we notice a number of airplane tails – in fact dozens of them, so off track again to check them out – dozens and dozens of planes in storage no doubt – enjoying the dry desert air.

We bypass the Cleghorn Road exit as we are anxious to make good time to Redlands.  On closer reading of the EZ guide this was not a wise decision.  Sounds like a great segment of the old 66.

We soon leave the 66 route and head for Redlands.

Catching up with family was great and we certainly enjoyed our delicious home cooked Vietnamese dinner and the hospitality shown to us.  Thank you both!!

Tomorrow is the big day……..