How many times do we in the overloading space hear folks talk about their dream trip to the Arctic Ocean or travel to the whole Pan-American highway. Of course, those are my dreams as well, but at this time in my life Im going to concentrate on some routes that only need about a weekend with my old Bronco to enjoy.
Ive spent a many years of my life exploring Ferry County in north east Washington state. It is a very beautiful county rich in mining and logging history that dates back to the late 1800’s. The county is littered with old gold mines, homesteads and ghost towns that are ripe for exploration.
Since 2004, Ive been exploring the area around Republic Washington, trying my best to put together a route that would make a loop that could be started on a Friday and end on a Saturday. The loop has changed a bit over the years due to trails being washed out and closed or due to forest fire. Ive ran this route in everything from my kitted out Jeep Grand Cherokee, lifted Broncos, Bronco 2’s and even stock Ford Rangers and Explorers.
With the help of onX Offroad, I have started putting the route out for all to see. With 2-3 more pre-runs, I will have the route locked in and mapped. My original plan has always been for this to be a vintage 4×4 run, but for the first couple trips I will gladly invite any vehicles prepared for light off-road multi-day travel.
I will be giving updates on here in blog form, on Instagram at @oldschooloverland and on the future podcast Oldschool Overland as details progress. Dates will likely be for spring and fall trips. Summer tends gets too dry and hot in the region and risk of fire may be too great.
This is a great weekend route full of views and interesting sights that you don’t get to see every day. Friday night will likely be at a state park on Curlew lake, Saturday night will likely be at Swan Lake campground. Both locations have group areas that will be great for enjoying the company of friends, sharing stories of day or maybe even a cocktail or two.
Does this sound like something you would be interested in, or maybe even help with a scouting trip? The Pacific Northwest is full of opportunities like this, we are very fortunate to have them so close by. Please subscribe, follow along and get connected with me and let’s explore together.
In the shop with Craig. 