Stage 2

We left Branson, Missouri this morning for the beginning of Stage 2 of The Cross Country Chase. I had decided to ride solo today and not rely on Chopper Gary to do most of the navigating. Plus, I had figured out the map loading operation. My first stop was for fuel and breakfast. Then, on the road with The Soda Kracker and a properly loaded map. My first unique encounter today was crossing Bull Shoals Lake on a ferry. I have not been on a ferry since Pop took me across the Coosa River on one when I was just Small C.

After crossing the lake, the map took me south into Arkansas. I traveled some of the most challenging roads I have ever ridden with the servi-car. The scenery was incredible and created another challenge - trying to hold the bike in the road and at the same time, keeping an eye on the map and odometer while passing by a spectacular scenic view around every hairpin turn. We finished our day at our secret destination of Hot Springs, Arkansas. Who knows where we’re headed next!

We are staying at The Arlington Hotel in downtown Hot Springs.

I believe I have found The Overlook Hotel’s southern cousin, complete with its own Oak Room.