Several large human made lakes are present in California's southern gold country. During drought years these lakes become extremely low and some of the boat launching ramps are left completely surrounded by dry land. In some cases we have had to drive a significant distance to actually reach the lowered shoreline. Three of the largest and best lakes for recreation are Lake Don Pedro, Lake McClure, and New Melones Dam. Lake Don Pedro … [Read more...]
Gold Country, CA – Pinecrest Lake
Pinecrest Lake is located on Highway 108. This road is closed in the winter past the small town of Strawberry, but it is open to Pinecrest and Dodge Ridge Ski resort. The towns of Sugar Pine, Confidence, Mi-Wuk Village, Sierra Village, Long Barn are all south west of Pinecrest Lake on Highway 108. Pinecrest Lake is located at about 5,600 feet. It is a beautiful small clear blue lake surrounded by forested mountains. There is a marina and a FREE … [Read more...]
Gold Country, CA – Lodging
Some of these mining towns are relatively small so lodging is limited. Some of these hotels listed below are historic. The prices vary somewhat depending on the season. Prices subject to change without notice. Our readers often email us concerning a specific property. If we hear anything specific about a particular hotel we will be sure to mention it here. These towns are alphabetized. All Phone Numbers unless otherwise noted are 209 area … [Read more...]
Spokane, WA – Hotels
There are many hotels in Spokane ranging from simple budget motels to expensive resorts. Prices for hotels listed below range from the low (single person/single bed) to a high of (double person/2 beds). All listings are organized by Downtown, East, West, and North. Few hotels are located in the south end of Spokane as it is mostly a residential area. Prices are subject to change without notice. All phone numbers are in the 509 area code … [Read more...]
Spokane, WA – Coeur d’ Alene
Coeur d' Alene is the name of a city (population 30,600) and also a lake. Lake Coeur d' Alene has been called "one of the 5 most beautiful in the world" by National Geographic. And one can experience this relaxing on her shores some warm summer day. When the sun is out the water is extremely blue. Pine trees grow around the water's edge and forests cover the surrounding hills. The resort town of the same name is located along its shores. A … [Read more...]
Spokane, WA – Coeur d’ Alene Attractions
Some of these attractions are within Coeur d' Alene while others are within a short drive. All are listed in alphabetical order. Cruises depart from the Coeur d' Alene city pier with varying departure times depending on the day and time of year. Allow at least 2 hours on the water. A Sunday brunch cruise and a Monday sunset cruise are also offered. Floating Wood Marina is the world's longest floating marina measuring 1.2 kilometers; it … [Read more...]
Spokane, WA – Coeur d’ Alene Hotels
Prices listed below range from low (single person/ one bed) to a high of (double person/2 beds). All phone numbers are in the (208) area code unless otherwise specified. Best Western Coeur d' Alene Inn & Conference Center is located at 506 Appleway. Visit: www.cdainn.com Coeur d' Alene Resort is the building that you will probably most remember from your stay or vacation in Coeur d' Alene. It is the tallest building in town and is … [Read more...]
Spokane, WA – Coeur d’ Alene Restaurants
Beverly's is located at the Coeur d' Alene Resort. It is rated 4 stars and serves continental cuisine. Reservations are suggested and the dress is casual. Prices range from $21 to $40. The menu changes seasonally. There is a great view of the lake from the restaurant. They also boast a large wine cellar with many different choices. Call (208) 765-4000. www.cdaresort.com/dining_nightlife/beverlys The Cedars is located on the 95 Freeway just … [Read more...]
Spokane, WA – Helena Montana
Helena is the capital city of Montana. At about 31,000 people it is one of the smaller state capital cities in the USA. Helena was founded by four prospectors from the state of Georgia in 1864. The city was first named, Last Chance Gulch. The miners were tired of finding little gold on their travels and the gulch, now downtown Helena, was where they struck it rich. Helena became a territorial capital in 1875 and a state capital in 1889. The name … [Read more...]
Vancouver, Canada – More Info
This is an important section. We cannot possibly cover all that there is too see in Vancouver or what we saw on the rest of our 17 day trip, however the following websites describe the locations we visited in Western Canada and Vancouver in particular. The Vancouver Convention and Visitor's Bureau can be reached at 1-800-888-8835 or (604) 683-2000. For more travel information about traveling in British Columbia call Phone Number … [Read more...]