A shelter from the storm
Continuing from my last post…
The rain passed over us and a rainbow appeared- but the sky was still very black in the direction of Laramie where we were heading. We made our reservation at the Historic Elk Mountain Hotel, turned around and rode back the three miles to our safe haven for the night.
This was new territory for us. G.T. had never wanted to stay at a Bed & Breakfast. “Isn’t that one of those places where you stay in someone’s home and have to share the bathroom with strangers?”
But with the storm we had just been through, and were sure to encounter again if we pressed forward, the choice seemed to be spending the night at the B&B or spending the night in the Rest Area. We were a long way from Laramie, it was getting late, and there just wasn’t much else available in the middle of Wyoming.
This ended up being a most pleasant stay! The Elk Mountain Hotel was built in 1905 on the Overland Stage Station property. Through the 30’s 40’s and 50’s it was along the route of the Lincoln Highway. It was a popular stopping place for many entertainers as they traveled across the country. The dances at the nearby Garden Spot Pavilion drew crowds from miles around to hear the bands of Lawrence Welk, Louis Armstrong, and others. There are pictures and autographs of many famous people who have spent time at the Hotel.
http://www.elkmountainhotel.com/index.html
After a comfortable night’s sleep, I was wakened by sunshine coming through the windows. I was drawn to the balcony to watch the sunrise and then drawn beyond to explore the meadow with its looming cottonwood trees.
After enjoying the breakfast part of “Bed and Breakfast”, we left that morning, refreshed, renewed, and ready for the road ahead of us. Elk Mountain had been a thoroughly enjoyable experience. The next time you are traveling I-80 through Wyoming, I recommend stopping at the Historic Elk Mountain Hotel.
August 6th, 2008 at 12:49 pm
It’s been a year since you went on this trip. When are you going to get yourself home?
August 26th, 2008 at 11:31 am
Yes, it has been a year and I think it is about time to go home. The next post will get us there. The incredible thing is the way this trip changed us. Just the process of doing something different that was perceived as difficult has opened the horizons. I’ve enjoyed this trip over and over. I’m looking for new adventures at every opportunity.
Diane