The rain hasn’t let up for days. It drums against the roof of our fire truck, a rhythmic reminder of the challenges we signed up for. Two weeks into full-time travel, our setup still feels clunky. Every time we unpack, it’s a dance of trial and error, finding ways to make things more efficient. We’re stumbling, yes—but we’re learning.
Our decision to take the scenic route south to Baja means we’re now face-to-face with winter weather we hadn’t planned for. But the road ahead is full of promise, and we’re leaning into the chaos.
A Night in the Wild West
As we left Portland, a unique stay caught our eye: a homestead in Grants Pass with covered wagons straight out of a western movie. We reached out and were thrilled when they invited us to stay.
The wagons didn’t disappoint. Cozy yet spacious, they slept six comfortably and came with private bathrooms—a luxury we’re not used to these days. The western decor was charming, and twinkling lights transformed the outdoor cooking area into a magical evening retreat.
The boys couldn’t get enough of the animals on the property, from feeding goats to watching the chickens roam. Just down the road, we explored Johnsonville, a quaint little town with mom-and-pop shops. The highlight? The Churro Shop, where the warm, sugary treats melted in our mouths.
For a moment, life felt easy. But the road was calling, and we were eager to trade the comforts of civilization for the grit of the trail.
The Mendocino Discovery Corridor
Snow-dusted Mount Shasta marked our transition into California, and with it came a mental shift. As we drove south, I realized: this is it. There’s no going back. This fire truck isn’t just a vehicle—it’s home. A mix of emotions surged through me: excitement, fear, and a flicker of doubt. Are we doing the right thing? The answer came quickly—yes. But the weight of uncertainty lingered, buzzing with the thrill of adventure.
Our first off-road challenge awaited us at the Mendocino Discovery Corridor. The trail promised an “easy” route for stock vehicles. We soon learned how misleading that rating was.
Setting up camp a few miles in, we finally saw stars for the first time in weeks. The boys gathered wood, and we huddled around a crackling fire, the cold biting at our fingertips. The silence of the forest wrapped around us like a heavy blanket, broken only by the occasional rustle of leaves.
The next morning, we hit the trail—and almost immediately hit a wrong turn. Maneuvering the Patrol back onto the main path involved tight turns on narrow trails with sheer drop-offs. The tension was palpable. Deep ruts from an unusually rainy year slowed our progress, and when the truck teetered on two wheels, we entered “silent mode.” The boys know when not to ask questions.
As the hours dragged on, fallen trees blocked our path again and again. Without a winch or chainsaw, we relied on sheer determination, tow straps, and teamwork. These tools worked—but barely. If we’ve learned anything from this trip, it’s that a winch is essential for off-road travel. Tow straps alone can only get you so far.
By the time we cleared the fourth tree, the sun had disappeared behind the mountains, leaving us in darkness.
Through Grit and Grace
The last stretch tested us in every way. Massive ruts, a sharp uphill turn, and three more downed trees pushed us to our limits. Patrick and I wrestled the trunks out of the way, our breath visible in the freezing air. The boys stayed calm, pitching in where they could and keeping spirits high.
When we finally reached a clearing with city lights in the distance, the relief was overwhelming. Exhausted but triumphant, we collapsed into our sleeping bags, the tension of the day melting away under a blanket of stars.
Thanksgiving Morning
The next morning, we woke to a stunning view: snow-capped mountains, a shimmering lake in the distance, and the promise of a new day. It was Thanksgiving, and we had never felt more grateful.
As we sat together, chairs lined up to soak in the scenery, I reflected on the chaos of the day before. The boys amazed me with their resilience. They’ve been traveling like this their whole lives, and it shows. Moments like these remind me why we chose this life—it’s an investment in experiences, in each other, and in memories that will last a lifetime.
Trail Takeaways
The Mendocino Discovery Corridor left us with more than just stories—it taught us lessons we’ll carry forward:
1. Gear Lessons: Always bring a winch and chainsaw. Trail obstacles are inevitable, and being prepared can save hours of frustration.
2. Packing Smarter: Winter layers are non-negotiable. Weather can turn unexpectedly, and staying warm is critical.
3. Trail Ratings: Don’t rely solely on ratings. Research conditions, check recent weather reports, and talk to locals for the most accurate information.
We packed up and headed toward the end of the trail, uncertain where we’d camp next but filled with renewed confidence. The first major challenge of our journey was behind us, and we were ready for whatever came next.
Looking Ahead
This leg of the journey reminded us that adventure isn’t just about the highlights—it’s about the grit, the problem-solving, and the small victories along the way. With Baja on the horizon, we’re eager to see what the next chapter holds.
What’s next? A new environment, new challenges, and the lessons we’ll learn as we embrace life on the road. Stay tuned.
Comments