Oh!! Would you look at that gravel? Now, that is a dicey dance and a little cruelty on their part to leave it that way. What a sublimely scenic route and I am so sorry that you couldn't really appreciate it, but, glad you wrote about it. Although it is definitely stunning, your storytelling abilities are always enjoyed.
The greens are on steroids in that part of the country. It rots that you had Covid then, but, glad it was short-lived, even if you felt the effects for a month after.
I have to give you credit, Tom @bigtom13 Even when life hands you crap luck, you made it a memorable trip. ❤️
I did some research while I was recovering at my brother's place (turns out to be the next stop. And the official free Oregon map is the best in the west) and it would have added over 100 miles to my trip and completely changed my route. So it's good I didn't know about the road until I was on it. The area I was in has a population density about the same as Death Valley, and the construction sign on that end said "Loose Gravel". Nothing more :) On the other end the sign said 'for 23 miles'. Since I didn't fall down it was the right choice. I passed exactly one vehicle the whole way, so I had the whole thing to myself. I've found myself in less passable places.
I think the reason why they called them the Blue Mountains is because Green Mountains was already taken in New Hampshire. It is lush and wild. Alpine pastures mean fat cows in deep grass :)
Thanks for stopping in Denise. It's great to have you along.