502 miles
15.5 mpg
$20: Blue Heron Service Plaza, Ohio Turnpike
And we’re off. Up at 5am. Packed and ready to go by 7:30.
And the first mishap happened before I even left the driveway. I couldn’t find the 2nd set of trailer keys (last used for our Canada trip). So, after a call to the friendly folks at Colonial Airstream, five key blanks will be sent ahead to a UPS Store in Fargo, ND. Since the drone will be sent there, too, it only made sense.
The Ohio Turnpike not only the “world’s most modern superhighway” – it’s also a $20 campground for the weary (like me). And after nine hours of driving, it looks pretty good.
It’s behind the service plaza, and if you park just right, there’s actually a nice view of the field.
Seems safe, and there’s a 20/30/50 amp electric hook-up. I’ll be sleeping in air-conditioned comfort..
The downside of this straight shot across the corn-fed east is the tolls. Especially for a two-axle trailer. Last time, it was $26 for the PA Turnpike, and $42 for Ohio.
Day one: 500 miles in the rear view mirror. The Arctic Circle is only 4,000 more miles.
tabadabadoo 
How about a “Day Zero” post? What is the tow vehicle and AirStream? TDI pulling a 23D? Looks like a blast!
2016 VW Touareg TDI (with Can-Am hitch reinforcement) towing a 2014 23D international Signature. If you go to the main blog page, there are some posts leading up to this day. It’s already been a journey.
I stayed at the turnpike “campgrounds” regularly for a few years I think they are great! I like your attitude about replacing the keys. Why sweat it? Enjoy your trip!
Just curious, since you’re going that far, why did you decide not to continue to the Beaufort Sea?
I considered it. But from what I understand, the oil company owns the last 5 miles of road, if you have to charter the jeep to go the last bit. Also that’s a long, long dirt road. I thought a more reasonable goal was to just get north of the arctic circle line.
Consider Wiseman. I loved this tiny little place and it’s above the arctic circle. don’t know if you can get there on wheels, though. https://www.travelalaska.com/Destinations/Communities/Wiseman.aspx
“[Dan] was happy again. All he needed was a wheel in his hand and [six?] on the road and one in his hand.”
—Jack Kerouac
Safe travels, be happy, and sleep well!
Thank you, Jack K. Enjoying most of the miles. Looking for red shirts in postcards for you.