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Bimmerfesters 'Climb to the Clouds II'

90K views 1K replies 42 participants last post by  DSXMachina 
#1 · (Edited)
Announcing the 2010 Bimmerfesters Climb to the Clouds II! The White Mountains, New Hampshire
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'Festers, save Saturday June 12, we're gathering for our second annual Bimmering adventure! Last year there were no arrests and all drivers were present and accounted for at the finish line. We're going to push our luck and do it all over again. There will be a surprise 'secret road' or two which I'll announce later in time for you to enter the data points in your GPS. I still need to scout them before inclusion to make sure we didn't have any 'frost heave explosions' over the Winter.

This actually is a very family friendly trip, and you are encouraged to bring your S.O. and kids along. I guarantee they will see things that they will talk about for years.

Here's a Google Map showing our trip. It is fully interactive so check out all the features. Click on the blue links on the left side and the map will bring up those locations.
http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?hl=e...3.44594,-71.515503&spn=0.699923,0.973663&z=10

We'll all meet for breakfast at The Tilton Diner in Tilton, NH and go over the plans one last time. Then we'll convoy through lake country, get some pics of our BMWs passing through century old (but strong!) Covered Bridges, and stage for an unforgettable climb to the summit of Mount Washington.

You're going to find out what 'Freude am Fahren' is all about, NH style: The Kancamagus Scenic Byway lies dead ahead. The "Kanc' snakes 35 miles through mountains and valleys of the White Mountain National Forest at an average elevation of 2900 feet. Dozens of twists, turns, hairpins, rises and dips will test your car's suspension, and your concentration while surrounded by spectacular scenery.
http://gonewengland.about.com/od/nhsightseeing/a/aakancamagus.htm

The Kanc winds up at the Conway Outlet Center where we'll be taking a short pit stop (bathrooms and shopping) before heading North to Pinkham Notch and the Mount Washington Auto Road.

Although plenty wide and mostly paved this will not be an adventure for the faint of heart. There are no guard rails, not a single Jersey Barrier, just you and the mountain. And the valley floor over a thousand feet below.
http://www.mountwashingtonautoroad.com/Page-22.html

There will be a 'Fest photographer snapping a souvenir photo of your BMW rounding an uphill switchback with the mountain on one side and...nothing...on the other. We'll be having lunch at the Summit House (buy or bring) and have plenty of time to explore (it's kid safe-mostly). It is unlikely the wind will be like the day when it set a (recently eclipsed) world record velocity of over 230 mph right where we're parking.

It's all downhill from there, literally. Driving down can be even more um, interesting, than driving up. We'll then head North and West, skirting the Presidential Range and check out a few more sights along the way while passing through Crawford Notch and dipping South to The Mount Washington Hotel.

The MW Hotel, one of the few remaining Grand Dames of a bygone era recently underwent a multimillion dollar restoration. It's a great photo op and not to be missed. Plan on taking in the view of The Great Whites from the lounge before our group picture out front!
http://www.omnihotels.com/FindAHotel/BrettonWoodsMountWashington.aspx

After cutting through some back country we'll end up in Bartlett and jump onto a hidden local road, Bear Notch Road. BN Road, which would itself be a major attraction if not for the Kanc, ends at the Kanc which we will now travel in reverse back to our dispersal point in Lincoln, NH. It's going to be about supper time so how about staying for a meal?
http://www.thecman.com/restaurants/common-man-lincoln/

Total trip time, start to finish, is estimated at 8 hours. I'll be driving the route in late May (can't now, it's still snowbound in sections), and will verify all roads and the schedule.

Each driver will receive an info packet with route maps when we meet. However I will post the final route and schedule in late May so that anyone with a GPS can set waypoints if they wish. It won't be required though because the roads are all well marked and you will get maps with your itinerary.

This will be a great opportunity for you and your family to enjoy a day together with your fellow Bimmerfesters. You might even want to stay overnight into Sunday, but the convoy will say goodbye around 5pm on Saturday.

As I said, all the details will be posted by late May. The trip date is set in stone, Saturday the 12th of June (the 20th is Father's Day).

Here are some pictures from last year's event.
http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/showthread.php?t=375910&highlight=

FAQ
Q. How many BMWs will there be?
A. For tactical reasons we're going to limit it to 30 confirmed cars with 5 more stand-bys as fill ins. Reservations are on a first come, first served basis.
We'll be convoying in groups of 10, each led by someone who did the trip last year.

Q. Will a cellphone work in the mountains?
A. Uusally but don't depend on it. Dead zones can be miles long.

Q. My baby doesn't do gravel. Will she be OK?
A. The only gravel we'll encounter will be very short sections of the Mt. Washington Auto Road, but they are extremely hard packed and stones stay put. Additionally, the MWAR speed limit is 5 mph. Think that's too slow? You won't.

Q. I may have some fragile bladders along, will there be bathroom stops?
A. At least every two hours. NH generally has clean and convenient facilities. However, you might have the most acute need while ascending the MWAR, there are none until the top.

Q. Should I bring a camera?
A. Are you kidding?

Q. What about food?
A. Breakfast will be at the Tilton Diner, a NH highlight for bacon and eggs, pancakes, and all the bad stuff that tastes so good. Bring some snacks for the car (no chocolate, or crumb buns, take it from me). Lunch is going to be on top of Mt. Washington and if you don't bring a picnic there is simple but very edible food available.

Q. Will we be seeing the "Old Man of the Mountains"?
A. Yes and no. He jumped off the side of Franconia Notch a few years ago and now lies in a 5000 ton heap of gravel on the valley floor. Very sad.

Q. Why can't this be a Rally, TSD Trial, or other competition?
A. The fact is you'll have plenty enough to do keeping your BMW on the road. The scenery will be distraction enough.

Q. I hear that Motorcycle Week starts June 12th...
A. It does, but all those bankers and lawyers will be far south of us in Laconia until Monday when they get the MW Auto Road all to themselves.

Q. Is there an entry fee?
A. Nope, just meet your own expenses.

Q. Come on, no one does anything for nothing?
A. OK, how about a $20 donation to the Susan G Komen for the Cure Center? As you know, BMWNA was a long time very generous supporter of this charity but will no longer be able to do so. It would be fitting for us to help in any way we can. Last year we raised $180 which was donated in the name of "Bimmerfesters".

Q. Gasoline?
A. Major branded stations will be along the way except for the Kanc where there will be nothing. Fill your tank before Tilton and you will have plenty left when we're done.

Q. Will my BMW make it up the MWAR?
A. The little old lady in the Suburban behind you will make sure you do. She can't turn around until the top. Just kidding, you'll have no problem.

Q. My BMW had an accident. Can I join you in my Honda Accord?
A. Sorry, no, this is an all BMW road trip.

Q. My BMW had an accident. Can I join you in my Ferrari California?
A. Yes.

Q. I'm in! What do I do now?
A. PM me for a reservation and make sure I PM you back to confirm! I will post a current reservations list so you can see who else is going.
 
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#151 ·
BJ: When you're in mixed company of real humans, not internet personas, and you know people's backgrounds AND THEY KNOW YOURS it might be OK to make an ethnic or religious remark (in a mocking self referral kind of way). But we really don't know each other's backgrounds and while I might realize the self deprecating humor in what you post others don't. So, please, don't post any more stuff which at face value is offensive.
A very important element of any joke is that everyone know it's a joke.
 
#161 ·
It's an escorted tour so free time to explore is somewhat limited. This will be our first trip to Italy so we're checking out the highlights and trying to gauge where to return in the future. I know I'll be thinking of Robin Trower when we see the Bridge of Sighs. :)

Thanks for all the tips! Kat, We picked up a Lonely Planet Italy guide and it seems comprehensive. Anyway, we're getting excited and will be happy to blab with you folks on the breaks whilst climbing through the clouds. Itinerary below.



Day 2 - Arrive Rome (2 nights)
Welcome to Rome, the Eternal City! After check-in the remainder of the day is at leisure, perhaps to relax or explore. This evening, enjoy a Welcome Drink with your Tour Director and fellow traveling companions.

Hotel: Aran Mantegna (2 nights)

Day 3 - Rome sightseeing & at leisure
This morning our guided sightseeing tour takes us into St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican to see the famous Pieta - among other great works. Then we cross the Tiber to explore ancient Rome with views of the Forum, a visit to the mighty Colosseum where gladiatorial combat took place and a view over the Circus Maximus where chariot races were held. Later, time to relax or explore further. (Buffet breakfast)

Day 4 - Rome sightseeing - Venice
An early start today so that we can enjoy our highlight guided visit to the Sistine Chapel to admire the painted ceiling by Michelangelo. Later we head north from Rome following the valley of the River Tiber. Then we enter Umbria and see the impressive hilltop towns of Orte and Orvieto, once used as a stronghold by the popes, before entering Tuscany. Here we see the Chianti vineyards and the terraced olive groves before we start to cross through the forested Apennine hills. We pass Bologna and reach the flat Veneto plains and continue to our hotel where we dine tonight. (Buffet breakfast / Dinner)

Hotel: Antony

Day 5 - Venice sightseeing - Lake Garda
This morning we savor the sights and sounds of this floating city on an included canal cruise by private motor launch to St. Mark's Square viewing the Bridge of Sighs and Doge's Palace. Next we visit a glass-blowing factory before time on your own to explore this unique city. Then we drive across the plains of Veneto past Verona towards the Italian Lake District for the night. (Buffet breakfast / Dinner)

Hotel: Poiano

Day 6 - Lake Garda - Florence
Today our Tour Director will show us a special Hidden Treasure! But first we follow the shores of Lake Garda before we head for Florence. The medieval and Renaissance past of this culturally rich city is revealed to us on a guided walking tour. We will see the Piazza Signoria - the political center of the 15th century city - with its impressive sculptures and imposing palazzos, the multi-colored marbled Duomo and famous Baptistery with the bronze doors designed by the Renaissance artist Ghiberti. We'll also walk to see the Ponte Vecchio, bridging the River Arno. Later, time to explore, relax or shop for high quality leather goods and 18-carat gold jewelry. (Buffet breakfast)

Hotel: Grand Hotel Mediterraneo

Day 7 - Florence - Rome
This morning we drive southwards passing the Chianti vineyards and the olive groves which cover the rolling hills of Tuscany. This unique landscape has been an inspiration to artists throughout the centuries and still is today. Then we travel through the region of Umbria with bright golden fields of sunflowers and shady valleys before we reach again the valley of the River Tiber which leads us back to the Eternal City, Rome. Here we have time to relax a little before we join our Tour Director and new-found touring friends for a Farewell Dinner with wine tonight in a local restaurant to celebrate the end of our Italian holiday together. (Buffet breakfast / Farewell Dinner)
 
#162 ·
It's an escorted tour so free time to explore is somewhat limited. This will be our first trip to Italy so we're checking out the highlights and trying to gauge where to return in the future. I know I'll be thinking of Robin Trower when we see the Bridge of Sighs. :)


http://www.beneluxcar.com/en/luxury-car-hire-venice-340.htm

Enough of this packaged, escorted tourist stuff. Rent an M3 and drive around Italy for a week.

BJ
 
#168 ·
Bigotry

Originally Posted by boltjaM3s
Fine, I'll go despite the Italians. But no Jews, right?


Bigotry rears its ugly head! BJ 1.0
 
#171 ·
Originally Posted by boltjaM3s
Fine, I'll go despite the Italians. But no Jews, right?


Bigotry rears its ugly head! BJ 1.0
Tsoc, you need to PM boltjaM3s. He has already explained that his wife is Italian. He may have more to say, it isn't for me to explain. I'm not suggesting that his hanging remarks such as you quoted out there is good form, it isn't, they are very easily taken at face value. Especially from someone who has provoked inflammatory exchanges with other 'Festers in the past.
Regardless, his remarks are often (properly) construed as you did, and I spoke to that issue in previous posts in this thread.
 
#172 · (Edited)
You need to practice more goat love in the thread...

It seems that the Trip to the Clouds tradition has been maintained from 2009 and a schism has formed in our happy band by some off colour remarks.

Here is a message from goats to bring peace and harmony:

 
#194 ·
#199 · (Edited)
#195 ·
Those aren't my feet, actually, though I'd be plenty proud if they were, lol.

And what's the matter with tree frog people? For all we know, the owner of those feet is an Italian Jewish tree frog person.

(My thumb does bend backwards a bit, but that's about it.)
 
#196 ·
Absolutely nothing wrong with tree-frog people in my book. I was just thinking how difficult it would be to find shoes :dunno::yikes:
 
#205 ·
OMG, a blast from the past. I forgot about Earl Shieb. "I'll paint any car for 69.95". I know someone who got one of these on a Ford Falcon (my first sports car, lol) Army Drab.

It looked like an urban assault vehicle.
 
#207 ·
We all paid our dues...
I had a 62 then a 64 Falcon with the 144 cid straight six. Both 3 speeds (three on the tree). The cluster gear in the 62 would last about as long as an oil change interval. That was the first tranny I ever rebuilt. The engine in the 64 was the first engine I ever rebuilt. My father got me the 62 at auction for $10. It was worth every penny of that ten bucks. Not $11 though.
On the way to the hospital with my rapidly dilating wife to have our first daughter I had to pop the clutch in the 64 to get it started. Smartly, I had parked it on a hill so didn't even think twice about doing it.
 
#212 ·
My mom bought a 1962 Ford Falcon two door coupe back when it was new, for her "family car" - two children, aged 5 and 10, husband, wife and family dog :yikes:

We went everywhere in that car, dog too - from our frequent trips to VT/NH to our family reunions in PA - we stuffed ourselves in there, no A/C and if I recall, only halfway-opening rear windows.

Mom's car was a sporty model, it was black and had some kind of premium package; pinstriping, red bucket seats with white trim, a lot of chrome flash - it was fairly progressive for an early 60's mom. :)
 
#211 ·
PM sent. We have 14 definites and 3 maybes right now. Seems we may have a convoy from the NYC area!
I got a lot of PMs from people wanting a little more info about the area, etc. They may attend but they are not included in the count.

I will post an up to date list this weekend.
 
#210 ·
I always thought the Preludes were great looking cars (in their time). I was surprised when they dropped that model line.

It takes years of toe yoga to achieve a master's abilities. I am still not worthy.
 
#214 ·
I respect the experience of FDR drivers.

Still the autoroad is unique. I'm sure the FDR drivers will enjoy it, but they may find their urban experience is poor preparation.
 
#223 ·
I am glad I am not going anymore. It seems like it is a bunch of old farts of mixed heritage bumbling about extinct automotive technology and worrying about soiling themselves.
:confused:

 
#224 ·
I am glad I am not going anymore. It seems like it is a bunch of old farts of mixed heritage bumbling about extinct automotive technology and worrying about soiling themselves.
:confused:
I don't blame you.

In your case that would be just the same as staying home so what would be the point?

CA
 
#228 ·
Mikenmass, I've been experimenting with a new super wide angle lens for my Canon. I took a few shots like your sig pic, no edge distortion at all. I'll be bringing it along on the trip and hope to get some good shots of our group in the summit parking lot. I know EdCt is a shutterbug and I'm hoping he will improve our photodocumenting skills. I thought xr would do another video this year, especially since he now has some really good equipment, but he has decided to spend that weekend in Canada drinking Molsen and learning the proper use of the interrogative "Eh?". As in, sure is fun sitting here swilling beer, and watching unknown cars with unknown drivers going around and around in circles, eh?
 
#230 ·
DSX,

Good news! I am to photography what Bob Dylan is to singing, or maybe what Stevie Wonder is to bird watching. I robbed that shot off of the new BMW configurator. It's my favorite view of my car, but please don't tell anyone or the gay police will be all over me! :)
 
#246 ·
The reflector delete isn't a 2 minute job... at least mine wasn't. It takes a while to persuade the old ones out of place without damaging the body. If DSX does that for you BJ, you'll owe him more than a bite from your burger. (How you guys settle up is your business. Just please avoid involving goats.)
 
#255 ·
#260 · (Edited)
I think they learned their lesson or perhaps the reckless members of the group no longer participate. The last few events we had the drivers were very responsible. Pistol Pete also makes sure that the lead cars are driven by mature drivers who keep things under control.

I have done several runs with the group since the ill fated "Fall Foliage Run". The most recent was last Saturday when we drove from Gaylordsville Ct. to Lime Rock and then from Lime Rock to Washington (Ct.).

We may have been slightly over the speed limit at times but I did not see any reckless or dangerous driving.

CA
 
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