There is something about not having a schedule.

Having the opportunity to enjoy the sunset and the dark skies that follow without the next days schedule cutting the moment short. Getting up when you want, leave when you want, go the distance where fatigue makes the decision to stop or just staying in place to see it all again. Most will never have the luxury of and unbridled schedule. This is one of those trips that curiosity governs, not worrying about the jam packed daily schedule that was left behind. Having the opportunity to look for boredom, a peaceful moment no one seems to have.

With no sense of urgency the Tortuga headed north. Malad City, Pocatello, Fort Hall, Black Foot, Atomic City, (I wonder why I glow now?) and Moore.

SIDE BAR, reference from the interweb: “Atomic City, Idaho: Sitting forlorn at the edge of the sprawling 890-square mile Idaho National Laboratory complex, this modern-day ghost town has a shocking nuclear history that drove residents away in the ’50s and continues to keep visitors at a distance. Here, in 1961, the country’s first fatal nuclear explosion took place – not even a decade after a dangerous reactor meltdown left the town paralyzed with fear. Today, while not fully abandoned, Atomic City stands desolate and scarred by the radioactive fatalities of the past with only a handful of residents remaining as a living legacy of the tragic events.”

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/idaho/id-atomic-city/

Flat high plans desert, with the mountains in the distance, barely a dark line on the horizon. Enjoyable for the first 100 miles but the Tortuga was ready for a change in terrain. Passed Atomic City, the mountains on each side of the highway started to close in. Almost 200 miles it was clear the desert would be behind us for the next few days and the mountains should be a great adventure for tomorrow.

As if the cosmos had ESPN and knowing it was time for the Tortuga to enjoy the sunset a BLM sign appear. Mackay Reservoir Recreation Site five miles north on Highway 93.

RV hook ups and water-based activities available at the reservoir including ice fishing but that would not be in the cards today. This site has a wonderful view of the Lost River Range. It was time to pull out the camping chair and adult beverage to watch the sun set light show.