On a sunny Spring Saturday morning in March of 2017, the sun was shinny bright and the air was crisp with a slight breeze as vehicles trickled into the Lowe's parking lot in Lake Havasu, AZ. The sight of a multitude of custom side by sides gathering to make new friends and discover new sections of desert was something to take in. River Dave arrives with his Polaris Ranger as more people continue to arrive ready for the ride. When the count came in, there were over 30 custom vehicles, from Polaris, Can-am, Kawasaki, Yamaha and even a few Jeeps that made sure nobody got left behind. As everyone got in their rides around 10 a.m. it was time to start heading towards Topock.
Riding through the desert is fun but try going with a group of over 30 vehicles with the destination, Topock, AZ. Topock 66 is located off highway 40 on the California/Arizona border, home to some of the best smoked BBQ tri-tip sandwiches and live entertainment. Topock66 is a restaurant over-looking the Colorado River offering live entertainment, cold beer, hot food, awesome views, along with giving visitors the luxury to freshen up or cool down in the large pool and spa below the main stage. Fun was had for the whole family as we got food and drinks delivered while the kids took a dip and we enjoyed live music with a beautiful view of the desert.
As a majority of the vehicles had departed Topock 66 there were just 4 of us remaining that took off into the Desert to head back to Lake Havasu City. In no real hurry, we opted to take the scenic route back to Lake Havasu and partook in a few pit stops to enjoy the beautiful desert at dusk.
We stumbled across a bar in the middle of the nowhere next to a nice sand hill. So guys being guys, decided to see how fast and how high they could climb it. After a few laughs, the bar closed and the sun began to set, it was time to turn on the lights and continue towards home.
The ride was longer than anticipated and continued that path when just before the 95/40 intersection River Dave lost an axle and his vehicle was no longer able to continue. Wile he waited for a trailer, we were back on our way and the day ended with new memories, new friends and awesome adventures, till next time Topock!
Stay tuned as we travel through the desert at night playing a little off-road tag and get a glimpse of what it's like to off-road with Matt Lasher.
