How I Got Lost in Puckerbrush Nevada and Other Stories of the Road: Episode I

Well folks, I've just completed a 2,810 mile road trip across the country. I have to say it was fantastic even with the small setbacks we encountered.

I completed the trip on Sunday, but Saturday was really something. 788 miles that day alone. Crossed a third of Wyoming, all of Utah and Nevada. And yes, there really is a town called Puckerbrush, Nevada. Population 28. And yes, I really got lost there.

You see, there is a large truck stop in Puckerbrush. In fact, that is the only thing in Puckerbrush. That and lots of desert. The sun had just set and I needed to refuel... both the gas tank and my stomach. So, of course, I pull off the freeway to attend these needs. Half an hour later I attempt to get back onto the road.

It was now fully dark and when I went back to the freeway on ramp, I discovered that the only ramp was for I-80 Eastbound. Understand that I want Westbound. So I figure that I must have passed the correct on ramp and turn around. I end up back at the truck stop not having seen anything to indicate the direction I need to take.

I look carefully at the signs in front of said truck stop, and they indicate turning left to reach I-80. So, of course I turn left. Again, finding only the Eastbound ramp.

To make a long story short, I repeated these steps several times before finally hitting upon the idea of asking directions at the truck stop. (Understand, that by this time I have spent four days on the road averaging 500 to 600 miles a day and am rather stupid with exhaustion). I am informed by the kindly folk at the gas pumps that I need to turn right when leaving the truck stop and follow the narrow, bumpy road approximately fifteen miles to find the Westbound on ramp. Yes, there used to be a sign indicating this important fact, but it blew down in a storm and the Nevada DOT has not yet seen fit to replace it.

I want send my sincere thanks to the Nevada DOT for their concern and efficiency.