A few people have asked me why I like Easy Rider so much. Anytime I’m asked what my favorite movie is, I’ll always say Easy Rider. It must be, because I’ve spent at least 20 years chasing down locations from it. I think it’s my favorite movie because of all the fun I’ve had finding those locations. At first, it was just a cheap excuse to ride somewhere and put the puzzle pieces together. When I watch the movie now, it gets intertwined with all the people I’ve met, and the fun I’ve had finding these places.
I first posted the route 10 years ago on this blog. A lot has changed since then, and I’ve had a helluva lotta fun with the tours and the documentaries, etc. I’ve ridden and became friends with some pretty fucking cool people. I really need to re-write the whole thing, because I have so much more info now then I did back then.
Anyway….
The last place I’ve never identified was the Tire change scene. It’s the ranch house where Billy and Wyatt showed up with a flat tire, and scored a groovy dinner at lunch time. I’ve always figgered it was around Valentine Arizona, and I was right. A German biker named Berndt hit me up and inspired me to finally get off my ass and go check it out, finally. Thanks Berndt!
Here’s the scene:
I found it. It’s right dead center between Valentine and Hackberry. I didn’t go up to the place, but I can tell you it’s the place. The mountains all line up. It was posted “No Trespassing” and in Rural Arizona, if you’re smart you pay a little heed to those signs. Mostly, because its a good place to get shot if you don’t. With a little respect and some time, I’ll be able to get in and talk to the owners and see if I can get some good pictures.
They Shot a lot of scenes around here. One of the most famous pictures of ER was also shot, just at within a mile or two of the turn off.
Anyway, there it is. I’ll find out more later.
Ride Hard!
You certainly had an impact on my motorcycle touring these last 8 years! I found your site 9 years ago and used your Easy Rider map on 3 trips West. Camped with Rock a few times in Ballarat and departed from there. Next year on the 50th anniversary of the move release I am going to follow the route again on my Panhead. Thanks for all the effort you put into mapping the route!
We’re doing the 50th anniversary next May, and being picky about the list. You sir, are definitely invited. Especially on that Panhead.
I certainly appreciate the invite, but unfortunately I will be working in May. I am planning on an Oct trip after my employment ends. All the travel I have been doing takes a toll on my financials! I am leaving in 2 weeks for a 5 week trip across US 2 and return. You can be sure if you post your trip I will be following you all every mile of the way. Thank again for the invite if anything changes I will contact you..
Love that picture.