We left Zion on Monday early AM and drove all day to get to Grand Junction, Colorado. It was a long, long drive across the desert, and we had some pretty strong head winds to add a bit of flavor to the trip. Throughout, we continued to encounter these pretty awesome mesas.
Aside from the occasional mesa groupings, most of the trek was desert....miles and miles and miles of hot, dry desert. As far as you could see in any direction - that was the view!
Finally, we crossed into Colorado mid-afternoon. Took another two hours to reach our RV park. By then, we were exhausted.....especially Dick who was at the helm all day!
Today (Tuesday), we decided on a road trip in the car and drove to Telluride. Along the way, we captured our first glimpse of snow-capped mountains. What a beautiful sight!!! During our drive to Telluride, the temperatures went down about 20 degrees ....almost needed to buy a sweatshirt!
The drive was just gorgeous... filled with creeks racing across the rocky gravel beds, along with acres of green! The desert is largely devoid of any green-scape, so this was a welcome sight for us.
We finally reached Telluride late morning. This little town was 'birthed' as a mining town during the gold rush in the 1800's. Once they kicked out the Ute Indians from their native lands (no comment on that)....this little town earned its place on the map as a 'gold mine'. The railroad became interested in the town and further boosted the Telluride attraction.
Today, the town is known as a premier skiing destination in winter, and for hiking, festivals and fishing in the summer. There are also lots of interesting shops and 'authentic' western-wear.' It was really a fun place to browse.
The western wear was amazing! From boots to hats to belt buckles - it was a rude awakening to get a feel for the cost of authentic western-wear! The craftsmanship was awesome - and the smell of that leather - mmmm!!
We checked out a 'locals' favorite for lunch...the Corner House Cafe. Here is Dick sitting outside following a most delicious feast. I had one of my favorites, a Cuban sandwich - one of the best I've had. Who would have thought I would find a Cuban in Telluride!!
The 2 and 1/2 hour drive back 'home' was a combination of a few small towns, and MILES of just land - as far as the eye could see. Much of the land was fenced; and some had fancy entrances to ranches that must have been thousands of acres.
We arrived 'home' later in the afternoon and had a relaxing dinner with our 'little boy.'
Tomorrow, we will do some hiking in Arches National Park... hoping it is bit cooler.
Tomorrow, we will do some hiking in Arches National Park... hoping it is bit cooler.
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