tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39835251055363478372024-03-14T11:51:54.331-06:00Bosque Bill's BackroadsTranscribed notes from Bosque Bill's travels in his Tacoma and FWC pop-up camper.Bosque Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00001863270259847102noreply@blogger.comBlogger153125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3983525105536347837.post-63106939794785128342023-11-21T15:29:00.000-07:002023-11-21T15:29:16.419-07:00Autumn in Dolores Canyon, Colorado - October 2023<p>This is the continuation of my trip to Utah to watch and photograph the
<a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2023/11/annular-eclipse-red-canyon-utah-october.html">annular eclipse at Red Canyon</a>. </p>
<p>
From there I drove through the <a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2023/11/autumn-in-abajo-mountains-utah-october.html">Abajo Mountains to catch the Autumn colors</a>. </p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">October 15 - 17, 2023</h4>
<p><b><span style="color: #ffd966;">Remember to click any photo for a larger version.</span></b></p>
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Sunday, October 15th (continued)</h3><h4 style="text-align: left;">Monticello, Utah</h4><div><p>After filling up my truck in Monticello I decided to revisit Dolores Canyon as the junction was only 26 miles from where I was sitting and it is a beautiful area. I didn't really think of it as an autumn location, but was pleasantly surprised in this regard. </p><p>I recalled that the road along the canyon bottom was very rocky and the oaks encroached from the sides. So, maybe I'd just stay the night at the little BLM campground which was only about half a mile down river. That was the plan.</p><p><br /></p></div>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Dolores Canyon, Colorado</h4>
<p>The turn-off to the canyon is just east of the town Dove Creek and is well
marked. The route to the canyon through the rectilinear farm fields is marked
with smaller signs, sometimes referring to river access. The gravel road down
to the canyon is steep, but in good condition. Once at the bottom I saw there
was quite a bit of autumn color. Excellent.</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Box Elder Campground</h4>
<p>
I drove to the free campground, which is usually empty or has one camper, but it seemed to be quite popular this day. The <a href="https://www.blm.gov/visit/box-elder" target="_blank">BLM</a> says there are 11 sites, but I'd
say eight. There was one open at the far end, next to the barking dog, which I
passed on. There was another near the entrance that looked nice and was close
to the river. The problem being it wasn't level for the camper. I tried using
my levelers without success. This wouldn't work at all. </p>
<p>
I remembered there was a dispersed camping area not far down the road. I'd
spent one night there my first visit before driving farther down canyon later.
There was only one bad stretch that requires high
clearance and careful wheel placement. So, onward.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Lone Pine Campground</h4>
<p>
I don't think this dispersed camping area has an official name, but there is a
single, very tall Ponderosa in the center. The road in the campground was
smooth and the sites, though without amenities, were very nice and spaced well
apart. I drove around to find the best spot and saw there was no one else
there. I picked a level space in the middle near the lone pine. It wasn't next
to the river, but had spectacular views of the steep, red sandstone canyon
walls. Also, where it was located and the canyon oriented I would get a couple
more hours of sun on the solar panels. After days of very cool temperatures I
was also happy that at 4pm site was a delightful 70º.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp6qjh6-mc9HB5mC6rasGzF41I9XuvGvJmixaCDA-Vtvdep7mLJeFzHX90vbf-5nXkOZ5oTlPds4apAySl1alDu9Vehr02ML6tqerYnZunDfk0nnschZOVONrF-upMU-Qvtukm-xqdnbq7QoppeYGjbvcJzlmCNtnsvQr1kOVKzlAQuwVHuvriYSlbo3w/s1200/DoloresCyn-campsite_1200w-SL1_26749.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp6qjh6-mc9HB5mC6rasGzF41I9XuvGvJmixaCDA-Vtvdep7mLJeFzHX90vbf-5nXkOZ5oTlPds4apAySl1alDu9Vehr02ML6tqerYnZunDfk0nnschZOVONrF-upMU-Qvtukm-xqdnbq7QoppeYGjbvcJzlmCNtnsvQr1kOVKzlAQuwVHuvriYSlbo3w/w640-h426/DoloresCyn-campsite_1200w-SL1_26749.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
My campsite, obviously.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
There were also wonderful fall colors all around. Not everything was at peak,
some leaves were still green and some were well past, but the overall
impression was delightful. There was a large, deciduous tree near my site that
was a brilliant gold in the afternoon light. I guessed it was a box elder, but
picked two leaf clusters to press and check at home. Pressing the leaves was
successful and pleasing; I may have to do more of that. I've now verified my
guess and learned that box elders are a type of maple. I also learned that
they are extremely fast growing and can take over an area.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgznNBDZcJSjcPpYs1wUnaiB8yiHmJeSg_bIxlHQ1lHq7se13JeBk40X6Rol7AyR-XzACcGX8skLHPx91AliDzFMVepXUtR0m5EBwk0EpKRIm3-5EJw58aYyZUL8nT3M8779GxtW6iNI6OqPTSppT55XtjJXz4T38KdjMMuJX5XQYLJQ7zaMBvXGYry5Hc/s1200/DoloresCyn-road-color_1200w-SL1_26742.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="755" data-original-width="1200" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgznNBDZcJSjcPpYs1wUnaiB8yiHmJeSg_bIxlHQ1lHq7se13JeBk40X6Rol7AyR-XzACcGX8skLHPx91AliDzFMVepXUtR0m5EBwk0EpKRIm3-5EJw58aYyZUL8nT3M8779GxtW6iNI6OqPTSppT55XtjJXz4T38KdjMMuJX5XQYLJQ7zaMBvXGYry5Hc/w640-h402/DoloresCyn-road-color_1200w-SL1_26742.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Box Elder on the left; Gambel Oak on the right.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I took an evening photo walk and admired the river. It was calm where I
camped, but I could just hear it as it rushed over a few rocky stretches.
There was lots of fall color along the river, too, including an interesting
bush with maroon leaves and bone white berries.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5J6XCnN8lVuksaz_u8uporUtEeDjwczRm5_T_moWmyaiREkfruMHPFpi5dUfPJAg_C7pIHdKDccJzxStxAGUKczE-yWQX54OotKPQ815JY004XMwVhH-1c8kvfEOikR7Yb4xQzfo09jwuX-TCg6py_Ub5EnsvfEEuIb4a0qYGRuKmukMu6uc9qP-IDCQ/s1200/DoloresRiver-reflect-1_1200h-SL1_26715.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="889" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5J6XCnN8lVuksaz_u8uporUtEeDjwczRm5_T_moWmyaiREkfruMHPFpi5dUfPJAg_C7pIHdKDccJzxStxAGUKczE-yWQX54OotKPQ815JY004XMwVhH-1c8kvfEOikR7Yb4xQzfo09jwuX-TCg6py_Ub5EnsvfEEuIb4a0qYGRuKmukMu6uc9qP-IDCQ/w474-h640/DoloresRiver-reflect-1_1200h-SL1_26715.jpg" width="474" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Dolores River near my camp.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghWio7ZfHinfCsqZBPo78dRzoa4e8TIGnkZb-xtLYKGiMk8EEDlvCQZDhPfYRfkCLeDBTTmJd6ark0eXxQwvQvJNP9xQgdI5wFfyRLuem1yDGisrjh7h6wkVmqX53Gr9xdTUIksWH0WwnUN8gHiHBo5Js8t2ri-RyJA4ydqMehKCvfNtzo2NGRW2rgV4U/s1200/DoloresCyn-color_1200w-SL1_26727.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghWio7ZfHinfCsqZBPo78dRzoa4e8TIGnkZb-xtLYKGiMk8EEDlvCQZDhPfYRfkCLeDBTTmJd6ark0eXxQwvQvJNP9xQgdI5wFfyRLuem1yDGisrjh7h6wkVmqX53Gr9xdTUIksWH0WwnUN8gHiHBo5Js8t2ri-RyJA4ydqMehKCvfNtzo2NGRW2rgV4U/w640-h426/DoloresCyn-color_1200w-SL1_26727.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A rock from the rim.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF0vcuKSREb-5VmKiACZ29pBNalC2FZr1177xTYXP9ob2EV8Z1fV6pPnrej3Tu-5z0JD4JpLVm1D0O8LM_IZG11bWVzbsqAXgSLxH3Nwnw07a8NHDAU-ScmykAJNmQH4inXkE2dYNT-lC9vhwaVkOPEm7VaC6SSLhzLShGHsHTF7heqtwOOdvHfjBSY7Y/s1200/OakLeaves_1200w-SL1_26734.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="854" data-original-width="1200" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF0vcuKSREb-5VmKiACZ29pBNalC2FZr1177xTYXP9ob2EV8Z1fV6pPnrej3Tu-5z0JD4JpLVm1D0O8LM_IZG11bWVzbsqAXgSLxH3Nwnw07a8NHDAU-ScmykAJNmQH4inXkE2dYNT-lC9vhwaVkOPEm7VaC6SSLhzLShGHsHTF7heqtwOOdvHfjBSY7Y/w640-h456/OakLeaves_1200w-SL1_26734.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
It seemed to be typical that the leaves on any one oak were in various
stages of fall.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyX_GnCLtzKVv86YYFYwlK4VweDMnhil2z8eNxweJTxHeEPkAFUepj5OWl9SROXrJBvJidgKadZGyfeOpzNGsvf6KO1X-X0huxItWZyM5Lg3mIC0uN63pY7cA8on-ZrYr1697d5_c9N6LkDA19SMHT9fmi9hrZiuJ_GYsxyZMQgsg9t_B1yk5-5PSHXzY/s1200/RedDogwood_1200h-SL1_26738.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="929" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyX_GnCLtzKVv86YYFYwlK4VweDMnhil2z8eNxweJTxHeEPkAFUepj5OWl9SROXrJBvJidgKadZGyfeOpzNGsvf6KO1X-X0huxItWZyM5Lg3mIC0uN63pY7cA8on-ZrYr1697d5_c9N6LkDA19SMHT9fmi9hrZiuJ_GYsxyZMQgsg9t_B1yk5-5PSHXzY/w496-h640/RedDogwood_1200h-SL1_26738.jpg" width="496" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Red Osier Dogwood along the river.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3KwhQQXHmuvhqOpunlyCmbvyGO9vL7G05E2dhWK-QOaFjgMfsq3O94kz3bEsHFEXUPOiJhJ7FiGo7bFrDA0nNxgfCFG-tAg88urSAy59vOu_2qfDbFw0lZ7uOVjBTbf-o9lkWWi2ZfYW4LyMhki7OQQx0_YRObFiIaspyJghov8mKEwjUdZQTStKgmIk/s1200/RedDogwood-detail_1200w-SL1_26741.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="909" data-original-width="1200" height="484" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3KwhQQXHmuvhqOpunlyCmbvyGO9vL7G05E2dhWK-QOaFjgMfsq3O94kz3bEsHFEXUPOiJhJ7FiGo7bFrDA0nNxgfCFG-tAg88urSAy59vOu_2qfDbFw0lZ7uOVjBTbf-o9lkWWi2ZfYW4LyMhki7OQQx0_YRObFiIaspyJghov8mKEwjUdZQTStKgmIk/w640-h484/RedDogwood-detail_1200w-SL1_26741.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A closer view of the white dogwood berries
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh32_T7O2cvfL9X9LknDkthEAAZIpUNW3eKc53ddd4tOTNpV9vNST8w14TtdvyYs0MT92pjo64AxRHbeWlKr8vW_KQbp_i215brZkGdXBOlH1UiOtiy1yTd8P9a0x3UNoJaCUP5zVyus9rCEpsOdkYS2Nm_VTZZWU-zTbbfqKb9bf73snjocYkk-m4jL8Y/s1200/BoxElderLeaves_1200h-SL1_26744.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="875" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh32_T7O2cvfL9X9LknDkthEAAZIpUNW3eKc53ddd4tOTNpV9vNST8w14TtdvyYs0MT92pjo64AxRHbeWlKr8vW_KQbp_i215brZkGdXBOlH1UiOtiy1yTd8P9a0x3UNoJaCUP5zVyus9rCEpsOdkYS2Nm_VTZZWU-zTbbfqKb9bf73snjocYkk-m4jL8Y/w466-h640/BoxElderLeaves_1200h-SL1_26744.jpg" width="466" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Box Elder leaves with freckles.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Monday, October 16th</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Dolores Canyon (continued)</h4>
<p>
Brrr, my outdoor thermometer showed 25º this morning. Took a long time to warm
up, too. My site got the afternoon sun, but although I could see sunlight
creeping down canyon walls, I got no direct sun till 11am. Just something you should expect when at the bottom of a deep canyon.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirq42l4osiC5gJ231Yl1HyiNGWFnorilkLXNoLn-ATj5GjOBbjiFHkXwnwNLJ71gBZLqnq_J64-j3O0ti2LAgfFhLSQkyKR5KK98sntpP_07hiO32tayVekddfF7opAGlYWo6yKLh1kjynbPduDh2DD9m04Mhqz97ggC5DyQug6bt9jR5r9PJQ7H97usQ/s1200/DoloresCyn-campsite_1200h-SL1_26757.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1049" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirq42l4osiC5gJ231Yl1HyiNGWFnorilkLXNoLn-ATj5GjOBbjiFHkXwnwNLJ71gBZLqnq_J64-j3O0ti2LAgfFhLSQkyKR5KK98sntpP_07hiO32tayVekddfF7opAGlYWo6yKLh1kjynbPduDh2DD9m04Mhqz97ggC5DyQug6bt9jR5r9PJQ7H97usQ/w560-h640/DoloresCyn-campsite_1200h-SL1_26757.jpg" width="560" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just before noon.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglQgpVm2qLHmlHTy25giSnuPypmbbun8oXfKRj8NZdqeifJiRyK0ygjhsZz6akPxojk4KzUDnhQ-0QBQMeU_ts_mG2JQZXsiRCoCIHG62GpFOxGUtMIULBfn25QeY_o-kLbkw-gxKSfs1BdBO_hHvGiabqxWHqsie5gCb0dGzG2oCymd-hZlDW6bS-3SA/s1200/LonePine_1200w-SL1_26761.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglQgpVm2qLHmlHTy25giSnuPypmbbun8oXfKRj8NZdqeifJiRyK0ygjhsZz6akPxojk4KzUDnhQ-0QBQMeU_ts_mG2JQZXsiRCoCIHG62GpFOxGUtMIULBfn25QeY_o-kLbkw-gxKSfs1BdBO_hHvGiabqxWHqsie5gCb0dGzG2oCymd-hZlDW6bS-3SA/w640-h426/LonePine_1200w-SL1_26761.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The large Ponderosa in the camping area.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLWxgY3lfjUHBEYkuKoGMGd-_4APwP-hF7GM6Ch-403kIRafeD_IB7yAY28hpd-5nMEjjtJmKvypmc9u3NDvvfZoKfpjZ6Vgf3O26PrtVd4B_XKYX4jKW7NHPdwCj7jZwIAKvJnhHyaDdm6SIkUpqA5w8yY_P4YrECLZqZsUOJuuYqwPwvaiXJS73f8fk/s1200/BoxElder_1200w-SL1_26762.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="824" data-original-width="1200" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLWxgY3lfjUHBEYkuKoGMGd-_4APwP-hF7GM6Ch-403kIRafeD_IB7yAY28hpd-5nMEjjtJmKvypmc9u3NDvvfZoKfpjZ6Vgf3O26PrtVd4B_XKYX4jKW7NHPdwCj7jZwIAKvJnhHyaDdm6SIkUpqA5w8yY_P4YrECLZqZsUOJuuYqwPwvaiXJS73f8fk/w640-h440/BoxElder_1200w-SL1_26762.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The box elder near my campsite.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFSitGEmIs4EL2dv2t_WPFwbzPh0N4L_ijZldaH7NEuh7g5_ox1oHtHiEObR30kKLjfNODh0aU3Jsm3Vt65pAykC3X7Xf798DyrYNdrmsc2PrLTj-eIq9TAvLPSKXEUIrNyapsNcRhZnP_QUMaLcT42-4XkM73lVVdPQlkWR7BrpFxJD5CgsLC9W8BrCQ/s1200/Checkered-Skipper_1200w-7D_26894.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="939" data-original-width="1200" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFSitGEmIs4EL2dv2t_WPFwbzPh0N4L_ijZldaH7NEuh7g5_ox1oHtHiEObR30kKLjfNODh0aU3Jsm3Vt65pAykC3X7Xf798DyrYNdrmsc2PrLTj-eIq9TAvLPSKXEUIrNyapsNcRhZnP_QUMaLcT42-4XkM73lVVdPQlkWR7BrpFxJD5CgsLC9W8BrCQ/w640-h500/Checkered-Skipper_1200w-7D_26894.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
There was even a butterfly on the last blossoms of the season.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
<i>By the way, I noticed when processing the photos that in some of them
(especially the aerial images) many of the trees appeared to be an
unappealing chartreuse color. I tried to fix this unsuccessfully in post as
I did not see this color in real life. I've come to the conclusion that the oaks
presented a combination of green and yellow leaves which the eye can detect
and sees a pleasing green and yellow. The camera, especially from a
distance, cannot distinguish between adjacent leaves and instead records
chartreuse. At least that's my theory.</i>
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOclHoYacIPMp9ll4qHYJoYEX6U7y-s4Bukl7tPZnVfLHndvpi7lNNvdP_WOFVVo33LdxkD4iWEPYAUepnSt_M2ydzxQeTRWxx7VzkC6qkijf6-lnjD5few9NQwcV7D1Su1sirT7CvQlqCLSDsNkKCeoNYS2rGQoWQDdtuM8riE756TG801adSFXOSISM/s1200/DoloresCyn-river_1200w-DJI_0521.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="799" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOclHoYacIPMp9ll4qHYJoYEX6U7y-s4Bukl7tPZnVfLHndvpi7lNNvdP_WOFVVo33LdxkD4iWEPYAUepnSt_M2ydzxQeTRWxx7VzkC6qkijf6-lnjD5few9NQwcV7D1Su1sirT7CvQlqCLSDsNkKCeoNYS2rGQoWQDdtuM8riE756TG801adSFXOSISM/w640-h426/DoloresCyn-river_1200w-DJI_0521.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Aerial view downstream.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijupZ7Q3pJZXA6gZ2nZqKLiray3hSo5PiX2arDPgXdy8dUVI2QHUaCMdMxltkvDD_22Ihl0wcnzFbS5KgZ4_djDlaixYpMt0c8kKX6ZdD8eiawBJA7IvhAxntxDEi_qqkfkprKUgSLLyLjUbiKNOiUbfT3QnFev00CFGz60HWzBavBwtv9KYAlMqHjfjM/s1200/DoloresCyn-campsite_1200w-DJI_0524.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="732" data-original-width="1200" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijupZ7Q3pJZXA6gZ2nZqKLiray3hSo5PiX2arDPgXdy8dUVI2QHUaCMdMxltkvDD_22Ihl0wcnzFbS5KgZ4_djDlaixYpMt0c8kKX6ZdD8eiawBJA7IvhAxntxDEi_qqkfkprKUgSLLyLjUbiKNOiUbfT3QnFev00CFGz60HWzBavBwtv9KYAlMqHjfjM/w640-h390/DoloresCyn-campsite_1200w-DJI_0524.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Aerial view of the camping area.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I recommend you click the full-screen icon in the upper right corner or view
on <a href="https://kuula.co/post/5XHjL" target="_blank">Kuula</a>.
</p>
<iframe allow="xr-spatial-tracking; gyroscope; accelerometer" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="500" scrolling="no" src="https://kuula.co/share/5XHjL?logo=1&info=1&fs=1&vr=0&sd=1&thumbs=1" width="100%"></iframe>
<p><br /></p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidN5J3ABgJOQW5sRBwl4AOVDKAUjYoHskE3mdfqW2HxRAv6Dwir-oRMO5gcPr-z820GeLLW4jJAlzcMkNASSv6Rb1DIF51DghM7awusSE92h3JGNHyD5WF1jOYI2WG1AOe5pZyyyLIQ_5JIOv1fWe8Y0HDVezrQkGoKtBv0yBtghFboFlzp3j7inbunfE/s1200/TownsendsSolitaire_1200w-7D_26896.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="874" data-original-width="1200" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidN5J3ABgJOQW5sRBwl4AOVDKAUjYoHskE3mdfqW2HxRAv6Dwir-oRMO5gcPr-z820GeLLW4jJAlzcMkNASSv6Rb1DIF51DghM7awusSE92h3JGNHyD5WF1jOYI2WG1AOe5pZyyyLIQ_5JIOv1fWe8Y0HDVezrQkGoKtBv0yBtghFboFlzp3j7inbunfE/w640-h466/TownsendsSolitaire_1200w-7D_26896.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
This Townsend's Solitaire was way up in the pine which explains the
ventral view.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>After lunch I took a walk down road as there are no other trails. It might as
well be a trail as there was no vehicle traffic during my walk.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCmx1dln7qpWtSpFyW1rrOO7HGVzpPoii4uDCH6l0vmcCV4XVcG2YEEtCesqWNVtRTnTjtIPV_6efOlwN8O8pi4DvVNYcMhX-lKUHWThDp_9YzKZ_kLTPP1YO31t0grZXXzqCTZcowDPNOzKWdX2IMzN_RPl8c8W_ZAuk4l8LJoUMv2rCnyiiHiRLKZGs/s1200/DoloresCyn-road_1200w-SL1_26768.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="803" data-original-width="1200" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCmx1dln7qpWtSpFyW1rrOO7HGVzpPoii4uDCH6l0vmcCV4XVcG2YEEtCesqWNVtRTnTjtIPV_6efOlwN8O8pi4DvVNYcMhX-lKUHWThDp_9YzKZ_kLTPP1YO31t0grZXXzqCTZcowDPNOzKWdX2IMzN_RPl8c8W_ZAuk4l8LJoUMv2rCnyiiHiRLKZGs/w640-h428/DoloresCyn-road_1200w-SL1_26768.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The road as it winds its way down canyon.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghG6mjTZFSs9S28HhimeKD__2pext-H9ZQxNfjnGJVhtXiipbQ5lmV5GT6Sk-GJFWX-KQrJBiS6hdJZyEUSmdKIMb2A2NPlrS4WmLLEDVouqHfWaqiNsWbvjNGcnBtfrxp33LTKL0wuFMa4az-y4qSb5ZrY2-hOiRsFAqXic48popPoajn79MeICCvoyA/s1200/DoloresCyn-oaks_1200w-SL1_26764.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghG6mjTZFSs9S28HhimeKD__2pext-H9ZQxNfjnGJVhtXiipbQ5lmV5GT6Sk-GJFWX-KQrJBiS6hdJZyEUSmdKIMb2A2NPlrS4WmLLEDVouqHfWaqiNsWbvjNGcnBtfrxp33LTKL0wuFMa4az-y4qSb5ZrY2-hOiRsFAqXic48popPoajn79MeICCvoyA/w640-h426/DoloresCyn-oaks_1200w-SL1_26764.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A view down canyon with the river screened by the oaks that are thick along the road.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I went as far as one of my old campsites, about a mile and a half downstream.
I found another very nice site about midway. If you are interested in details
for yourself, drop me an email.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhysstBdgopb3cuAb7jg4KywQkSntFuig4AOw5Slaw-OJImM7S-hH4O3a8D76YcftWHTQvotwAkpyN0jf2kNsHgskvjTJhzoh48CbpxG-wZavpwILu0tZ6Et_B-eNXC2XDRkV_raFV6dyOMDyWPN9N-fUD4Xp2gYWDzhpvGE-uGjwKY0l-KBZ9LBqIUBq0/s1200/DoloresCyn-river_1200w-SL1_26775.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="874" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhysstBdgopb3cuAb7jg4KywQkSntFuig4AOw5Slaw-OJImM7S-hH4O3a8D76YcftWHTQvotwAkpyN0jf2kNsHgskvjTJhzoh48CbpxG-wZavpwILu0tZ6Et_B-eNXC2XDRkV_raFV6dyOMDyWPN9N-fUD4Xp2gYWDzhpvGE-uGjwKY0l-KBZ9LBqIUBq0/w466-h640/DoloresCyn-river_1200w-SL1_26775.jpg" width="466" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dolores River on a lazy fall day.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>When I got back to camp my main activity was simply to relax and enjoy the
amazing views. I marveled at how colorful the box elder near my site appeared.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSPdLt6hn3E7s9WccBVBhCK9MwhGusz_8FQcZYnzy9wEouX07bZ8ZmTXT7_oOXt-_fVQg4vfT6DJf_klYN4XKhbCgmig5FKtffGxuqTtnGFjibCQZnJz1AkqK0v7BNvX97hBmZZ07oeJHZFE5kaWKjba9kmV54x2CzNGjcAgKN5GrTMAFREbn8MRjrwck/s1200/Pine-backlit_1200h-SL1_26799.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="849" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSPdLt6hn3E7s9WccBVBhCK9MwhGusz_8FQcZYnzy9wEouX07bZ8ZmTXT7_oOXt-_fVQg4vfT6DJf_klYN4XKhbCgmig5FKtffGxuqTtnGFjibCQZnJz1AkqK0v7BNvX97hBmZZ07oeJHZFE5kaWKjba9kmV54x2CzNGjcAgKN5GrTMAFREbn8MRjrwck/w452-h640/Pine-backlit_1200h-SL1_26799.jpg" width="452" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trying for an artistic effect, I guess.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6eB3xVoLi3ENx_ODW4JFyfJ5OuKdTdSbojVT2MRcc_wF4J9gD8ji3ZiwyhE-aSxUgcfJKTImpS7IwwCX1-89197-uY5Fmr7qCdEd3Mp6kxJjo1aOSUC4S0zH7rxTt_k6V53wIuHmjgGVdqHQz7QPjAvk95IU2tHqmt3k1szH8qsvaK9Yy96EfpVetbCQ/s1200/BoxElder-leaves_1200w-7D_26900.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="783" data-original-width="1200" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6eB3xVoLi3ENx_ODW4JFyfJ5OuKdTdSbojVT2MRcc_wF4J9gD8ji3ZiwyhE-aSxUgcfJKTImpS7IwwCX1-89197-uY5Fmr7qCdEd3Mp6kxJjo1aOSUC4S0zH7rxTt_k6V53wIuHmjgGVdqHQz7QPjAvk95IU2tHqmt3k1szH8qsvaK9Yy96EfpVetbCQ/w640-h418/BoxElder-leaves_1200w-7D_26900.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leaving you with a last photo of box elder leaves. (No color enhancement)</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I enjoyed a quiet evening.</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Tuesday, October 17th</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Dolores Canyon (continued)</h4>
<p>Another cold morning, but my goal was to pack up and head for home, so I just put on my gloves and got on with it.</p>
<p>I reversed course up out of the canyon and back to highway where I turned left toward Cortez. From there I
headed down to Shiprock where I stopped at my favorite, locally-owned drive-in, <i>That's A Burger</i>, for a
delicious green chile cheeseburger. They also serve Navajo dishes. From there I cut off across the reservation to US-550
and south to home.</p>
<p><br /></p>
<p><i>It was a great trip. I hope you enjoyed reading about it.</i></p><p><br /></p><p><b><span style="color: #cfe2f3;">An informative note for those who use small propane bottles.</span> </b></p><p>As cold as it was Monday morning I thought it prudent to check the level in my active propane tank as I knew it was getting very low (FWC Fleet campers have two 10# bottles.) My technique is to turn off the valve, lift the bottle out of the compartment, feel the weight, and if it seems light to slosh it around to feel the weight shift. The bottle was almost out, so I connected the hose from the camper to the other bottle and buttoned things up. Wouldn't want to run out in the middle of the night. I don't run the furnace very much, but the interior can get mighty cold without it.</p><p>So of course in the middle of said night, 2am to be exact, I heard the furnace try to come on and fail. It tries three times then gives up. It was cold and I didn't want to get out of bed, but I also knew it would only get colder. To make a long, cold and dark procedure short, though the full bottle was connected properly and the valve was open, no propane was coming out. I reconnected the nearly empty bottle. The furnace was able to light and I even had enough left in the tank to be able to brew coffee the next morning. Whew!</p><p>When I got home I took the bottle to my propane supplier and told the fellow who fills the bottles my story. "You have it with you?" he asked. "Yes." We walked over to my camper and I pulled the full, nonfunctioning bottle out. He attached a big brass connector with a flow restrictor and opened the valve... nothing. He closed the valve, picked up the bottle and dropped it down onto the asphalt parking lot from about 6" up. Yikes! He tried the valve again and now you could hear propane coming out. What a relief, no expensive repair needed! "There is a weight attached to the valve to measure the level and sometimes it gets stuck," he told me. "If it happens again, do this again. Don't slam it down multiple times, just one quick bump." He might have been referring to the OPD, Overfill Prevention Device. Though from what I read later that shouldn't prevent the gas from coming out, so I don't know the exact mechanism, just what worked to fix my bottle.</p><p>So now you know, should this happen to you. Good luck.</p>
<p><br /></p>
Bosque Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00001863270259847102noreply@blogger.com3R53J+J8 Dove Creek, CO, USA37.804069299999988 -108.819222337.790505776943149 -108.83638843769532 37.817632823056826 -108.80205616230469tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3983525105536347837.post-32784229963348544882023-11-19T09:46:00.002-07:002023-11-19T09:46:35.350-07:00Autumn in the Abajo Mountains, Utah - October 2023<h2 style="text-align: left;">In Search of Late Season Color</h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">October 14 and 15, 2023</h3>
<p><br /></p>
<p>
<i>This post is a continuation of my trip to Utah to experience and photograph
the annular solar eclipse. Read about my time in Red Canyon and the eclipse
in my
<a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2023/11/annular-eclipse-red-canyon-utah-october.html">previous post</a>. Before I left, my friend Chris said that as long as I was in Utah
for the eclipse I should do some "leaf peeping" on my way back. Hmmm, I
suppose I could cut through the Abajo Mountains on my way home. Why not?
From there I'd play it by ear.</i>
</p>
<p>
<b><span style="color: #fcff01;">Remember to click on any photo for a larger version.</span></b>
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Saturday, October 14</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Cottonwood Road</h4>
<p>As I drove toward the Abajo Mountains from Fry Canyon in the early afternoon. I decided that rather
than drive up Elk Mountain Road between the Bears Ears peaks, as I customarily
do, I'd continue east on UT-95 and access the Abajos via South Cottonwood
Road. I'd driven down that road a few years ago and remembered there were many
cottonwoods (as one might expect considering the road name) that I thought might be colorful this time of year.</p>
<p>
As I got close to the turn-off I noticed my gas gauge. The needle was a little
lower than I had anticipated. I thought I'd have enough to make it through the
mountains to Monticello, but I planned to take the road through Cooley Pass I'd
not driven before. The road looked twisty, so I didn't know how long it would take to drive. I reflected on my decision not to top off
the tank in White Mesa. Should I drive to Blanding, fill up, and return? I did
have my Rotopax gasoline containers which contained four gallons between them.
I then realized that as this would be my last trip of the season, I would want to
empty my gas cans before winter, anyway, in order to refill with fresh fuel in
the spring. OK, that made the decision easy. No detour to fill up.
</p>
<p>
The junction with the state highway is well marked and the first stretch of
road north is paved, then changes to gravel. There are many dispersed
campsites in the first couple of miles under the cottonwoods. Then the road
passes through land of the Ute Mountain Ute tribe and you are cautioned to
stay on the road. After about 8 miles you come to the obscure turn-off to the
right for South Cottonwood Road. If you discover you are climbing out of the
valley and headed west, you missed the junction and are instead headed for Elk
Ridge.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI9dMgbdbWQ7qnGHd2adRq-2L9br8oqt45pQDjYzVC5jjDHCG7DV1aNlX9fD9ioWntPKEsoFgAXr3ERiKhjdoUoEIClRrc81HXQqPE2GDUl7xxxXMQXgwjrGFNBpNj4RehuwlM6nKq2cvBv4xju195pHom-Ik0cMS3eIfUU0trTwR67RvlMchSlykZlz4/s1200/SCottonwoodRd-bluff_1200w-SL1_26543.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="674" data-original-width="1200" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI9dMgbdbWQ7qnGHd2adRq-2L9br8oqt45pQDjYzVC5jjDHCG7DV1aNlX9fD9ioWntPKEsoFgAXr3ERiKhjdoUoEIClRrc81HXQqPE2GDUl7xxxXMQXgwjrGFNBpNj4RehuwlM6nKq2cvBv4xju195pHom-Ik0cMS3eIfUU0trTwR67RvlMchSlykZlz4/w640-h360/SCottonwoodRd-bluff_1200w-SL1_26543.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The lower portion of S. Cottonwood Rd and a bluff of Navajo Sandstone.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
The narrow dirt road continues up the valley slowly gaining in elevation. If
you look at Google Maps you will see many confusing side roads, but while driving there is
never the least doubt on which is the through road.
</p>
<p>
When I'd driven down in early
<a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2019/06/sw-colorado-se-utah-june-2019-part-4.html">June of 2019</a>
I counted 18 water crossings, many running quite full. This time there were
only two or three that had any water in them at all. </p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMuplHBboskkGI43BEz60wv2gF4Y4dsWqgWEOvNT4oWgrEgjsn26MBiaRd4cmk2UrZ7NzsAe1K-Yone-t5SKUj9fQIMKeQczkt-9YYs5qlrJWEWjIqYkOTn0ELmhRFp1Gcz6QhmedFBeb93pNfPv1FhII0B2cUslgpXW1IoVCD2_CGnOxh_UDXbdUMCt0/s1200/SCottonwoodRd-straight_1200w-SL1_26546.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="1200" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMuplHBboskkGI43BEz60wv2gF4Y4dsWqgWEOvNT4oWgrEgjsn26MBiaRd4cmk2UrZ7NzsAe1K-Yone-t5SKUj9fQIMKeQczkt-9YYs5qlrJWEWjIqYkOTn0ELmhRFp1Gcz6QhmedFBeb93pNfPv1FhII0B2cUslgpXW1IoVCD2_CGnOxh_UDXbdUMCt0/w640-h370/SCottonwoodRd-straight_1200w-SL1_26546.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Larger trees are beginning to appear. Kayenta sandstone on the right.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiyBGM-C2OqbwCcxY-2QQOzeAbPIwJZBBF7QnTjKZn5X_OowBdNxtGpytOnLNlm6i_tP-pAXON_38fyyqiNGAru3uKRJWJc-G55GIvq45PRzoIeMBYhYZ4GkjebgPsKggJgM1mF9ZQ_Si2Nlf2jWZldmqaarkCQ_XVNxEBweZ2QvsSIAFxltgX_XS3A_U/s1200/SCottonwoodRd-yellow_1200w-SL1_26547.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="775" data-original-width="1200" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiyBGM-C2OqbwCcxY-2QQOzeAbPIwJZBBF7QnTjKZn5X_OowBdNxtGpytOnLNlm6i_tP-pAXON_38fyyqiNGAru3uKRJWJc-G55GIvq45PRzoIeMBYhYZ4GkjebgPsKggJgM1mF9ZQ_Si2Nlf2jWZldmqaarkCQ_XVNxEBweZ2QvsSIAFxltgX_XS3A_U/w640-h414/SCottonwoodRd-yellow_1200w-SL1_26547.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A pocket of yellow cottonwoods ahead.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
There was some color in the cottonwoods that were beginning to turn, but not
too much. The treat was higher up where I unexpectedly came across red maples
amid the pines.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaNWCcIyISHJ2LIrhyafN_J_RtdzRQe1OTq4Kou6ss690mT4ClrDmZKHE1mhjVbEOkufVA4dh8qbQ2mj0ujZ84Po2V5-745dpLWFZ-9xUxbqWnjZuRCFv4jrmtLtbFGHnLAQlz_JOWFI9kezlmttIsfpgiVsi83pMGXrySWYxsxGAbrtreQs_lCShQcEM/s1200/SCottonwoodRd-maple_1200h-SL1_26549.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="984" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaNWCcIyISHJ2LIrhyafN_J_RtdzRQe1OTq4Kou6ss690mT4ClrDmZKHE1mhjVbEOkufVA4dh8qbQ2mj0ujZ84Po2V5-745dpLWFZ-9xUxbqWnjZuRCFv4jrmtLtbFGHnLAQlz_JOWFI9kezlmttIsfpgiVsi83pMGXrySWYxsxGAbrtreQs_lCShQcEM/w524-h640/SCottonwoodRd-maple_1200h-SL1_26549.jpg" width="524" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red maple</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx8FY2_3vi_h51f8xHU1HJmgANLtA91OJzhR0yIcrJIjxcEGKCBxYwOZXCcbMuQbXe-_shfqNFtj02VL0HpifD8j9a7YXtT3H25bSgqmq25_4h5dnvYgysdurgGgja0EDtGA8Z7Hhlz4dIjs5k6py1d2668Y6tKXBH25XGzT95pZZ-GHoXjL3MZclXOpM/s1200/SCottonwoodRd-oak_1200h-SL1_26550.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="977" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx8FY2_3vi_h51f8xHU1HJmgANLtA91OJzhR0yIcrJIjxcEGKCBxYwOZXCcbMuQbXe-_shfqNFtj02VL0HpifD8j9a7YXtT3H25bSgqmq25_4h5dnvYgysdurgGgja0EDtGA8Z7Hhlz4dIjs5k6py1d2668Y6tKXBH25XGzT95pZZ-GHoXjL3MZclXOpM/w522-h640/SCottonwoodRd-oak_1200h-SL1_26550.jpg" width="522" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yellow oak</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
The road climbs up out of the valley into the conifer forest. There are not
many side roads through here, though I did see one that might serve for
dispersed camping. Cottonwood Road then comes to a 'T' intersection with
Lime Creek Road/Causeway Road. Lime Creek Road, which Google mistakenly labels Gooseberry, leads west to Elk Ridge where it joins the actual Gooseberry Road which connects to Elk Ridge Road to the south and Bridger Jack Road and UT-211 to the north. I
turned right for Causeway Road and the east.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Causeway Road</h4>
<p>
In a few hundred feet you come to the intersection with North Cottonwood Road.
It is theoretically possible to turn north here and make your way to the
highway to Canyonlands. I've never gone nearly that far, but did find a nice
campsite up that way last time. From here Causeway Road heads south at first,
with a nice view west across to Elk Ridge, then wanders to the east.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPS3HKdGcHN24oIPH-Fz2mn54ynhiPF9R1RkleCFekPkBpKA7jLmA4rxIZEKhHtNAuRwS6ETLzQF-iWnLHnQWKh7mPeEF0y3DDagAkzwtKVE9ZLgbky_zGruv6LHZTj2LaA7BBblgUGPY_P2PmDaqve7ZP9CObxMfYpgq-8AK472Y6Nhag8xQsd7nwyDw/s1200/CausewayRd-RoundMtn_1200w-SL1_26554.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="791" data-original-width="1200" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPS3HKdGcHN24oIPH-Fz2mn54ynhiPF9R1RkleCFekPkBpKA7jLmA4rxIZEKhHtNAuRwS6ETLzQF-iWnLHnQWKh7mPeEF0y3DDagAkzwtKVE9ZLgbky_zGruv6LHZTj2LaA7BBblgUGPY_P2PmDaqve7ZP9CObxMfYpgq-8AK472Y6Nhag8xQsd7nwyDw/w640-h422/CausewayRd-RoundMtn_1200w-SL1_26554.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Looking back north at Round Mountain
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2P4GfFxsj6ZY4penE82WZjLjniBjOHrPiQa8Zxmw_o-x3fj8CWckjvHrMOXylgyLRPkWlSdWRouIBZAx45IiVy5_7nr_0UIphmIHQwRkCtF_B8EPkP6CtsSpruB8ggTfhy17UNUVjKApPVtt7wHgQvaBJuPy6igUzzfMnYBe1ICCHnTqtf4_dKwTgfDU/s1200/CausewayRd-ElkRidge_1200w-7D_26875.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="865" data-original-width="1200" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2P4GfFxsj6ZY4penE82WZjLjniBjOHrPiQa8Zxmw_o-x3fj8CWckjvHrMOXylgyLRPkWlSdWRouIBZAx45IiVy5_7nr_0UIphmIHQwRkCtF_B8EPkP6CtsSpruB8ggTfhy17UNUVjKApPVtt7wHgQvaBJuPy6igUzzfMnYBe1ICCHnTqtf4_dKwTgfDU/w640-h462/CausewayRd-ElkRidge_1200w-7D_26875.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
This was a small grove across the canyon on the east slope of Elk
Ridge.<br />Image was taken with my telephoto lens.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><br /></p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS0ka56q2j0vo35lPgFTHJDUjUCs1ybLyE4fO5ntfRREGB2k2PJjHRVLhV8mZfRz3TcL73nfWA_5NoGQu2VImZL8_kSmtJbq9IILbFhcXlRp1Oz_jMR1IZzhZfLDDThPGkhqAvBVcoFohAttgMEmQLEeJGSfLiOWey675ToP8i4Q5B56Vs5lpUkGq8H2s/s1200/CausewayRd-maple_1200sq-SL1_26556.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS0ka56q2j0vo35lPgFTHJDUjUCs1ybLyE4fO5ntfRREGB2k2PJjHRVLhV8mZfRz3TcL73nfWA_5NoGQu2VImZL8_kSmtJbq9IILbFhcXlRp1Oz_jMR1IZzhZfLDDThPGkhqAvBVcoFohAttgMEmQLEeJGSfLiOWey675ToP8i4Q5B56Vs5lpUkGq8H2s/w640-h640/CausewayRd-maple_1200sq-SL1_26556.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;">I happened upon a few more maples in red. </span>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
About 3 miles from the Cottonwood Road junction Causeway Road confusingly
forks with no signs to indicate which way to go. I was expecting this as I'd
been told by the lady at the USFS station in Monticello about it last time.
She said to turn onto the south fork to see the Chippean Rocks. So this time I
took the south fork and did see some large sandstone formations near the road.
Either fork brings you to the same place; the north seems slightly more
traveled.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgItRXbApdGxvgagViHkeQZVi4BBHu7ERrdeqmhaIoLFq-4i1BUIBHN8RXcF6XBJX2Pvv4-XbcsuGezRXsPdf8E0WXkyf3iD5ttg5kg5C_degrFKcs9WjX-O9pNoi5AYQ3-gPcdQCu-METkOsh-Ewm9NdNJfEVTR2ZzFTOPOnMl97WjXmp43DM7d9LPcIg/s1200/CausewayRd-Chippean_1200w-SL1_26559.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="847" data-original-width="1200" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgItRXbApdGxvgagViHkeQZVi4BBHu7ERrdeqmhaIoLFq-4i1BUIBHN8RXcF6XBJX2Pvv4-XbcsuGezRXsPdf8E0WXkyf3iD5ttg5kg5C_degrFKcs9WjX-O9pNoi5AYQ3-gPcdQCu-METkOsh-Ewm9NdNJfEVTR2ZzFTOPOnMl97WjXmp43DM7d9LPcIg/w640-h452/CausewayRd-Chippean_1200w-SL1_26559.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Looking up the hill at the navajo sandstone.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
Looking at the satellite map now, I'm not sure this was the fork she was
talking about as there seems to be another loop that takes you by what Google
calls the "Chippean Rocks East." Something to explore next time.
</p>
<p>
I didn't recall seeing that many dispersed campsite opportunities last time I
drove through this area. I did remember stopping for lunch at the small meadow
by the Vega Creek trailhead and thinking one could camp there. So I was
keeping an eye out for it. I did find it and it was an RV/travel-trailer
rodeo. They were really packed in there, and looking south along the opposite
side road I saw more up that way. Wow, never saw so many folks up in this neck
of the woods before. I kept driving.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcvPDFiCArafXM12MFD_kg3OU69wsR0cWC8ejqFR6C_yCd7P0IEx9HX6I2XT3_ZR65kJKpqX8dQpctWbAhVNSGQXxs4iVx1ND6ZolJhdHA0T8PGdsdYXx-OtsOvPIPrej_uTk_DvKnmXz-0e-HhZOjPejq8aLG9QKmc_siFkMQyh98YODpx7ILHFAquj0/s1200/CausewayRd-mixColor_1200w-SL1_26560.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="753" data-original-width="1200" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcvPDFiCArafXM12MFD_kg3OU69wsR0cWC8ejqFR6C_yCd7P0IEx9HX6I2XT3_ZR65kJKpqX8dQpctWbAhVNSGQXxs4iVx1ND6ZolJhdHA0T8PGdsdYXx-OtsOvPIPrej_uTk_DvKnmXz-0e-HhZOjPejq8aLG9QKmc_siFkMQyh98YODpx7ILHFAquj0/w640-h402/CausewayRd-mixColor_1200w-SL1_26560.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
I was delighted whenever I happened upon a splash of color like this.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
It was a beautiful, sunny afternoon and I began seeing even more color—aspen
and maples. After a few more miles, as I was admiring a small grove of aspen
ahead I noticed a small side road off to the north. I'd look for a campsite up
there. It was really just a double-track, but was relatively smooth and easy.
It crossed a meadow then curved around a small ridge. Just past the ridge, at
a bend, I did find a nice campsite. It had obviously been used many times over
the years, but wasn't too worn and there was no trash left behind. Excellent.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWI2FNHpj1I7Fb1AcVNVjT50-7GmiMWiAivsq-K83YpRBYH-CtC2h3C3HLXKckPh68ANogg7fDBMcVcihiEFwmtBR5Z26ctFlZkAHxg3CAidrPwy8gtBQ18IZwZ9LkSrM9GCVB-yCP9FDuNb9fZ84PCq7azHOhptD7UfpXqT9-I2Dt1Rg50qHBvmwSs-A/s1200/DryBasin-junction_1200w-SL1_26564.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="801" data-original-width="1200" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWI2FNHpj1I7Fb1AcVNVjT50-7GmiMWiAivsq-K83YpRBYH-CtC2h3C3HLXKckPh68ANogg7fDBMcVcihiEFwmtBR5Z26ctFlZkAHxg3CAidrPwy8gtBQ18IZwZ9LkSrM9GCVB-yCP9FDuNb9fZ84PCq7azHOhptD7UfpXqT9-I2Dt1Rg50qHBvmwSs-A/w640-h428/DryBasin-junction_1200w-SL1_26564.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
If you look carefully you can just see where the side road intersects
Causeway Road on the left.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I found a good spot for the camper and set up. I decided I'd walk back to
Causeway Road while there was still light and photograph that small aspen
grove I'd first noticed. I had a very nice walk and took lots of photos,
though only a few turned out well enough to share.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiynIKKuvWheYCG1MsIcluZ2uYCT6pPesry-QpDP4K-7Yq7Y0UyWXu37jlHgd3QIK8HtCcVlddeCxuS3yeZSmY51vH2Rbzyxsx-kwAz12uQ4J8TF1AxBJcfFLIwagKz0j7Cuoj7QKEVPWZ3pMnydSpbeFFMM6Q3BJsOocmg6ymBHvaW9ANWu0ftomIh4SQ/s1200/DryBasin-twinAspen_1200h-SL1_26569.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="867" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiynIKKuvWheYCG1MsIcluZ2uYCT6pPesry-QpDP4K-7Yq7Y0UyWXu37jlHgd3QIK8HtCcVlddeCxuS3yeZSmY51vH2Rbzyxsx-kwAz12uQ4J8TF1AxBJcfFLIwagKz0j7Cuoj7QKEVPWZ3pMnydSpbeFFMM6Q3BJsOocmg6ymBHvaW9ANWu0ftomIh4SQ/w462-h640/DryBasin-twinAspen_1200h-SL1_26569.jpg" width="462" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
These twins were across from my campsite.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYI9san59LE-soh9fLy3hxhzxOIpKEdbS2xyI58GMxqcsX_wyolaVcW8E-Jc1NspARsYd_NaCgAb5lk4DAEvsv5bLgf4oWCD7oaT3nfFR1LXM9wS1TNQJY2o6zDNvl6BZM7DASjg5UFy9enqshlfZaguZdQOpMUjhnS3KJh_H-Zpxb0DLbwS3ALChX52s/s1200/DryBasinRd-grove_1200w-SL1_26570.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="740" data-original-width="1200" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYI9san59LE-soh9fLy3hxhzxOIpKEdbS2xyI58GMxqcsX_wyolaVcW8E-Jc1NspARsYd_NaCgAb5lk4DAEvsv5bLgf4oWCD7oaT3nfFR1LXM9wS1TNQJY2o6zDNvl6BZM7DASjg5UFy9enqshlfZaguZdQOpMUjhnS3KJh_H-Zpxb0DLbwS3ALChX52s/w640-h394/DryBasinRd-grove_1200w-SL1_26570.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Looking down my little side road at the aspen grove.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYUVQm8fKyL3nk0z8dgPVpDalC-BR0u9SODu1_qAtkoDyPOAW88qEbQSIW3fTQrdbX2aT1TF8tbuiB8lKDbHHSMTTjOU0qO3vS80J1kvSY7iqC0mPeBAWh3NYeylclBFcdyjVaRNBB624iXg5F_3uCHQUNH-G7x6tMdz17hQzaojqeu-gD2PyGd7cencI/s1200/CausewayRd-maple2_1200w-SL1_26572.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="934" data-original-width="1200" height="498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYUVQm8fKyL3nk0z8dgPVpDalC-BR0u9SODu1_qAtkoDyPOAW88qEbQSIW3fTQrdbX2aT1TF8tbuiB8lKDbHHSMTTjOU0qO3vS80J1kvSY7iqC0mPeBAWh3NYeylclBFcdyjVaRNBB624iXg5F_3uCHQUNH-G7x6tMdz17hQzaojqeu-gD2PyGd7cencI/w640-h498/CausewayRd-maple2_1200w-SL1_26572.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Maples in among the aspen.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBJ8nGM2-1MNT_PbaO_jSSWXUKXok8WN0AHrevP44nAglpyO0B5mZtNk5pv_GWhGqYq9_cbhu6-pi4ixTL6C3NPCE2cgOIgTnmNSDd0XNgehTV0sLbo_8FSUMIiaFKpqj760GWrpr9yb64Cbkz1Tr9vPi_hjljPT526_mTEoFExyirgxUn7lw2TRflIs0/s1200/CausewayRd-bigTall_1200h-SL1_26576.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="886" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBJ8nGM2-1MNT_PbaO_jSSWXUKXok8WN0AHrevP44nAglpyO0B5mZtNk5pv_GWhGqYq9_cbhu6-pi4ixTL6C3NPCE2cgOIgTnmNSDd0XNgehTV0sLbo_8FSUMIiaFKpqj760GWrpr9yb64Cbkz1Tr9vPi_hjljPT526_mTEoFExyirgxUn7lw2TRflIs0/w472-h640/CausewayRd-bigTall_1200h-SL1_26576.jpg" width="472" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laurel and Hardy</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifWGz-6Sd5Q9sFM6mTg-3yO1b9-dz8Zcu1kibr2Vx0Mq7uKs-NT2g3TFvnVExoU7LDwSu0XX5SFGm3HfQ86j03e0EcsUE88jvRcuALoH4Up0uWGV_vaisp_YxoCgGC10f9VunSunwzI2lmnZx_J8hULorqAp-Y-hd8SKIIdPqM4i4XSSfz6s9DHkdcgc8/s1200/CausewayRd-grove_1200w-SL1_26587.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="867" data-original-width="1200" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifWGz-6Sd5Q9sFM6mTg-3yO1b9-dz8Zcu1kibr2Vx0Mq7uKs-NT2g3TFvnVExoU7LDwSu0XX5SFGm3HfQ86j03e0EcsUE88jvRcuALoH4Up0uWGV_vaisp_YxoCgGC10f9VunSunwzI2lmnZx_J8hULorqAp-Y-hd8SKIIdPqM4i4XSSfz6s9DHkdcgc8/w640-h462/CausewayRd-grove_1200w-SL1_26587.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Yet another look at the aspen grove.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I returned to camp and relaxed in my chair. It was cool enough I sat in the
sun. I later learned this area is called Dry Basin. The road goes a few miles
farther, but looked rougher past my campsite.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpSY1miyfsztfnOIVMieorxZ_hc1V_y5HAzgA3L0946Zx5SiDDNgIWw8ZT_YpPgYW6ykzD2REZPiX6u-_57hsigEDXnGMid9ghPONff1qdGzpIuRtvsiY-SRsFV2XsoKiQf0robXaIO8lNRztS3C9T6GrhJekWNgBJojzkqYirIKYl1W0oJuyNnPybVNY/s1200/DryBasinRd-campsite_1200w-SL1_26590.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="705" data-original-width="1200" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpSY1miyfsztfnOIVMieorxZ_hc1V_y5HAzgA3L0946Zx5SiDDNgIWw8ZT_YpPgYW6ykzD2REZPiX6u-_57hsigEDXnGMid9ghPONff1qdGzpIuRtvsiY-SRsFV2XsoKiQf0robXaIO8lNRztS3C9T6GrhJekWNgBJojzkqYirIKYl1W0oJuyNnPybVNY/w640-h376/DryBasinRd-campsite_1200w-SL1_26590.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My campsite</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
As the sun was sinking behind the mountains I noticed a single shaft of light
was illuminating a tiny patch of maple leaves amid the already dark pines. It
was up the ridge so grabbed my long lens to focus in on it. Just as I snapped
my first photo I noticed three deer walking across the ridge—two does and an
antlered buck. I quickly took a series of photos. When the buck stopped to
look down at the strange sound of my shutter I had a chance to glace at my
camera and was chagrinned to see the exposure was still set for full sun.
Luckily the buck's curiosity was strong enough I could change my setting and
take several more exposures before he calmly walked into the trees. Very cool!
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisK_w8UDKEuoCzNjXZa35uv4FjE1aa-KfWmbdhUdWr_zZHTRtbTVS0vTJR98Y3UjIrElDZMS3BOfoOY5DHv4zQhhxuaii2rc9e96kUFhQFT7DUKT8tI3bXrKQ2lu-ErJEdMuBSZoTFwxose-m445i0QFh88VUB_SbSNHbuo8Yv_S3Jt1QcZpD8W-updzk/s1200/MuleDeer_1200w-7D_26886.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1083" data-original-width="1200" height="578" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisK_w8UDKEuoCzNjXZa35uv4FjE1aa-KfWmbdhUdWr_zZHTRtbTVS0vTJR98Y3UjIrElDZMS3BOfoOY5DHv4zQhhxuaii2rc9e96kUFhQFT7DUKT8tI3bXrKQ2lu-ErJEdMuBSZoTFwxose-m445i0QFh88VUB_SbSNHbuo8Yv_S3Jt1QcZpD8W-updzk/w640-h578/MuleDeer_1200w-7D_26886.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The cooperative buck.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnnGUb9uiZY3I8aepcsMAcBnTPUbOYHOHXU5rbgmf9UMOkEgWYQKge19UyMlx6xTLnfnmpZC2EMJW_ROobWarBtpAa4Z-JAOJwBEGUFVVHU1wf-O300lQVR3J5lInXGNLGb6NxR0YPEXq_U1WzzpPNKyuB6y_L4ckTZxh0NdXWzV2moDYkarr-4EvqN-M/s1200/DryBasin-oakFlare_1200h-7D_26889.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="919" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnnGUb9uiZY3I8aepcsMAcBnTPUbOYHOHXU5rbgmf9UMOkEgWYQKge19UyMlx6xTLnfnmpZC2EMJW_ROobWarBtpAa4Z-JAOJwBEGUFVVHU1wf-O300lQVR3J5lInXGNLGb6NxR0YPEXq_U1WzzpPNKyuB6y_L4ckTZxh0NdXWzV2moDYkarr-4EvqN-M/w490-h640/DryBasin-oakFlare_1200h-7D_26889.jpg" width="490" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The illuminated maple leaves I first noticed.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
The temperature was dropping quickly even though I was only at 7,700'
elevation. Still, I was snug in my camper that night, happy to have found this
nice spot to camp and all the fall colors.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Sunday, October 15th</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Causeway Road (continued)</h4>
<p>It was a cold 25º when I got up in the morning. Brrrr! I was going to break
camp early and get on the road. I would continue on Causeway Road, then at the
junction near the USFS Nizhoni Campground I would turn onto Johnson Creek
Road. This alpine road travels between the two major peaks in the range: Abajo
Peak and West Mountain. I had tried to drive this route from Monticello south
one June, but it was still closed for the season. I didn't know how long it
would take to drive this new-to-me road, so my final destination was up in the
air.</p>
<p>
Causeway Road from here climbs up to a ridge that leads north to Little Dry
Mesa. I stopped again to snap a view of the Navajo sandstone domes off to the
west, which includes the Chippean Rocks.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh43-5NZEKZHh9lgbMxwK62I9xnMv3hIUlusZQDDYOtd4lOfwLumTGUXnfPptcCzTPn3HxuwIrWgpw1i8xieo_t69vYi56t6GQ1a91j-hbXh1FJLkhnjrUaQKYEQ2J_iH0hwTvB6Nlxa5ZfvxHzisE6l0zIyZq9e68SEy7pXVqciZokkAYXY_K0rlZLsk4/s1200/CausewayRd-Chippean_1200w-SL1_26593.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="784" data-original-width="1200" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh43-5NZEKZHh9lgbMxwK62I9xnMv3hIUlusZQDDYOtd4lOfwLumTGUXnfPptcCzTPn3HxuwIrWgpw1i8xieo_t69vYi56t6GQ1a91j-hbXh1FJLkhnjrUaQKYEQ2J_iH0hwTvB6Nlxa5ZfvxHzisE6l0zIyZq9e68SEy7pXVqciZokkAYXY_K0rlZLsk4/w640-h418/CausewayRd-Chippean_1200w-SL1_26593.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
It's hard to tell, but there are two sandstone ridges—the pinker one is
close; the whiter one far.<br />Along the western horizon you can see the edge
of Elk Ridge.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
A USFS sign indicated that there was an overlook ahead. If it was the
"Maverick Overlook" I'd stopped at last time, it was severely overgrown. I
didn't even get out of my truck, but took two photos that stitched together
nicely.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwzVjxSQOUT1z6IqGpxFAgR0JvoD526PGHFiENGnU_DRdcMpAj3HUYC4YZv_91kF0iFLJvmhvggGn0fkUebyTjepkixoG1acUpgYqJrDnfGII9jUCrFlPM1Gm8SI6n509T8n3zUXWe9Eskkia-usxQP3-jgxvcbarNR4JVNt5nNBQguHWliFot2cgWsOg/s2400/CausewayRd_Overlook-Pano_2400w-SL1_26594-5.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="2400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwzVjxSQOUT1z6IqGpxFAgR0JvoD526PGHFiENGnU_DRdcMpAj3HUYC4YZv_91kF0iFLJvmhvggGn0fkUebyTjepkixoG1acUpgYqJrDnfGII9jUCrFlPM1Gm8SI6n509T8n3zUXWe9Eskkia-usxQP3-jgxvcbarNR4JVNt5nNBQguHWliFot2cgWsOg/w640-h320/CausewayRd_Overlook-Pano_2400w-SL1_26594-5.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A two-image panorama from the overlook with the Chippean Rocks
stretching out to the right.<br />You can also see the whole breadth of
Elk Ridge in the background.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
When I stopped at the overlook I pulled in behind pick-up truck with small
camper shell displaying New Mexico plates. I waved to my "neighbor" when I pulled out and drove
on.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLayHAX9_vW7bsid05-qo-d-1D33AnbASISqQlQoKmW5MDb70u4_aRqwYS0Gpm2Ubqlp5XmaD2o5i_Dkew8qJs6FxpljYUOQdxj4xxiGWV65gZuS3sp_Rbi4J5NETMa2MDxesldVLcOgw-cwAtkqsEQXeDswHGBm1NM4yR24x911XxlU_o5kIIznNP_F8/s1200/CausewayRd-WestMtn_1200w-SL1_26596.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="707" data-original-width="1200" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLayHAX9_vW7bsid05-qo-d-1D33AnbASISqQlQoKmW5MDb70u4_aRqwYS0Gpm2Ubqlp5XmaD2o5i_Dkew8qJs6FxpljYUOQdxj4xxiGWV65gZuS3sp_Rbi4J5NETMa2MDxesldVLcOgw-cwAtkqsEQXeDswHGBm1NM4yR24x911XxlU_o5kIIznNP_F8/w640-h378/CausewayRd-WestMtn_1200w-SL1_26596.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Looking easterly toward West Mountain behind the white cliffs of The
Causeway.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">The Causeway</h4>
<p>Many maps, including the USGS topo maps, label the ridge line that runs from
south of Dry Basin up to Little Dry Mesa, and across to the lower reaches of
West Mountain as "The Causeway." However, the USFS has erected small signs on
either end of a short built-up section of road with guardrails as "The
Causeway." This second usage seems to be supported by the definition I found
of a causeway: A road or path raised above the natural level of the ground by
stones, earth... along the top of an embankment.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSCVODmYvj_-xD4hdlfPuhyphenhyphenlSv_qqD_rlCGlcbSUco3vbqM2-UHeUg89AjuUK5CFwoU6Jvc1Yc0NfHOAqswn8sZg5vXJ1gRnxpeym9oRtlosN8f1KVZ7F3P6urovkKCWNHKsZckcZY6IC0Tz5cO_1B_Jnu-F-oo-O4OH5vrp22p8AUSs9C5pfwjiIdIXw/s1200/Causeway-sign_1200w-SL1_19774.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="673" data-original-width="1200" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSCVODmYvj_-xD4hdlfPuhyphenhyphenlSv_qqD_rlCGlcbSUco3vbqM2-UHeUg89AjuUK5CFwoU6Jvc1Yc0NfHOAqswn8sZg5vXJ1gRnxpeym9oRtlosN8f1KVZ7F3P6urovkKCWNHKsZckcZY6IC0Tz5cO_1B_Jnu-F-oo-O4OH5vrp22p8AUSs9C5pfwjiIdIXw/w640-h358/Causeway-sign_1200w-SL1_19774.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This photo (from my previous visit) shows one of the small signs designating "The Causeway."</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I crossed The Causeway and pulled off the road to walk back and take photos. </p><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1e6EIoXzqzAIaGX10fI307NbPtsEC2WoMa44-PrAWCwcJ7WPeZS31HwB8tYTLVJ1_ZE4j1kPc9eSloVOAXCCSDozJQniP6J-H2MPg09fmcUhox25M-fXzaNlRO9t17FilklE1Un_dlRFalBZRQUx6kriY2DXT2m-b7qe_q8uiJUtshQyU55jj6L3imRY/s1200/CausewayRd-ShayMtn_1200w-SL1_26600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="1200" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1e6EIoXzqzAIaGX10fI307NbPtsEC2WoMa44-PrAWCwcJ7WPeZS31HwB8tYTLVJ1_ZE4j1kPc9eSloVOAXCCSDozJQniP6J-H2MPg09fmcUhox25M-fXzaNlRO9t17FilklE1Un_dlRFalBZRQUx6kriY2DXT2m-b7qe_q8uiJUtshQyU55jj6L3imRY/w640-h432/CausewayRd-ShayMtn_1200w-SL1_26600.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking toward the north and seeing the layered Shay Mountain.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I
sent up the drone for a spherical panorama since this seemed
like the ideal use case. Spectacular views both north and south.</p>
<p>I recommend clicking the full-screen icon [ ] in the upper right or viewing the pano on <a href="https://kuula.co/post/5XHx5" target="_blank">Kuula</a>.</p>
<iframe allow="xr-spatial-tracking; gyroscope; accelerometer" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="500" scrolling="no" src="https://kuula.co/share/5XHx5?logo=1&info=1&fs=1&vr=0&sd=1&thumbs=1" width="100%"></iframe>
<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWdorowV6dMLB3eROCNdHrssnH2GjFBO7-tcM5vflJwhyphenhyphenbk59sSNXKJrVr-pijK0geyCkJf5TMTO3X8qDigdIo1PJqy1KhCiE4fJ-SfzjJr8bvChZn8g0vZidt0fuje-RlX6gajGluXgZ0pf-i0ADi5Ix1cSC9wxJmFrmngBvF1sZKMPSSs-mlqJ245co/s1200/TheCauseway-south_1200w-DJI_0518.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="1200" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWdorowV6dMLB3eROCNdHrssnH2GjFBO7-tcM5vflJwhyphenhyphenbk59sSNXKJrVr-pijK0geyCkJf5TMTO3X8qDigdIo1PJqy1KhCiE4fJ-SfzjJr8bvChZn8g0vZidt0fuje-RlX6gajGluXgZ0pf-i0ADi5Ix1cSC9wxJmFrmngBvF1sZKMPSSs-mlqJ245co/w640-h420/TheCauseway-south_1200w-DJI_0518.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An aerial view toward the south.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>As I drove on aspen and oaks were rampant on the slopes below the road in
yellows and oranges. Even without autumn colors this is a delightful road with
amazing views. Anyone who has driven in the region has noticed how prominent
the Abajo Mountains are—you can see them for many, many miles away. Well, from
Causeway Road you can return the favor and get a vista to the south that is
breathtaking. (Sometimes it's a bit hazy.) This was a beautiful, clear day,
unlike my last time, but even so the far features were obscured by the
atmosphere and didn't turn out as well in my photos as I hoped.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjRXTMlIycWPljK6TW5v9UCyQUlTDqIvNFhjs7bpcDuxAqEUL2uGgm0i8vAr2i_6N5ylMuaZ0pnGuK3C5IvhlXAQiZjwGXXyvGCVFJVD6Su-b7JBQ5Ac2J8O0Jydl9W9WXYDDpwBKKZ8kmPb6FdXDOas5l3SFqxQ-5f9SqjTS58n0POKnvHTmIvtWLoQk/s1200/CausewayRd-ChippeanRidge_1200w-SL1_26607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="716" data-original-width="1200" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjRXTMlIycWPljK6TW5v9UCyQUlTDqIvNFhjs7bpcDuxAqEUL2uGgm0i8vAr2i_6N5ylMuaZ0pnGuK3C5IvhlXAQiZjwGXXyvGCVFJVD6Su-b7JBQ5Ac2J8O0Jydl9W9WXYDDpwBKKZ8kmPb6FdXDOas5l3SFqxQ-5f9SqjTS58n0POKnvHTmIvtWLoQk/w640-h382/CausewayRd-ChippeanRidge_1200w-SL1_26607.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chippean Ridge in the middle distance is comprised of eroded Navajo sandstone.<br />On the horizon you can see just the tops of the Bears Ears peaks on the far side of Elk Ridge.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPk3FvwTEjeVHVK2qw1hloBIlWLqVoXDONqt4JG1vkWZ0rqQN7SEyMUyY8sYCCVBhri_F7zE96yj1r6P9VD3fb7Bi6jIg7ue3kjZcxHEFFN6gASV73Of8KzjLn_r6PBp-pmSbYKcK29r_5lxIYZfmKHEu__D7FvH_2HnvbOVv1jVmjxkgaNKyy6GZU-KU/s1200/CausewayRd-maplesCliff_1200w-SL1_26613.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="811" data-original-width="1200" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPk3FvwTEjeVHVK2qw1hloBIlWLqVoXDONqt4JG1vkWZ0rqQN7SEyMUyY8sYCCVBhri_F7zE96yj1r6P9VD3fb7Bi6jIg7ue3kjZcxHEFFN6gASV73Of8KzjLn_r6PBp-pmSbYKcK29r_5lxIYZfmKHEu__D7FvH_2HnvbOVv1jVmjxkgaNKyy6GZU-KU/w640-h432/CausewayRd-maplesCliff_1200w-SL1_26613.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gorgeous view from Causeway Road.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvfTVegxUzeI7RmNivmeHpn0hOBrxU20qhTy0zWaHGEUv0-rXxMLJNXrU2qXSO_OdPnBvAOqdUxYA1glocxKdK-wDSTi0LIZKrANf9s57Qo0rCBuRZxfKx7CpJzHgRaYC9xx10ohy40OlELsmmI9MAkt7pIFlTS8thiVlxh2y49MHW-PcBIgHMLWS8Rm8/s1200/CausewayRd-redYellow_1200w-SL1_26638.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="801" data-original-width="1200" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvfTVegxUzeI7RmNivmeHpn0hOBrxU20qhTy0zWaHGEUv0-rXxMLJNXrU2qXSO_OdPnBvAOqdUxYA1glocxKdK-wDSTi0LIZKrANf9s57Qo0rCBuRZxfKx7CpJzHgRaYC9xx10ohy40OlELsmmI9MAkt7pIFlTS8thiVlxh2y49MHW-PcBIgHMLWS8Rm8/w640-h428/CausewayRd-redYellow_1200w-SL1_26638.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another beautiful view.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>On a particularly wide turn-out, as the road bends around a ridge allowing a
great view, I came across the New Mexico truck I'd seen earlier. There was a
gentleman eating his lunch, sitting on a ice chest, and admiring the view. I
parked, careful not to block his view, took a few photos and struck up a
conversation. This was Raul from Tularosa in southern NM who took a week off
to explore this part of Utah. I tried to be helpful by giving him suggestions
for some of my favorite places to visit. We also discussed books about New
Mexico or written by New Mexicans. I very enjoyable break from the drive.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMIoFMI9xp7GhoUSVCvu_yhEVcTi4WUiR0oN_MehJFh8iJaJZ6BY9OoIMtLzMTPZdsalXCI-Mytzah-_R6YcrcfBd_ridYcJQG1VWQ6bTcR4fTqw64zUzXoPrRN9bRMHb2QhFlSu-ROms3KYpZwQVezuBsG0U8jj8cqK8n2SzGwzx9MIdsVTDpdLYOL6g/s1200/CausewayRd-foothills_1200w-SL1_26641.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="721" data-original-width="1200" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMIoFMI9xp7GhoUSVCvu_yhEVcTi4WUiR0oN_MehJFh8iJaJZ6BY9OoIMtLzMTPZdsalXCI-Mytzah-_R6YcrcfBd_ridYcJQG1VWQ6bTcR4fTqw64zUzXoPrRN9bRMHb2QhFlSu-ROms3KYpZwQVezuBsG0U8jj8cqK8n2SzGwzx9MIdsVTDpdLYOL6g/w640-h384/CausewayRd-foothills_1200w-SL1_26641.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I think this is Mt. Linnaeus.</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Johnson Creek Road</h4>
<p>I continued along the mountain side until I came to the junction with Johnson
Creek Road where I turned left. The entrance to the developed USFS Nizhoni
Campground is less than 500 yards from the junction. From there both sides of the road are clear of trees. At first
I thought this was the scene of a long-ago fire, but now I'm thinking these
southeast facing slopes don't receive enough moisture to support a forest.</p>
<p>
In just less than 2 miles the road crosses Johnson Creek. At least this is
what I learned looking at the map, as there is no indication of running water this time of year.
There are a couple dispersed campsites both along here and farther up the road
as it gains altitude and trees. I stopped a time or two for photos of the
eastern slopes of West Mountain.
</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLQ8VGqqW_LdiXTTlXo37hSFqumE3D5sje26hZgBObH-7KJZcC4YG_bM2z6qK7Ax0wx7JvK0r9fuU0aIGAIjLqYs7R3kyLmHGCQy2_gal0ahqrktO8W4yLFs7LqSyuD04AuLilFakGG2V1uv-Rh69Z7u1dMSks6KOpmlxS-ocnX3ZROYKgjp9lcEyCIZM/s1200/JohnsonCrRd-WestMtn_1200w-SL1_26659.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="754" data-original-width="1200" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLQ8VGqqW_LdiXTTlXo37hSFqumE3D5sje26hZgBObH-7KJZcC4YG_bM2z6qK7Ax0wx7JvK0r9fuU0aIGAIjLqYs7R3kyLmHGCQy2_gal0ahqrktO8W4yLFs7LqSyuD04AuLilFakGG2V1uv-Rh69Z7u1dMSks6KOpmlxS-ocnX3ZROYKgjp9lcEyCIZM/w640-h402/JohnsonCrRd-WestMtn_1200w-SL1_26659.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking up at West Mountain, the other major peak of the Abajos.<br />In the upper mid-right of the photo you can see the tilted strata of the red Kayenta sandstone <br />and "above" it, just to its right, the lighter Navajo sandstone. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>In addition to being a dramatic mountain view, this photo provides an
illustration of how the Abajo Mountains, like both the La Sal Range and Henry
Mountains, were formed. Magma rose roughly 20-30 million years ago, pushing up
the sandstone layers and forming domes of igneous rock called laccoliths. The
quartz rich laccoliths resisted erosion and comprise the tops and ridges of
these mountains. I'm no geologist and my very simplified version may not be
totally accurate. You might find this
<a href="https://geology.utah.gov/apps/intgeomap/" target="_blank">interactive map of Utah geology</a>
interesting. I find this fascinating. </p>
<p>
I came upon a steep side road entering a backlit aspen grove. Rather than
drive up this unknown road I pulled off, parked, and walked up the road with
my camera. Actually, the road looked to be in very good condition. I later
figured out this is the road to Camp Jackson Lodge & Resort, but found
little information about it on line.
</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsHhENYNgJrjTtlPRCmLO0ESndcex9qKMgoX6JyCRgL6FKysvTCKtZreogozF_QDERhmvZuw4rRn18TvZVHZYLksS6fJAZ4LEoXAhh96vlE0ADa54EVfA_RRu4laUCDEqPK35myHmWU-HrFEqoc4sPrglfgWYU3obpLqbfpRNf0XZjdmzb4ZQPXnHfhc0/s1200/CampJacksonRd-tall_1200h-SL1_26668.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="905" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsHhENYNgJrjTtlPRCmLO0ESndcex9qKMgoX6JyCRgL6FKysvTCKtZreogozF_QDERhmvZuw4rRn18TvZVHZYLksS6fJAZ4LEoXAhh96vlE0ADa54EVfA_RRu4laUCDEqPK35myHmWU-HrFEqoc4sPrglfgWYU3obpLqbfpRNf0XZjdmzb4ZQPXnHfhc0/w482-h640/CampJacksonRd-tall_1200h-SL1_26668.jpg" width="482" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking up the side road into the heart of the aspen grove.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnuUNzcQHuT8QfvK8r7vCV34fm1ON9aFXLlx20_qfMHMLzuZTfX147W-tFIBVMeLQfmr8u6IZKopKEF_3udjcqJXSP5vdlpt48i7DZ5Snf9Az_F2_32FtNojGtb8jF9SPKq0ZiD2uoIEhYvRN18vo4w9G4X1ssUZwEcveBM33QD1d4MhYXnefBwqSnxRo/s1200/CampJacksonRd-twins_1200w-SL1_26667.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="950" data-original-width="1200" height="506" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnuUNzcQHuT8QfvK8r7vCV34fm1ON9aFXLlx20_qfMHMLzuZTfX147W-tFIBVMeLQfmr8u6IZKopKEF_3udjcqJXSP5vdlpt48i7DZ5Snf9Az_F2_32FtNojGtb8jF9SPKq0ZiD2uoIEhYvRN18vo4w9G4X1ssUZwEcveBM33QD1d4MhYXnefBwqSnxRo/w640-h506/CampJacksonRd-twins_1200w-SL1_26667.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The trees were backlit by the sun. Amazing color to the eye; harder to photograph.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrAAQDS1F0EoklOeYZ04skHqZk0MXQNX1ktpNruiyPR_QCGBJkuUQJRDZNMXVovkXGG_FM_2JDTAy_NwFQe_zlG640gtwYwDN9benD3fobNqqaWaFTc1HA2WEKcCXkSDS80FTsgUy_Un-UFUd4YVsS9Aqbr6OVMkLOWHPrLx7vIc4WEnIBFAmifzToxzE/s1200/CampJacksonRd-fir_1200h-SL1_26675.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="819" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrAAQDS1F0EoklOeYZ04skHqZk0MXQNX1ktpNruiyPR_QCGBJkuUQJRDZNMXVovkXGG_FM_2JDTAy_NwFQe_zlG640gtwYwDN9benD3fobNqqaWaFTc1HA2WEKcCXkSDS80FTsgUy_Un-UFUd4YVsS9Aqbr6OVMkLOWHPrLx7vIc4WEnIBFAmifzToxzE/w436-h640/CampJacksonRd-fir_1200h-SL1_26675.jpg" width="436" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This beautiful, symmetrical fir was ready for Christmas with<br />its golden aspen leaf ornaments.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>After returning to my truck I took the opportunity to have lunch. Right after
this junction is a fence with cattle guard and a large sign announcing that
camping is prohibited beyond this point as the land is protected as watershed
for Monticello. (Though I don't understand the hydrological logic here as this
area drains into Johnson Creek just like the miles of road south of here where
there are many campsites.) The next camping allowed would be one of the
official campgrounds on North Creek Lane outside of Monticello.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiADXARzXwZVRD4s_1nD5D5OUqSGMzvCLOAzMBZdhZa_WSu9-v81el_UzZ_dT66aePU7ZgP6PWbTTcEDsjO4DzHakqHx69aiUJepqr6Kx354H9ULDoVYJ2rtRAxA27GMRG3HM8AsG2s_WY_tutTf5bEHhnUfbrTrnmgpUn-1hSkjw3W3unBArbrLa858Jc/s1200/JohnsonCrRd-ridge1_1200h-SL1_26683.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="899" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiADXARzXwZVRD4s_1nD5D5OUqSGMzvCLOAzMBZdhZa_WSu9-v81el_UzZ_dT66aePU7ZgP6PWbTTcEDsjO4DzHakqHx69aiUJepqr6Kx354H9ULDoVYJ2rtRAxA27GMRG3HM8AsG2s_WY_tutTf5bEHhnUfbrTrnmgpUn-1hSkjw3W3unBArbrLa858Jc/w480-h640/JohnsonCrRd-ridge1_1200h-SL1_26683.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Headed toward Jackson Ridge.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>After passing Johnson Creek (I may have seen a little flowing water here) the
route becomes a steep alpine road. Look for the road cut in the following
photos.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo5ZVWLkUDAFwNVJodnW1mo80LAwDFxfFUePui8UwKeiB7fo93rlRczBx90JkTMekj_qz_zdUPQzLUohLuc7nNmRcVOJZarJ-RrQ9LLQOvn0VAAllV-D_2B9IXLNZDU9OgpavpK4WWoYeZoQ-3fYgiZPR8Y4f9H-uQlKidIxsq8eqNtYZJNCA3l_GUWj8/s1200/JohnsonCrRd-ridge2_1200w-SL1_26686.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="722" data-original-width="1200" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo5ZVWLkUDAFwNVJodnW1mo80LAwDFxfFUePui8UwKeiB7fo93rlRczBx90JkTMekj_qz_zdUPQzLUohLuc7nNmRcVOJZarJ-RrQ9LLQOvn0VAAllV-D_2B9IXLNZDU9OgpavpK4WWoYeZoQ-3fYgiZPR8Y4f9H-uQlKidIxsq8eqNtYZJNCA3l_GUWj8/w640-h386/JohnsonCrRd-ridge2_1200w-SL1_26686.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Note the tremendous rock slide falling toward the center of the photo and the hill of rock<br />at the top that I will describe below. You can see the road make a hairpin turn at that point.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjmDkYmk1u5OJ_SyanoaYfbShObqDwBuKsKeNdcT_6-5MMR0WxrQoe21aemPDH5otDnpek7ure7RE9X61syE8vZ88L7Lwd1uzXHh9GBeuEBXRuf-3yHcr1YTuPE5hRy17u82N1SbYwCNbmuVuEVaYKAB_wtHOj7exI0F5EZ_zs0hALCaawot5lCS6PeYU/s1200/JohnsonCrRd-ridge3_1200w-SL1_26687.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjmDkYmk1u5OJ_SyanoaYfbShObqDwBuKsKeNdcT_6-5MMR0WxrQoe21aemPDH5otDnpek7ure7RE9X61syE8vZ88L7Lwd1uzXHh9GBeuEBXRuf-3yHcr1YTuPE5hRy17u82N1SbYwCNbmuVuEVaYKAB_wtHOj7exI0F5EZ_zs0hALCaawot5lCS6PeYU/w640-h426/JohnsonCrRd-ridge3_1200w-SL1_26687.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can you see the road cut in the hillside above the aspen?</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>At a hairpin turn nearly to the top of Jackson Ridge there was a sight. For one
thing there was a panoramic view, for another there was a hill of broken rock
on the outside of the curve. There were a couple trucks parked and I could see
people up on top. Don't ask me why I didn't take a photo of that as I don't
know, I should have. As many photos as I take on these trips, I seem to miss a few good ones each time.</p>
<p>
Anyway I parked and started to clamber up the hill. It was 20 or more feet
above the road surface and once I was on top I could see it fell away to the
east roughly 2000'. It was an interesting experience climbing the rock pile.
The rocks were irregular in shape and size, but each was mostly longer than
wide and with sharp angles. When stepping on one it would slightly tilt and
would ring as it hit its neighbor. It wasn't a resonate ring, but amazing even
so. I'm guessing this is the remains of a plutonic intrusion that shattered into these acute cornered rocks and boulders, perhaps due to sudden cooling. But again, I'm just guessing based upon a little "dangerous" knowledge. Real geologists feel free to correct me in the comments.</p>
<p>
The people on top were examining the terrain below with binoculars and a
spotting scope. I asked what they were looking for and they replied "elk."
They were pretty intent (except for the woman involved in her phone—I guess
there was good cell service up here) so I didn't bug them with follow-up
questions. I'll assume they were hunters seeing where the game was located.
</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7fewV84IevOawQJ_QkfRunyZDD-u9j5mH07lRYNzk_WNWh7C2qoZKGVx8gaGuxih8wyy-JF61UpPUrW3GfA2YTNWA8yYlKBN7YKXF3ukyr_J9AQWLUnV0OZVbkSsR9wvjgtemUKsEmoB_7r-uKapfqmKNo3bo_vxDJ2pdUIEfTc2Ah8DTPNGc3QT0SlI/s2400/JohnsonCreek_Pano_2400w-SL1_26694-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="610" data-original-width="2400" height="162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7fewV84IevOawQJ_QkfRunyZDD-u9j5mH07lRYNzk_WNWh7C2qoZKGVx8gaGuxih8wyy-JF61UpPUrW3GfA2YTNWA8yYlKBN7YKXF3ukyr_J9AQWLUnV0OZVbkSsR9wvjgtemUKsEmoB_7r-uKapfqmKNo3bo_vxDJ2pdUIEfTc2Ah8DTPNGc3QT0SlI/w640-h162/JohnsonCreek_Pano_2400w-SL1_26694-6.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A three exposure wide panorama of the Johnson Creek watershed. Click to enlarge.<br />You can easily see the road traverse the slopes below South Peak. <br />In the full-resolution photo I can see Blanding at the far right. Quite a view.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I'd been watching the needle on my gas gauge dropping toward 'E' as I drove up
the narrow, steep road and it was almost there. I decided it was time to empty
my Rotopax gas carriers into my tank so I would be confident making it into
Monticello. This pull-off at the top of the rock slide was a good spot for the
transfer.</p>
<p>
Continuing up the hill I crested Jackson Ridge within less than a mile. The
road began a long, gentle decline that was really more of a traverse of the lower, grass covered slopes of Twin Peaks before climbing again up the slopes of Horsehead Peak. I was surprised by all the apparent terracing on the
slopes. I'm guessing it's erosion control for the watershed.
</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgct5ghm3enkkrIJQSIWS-Du-MI9os-J1Ns5Voyz78R21VjlUjtB2PMu8JRnHteex1mkLKc_iAwQKON5cONLfKCyKsscf8wzBhkaiZGyWcKO5JyjKKIri_oQr67azhaOO0Iocj_pzqTn0YRcwk59DXURevAo_Z601oWW87AUTkN9AaGky4wuQrQdT5goUA/s1200/WestMtn-twinpeaks_1200w-SL1_26697.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="689" data-original-width="1200" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgct5ghm3enkkrIJQSIWS-Du-MI9os-J1Ns5Voyz78R21VjlUjtB2PMu8JRnHteex1mkLKc_iAwQKON5cONLfKCyKsscf8wzBhkaiZGyWcKO5JyjKKIri_oQr67azhaOO0Iocj_pzqTn0YRcwk59DXURevAo_Z601oWW87AUTkN9AaGky4wuQrQdT5goUA/w640-h368/WestMtn-twinpeaks_1200w-SL1_26697.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking past the side of Twin Peaks Mountain at West Mountain.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>The road climbed a bit more and then I was over Cooley Pass. There were remnants of snow in the shade, but not attractive enough for a photo. It was
only as I was working with the maps to write this post that I discovered the
pass is only about 3000' horizontal feet from Abajo Peak and about 1000'
lower.</p>
<p>
From there it was a steep descent down narrow, forested North Canyon to North Creek Lane
which leads directly into Monticello. Now I was back on familiar
territory. I turned left (west) to see if there was autumn color in this area,
but the northern exposures were long past peak. I turned around to head to town.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Monticello</h4>
<p>I filled up the truck at the Maverik, then pulled to the side to look at my
maps and decide what was next. It was only about 3pm, so I had options. When I
was planning my trip I'd thought about heading up the West Dolores River into
the San Juan Mountains as I'd seen lots of aspen my last time that way. At
this point, however, after having driven all day that seemed like a long way
to go and I'd already seen good autumn color.</p>
<p>
I recalled that Dolores Canyon was much closer and had great scenery. That
would make a great destination.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<p>
<i><b>The trip will continue in the next post. Thanks for following along.</b></i>
</p>
<div><br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />Bosque Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00001863270259847102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3983525105536347837.post-2928493943762802182023-11-08T13:24:00.001-07:002023-11-08T13:24:24.507-07:00Annular Eclipse, Red Canyon, Utah - October 2023<h2 style="text-align: left;">Moss Back Road and Radium King Road, Utah</h2>
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">October 12 - 14, 2023</h3>
<p>
<i>My longtime friend Bill mentioned there was an annular eclipse coming to
the Albuquerque area in October. It's not unusual for me to go camping about
this time every year, so he was cautioning me that I might want to stay home
and view the eclipse instead.</i>
</p>
<p>
<i>I had not heard of this solar event. I looked it up and discovered
the center line would also cut though my favorite area of Utah. Looks like I
could do a little fall camping after all!</i>
</p>
<p>
<i>Time to start planning an October trip. The big question in my mind was where
would I go to best enjoy the eclipse? I thought Valley of the Gods would be
an excellent backdrop, but knew it would be too full of people, since it is
already (too) popular in the fall, much less for such an event. Then I
thought about Muley Point. It was also popular, but there are campsites away
from the central viewpoint that would likely be available, especially if I
got there a day early. Then the chatter started up on social media by folks
who were going to drive to Utah for the eclipse. Hmm, I figured I'd be
better off if I selected a place that is off the radar of the usual
tourists. Moss Back Road and Red Canyon, one of my favorite places, is
relatively unknown. That should be a good spot. </i>
</p>
<p>
<i>I used the PhotoPills app to research the location with regard to the sun
position. From my previous visits I knew there were tall buttes to the east
of the camping area. I needed to make sure the sun would be high enough by
the time of the eclipse. It would, but I'd get there a day early to get the
lay of the land, just in case.</i>
</p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #ffe599;">Remember to click any photo for a larger version!</span>
</h4>
<div><br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Thursday, October 12th<br /><br /></h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Drive Time</h4>
<p>
I figured if I took off by 10am I'd get up to the camping area in good time.
Well, it was half past by the time I got on the road after a last minute stop at
Albertson's for necessities. I took my usual route, stopping for a roadside
lunch on the way.
</p>
<p>
I filled the gas tank at Beclabito, as usual, cut through Arizona and up into
Utah. I usually also stop in White Mesa to top off the tank so I'm as full as
can be when I drive into the empty spaces. But it was later than I'd reckoned by the time I got there and the needle was barely under the
"F", so I didn't stop. Would I reap the consequences later in the trip?
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Moss Back Road and Red Canyon</h4>
<p>
I tore across the top of Cedar Mesa toward Fry Canyon, then wound my way up to
the moss back formation. I passed a couple camps on my way in which was
unusual, but not unprecedented. I thought I'd camp at the good spot I'd found
last fall, but alas there was a group there with several jeeps, a travel
trailer, and ATVs. I drove on, but didn't find a good site. I did see a pop-up
camper perched on a little hill with two folks in their camp chairs enjoying
the view. I waved and we tried to exchange a few words, but we were too far
apart for a real conversation and I was on the hunt to find a site. I drove
on, but quickly came to the end of the "good" road. I'd driven farther my
first time up here and know better now.
</p>
<p>
I turned around, passed the camper and passed the group. I saw one spot that
looked pretty good until I realized there was no view of the canyon, so
continued on. I came upon a nice, small spot. It was great. It was right on
the sandstone and fairly level. I could back up to near the rim so I could
have an awesome view from my camp chair.
</p>
<p>
There was wind, but it wasn't too bad and the forecast predicted it would fall
off toward evening (it didn't.) However I was fortunate that there as a large
berm just upwind of my camper that deflected the worst of it. I also climbed
the mound to get a good photo of my campsite.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRPStRhKPGSH1O1C2SB40RhpJHZBA-i4mCHReQrKHaRoHjvQwWJTqgXEOt0T6rbDocqBe8pIDy96OJPYnSkKqbkr2Ni77wwHzIOJugoFf5nFqF0uzp4XTPzNznrklBe5CHdQMVBCDdtLNjnFTmo4XmFtHmMGt_TLGuIcYtnw8AQPLLyXozA2KJBlCDuIo/s1200/MossBackRd-campsite_1200w-SL1_26424.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="620" data-original-width="1200" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRPStRhKPGSH1O1C2SB40RhpJHZBA-i4mCHReQrKHaRoHjvQwWJTqgXEOt0T6rbDocqBe8pIDy96OJPYnSkKqbkr2Ni77wwHzIOJugoFf5nFqF0uzp4XTPzNznrklBe5CHdQMVBCDdtLNjnFTmo4XmFtHmMGt_TLGuIcYtnw8AQPLLyXozA2KJBlCDuIo/w640-h330/MossBackRd-campsite_1200w-SL1_26424.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
My campsite overlooking the North Fork of Red Canyon.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
The evening light was gorgeous. When I took my camera out I noticed I could
only see one of the Tables of the Sun buttes from this site, unlike my
previous camp sites—slightly disappointing. There wasn't much in the way of a
sunset.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIoBytl6_4UOdxt_lCXMBBWYGLukG9zneWuHcWSnR-2Dg9IepIynhyphenhyphenkfcKL6jNS14bzT80s5pdNov9yJhpW_KEsiNE-a2JrmjFQqZd5fL3_8NFOOzfVsDd-SY9K-81yjtkVshw192Jd7dNUSywYMHoOd_ZhODtqudLRmgM3v9IT8FtIunv_vD6AmTydpM/s1200/TableOfTheSun_1200w-SL1_26426.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="688" data-original-width="1200" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIoBytl6_4UOdxt_lCXMBBWYGLukG9zneWuHcWSnR-2Dg9IepIynhyphenhyphenkfcKL6jNS14bzT80s5pdNov9yJhpW_KEsiNE-a2JrmjFQqZd5fL3_8NFOOzfVsDd-SY9K-81yjtkVshw192Jd7dNUSywYMHoOd_ZhODtqudLRmgM3v9IT8FtIunv_vD6AmTydpM/w640-h366/TableOfTheSun_1200w-SL1_26426.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Tables of the Sun North
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I had trouble falling asleep due to the wind, but at least the gusts were not
so strong as to slam into the camper.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Friday, October 13th<br /><br /></h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Moss Back Road and Red Canyon (continued)</h4>
<p>I woke to a calm morning with the temperature at 41º. It didn't start warming
up until the sun rose over the buttes about 8:30.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfOBfvdyiFLwbWzbLOrwBzn2fyMWODxHFBKRw8ftoRJSP2QG5jNEd8V0483R96Rdu24Syzosdq0T0ZnZvGhkQKSuy5BwWAnKrdCVGD0kCrog-RITMOCYY7je8r20Y4uaG2WIiq2sUdefov4K20Mwi8_5kXziay_1woYjIsTpx71ZZ7bWOpKvf7HNr_jm8/s1200/RedCanyon_1200w-SL1_26439.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="693" data-original-width="1200" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfOBfvdyiFLwbWzbLOrwBzn2fyMWODxHFBKRw8ftoRJSP2QG5jNEd8V0483R96Rdu24Syzosdq0T0ZnZvGhkQKSuy5BwWAnKrdCVGD0kCrog-RITMOCYY7je8r20Y4uaG2WIiq2sUdefov4K20Mwi8_5kXziay_1woYjIsTpx71ZZ7bWOpKvf7HNr_jm8/w640-h370/RedCanyon_1200w-SL1_26439.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Those buttes in the middle background separate the North and South Forks
of Red Canyon.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
As I mentioned, part of the reason to camp Thursday night was so I could see
what the perspective would be at 10:30am. Yes, the sun would easily clear the
buttes, but it didn't move out over the canyon as far as I'd hoped. I
understood this was not important for photographing the eclipse itself, since
the filter to protect the camera was too dark to capture anything other than
the sun and none of the landscape would be visible. Still, I had in mind
trying some sort of double exposure trickery, so walked around to see if I
could find a better, nearby perspective. I couldn't. Oh, well.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW_HFVnW0VeIGN8KO8XzJgE1C0tTH2aRY3088Q1hJcuAH6fD7bJdxilFK4GPrgc9AbwwB6DLtDlTsfIjAN-EVtPfjwjLZregZgnKtbJ0tnAyuq4_pn9dtHx9CA1mRS5zTOVpCyQxoPAVR2LlSLqN10bGkuQjlX4gRjQANduQudaJOrs5SrHwQWyM0XhgI/s1200/WingateMesa-MossBack_1200w-SL1_26452.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="679" data-original-width="1200" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW_HFVnW0VeIGN8KO8XzJgE1C0tTH2aRY3088Q1hJcuAH6fD7bJdxilFK4GPrgc9AbwwB6DLtDlTsfIjAN-EVtPfjwjLZregZgnKtbJ0tnAyuq4_pn9dtHx9CA1mRS5zTOVpCyQxoPAVR2LlSLqN10bGkuQjlX4gRjQANduQudaJOrs5SrHwQWyM0XhgI/w640-h362/WingateMesa-MossBack_1200w-SL1_26452.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Look along the edge of the moss back sandstone bench and at the far end<br /> you might see
just a corner of my camper peeking around a large juniper.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>I took photos of the scenery and the few birds that presented
themselves. A Rock Wren hung around for me to get a passible shot. Mostly I
simply enjoyed the views.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY2tFJ2RV3SkFaxjijx1y_TUwuzKtnkDa0ZOsWTYwdIsHjc5SD68kjR97oZfXdupKRJFZGyLfwmNhEWvYJ9wWK_NKthQVxuWJwu5oJAc5QW7_IcLFqBSujwq5aQeZzdzCcMFuwK50EJx3r6qLvrvUxwMg0r5_PusAFBVdt0A536aM2Whso6Bwcb8ueCBI/s1200/RockWren_1200w-7D_26807.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="870" data-original-width="1200" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY2tFJ2RV3SkFaxjijx1y_TUwuzKtnkDa0ZOsWTYwdIsHjc5SD68kjR97oZfXdupKRJFZGyLfwmNhEWvYJ9wWK_NKthQVxuWJwu5oJAc5QW7_IcLFqBSujwq5aQeZzdzCcMFuwK50EJx3r6qLvrvUxwMg0r5_PusAFBVdt0A536aM2Whso6Bwcb8ueCBI/w640-h464/RockWren_1200w-7D_26807.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A cooperative Rock Wren
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
After lunch I took a "geology walk." Yeah, not really. I took a short hike
along the base of the butte behind my campsite. It was interesting and I took
lots of photos of the rocks and soils that seemed very colorful and curious.
Unfortunately, the photos are pretty boring for the most part. I'll only share
a few.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjDhoXWfg30QiWj4ntQ0Ay_e0dNyJuqqMZheHOviOETw-0J0YdUr0OqcfIkK0PU27b_SWOLg9wQOB8CgRvNdkGCx4ex12R1HACtCkYngsLOM-V3dsVkkDspj3hhTxTbHo4Zw9LIXvYOfZhuYBlf6eh1QisuY-M6rAOcFUXuexBsyXNxZ2HWn2IgcyvkFA/s1200/DryPlants_1200h-SL1_26465.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="780" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjDhoXWfg30QiWj4ntQ0Ay_e0dNyJuqqMZheHOviOETw-0J0YdUr0OqcfIkK0PU27b_SWOLg9wQOB8CgRvNdkGCx4ex12R1HACtCkYngsLOM-V3dsVkkDspj3hhTxTbHo4Zw9LIXvYOfZhuYBlf6eh1QisuY-M6rAOcFUXuexBsyXNxZ2HWn2IgcyvkFA/w416-h640/DryPlants_1200h-SL1_26465.jpg" width="416" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Dried plants still provided a bit of color.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht7ilcxR1RD1Xo5cuxO6mw8TVRIwzeXPEdr-9GBnLYZTGN2zgy6sn0Qw3rNVslza8kWFA_AhJYtw6fC78sUxyy85K4AzB8X4Mx9vHb7YgAJLRiddPeS8jlJm-mNbUfuK1sFSY5urgd24DPtWyNbk7HfQIu-BS4NlnfP8xXMSRCz0n1RC8881XjP8Q5K7Y/s1200/Chert_1200sq-SL1_26466.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht7ilcxR1RD1Xo5cuxO6mw8TVRIwzeXPEdr-9GBnLYZTGN2zgy6sn0Qw3rNVslza8kWFA_AhJYtw6fC78sUxyy85K4AzB8X4Mx9vHb7YgAJLRiddPeS8jlJm-mNbUfuK1sFSY5urgd24DPtWyNbk7HfQIu-BS4NlnfP8xXMSRCz0n1RC8881XjP8Q5K7Y/w640-h640/Chert_1200sq-SL1_26466.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
I believe this is a piece of jasper chert someone placed on top of this
sandstone boulder.<br />I left it in place for the next wanderer to
discover.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><br /></p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje2yUb4xI7ta4AA_DUHAjCGxh8YOMx61zbcm8pswJ3drjKNUI2EBgkJi8q4bdAbB8ZGllMrc5GYAWmCtCRdE-oRh7dA0oXaMqciwYrZq5Mk_p0iyMTgml1DwwoZWY38vA7RThBjFM1lofMPov9K2jJPkrBb-xF3DgWDV5MdKLNA8mo1xkWNJuJkk_okK4/s1200/Butte-Rocks_1200w-SL1_26476.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1200" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje2yUb4xI7ta4AA_DUHAjCGxh8YOMx61zbcm8pswJ3drjKNUI2EBgkJi8q4bdAbB8ZGllMrc5GYAWmCtCRdE-oRh7dA0oXaMqciwYrZq5Mk_p0iyMTgml1DwwoZWY38vA7RThBjFM1lofMPov9K2jJPkrBb-xF3DgWDV5MdKLNA8mo1xkWNJuJkk_okK4/w640-h454/Butte-Rocks_1200w-SL1_26476.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;">The dark rock with thin layers I believe to be bentonitic claystone
which is very soft for rock.</span>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
<i>Please note: I believe this is my fourth time in the last couple of years
to camp here on Moss Back Road. Consequently I didn't take as many photos as
I did my previous times. If you are interested in this unique area and want
to see more photos, please click "<a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/search/label/Moss%20Back%20Rd" target="_blank">Moss Back Rd</a>" here, or in the "Topics and Locations" column to the right. Thanks.</i>
</p>
<p>
Sitting in my chair later that afternoon I got out my binoculars to look
across the valley and along the bluffs. I spotted a truck and a car parked
along Radium King Road across the way and wondered if they were exploring old
mines on foot. There are many old mines in the area. Later that evening the
truck was gone, but the car was still there. That made me curious and looking
closer I discovered they had set up a small camping tent near the canyon edge.
Hmmm, I bet they will have a great view of the eclipse from there—which got me
to thinking.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGmiL8x1qYLqAVmU_jIfeiExJpC1pHmBY_SycNZAXMxWimwaAJhwHU6CChyphenhyphenMYstR9IBysZmn8V7IoxZthSEaW88mjByPH8YbXdQ0115tixY5dIMXU4WAzHgPbpJgSHLL1YXmnwW9GmM8pHhT43AAFoAVzdn16eWJkBCuL3MJhI6CsarkEB4pOurhvw6LY/s1200/WingateMesa-spot_1200w-SL1_26480.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="612" data-original-width="1200" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGmiL8x1qYLqAVmU_jIfeiExJpC1pHmBY_SycNZAXMxWimwaAJhwHU6CChyphenhyphenMYstR9IBysZmn8V7IoxZthSEaW88mjByPH8YbXdQ0115tixY5dIMXU4WAzHgPbpJgSHLL1YXmnwW9GmM8pHhT43AAFoAVzdn16eWJkBCuL3MJhI6CsarkEB4pOurhvw6LY/w640-h326/WingateMesa-spot_1200w-SL1_26480.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Looking across at Wingate Mesa and Radium King Road (between mesa and
canyon.)<br />If you look carefully just below the left of the mesa you
may see a tiny circle. Remember this spot.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
A few clouds came in later. The forecast had mentioned the possibility, but
also indicated they'd be gone by the time of the eclipse. They made the sunset
a little more interesting this evening.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy-vL84smhFw6ErCp3C-CGVDUsge6pCHFSiINM3ILndH3XLYpiE33W_gquBXASY9KAyAvLTihlndhyphenhyphenZSjnnqZPXDQN9SMf6Kb97KoafkeFog0DF7mdxnERYbY59WseA4wXU_5gtKuCdtrbLl3M2tkz1d77It5YaQTrEGkZ_3U5BjrBA8XJuaCOyV8HdWc/s1200/Sunset_1200w-SL1_26488.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="724" data-original-width="1200" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy-vL84smhFw6ErCp3C-CGVDUsge6pCHFSiINM3ILndH3XLYpiE33W_gquBXASY9KAyAvLTihlndhyphenhyphenZSjnnqZPXDQN9SMf6Kb97KoafkeFog0DF7mdxnERYbY59WseA4wXU_5gtKuCdtrbLl3M2tkz1d77It5YaQTrEGkZ_3U5BjrBA8XJuaCOyV8HdWc/w640-h386/Sunset_1200w-SL1_26488.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Color in the sky just after sunset.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Saturday, October 14th<br /><br /></h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Moss Back Road and Red Canyon (continued)</h4>
<p>By the time I woke up I'd decided to move over to the area along Radium King
Road, which I'd eyeballed yesterday, to take my eclipse photos. I'd break camp
and drive around to to the road, perhaps a bit farther than the tent campers.
I'd look for a place I could pull off the road, if possible, and with a view
back across the valley.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7SBqbFVcBx22hDBZAfoUfHolxQwJbQP4DQ2vX1-dpiID3kYz36D6CCBxZC8Rvg6cyApWARq1kBeX5DjMnRNSymzrRYCtnWUZW_B9OEB-u3wg7qT37V1KwwCNw6yvHyg-EaGOT2-_kimaNhAAXzjXsB886V4Akrm-JentpsccA0DkuVDMtydNjejO60Vc/s1200/Mesa-MossBack_1200w-SL1_26507.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="770" data-original-width="1200" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7SBqbFVcBx22hDBZAfoUfHolxQwJbQP4DQ2vX1-dpiID3kYz36D6CCBxZC8Rvg6cyApWARq1kBeX5DjMnRNSymzrRYCtnWUZW_B9OEB-u3wg7qT37V1KwwCNw6yvHyg-EaGOT2-_kimaNhAAXzjXsB886V4Akrm-JentpsccA0DkuVDMtydNjejO60Vc/w640-h410/Mesa-MossBack_1200w-SL1_26507.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Early morning sunshine on Wingate Mesa
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Radium King Road and Solar Eclipse</h4>
<p>
I found good site off road. It didn't have the view of Red Canyon as seen from
Moss Back Road, but was on the edge of a small, steep, tributary canyon. It
did have a good sight lines back to the three Tables of the Sun. I walked
around and found the perfect spot to set up my tripod. I had read the whole
event would take about two hours, so carried my camp chair and small table to
the spot, as well. I had a thermos full of hot coffee to add to my enjoyment!
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJsGychIu9-DF5BoFja4AN6G4OVqNoNTSmXOLliAguPbbU5LUbartqwmvyJG-RdkNH7APr3Ly0oGEoTaHjsiULBklYLgCWihtwYqJBELIfqiXgZ1VPDSKoEseOTgQXoFiuKaXFrxF54PIFD7ldl5kXSXN0Kp76Z9adOFtdi6aTKCjkenpmMbJz1MCJCwo/s1200/EclipseViewSite_1200w-SL1_26514.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="749" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJsGychIu9-DF5BoFja4AN6G4OVqNoNTSmXOLliAguPbbU5LUbartqwmvyJG-RdkNH7APr3Ly0oGEoTaHjsiULBklYLgCWihtwYqJBELIfqiXgZ1VPDSKoEseOTgQXoFiuKaXFrxF54PIFD7ldl5kXSXN0Kp76Z9adOFtdi6aTKCjkenpmMbJz1MCJCwo/w640-h400/EclipseViewSite_1200w-SL1_26514.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Here is my eclipse watching spot with cameras and coffee.
<br />This spot was in that tiny circle in my Wingate Mesa photo from yesterday.<br /></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I set up my 7D with the long lens to photograph the sun while I'd use the
smaller DSLR for ambient shots. By the time I got everything set the eclipse
was starting. As the moon covered more and more of the sun I'd take a photo
every 5 or 10 minutes. I probably should have decided on a regular interval,
but guess I was too lazy.
</p><p>After about half an hour I realized I was getting cold and had to walk back to my truck to get a sweater. It was amazing to me that although I could not detect a dimming of the light, it was nonetheless noticeably cooler!</p>
<p>
Between shutter releases I walked round admiring the geology and rocks. Found
some interesting erosion patterns to photograph and a few rocks to add to my
collection. This was BLM land, not in the national monument, so amateur
collection is allowed.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg6J6HT6uLVTSP2uwE1BCBSG_LPYK31mouThKjqER5nPO1F08KK4lr1JPHBmo_mkeA16U6-sJvQbMpYM658khHtwS9hLvA4hpjRjbFFxupw1-184cnThhSkdZQoVnkRHEdEwADXXdliMIfQ-_tjc585nMDBawwzcWI4zoLyPWMty-kuc7nsAfciLfDlQ0/s1200/Mudstone-Sandstone_1200w-SL1_26520.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg6J6HT6uLVTSP2uwE1BCBSG_LPYK31mouThKjqER5nPO1F08KK4lr1JPHBmo_mkeA16U6-sJvQbMpYM658khHtwS9hLvA4hpjRjbFFxupw1-184cnThhSkdZQoVnkRHEdEwADXXdliMIfQ-_tjc585nMDBawwzcWI4zoLyPWMty-kuc7nsAfciLfDlQ0/w640-h426/Mudstone-Sandstone_1200w-SL1_26520.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The remains of mudstone cap on top of fine-grained Shinarop sandstone.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9TdIbyoC4rh1fCeCn2GTsIBCJV7_H4sVgJkV4VxQMLJpJQ2rCowHooqbrjS1Z9XCZ-KjCTEnXpxeTvyB3G1DCQU944YxEyq9oh6ManjY8vPp87ZWv6PJtlFzY61B9CAjM8PDhnBOOIZjiSyHoVDt6DdsTV_jPI_hTxcCA2VY7dqCaEsiiWKSs-3jJedc/s1200/Concretions_1200w-SL1_26521.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="796" data-original-width="1200" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9TdIbyoC4rh1fCeCn2GTsIBCJV7_H4sVgJkV4VxQMLJpJQ2rCowHooqbrjS1Z9XCZ-KjCTEnXpxeTvyB3G1DCQU944YxEyq9oh6ManjY8vPp87ZWv6PJtlFzY61B9CAjM8PDhnBOOIZjiSyHoVDt6DdsTV_jPI_hTxcCA2VY7dqCaEsiiWKSs-3jJedc/w640-h424/Concretions_1200w-SL1_26521.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Spherical concretions have eroded out of conglomeratic sandstone.<br />These
are not Moqui marbles as they have no iron oxide shell.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM0KO_v3USver6QshtGygPKHvmb2FH9hePW1VXLppIJ-Rx7dCOa1jUDNA8NxxWWhtwxI1eXa4W3ZvVFuiDk0eexUEJFYY_RKNAdLN_7ABJN2pAbkSLJ2DSwDXomTnI2kf8t30M5GEoHgfplsMDjwnFAIzvOWgTmJ6b_pzMsVXD6y70g9ye72qMDrq_h_s/s1200/Shinarump_1200w-SL1_26533.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM0KO_v3USver6QshtGygPKHvmb2FH9hePW1VXLppIJ-Rx7dCOa1jUDNA8NxxWWhtwxI1eXa4W3ZvVFuiDk0eexUEJFYY_RKNAdLN_7ABJN2pAbkSLJ2DSwDXomTnI2kf8t30M5GEoHgfplsMDjwnFAIzvOWgTmJ6b_pzMsVXD6y70g9ye72qMDrq_h_s/w640-h426/Shinarump_1200w-SL1_26533.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Looking up the edge of the tributary canyon eroded into the Moenkopi
formation.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I also had the idea to send my drone up to take a spherical panorama during
the ring-of-fire phase. The pano is automated, so all I had to do was put it
in the air and click "go." I could then return to my camera for the money
shot. Which I did.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-hWTEVKtM_EIYN85dPUYC-D7TCK7oXifqjte6rFPU0gZDJMG7SQ_o9XsxNkm0gLCyjr6TAxIKfdrBWublGUACWOmOH9wDqka5OmRBlt0kr9fZbUlP_xNfywZtR2rVo8jTXbxn0VrFKVAX7Ky600zALExRcdYdEHLLvZ-Ra3XdOPA2AKsuh8V8LGvF_5A/s1200/AnnularEclipseSequence_1200w.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="1200" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-hWTEVKtM_EIYN85dPUYC-D7TCK7oXifqjte6rFPU0gZDJMG7SQ_o9XsxNkm0gLCyjr6TAxIKfdrBWublGUACWOmOH9wDqka5OmRBlt0kr9fZbUlP_xNfywZtR2rVo8jTXbxn0VrFKVAX7Ky600zALExRcdYdEHLLvZ-Ra3XdOPA2AKsuh8V8LGvF_5A/w640-h214/AnnularEclipseSequence_1200w.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Composite photo of the annular eclipse "Ring of Fire" and its phases. Time moves to the right.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
During the eclipse I used my other camera to photograph the terrain and sky. I
knew it wouldn't hurt the sensor to include the sun as long as I didn't
linger. This way I could put it all together in post processing.
</p>
<p>
I'm really excited at how well it turned out. I used one exposure for the
foreground, one for the buttes and sky, then added the sun, scaled down, from
the filtered image. The result is correctly positioned and the lens flair
provides extra drama. The fact that the buttes are named Tables of the Sun
adds the icing on top, so to speak!
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib3ZJf4BkP7z2wxuuZqI2bXbzT2Qstq0LBeKKLq9c-IM6LFsGml0xOE3X-HTylurmx5tw99eIqt4npFFNQ9l9y2GrQK5FbjPjN69zgXGkZ2tgAOFP-BTNJYGe-GnkdzEPirobNFuT8dKABT5L0jD92V5VPLY1QKZw20g50xeTOkmo6mwmMpuuDXTJBFaU/s1200/AnnularEclipse-composite_1200w-SL1_26526.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="958" data-original-width="1200" height="510" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib3ZJf4BkP7z2wxuuZqI2bXbzT2Qstq0LBeKKLq9c-IM6LFsGml0xOE3X-HTylurmx5tw99eIqt4npFFNQ9l9y2GrQK5FbjPjN69zgXGkZ2tgAOFP-BTNJYGe-GnkdzEPirobNFuT8dKABT5L0jD92V5VPLY1QKZw20g50xeTOkmo6mwmMpuuDXTJBFaU/w640-h510/AnnularEclipse-composite_1200w-SL1_26526.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Composite photo of annular eclipse, correctly scaled and positioned.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
My drone successfully captured a panorama during maximum eclipse, but the sun
was just a little too high to be within view (though I doubt it would have
been able to capture the actual eclipse). Actually, I guess these spherical
panoramas are really hemispherical as most of the sky is not captured.
Nonetheless, it turned out to be a dandy pano and shows the North Fork of Red
Canyon, Wingate Mesa, and the Tables of the Sun very well.
</p>
<br />
<iframe allow="xr-spatial-tracking; gyroscope; accelerometer" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="500" scrolling="no" src="https://kuula.co/share/5X1VH?logo=1&info=1&fs=1&vr=0&sd=1&thumbs=1" width="100%"></iframe>
<br />
<p>
I recommend you either click the full-screen icon in the upper right or
<a href="https://kuula.co/share/5X1VH" target="_blank">this link</a>.
</p>
<p>
On the drive out I stopped along Radium King Road for photos. One to capture the colorful
clays; another to show the moss back sandstone ledge upon which I was
camping the nights before; and a view down into Fry Canyon.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho71rXQRsVP8EQma-JvaZDu4Nay7_b7rr8XXIJpfnt7jXKl0uxm4LjRdzNFS_1q2zW-gassU7DPC4HgM0BnRWwVvxN09B3R_udDB7nN7NXWVaMR_8EHHlG7zOLmbNQBQll4KPrdm8GwrM5Vtgw_8mwGdwzlxmrXzKQLluwuqpQHZs_BQDUIgSYCWT24aA/s1200/RadiumKingRd-north_1200w-SL1_26534.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="737" data-original-width="1200" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho71rXQRsVP8EQma-JvaZDu4Nay7_b7rr8XXIJpfnt7jXKl0uxm4LjRdzNFS_1q2zW-gassU7DPC4HgM0BnRWwVvxN09B3R_udDB7nN7NXWVaMR_8EHHlG7zOLmbNQBQll4KPrdm8GwrM5Vtgw_8mwGdwzlxmrXzKQLluwuqpQHZs_BQDUIgSYCWT24aA/w640-h394/RadiumKingRd-north_1200w-SL1_26534.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Colorful bentonitic clays below the Wingate sandstone butte.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSP7_V8jUOv7hFRBRk4qUFny4yeZFiFjo_zSutxICOkezS5I5bJPXbQwi-O_iDNg7q7LUkEYLutH-MXxtB1tfN8h1rCuJTYMDtvVPnZpltqwo2bjlqqeI_0Ko62gXHCTTJh_UUHiFwRfKUOylByY5oLYuSeeVazo5AhQvlXppM-waoZGZ_ThGAtqEMM4o/s1200/RadiumKingRd-TablesBench_1200w-SL1_26536.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="803" data-original-width="1200" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSP7_V8jUOv7hFRBRk4qUFny4yeZFiFjo_zSutxICOkezS5I5bJPXbQwi-O_iDNg7q7LUkEYLutH-MXxtB1tfN8h1rCuJTYMDtvVPnZpltqwo2bjlqqeI_0Ko62gXHCTTJh_UUHiFwRfKUOylByY5oLYuSeeVazo5AhQvlXppM-waoZGZ_ThGAtqEMM4o/w640-h428/RadiumKingRd-TablesBench_1200w-SL1_26536.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
That horizontal band between the butte and canyon is the moss back ledge
where I camped.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP1V5-52_Yq8bjUpYEsh3jQ5kwJ2QYW36KXz-HPqnmLt_o-n4s7D6zt7ARXy78Rz8oGFknbPtH7y9PILvhDw58ChuD0aMJOE5bPt8avgPrf_pEhVo6edROX12qwgk88dleyPdJYMNSnSHoFKE7B9j0ajYTqhMqlNHIcgUPQC5nXqQ5Qn7lBcJQwdZx6R0/s1200/TheNeedle_1200w-SL1_26537.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="1200" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP1V5-52_Yq8bjUpYEsh3jQ5kwJ2QYW36KXz-HPqnmLt_o-n4s7D6zt7ARXy78Rz8oGFknbPtH7y9PILvhDw58ChuD0aMJOE5bPt8avgPrf_pEhVo6edROX12qwgk88dleyPdJYMNSnSHoFKE7B9j0ajYTqhMqlNHIcgUPQC5nXqQ5Qn7lBcJQwdZx6R0/w640-h374/TheNeedle_1200w-SL1_26537.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
As Radium King Road drops down the north side of the butte you can see
The Needle rising from Fry Canyon.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: left;">On the Highway</h4>
<p>
I turned east on UT-95 headed for the Abajo Mountains. After only a few miles
there was a beautiful view of the Bears Ears on the far side of White Canyon
of Natural Bridges.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1vPQnEG4TtHmOdO1JIch85xRj9a4IChAhx7vEpBEuU2BthVisEKLIkyJ3v14jZD-kgfpsby20gHjAFsXI5Nsj5zOpJl0Veg5wQKCjU6lQxSfzPoE1upjyQ4tzTeEcV7teT2QboG9i8gnZJXqCcrST5K6Nl88dKejL5G20_39UpFq2Tqlkl3TBgjvNtng/s1200/BearsEars_1200w-SL1_26539.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="742" data-original-width="1200" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1vPQnEG4TtHmOdO1JIch85xRj9a4IChAhx7vEpBEuU2BthVisEKLIkyJ3v14jZD-kgfpsby20gHjAFsXI5Nsj5zOpJl0Veg5wQKCjU6lQxSfzPoE1upjyQ4tzTeEcV7teT2QboG9i8gnZJXqCcrST5K6Nl88dKejL5G20_39UpFq2Tqlkl3TBgjvNtng/w640-h396/BearsEars_1200w-SL1_26539.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Looking across White Canyon (where Natural Bridges is found) to the
Bears Ears.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p><br /></p>
<hr />
<h3 style="text-align: center;"><i>Thanks for reading along. I will continue the remainder of this trip in my
next post.</i></h3>
<div><br /></div>
Bosque Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00001863270259847102noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3983525105536347837.post-71532536043439777262023-10-28T07:53:00.000-06:002023-10-28T07:53:02.281-06:00Cabresto Lake & Rio Chiquito - September 2023<h2 style="text-align: left;"> Carson National Forest, New Mexico</h2>
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">September 26 - 29, 2023</h3>
<p><br /></p>
<p>
<i>
This is a continuation of my September trip that started with a visit to
<a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2023/10/rio-grande-del-norte-national-monument.html">Rio Grande del Norte National Monument</a>. I broke this trip into two independent parts. To continue... After
deciding not to camp at Wild Rivers Recreation Area I returned to the
highway and drove south on NM-522.
</i>
</p>
<p>
<i><b>Click on any photo for a larger version!</b></i>
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Tuesday, September 26</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Questa</h4>
<p>
I filled my gas tank in Questa, just to be on the safe side, and looked at my
Carson National Forest map as I'd remembered the turn off I would want was a
little tricky. Actually it's a lot tricky. You go east on NM-38 toward Red
River. The map has you thinking you take an immediate left, north, but you
have to go almost a mile east before you see the sign to Cabresto Lake,
FR-563, aka Cabresto Road. There is a clearly visible sign, so they're not
hiding it, it's just not where you'd expect.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Cabresto Road</h4>
<p>
Once you leave Questa the road become gravel with significant washboard, but
also enters the forest, with trees right up next to the edge of the road. The
route follows Cabresto Creek past a few summer cabins. About 6 miles from the
highway is the turn-off north to the lake. You now will have to climb 2 miles
of rocky, rough road. The sign says "Not Suitable for Passenger Cars" and
that's mostly the case, though a careful driver in a car with some
undercarriage clearance could make it up without incident. Still, it's not the
most pleasant road. I met two vehicles coming out.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Cabresto Lake and Campground</h4>
<p>
<a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/carson/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=44116&actid=50" target="_blank">Cabresto Lake</a>
was created behind a concrete and earth dam. The lake is known for being one
of the few places where one can catch brook trout. Though I was told by
fishermen that the best spot for brookies is Lake Fork Creek where it enters
the lake. Elevation is 9,500 feet.
</p>
<p>
This primitive campground is officially recognized as such by the forest
service, but it is much more "informal" than the usual USFS campground. There
is a vault toilet in the middle of the parking area, which is the end of the
road. There is a picnic table at the edge of the parking area next to the
hill; another a little ways up that hill with a small level site for a tent
and a sloped parking space; a walk-in site on the north side of the road just
as it gets to the parking area; and two (or three) sites without tables along
the south side of the road a few hundred feet before you get to the lake.
</p>
<p>
<a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2016/07/northern-new-mexico-mountains-june-2016.html" target="_blank">I camped at the lake once in 2016</a>
and my site was on a slope beyond what I could level, but I did have a view of
the lake, which was my goal at the time. I re-read my post from that visit: I
recommended simply camping in the parking lot as the day hikers and those
fishing would leave before dark.
</p>
<p>
When I arrived there was one 4Runner camped in one of the sites located before
you get to the lake. The gravel parking lot was completely empty. I walked
around looking for a level spot that would have a bit of view of the lake
(there are trees between the parking lot and the lake) and that would get sun
for the solar panels the next day.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnE54LQh9Jz53nOA0k_PCKZ2TiMtbN_b86fiLwaY1FjmKBU_pxJ75Y-8nAQOOXep_mnjjVJdsFbqyQT2L3P10l5sKKxJxD3QPvufJNin5DIVhA-2MYeCuBZ6thCOAARWT2zMYMxECtnQSCEzpCczv-oZoS8-uyWdmTIW-EwtkdPFP-GhvEASnLupTfb_Y/s1200/CabrestoLake-camped_1200w-SL1_26125.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="661" data-original-width="1200" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnE54LQh9Jz53nOA0k_PCKZ2TiMtbN_b86fiLwaY1FjmKBU_pxJ75Y-8nAQOOXep_mnjjVJdsFbqyQT2L3P10l5sKKxJxD3QPvufJNin5DIVhA-2MYeCuBZ6thCOAARWT2zMYMxECtnQSCEzpCczv-oZoS8-uyWdmTIW-EwtkdPFP-GhvEASnLupTfb_Y/w640-h352/CabrestoLake-camped_1200w-SL1_26125.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
My campsite at the edge of the parking area next to the lake.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I found a nice location along the lakeside edge near the gate to the dam
access road. I could get a bit of a view and, as I was at the end of the lot,
I'd be out of the way of folks coming in the next morning. It was about 6pm by
the time I was all set up and could sit and enjoy the evening. The lake level
was quite a bit lower than when I'd been there before, of course that was June
and not September. The clouds of earlier in the day were long gone, so there
wasn't much of a sunset.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvLIOo3D4fRO0PuSF1xQFbZ7OIOka4FWwWUgsjtFwDGpyqtrOPkGomVpCGEeAsE6kO9RiRKbFcVdFvW-Hid_Qx_6DhfYiyrTn8s71Y7FITi5-7wOl998STZI-xDXoj1R1oWynD-TztC50XZyJR5BOCpZVLO2qdpmag6usY54N22watrppMCKitIwvZwSM/s1200/CabrestoLake_1200w-SL1_26132.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="760" data-original-width="1200" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvLIOo3D4fRO0PuSF1xQFbZ7OIOka4FWwWUgsjtFwDGpyqtrOPkGomVpCGEeAsE6kO9RiRKbFcVdFvW-Hid_Qx_6DhfYiyrTn8s71Y7FITi5-7wOl998STZI-xDXoj1R1oWynD-TztC50XZyJR5BOCpZVLO2qdpmag6usY54N22watrppMCKitIwvZwSM/w640-h406/CabrestoLake_1200w-SL1_26132.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
View of the lake from the dam access road.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Wednesday, September 27</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Cabresto Lake (continued)</h4>
<p>
I had the place to myself the next morning. The sun rose over the eastern
mountains about 9am and was pleasant to sit there drinking my coffee and
watching the antics of the many, many chipmunks. After a while a SUV with two
older couples came in and parked. They were going to hike up the trail to Heat
Lake and back—about 5 miles each way. Sounded ambitious to me, but they did
look to be in better physical condition than your humble correspondent. (I
talked to them again when they returned later in the afternoon and learned
that they'd not made it that far after all.)
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8gnp7ORvum54Rc-w4mGmxHNNcFdWES5TXU4jr-BGbTb_O6iKDQZsvI0xr7_Sh1L7LeM3o3qlnQdIxW_p5mJl6N0fPQsRR6A9cUP4AwQMVPKKkwaj9bOC3_qF3y7FmkqwHu02ZnqtvGh8NHljY5LdEDfqn2D2_HS8iH1TOo5I1NWsA20ceRvo4ZxGhyphenhyphenp0/s1200/Chipmunk_1200w-7D_26317.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="852" data-original-width="1200" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8gnp7ORvum54Rc-w4mGmxHNNcFdWES5TXU4jr-BGbTb_O6iKDQZsvI0xr7_Sh1L7LeM3o3qlnQdIxW_p5mJl6N0fPQsRR6A9cUP4AwQMVPKKkwaj9bOC3_qF3y7FmkqwHu02ZnqtvGh8NHljY5LdEDfqn2D2_HS8iH1TOo5I1NWsA20ceRvo4ZxGhyphenhyphenp0/w640-h454/Chipmunk_1200w-7D_26317.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Despite there being many, many chipmunks constantly around I only
managed one good photo.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Lake Fork Creek Trail</h4>
<p>
The hike I'd made up Lake Fork Creek on my original visit had been a
highlight, so I was looking forward to a second take. I put a picnic lunch in
my camera bag and set off about 11am. It was a glorious day with clear blue
sky and mild temperatures. The trail is narrow with plenty of ups-and-downs as
it follows the creek. Much of the time you can only hear the water rushing
nearby. At one point a side channel runs right next to the path. A very
beautiful hike.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiijR2z-zH1tRNQragSpkfzZ9wUKpmSgeUnCZKeeLGpLg8PAIqpDZnW7MxJrUcKYO6i-1MQq8oKdf48VgOAtEf4JaayNACDwZXs8QuTYige3nlngbEjUmdmzbLhf-kqTTZZKzi-9zFbcRbJVw1rkQ0gwLtdOa-8D0K6qoQJaStyUnJX_PPwT0J9NM8vv5I/s1200/LFCT-wilderness_1200h-SL1_26150.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="979" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiijR2z-zH1tRNQragSpkfzZ9wUKpmSgeUnCZKeeLGpLg8PAIqpDZnW7MxJrUcKYO6i-1MQq8oKdf48VgOAtEf4JaayNACDwZXs8QuTYige3nlngbEjUmdmzbLhf-kqTTZZKzi-9zFbcRbJVw1rkQ0gwLtdOa-8D0K6qoQJaStyUnJX_PPwT0J9NM8vv5I/w522-h640/LFCT-wilderness_1200h-SL1_26150.jpg" width="522" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Entering the wilderness (composite photo)
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
Although only a few aspen were contemplating color change many smaller plants,
bushes, and deciduous trees were well into their autumn finery. There were
only a few wildflowers this time, in contrast to the many wildflowers along
the trail in June. After about 2 miles I found a little grassy area to sit and
have my lunch before heading back to camp.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb-vm-Qppbea9iKvx6rHwTQAdv7z-b98T_mXsFtR9jdxtr3u7ARwWfZoRH6qCOl8l8hfoCDX1WlB-mJyI_HTo94ENMbu9aA1e9MVjTlhC5NeEZteeXZ5pGn4HiIZwIMEPiKqF2VhyvlBvaDCJYz140vf9Uh5ww0TeVLK4BP0bM-oIZRvtkMK6qnOrPavo/s1200/LFCT-3lobed_1200w-SL1_26154.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="910" data-original-width="1200" height="486" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb-vm-Qppbea9iKvx6rHwTQAdv7z-b98T_mXsFtR9jdxtr3u7ARwWfZoRH6qCOl8l8hfoCDX1WlB-mJyI_HTo94ENMbu9aA1e9MVjTlhC5NeEZteeXZ5pGn4HiIZwIMEPiKqF2VhyvlBvaDCJYz140vf9Uh5ww0TeVLK4BP0bM-oIZRvtkMK6qnOrPavo/w640-h486/LFCT-3lobed_1200w-SL1_26154.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Leaves beginning to celebrate the season
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-aGYet-qze0FoNQAOmuEgoJYwEOp84heo9rmRyj1ITnIEFwhLdlmHPA5A3dq6j2Qj6pLbThNMWZWRHFCDrsjub_RjdC6ekBOQTe5OOwg5oH-6JwJijV7qoLUAGN2g6JFI03KIEv3lctUXQltDaMnc1o0etPSjI4J7WwlOROKboN7Op_x4LLjiMQfnB58/s1200/LFCT-purple_1200w-SL1_26156.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="687" data-original-width="1200" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-aGYet-qze0FoNQAOmuEgoJYwEOp84heo9rmRyj1ITnIEFwhLdlmHPA5A3dq6j2Qj6pLbThNMWZWRHFCDrsjub_RjdC6ekBOQTe5OOwg5oH-6JwJijV7qoLUAGN2g6JFI03KIEv3lctUXQltDaMnc1o0etPSjI4J7WwlOROKboN7Op_x4LLjiMQfnB58/w640-h366/LFCT-purple_1200w-SL1_26156.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful colors</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAWM2LzsHt2EXVnofSk8Yxgks4a50e53riG768NmHlla_w5W3qLRvW9Ad-EhR_HbqLIXnm8uOkHkCbd67rSOr7J8K5dyQx-xdU5_pNvXf2SPPMxScdTrJ7zVMaOeJC1bGnWww5M-9iRPmX0egSANZo-Z1G2vC5me-WXdZdyXTvUASXA88v9LfoblDe9dg/s1200/LFCT-creek2trees_1200h-SL1_26152.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="921" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAWM2LzsHt2EXVnofSk8Yxgks4a50e53riG768NmHlla_w5W3qLRvW9Ad-EhR_HbqLIXnm8uOkHkCbd67rSOr7J8K5dyQx-xdU5_pNvXf2SPPMxScdTrJ7zVMaOeJC1bGnWww5M-9iRPmX0egSANZo-Z1G2vC5me-WXdZdyXTvUASXA88v9LfoblDe9dg/w492-h640/LFCT-creek2trees_1200h-SL1_26152.jpg" width="492" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Sometimes the creek was down a steep slope...
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwSkN1ZpX8NLTELlyq2WjkxTJm8KClPc2rn4gY1H7MVtTK-ntxJAoFVlk70OBRIqJPD1qjovKoIh9pJjwG2tXunxV45oEem9Ga1-RO7_SS_Ol4ZnahGVAwpGN264nPFiWYTaPfGUGjL59orzX-blX9dA-vGHdxBsdwqLAODaObgmN-RpCOVbNzigxqbG4/s1200/LFCT-parallel_1200h-SL1_26158.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="937" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwSkN1ZpX8NLTELlyq2WjkxTJm8KClPc2rn4gY1H7MVtTK-ntxJAoFVlk70OBRIqJPD1qjovKoIh9pJjwG2tXunxV45oEem9Ga1-RO7_SS_Ol4ZnahGVAwpGN264nPFiWYTaPfGUGjL59orzX-blX9dA-vGHdxBsdwqLAODaObgmN-RpCOVbNzigxqbG4/w500-h640/LFCT-parallel_1200h-SL1_26158.jpg" width="500" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
...sometimes is was right next to the path.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge6JWRnuYT7CczTiFguP9iwObnDUh_WFv6OWZeVAcZcXS3iCG3NUs0xZS5s0js58QN1c4GTcqrV5xM_2FHLwkC8yFpIs66SuZCBvdgaZQPdQOqSJ9cdfL1qMP4dw_St0rZk_yMsEaQJG7IYfG2xmKxvamdjKPtPSyGvC1NQ8DA39qYLRgOomPtc13I48U/s1200/LFCT-trail-reds_1200h-SL1_26169.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge6JWRnuYT7CczTiFguP9iwObnDUh_WFv6OWZeVAcZcXS3iCG3NUs0xZS5s0js58QN1c4GTcqrV5xM_2FHLwkC8yFpIs66SuZCBvdgaZQPdQOqSJ9cdfL1qMP4dw_St0rZk_yMsEaQJG7IYfG2xmKxvamdjKPtPSyGvC1NQ8DA39qYLRgOomPtc13I48U/w480-h640/LFCT-trail-reds_1200h-SL1_26169.jpg" width="480" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
More autumn foliage
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidhv00vLiHkRnbASMNVVQ5qPurFY9Mzltm_CviGQL9ZH6kzKAsA87R0aHYFhkpM9n44fzBowkuICKkRExdKjD4dnhswYyJ8tDgztbGJzZPAbQGogYPQR8OFmlzjwYL8oju7mUP7tjrJC9xNoKpQELNtQgUqsoe7-kPJbVI3eDsxgtgqouOq8xjoylHB8M/s1200/Caterpiller_1200w-7D_26348.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="893" data-original-width="1200" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidhv00vLiHkRnbASMNVVQ5qPurFY9Mzltm_CviGQL9ZH6kzKAsA87R0aHYFhkpM9n44fzBowkuICKkRExdKjD4dnhswYyJ8tDgztbGJzZPAbQGogYPQR8OFmlzjwYL8oju7mUP7tjrJC9xNoKpQELNtQgUqsoe7-kPJbVI3eDsxgtgqouOq8xjoylHB8M/w640-h476/Caterpiller_1200w-7D_26348.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
I spotted this interesting caterpillar next to the trail.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLxHXIB1q_OIjVG-lnEUPnv1BGz6JXaI26lyS-iZdGRM-0LN_rH8XnW8tZ8gEbNC6-LsH4z2qlpI9BTWNop-VW06FJ3dYEEoFkjU7rxOst2lnF9zvVTl7_20gA09LtnW4qeV1m9RiGNuVXn2_Ne8HUC-_eyuFm-gKQOcBFaGebmXjn5Uh59i3uOkfHIHo/s1200/LFCT-creek_1200h-SL1_26168.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="840" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLxHXIB1q_OIjVG-lnEUPnv1BGz6JXaI26lyS-iZdGRM-0LN_rH8XnW8tZ8gEbNC6-LsH4z2qlpI9BTWNop-VW06FJ3dYEEoFkjU7rxOst2lnF9zvVTl7_20gA09LtnW4qeV1m9RiGNuVXn2_Ne8HUC-_eyuFm-gKQOcBFaGebmXjn5Uh59i3uOkfHIHo/w448-h640/LFCT-creek_1200h-SL1_26168.jpg" width="448" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lake Fork Creek</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY-EcpuVLzxZiFg5AfLM4u71Y3TEd836BYVvOw1C5CedtDz1MFgpvxdtRSWtot6wi0P8yX7tq1PnJ1AxPWTf4CBj4beA3Jdr_eacQ-p9rKYvQDMo-F_XIbwZlJ7fZ9AcwLmHyqTN8pFWYEHIFF3TKtJGa0yAo6ap6XgHc2vEbuJD4Yx9oNiQvZmNRX81k/s1200/ScarletGilia_1200h-7D_26349.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="903" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY-EcpuVLzxZiFg5AfLM4u71Y3TEd836BYVvOw1C5CedtDz1MFgpvxdtRSWtot6wi0P8yX7tq1PnJ1AxPWTf4CBj4beA3Jdr_eacQ-p9rKYvQDMo-F_XIbwZlJ7fZ9AcwLmHyqTN8pFWYEHIFF3TKtJGa0yAo6ap6XgHc2vEbuJD4Yx9oNiQvZmNRX81k/w482-h640/ScarletGilia_1200h-7D_26349.jpg" width="482" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Late season Scarlet Gilia
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>Click video for a short clip:</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='720' height='405' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzXd_dU7OarM-_nzc61BsYNxeM1yQ0C_aXtOlUbZSjRMKMHWoVWXoWKeyn3VAgmlfbRUUjZu9Sj8YZeo7_GCA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0GdvyHi6VpzM1inVRFzOhOmijqrEsFmhPrJNLWJ7sLCy3YC8aDNR-KRTk8p89z_0KmF22L_m-Nplm5jjdLMaELliVwdE6HPjhPv2-_KFPro7Ah093WQkLRinK9H9nOlhNkSz8T9QD-Wp7UwrjLMSccttC2Ovt-umh8bH1GZ2dORL6Hz1RCQgeZD0LoHs/s1200/LFCT-lake_1200w-SL1_26174.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="843" data-original-width="1200" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0GdvyHi6VpzM1inVRFzOhOmijqrEsFmhPrJNLWJ7sLCy3YC8aDNR-KRTk8p89z_0KmF22L_m-Nplm5jjdLMaELliVwdE6HPjhPv2-_KFPro7Ah093WQkLRinK9H9nOlhNkSz8T9QD-Wp7UwrjLMSccttC2Ovt-umh8bH1GZ2dORL6Hz1RCQgeZD0LoHs/w640-h450/LFCT-lake_1200w-SL1_26174.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The trail returns to Cabresto Lake.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Campground Host?</h4>
<p>
After my hike I set up my chair to admire the view of the lake and surrounding mountains.
The weather was perfect. I'd make occasional forays to photograph the scenery
or butterflies; the birds were all around but refused to hold still for a
photo.
</p>
<p>
I found it amusing that I seemed to fall into the role of host. A car would
come in and the couple would ask me how to go down to the lake. A truck would
come in and the gentleman would ask me where he could camp. Another gentleman
asked where there was good fishing. Someone else asked where the trailhead was
located. Luckily, I knew the answers. LOL.
</p>
<p>
On one of my short perambulations I discovered the prolific blossoms on a
chamisa bush nearby were covered in butterflies. I don't think I've seen so
many crowded around one plant before. I snapped lots of photos and managed to
get a few nice ones.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgaEbRTBfYT2ZUPRzR-98DzMP8oS9sLW6zyN_F90YwBAkYUZ_kHfiFAiuzsIrLH47Kueu8nFezfGT2XiCfLDVkRlUXGJmWYhfi-i-Nj9l3V5bOjajiOaAptiepRUxVhLksTs1HjS7xV3eFDLV_rva8IziIxrrWe46Kc9-vhyphenhyphenguIKSE8aNSHqomrPgvI2E/s1200/Chamisa_1200h-SL1_26142.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="928" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgaEbRTBfYT2ZUPRzR-98DzMP8oS9sLW6zyN_F90YwBAkYUZ_kHfiFAiuzsIrLH47Kueu8nFezfGT2XiCfLDVkRlUXGJmWYhfi-i-Nj9l3V5bOjajiOaAptiepRUxVhLksTs1HjS7xV3eFDLV_rva8IziIxrrWe46Kc9-vhyphenhyphenguIKSE8aNSHqomrPgvI2E/w494-h640/Chamisa_1200h-SL1_26142.jpg" width="494" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
This chamisa was extremely popular with the butterflies.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu0zAPNbR09LETLMpAqx-Du90i0YFMax_xg4sl4Nd46mtrqo3d8V_fAeQgS74cLIZqLX9jhl7Zu5mUCCs1CCnigOhTaXVEnkimwbL1vrg7R9IlZw8_3524-40nCr_yg69CblAsomHVx4H3BMQrwiOmtPjyVHZryCTIrXueBcb1hjaKLAI4y0xWv_J5sYw/s1200/MilbertsTortoiseshell_1200w-7D_26366.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="834" data-original-width="1200" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu0zAPNbR09LETLMpAqx-Du90i0YFMax_xg4sl4Nd46mtrqo3d8V_fAeQgS74cLIZqLX9jhl7Zu5mUCCs1CCnigOhTaXVEnkimwbL1vrg7R9IlZw8_3524-40nCr_yg69CblAsomHVx4H3BMQrwiOmtPjyVHZryCTIrXueBcb1hjaKLAI4y0xWv_J5sYw/w640-h444/MilbertsTortoiseshell_1200w-7D_26366.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Milbert's Tortoiseshell
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpUH-ZwDWv8F1TrGKMCsUk2fz7J69BaWjnxmdEISPS7U7VFsRShm8pj-GENRbiIvBDKY93wIlSERPR9V8rSaJQYcSw9JZFnybbkuEgFYY-SC7F2_cdnfFcQN8qc8Tg3gTQh6FzhmZGMfOX6Foif1cFfz8uJ24ckMPQCtmImQBBZSFNzN2qx0kwTBVecIA/s1200/PaintedLady_1200w-7D_26390.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="903" data-original-width="1200" height="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpUH-ZwDWv8F1TrGKMCsUk2fz7J69BaWjnxmdEISPS7U7VFsRShm8pj-GENRbiIvBDKY93wIlSERPR9V8rSaJQYcSw9JZFnybbkuEgFYY-SC7F2_cdnfFcQN8qc8Tg3gTQh6FzhmZGMfOX6Foif1cFfz8uJ24ckMPQCtmImQBBZSFNzN2qx0kwTBVecIA/w640-h482/PaintedLady_1200w-7D_26390.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Painted Lady</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQuJ4K110UUXUUPTtJPQRDxyVeDiydKgPglsS7IvR50uOLzWg7U-17xYEL-MmG_6-kiKvpQ7OTbjGp7Eoo3dEwJJxfw_dC1x_HiS5w-CB7wY2aRTdHKQF-Qi0YA1wR_AV43pqssWYx-if13dJc468YyikbWHAyOKwt-EkMxQ3c96a0mSknrQxbRU5M5KM/s1200/RedAdmiral_1200w-7D_26399.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="877" data-original-width="1200" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQuJ4K110UUXUUPTtJPQRDxyVeDiydKgPglsS7IvR50uOLzWg7U-17xYEL-MmG_6-kiKvpQ7OTbjGp7Eoo3dEwJJxfw_dC1x_HiS5w-CB7wY2aRTdHKQF-Qi0YA1wR_AV43pqssWYx-if13dJc468YyikbWHAyOKwt-EkMxQ3c96a0mSknrQxbRU5M5KM/w640-h468/RedAdmiral_1200w-7D_26399.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A very orange Red Admiral
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWxR-WWOHchvjSNYdKrMf6lv7kZQUxZbjPHN3CUjLuFI3H7yRzc3LdgzSnWpewohtSRTjukm4DgN6ugvCdjW5Sn3UO7SunVlGFquYb5C4igcOPOFHIOoUDPcYMWwi30V9azyBUwwkGrDZaNorDUicxde2EmJAlRQfQz-nNBCsB8vD-ILHSrzrNjHJBo8M/s1200/RedAdmiral-forewing_1200w-7D_26405.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1200" height="570" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWxR-WWOHchvjSNYdKrMf6lv7kZQUxZbjPHN3CUjLuFI3H7yRzc3LdgzSnWpewohtSRTjukm4DgN6ugvCdjW5Sn3UO7SunVlGFquYb5C4igcOPOFHIOoUDPcYMWwi30V9azyBUwwkGrDZaNorDUicxde2EmJAlRQfQz-nNBCsB8vD-ILHSrzrNjHJBo8M/w640-h570/RedAdmiral-forewing_1200w-7D_26405.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Forewing view of a Red Admiral
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcbsvOS6KctyaZbFS-c0rcpXlRDZ3dnIq9FOX78DKjWaD4Z58Y0Ds_OtEaajpaZckntXOnmvWrQjuy9UYISMlThso94vtavKQiU8nj2wqh4DPOT0iu9YSvKS4Jf3UNW3_rCYqHwSIqnKyYek8cFI4XvxuWqNlRz6ABQlPb55g9hFH9b59xeMoqxFLmZCM/s1200/HoaryComma_1200w-7D_26411.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="822" data-original-width="1200" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcbsvOS6KctyaZbFS-c0rcpXlRDZ3dnIq9FOX78DKjWaD4Z58Y0Ds_OtEaajpaZckntXOnmvWrQjuy9UYISMlThso94vtavKQiU8nj2wqh4DPOT0iu9YSvKS4Jf3UNW3_rCYqHwSIqnKyYek8cFI4XvxuWqNlRz6ABQlPb55g9hFH9b59xeMoqxFLmZCM/w640-h438/HoaryComma_1200w-7D_26411.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hoary Comma</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
By evening several of the campsites just before the parking area were
occupied. All but one were out of sight and all were quiet. The parking lot
cleared out well before dark.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8ZekEyDh9Kc32cs2kvfk5k5xYiqQstPzxfeghc9BciR5xbyDrPynv-Q248Dc6kTkOMko745ZY2QtaPvfGOp5SnIEKArzarM-jvn_6je2cmTSEtXZ7eAvX0OJbfos_4Kx1Qmwj0hR4bETXjkU7a3gc2i48ee5a1E2wr14OLvw0ZmSvqP_Bq9tHRPZDDhE/s1200/Campsite_1200w-SL1_26193.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8ZekEyDh9Kc32cs2kvfk5k5xYiqQstPzxfeghc9BciR5xbyDrPynv-Q248Dc6kTkOMko745ZY2QtaPvfGOp5SnIEKArzarM-jvn_6je2cmTSEtXZ7eAvX0OJbfos_4Kx1Qmwj0hR4bETXjkU7a3gc2i48ee5a1E2wr14OLvw0ZmSvqP_Bq9tHRPZDDhE/w640-h426/Campsite_1200w-SL1_26193.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Afternoon view of my camp
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>That night as I went to bed I heard an owl calling nearby.</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Thursday, September 28</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Cabresto Lake (continued)</h4>
<p>
A quiet morning with a few high clouds in an otherwise blue sky. I would move
on today, though in no particular hurry. I planned to reverse course from my
first visit to this locale—down the mountain, up Cabresto Road, over the
mountain to Red River, then up over Bobcat Pass, through Eagle Nest, and up
the switchbacks on US-64. I would find the forest road I came out on and wind
my way to Rio Chiquito and the lovely campsite I had found those year ago.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVyMICsPqLs9Sk5KyVCPZUxGCOFNqzyC3UPzSVypCGZsAksNfxKtFKqYI53xkjREJmFKaC7b1Gta32kbNtTiBfiFvrJMDBTN7KElMK46py8UosDdgELgELoatJX9tKwCgd2hh3Ir0uGHdPiXOO4HIYo3uMGFTBhxwx5skBYoV1ldRZckj7IhPA31eLRUQ/s1200/CabrestoLake_1200w-SL1_26199.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="822" data-original-width="1200" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVyMICsPqLs9Sk5KyVCPZUxGCOFNqzyC3UPzSVypCGZsAksNfxKtFKqYI53xkjREJmFKaC7b1Gta32kbNtTiBfiFvrJMDBTN7KElMK46py8UosDdgELgELoatJX9tKwCgd2hh3Ir0uGHdPiXOO4HIYo3uMGFTBhxwx5skBYoV1ldRZckj7IhPA31eLRUQ/w640-h438/CabrestoLake_1200w-SL1_26199.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A last view of this gem of an alpine lake
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Cabresto Road FR-134</h4>
<p>
The drive down the mountain from the lake was easier than the grind up. I
turned left, east, when I reached the bottom. I noticed once again that there
were many dispersed camping sites along Cabresto Creek for the first couple of
miles east of the lake junction. Some looked nice; some looked well worn.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">FR-597</h4>
<p>
I don't know if the road up and over Sawmill Mountain to the ski town of Red River has a name,
but it is well marked at this end. It climbs quite high before cresting. Along
the way up I took a few photos of aspen that were trying to decide if they
wanted to turn yellow yet.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGCVmzw2t9pR1ekSPzt7YsZijPWAE2Iey7Wcr4jX-ur9p1dYcJc2xA-9WexuHlSl3euzOugJaeqPIZfzZLLCDCojmaWTJntqx9eJ1DKcbM_WYrQXEDcfGKPMCD1HLcOkMCa7GaFYusfHrwkCh_XPw0e0LyjcT8CWXuri_U4aCJSVFCVsGe9hBfl43-qMs/s1200/FS-597-greenAspen_1200w-SL1_26203.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="746" data-original-width="1200" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGCVmzw2t9pR1ekSPzt7YsZijPWAE2Iey7Wcr4jX-ur9p1dYcJc2xA-9WexuHlSl3euzOugJaeqPIZfzZLLCDCojmaWTJntqx9eJ1DKcbM_WYrQXEDcfGKPMCD1HLcOkMCa7GaFYusfHrwkCh_XPw0e0LyjcT8CWXuri_U4aCJSVFCVsGe9hBfl43-qMs/w640-h398/FS-597-greenAspen_1200w-SL1_26203.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Heading up the mountain toward Red River
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6NFmn41OLe2_2NyyCPSbbpjCdu1uMs0ZPhyphenhyphens9FlsWQkjlPq629j3zhj-fnwCXPmIiel0uoPm7Gl-NOXTWdy3RqrqWU6JP8rIDGFPMu36X6X1HgVn7Q9tiIeC3l6pwn-BcuVInDivBHIb50b0n6rw9LaEURhF_VuhHCYcmHOh3BGBrR4i2ED6SMpzroFI/s1200/FS-597-aspen_1200w-SL1_26206.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="828" data-original-width="1200" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6NFmn41OLe2_2NyyCPSbbpjCdu1uMs0ZPhyphenhyphens9FlsWQkjlPq629j3zhj-fnwCXPmIiel0uoPm7Gl-NOXTWdy3RqrqWU6JP8rIDGFPMu36X6X1HgVn7Q9tiIeC3l6pwn-BcuVInDivBHIb50b0n6rw9LaEURhF_VuhHCYcmHOh3BGBrR4i2ED6SMpzroFI/w640-h442/FS-597-aspen_1200w-SL1_26206.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Coming down the other side of the mountain.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Red River</h4>
<p>
I drove through the resort town of Red River, which was quite busy with
tourists. Red River has been a popular ski town and is also a favorite summer
destination. I'd hoped to stop at the public library and borrow their wifi,
but turns out that Thursday is their late opening day so I was out of luck. My
needs were not so great as to try another source so I continued east on NM-38,
Main Street.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM0tWkyfAohe8hIS4xgLjXHFqctZ_IB-uqMHFmz5sGMP7laKor2OnI80NCcwTz-Q-EpAYakjJIw9OhdlmNeRyvKHZf2JCZxDb8-7y83P62itr3xkP1N5VTgrOa9blwtzxRD1wI2J6lWlk9AZZa0J6KuCSpx-1sNhENMoxGz_3VEyx5oMKwDrhm7Vdafs4/s1200/RedRiver_1200w-SL1_26208.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="652" data-original-width="1200" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM0tWkyfAohe8hIS4xgLjXHFqctZ_IB-uqMHFmz5sGMP7laKor2OnI80NCcwTz-Q-EpAYakjJIw9OhdlmNeRyvKHZf2JCZxDb8-7y83P62itr3xkP1N5VTgrOa9blwtzxRD1wI2J6lWlk9AZZa0J6KuCSpx-1sNhENMoxGz_3VEyx5oMKwDrhm7Vdafs4/w640-h348/RedRiver_1200w-SL1_26208.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A view of the ski slopes and town of Red River.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Eagle Nest</h4>
<p>
It's a gentle climb up to Bobcat Pass and from there the highway dropped
slowly through open meadows to Eagle Nest where I turned right on the highway,
US-64. Looks like Cowboy's where I used to stop for lunch is still
closed.
</p>
<p>
I found out they are rebuilding and widening the highway from the bottom, near
the Angel Fire turn-off, all the way up to Palo Flechado Pass. The narrow road
needed it. I had to wait at least 15 minutes for the pilot car, but at least
that gave me plenty of time for a snack and to study my map to make sure of my
turn-off to Rio Chiquito.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Valle Escondido</h4>
<p>
You get to FR-437 from Valle Escondido Road and it was clearly signed. This
was the forest road that would lead to my old campsite and from there west to
the highway and out. There were some extremely rough patches of basalt that
crossed the dirt road. I sure didn't remember them being so bad from when I
came out this way years ago. I was concerned I was on the wrong road, but it
had been clearly marked and there hadn't been any junctions. I guess I just
didn't remember.
</p>
<p>
The road finally crested and came out to a large meadow area. I was ready for
a break to relieve myself. I got back on the road and continued on. I didn't
know it at the time, but I'd made a big mistake. I followed the road straight
though the next junction, but that took me onto FR-438, not 437. I should have
gone right at the junction, not that it was marked or anything. Had I taken
the right road, it was only about 3 miles to my destination.
</p>
<p>
As it was I wandered for another hour or two on bad roads, seeing no one. I
even came to a dead end at a canyon edge where both my GPS maps showed the
road continuing on. I had to turn around and backtrack quite a ways. I had
realized by this time I had missed a turn somewhere. Looking at the map and
Earthmate app I thought I found a route that would take me where I wanted to
go. So I followed that road until I got to a junction. There was a beat up
sign on the road that I needed to take that warned the road was closed as the bridge was
out. Ai-yi-yi. No choice but to take the other fork which would take
me... somewhere.
</p>
<p>
At least this road was fairly wide and in good condition. After a few miles I
saw an ATV coming from ahead—the first people I'd seen in hours. I waved them
down and asked for help. Luckily the older couple were from Eagle Nest and
were a little familiar with the area. Long story short, I learned from them
that the road I thought I needed was indeed open. The bridge had been replaced
over a year ago. Once again I backtracked and turned down the road toward my
old campsite. I still had several miles to go, but did indeed come out onto
FR-437, finally! </p><p>From that junction I turned back east. Very soon the road
turned left up the hill. There is a spur that continues up the valley with a
sign designating it as FR-437CG. CG for campground, I surmise. Though there
is no campground some older maps do indicate one is there. From the turn-off it was about half a
mile to my campsite. Whew! Made it!</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Rio Chiquito</h4>
<p>
I found the exact campsite, next to the creek, where I'd stayed before. A very
pretty site with a manicured lawn curtesy of free range cattle. They were not
around, but had left several nearly fresh cow patties I had to avoid. Before
setting up camp I decided to drive a bit farther up the road to see what was there. In the
next meadow a couple were camped in a van with some sort of tent semi-attached
to the back. There were a two lawn chairs set out and a black dog, but I
didn't see the people.
</p>
<p>
Looked like the road ended just beyond there. I remembered from last time a
berm had been built to close the old road—a possible hiking trail for the
morrow. I returned to "my" meadow and made camp. With the longer than
anticipated drive it was after 5pm before I was set up. When I'd been here in
June the wild meadow was filled with wild flowers, but only one or two
survivors this time.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgduarZxKbdu0u5EQrm6LvhFa4iJSHPI2vM_vuPHleCRSCFfMAtep2WIVyVFIJha_n-Rc07FnoIa_SJeWMeXNk4cgqc0gdibNV7a50wN67MQC7icYuKarcQkzS6bbn_Rxx2tYSxlaOmDLc3pg1dkM4FbPH5B39Vh3lWXH3_2GKz6jMixkU4xnSZrtFFZYE/s1200/Campsite_1200w-SL1_26212.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgduarZxKbdu0u5EQrm6LvhFa4iJSHPI2vM_vuPHleCRSCFfMAtep2WIVyVFIJha_n-Rc07FnoIa_SJeWMeXNk4cgqc0gdibNV7a50wN67MQC7icYuKarcQkzS6bbn_Rxx2tYSxlaOmDLc3pg1dkM4FbPH5B39Vh3lWXH3_2GKz6jMixkU4xnSZrtFFZYE/w640-h426/Campsite_1200w-SL1_26212.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
My campsite with the little Rio Chiquito just behind the camper.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx_Z5Jnp4bftQcuVUrj8i1OAlfX-5jddhKWCCnoZN5GWRk5RuT1-Flzhglz9ndZHrwjk6567f9cn2In4f2jK0FcwZ6vqZU3dK0zhWpw6LBpTBDB87Mltxwlfau5phocvo61qbzQUHyXZ68_wUe-BUo5vnbUpQeH_szkanZsoT-bAOP_Oor8ZpmjTGSM_w/s1200/RioChiquito_1200w-SL1_26216.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="751" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx_Z5Jnp4bftQcuVUrj8i1OAlfX-5jddhKWCCnoZN5GWRk5RuT1-Flzhglz9ndZHrwjk6567f9cn2In4f2jK0FcwZ6vqZU3dK0zhWpw6LBpTBDB87Mltxwlfau5phocvo61qbzQUHyXZ68_wUe-BUo5vnbUpQeH_szkanZsoT-bAOP_Oor8ZpmjTGSM_w/w640-h400/RioChiquito_1200w-SL1_26216.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rio Chiquito</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
After dinner I noticed reddish light shining on the ridge across the meadow. I
took the camera to investigate. Not long after I was treated to a colorful
sunset.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOqHPhg1TF-1-wG89s-JbHhuaaI0f_YnukpJ_9gQodtrn8dQfgrIR8ofGNViJuipACt3nHRujXzCL76C2c6vykSaSmWJmt358cVw1WBjjvHUEyAzdjJr84F76bBYxui4TL_vCBzWZyLLQIs9W62oNr02vVpvYaRzJcBFPG2rv1XdKODS-9XkqwFcCo4GI/s1200/RedLight_1200w-SL1_26220.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="782" data-original-width="1200" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOqHPhg1TF-1-wG89s-JbHhuaaI0f_YnukpJ_9gQodtrn8dQfgrIR8ofGNViJuipACt3nHRujXzCL76C2c6vykSaSmWJmt358cVw1WBjjvHUEyAzdjJr84F76bBYxui4TL_vCBzWZyLLQIs9W62oNr02vVpvYaRzJcBFPG2rv1XdKODS-9XkqwFcCo4GI/w640-h418/RedLight_1200w-SL1_26220.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Red light from the sinking sun illuminating the ridge across from my
campsite.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyKWezAwCF2GjPqpJAbVXmZEoTGyZvlzZ1knzSy7FiDnKG_jYn713u4zElrPrwQfsxhBjP9GQFo0AJ7wjjrZOB7Dof_lIUWBGkMv-Bxhmz8v_5GNmkyfqTfb0czVCyor0Ed0TqoZjaCt0Eb5AjhMRBrLrK7_Yxf8suSoeE0X9d_bEcZaWBQAZZ2hZBSkg/s1200/Sunset_1200w-SL1_26229.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="1200" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyKWezAwCF2GjPqpJAbVXmZEoTGyZvlzZ1knzSy7FiDnKG_jYn713u4zElrPrwQfsxhBjP9GQFo0AJ7wjjrZOB7Dof_lIUWBGkMv-Bxhmz8v_5GNmkyfqTfb0czVCyor0Ed0TqoZjaCt0Eb5AjhMRBrLrK7_Yxf8suSoeE0X9d_bEcZaWBQAZZ2hZBSkg/w640-h432/Sunset_1200w-SL1_26229.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Colorful sunset as seen from my meadow.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Friday, September 29</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Rio Chiquito (continued)</h4>
<p>
Every previous morning on this trip the outside temperature had dropped into
the low 40ºs F. This morning it was a frigid 24º outside! Yikes. I'd requested
a weather forecast on my inReach the previous evening as I was thinking of
spending the day camped here. The forecast claimed 0% cloud cover all day and
moderate temperatures with rain on Saturday. When the sun tried to rise above
the ridge there were heavy clouds. It stayed below freezing for a couple of
hours, so I stayed inside, drank hot coffee, read some of my novel, and ran
the furnace from time to time.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihiUUQnhZXS_-kGL9s3cn7Zfugd0ID3UIKCg5ZioH2zF2dU44hDTYXSttHj8OdqCjYVebupXnwXfJ6L4AaNI-4TQ5Iswte1asxJzSEe8JyWzwfZvqBidKnYVcnf6LY0GPKXiSXdj_plei1Y28F1ot_H6BU-ToW0wNzXF6kenDsyDWj18rfWs_VqGl-skU/s1200/Campsite_1200w-SL1_26241.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1200" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihiUUQnhZXS_-kGL9s3cn7Zfugd0ID3UIKCg5ZioH2zF2dU44hDTYXSttHj8OdqCjYVebupXnwXfJ6L4AaNI-4TQ5Iswte1asxJzSEe8JyWzwfZvqBidKnYVcnf6LY0GPKXiSXdj_plei1Y28F1ot_H6BU-ToW0wNzXF6kenDsyDWj18rfWs_VqGl-skU/w640-h454/Campsite_1200w-SL1_26241.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Such a lovely spot, but very cold and cloudy.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVQySyUQ_j10KXsoUjhH99H0K2O04IefF2wVeUd7v0Mlk0PwAn5oENlKEp5wfgo5yNKdKtdQm-zXRkBjDQLSmrX9sxq-8rk6s_U5iTInq92toHJgQ9hyrc64F9oibO9iVW2dghqiLSUnvA7ZjZGHZxagJHwLV89kgWKOl-K-IxW0ilbojMDcsqoUcRkgM/s1200/Meadow-clouds_1200-SL1_26243.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVQySyUQ_j10KXsoUjhH99H0K2O04IefF2wVeUd7v0Mlk0PwAn5oENlKEp5wfgo5yNKdKtdQm-zXRkBjDQLSmrX9sxq-8rk6s_U5iTInq92toHJgQ9hyrc64F9oibO9iVW2dghqiLSUnvA7ZjZGHZxagJHwLV89kgWKOl-K-IxW0ilbojMDcsqoUcRkgM/w640-h426/Meadow-clouds_1200-SL1_26243.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The clouds seemed to be spreading instead of dissipating.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
As the cold morning progressed the clouds seemed to be getting heavier and
spreading. By 10am it had warmed up enough to walk around outside if bundled
up. I took some photos. I was trying to decide whether to stay or head out. It
was still cloudy, but could clear... or not.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcpY5cb_M8wQPojkT-cPWKeL_ZOqT5vV_FtH3NSco-tYaoLtp62H9DmfmNMz3A6KKV1HDnzfDfLrPeKdNd-rQS94o2BoXPtOLBVS809TrAgTES6OFtPAWszZHjHOCRH0fHVb3QOUKkhwfsWAyiR9CSHrm1shPFyk_VE0pC4Pz1FrAv7thrHY8IEEP0vsM/s1200/Campsite-area_1200w-SL1_26245.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="741" data-original-width="1200" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcpY5cb_M8wQPojkT-cPWKeL_ZOqT5vV_FtH3NSco-tYaoLtp62H9DmfmNMz3A6KKV1HDnzfDfLrPeKdNd-rQS94o2BoXPtOLBVS809TrAgTES6OFtPAWszZHjHOCRH0fHVb3QOUKkhwfsWAyiR9CSHrm1shPFyk_VE0pC4Pz1FrAv7thrHY8IEEP0vsM/w640-h396/Campsite-area_1200w-SL1_26245.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Looking across the meadow which is full of wildflower in summer.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtYGDjXl8eNurOyMdcNlF6gfMuR5_YsYdoglthn9V8U9psZfF1O9swxEbr6WFVINp2cAUMikmBEGKFypkzZIOESjD8fyPCTUbFTMHQ7kDhnC0a_R5HokxaNIZasU5_DPzxj1rKBcTzZlElgL-CE8yBNvJtmdd31On-ovqB2R99SJFNpWKNc0uGslOWerQ/s1200/YellowTree_1200w-SL1_26248.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="959" data-original-width="1200" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtYGDjXl8eNurOyMdcNlF6gfMuR5_YsYdoglthn9V8U9psZfF1O9swxEbr6WFVINp2cAUMikmBEGKFypkzZIOESjD8fyPCTUbFTMHQ7kDhnC0a_R5HokxaNIZasU5_DPzxj1rKBcTzZlElgL-CE8yBNvJtmdd31On-ovqB2R99SJFNpWKNc0uGslOWerQ/w640-h512/YellowTree_1200w-SL1_26248.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
This tree near the creek was getting into the spirit of the season.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbMUX0cWUm85AwKD7bfA7U-eKdqOexVAWh3b8jxywsJ-gVe8P2bvU7WbQgLh7VseHcWf0RkzoWx7iHk47pMLB45PpGiY1Z_sBVqEXIfWcYDOctD2xwnmeIg9i9IoDmw4Xsoy5bea0GdmEaDApKGVMpqAXfmhrG4zXvTx-eCKFGIdWa8uyeeD46zNzluZo/s1200/Harebell_1200w-SL1_26257.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1200" height="570" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbMUX0cWUm85AwKD7bfA7U-eKdqOexVAWh3b8jxywsJ-gVe8P2bvU7WbQgLh7VseHcWf0RkzoWx7iHk47pMLB45PpGiY1Z_sBVqEXIfWcYDOctD2xwnmeIg9i9IoDmw4Xsoy5bea0GdmEaDApKGVMpqAXfmhrG4zXvTx-eCKFGIdWa8uyeeD46zNzluZo/w640-h570/Harebell_1200w-SL1_26257.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
These harebells were the only flowers I found in the meadow.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizNGPF95KYYFdAJ8rTjxknkI_WBMkJr1OLB-0FTkJcS7Iylg3hvcNd7k6kFwtBHqkVdwOcmYGtBJtXRSjvmkUPgBSxF9c89CR8p9YbrijwtqSyhyFZDlkko2a6XA86VtvV4sVxSD_wQ_Uy8dH7R50MFKkfXeReaXMJ3IA8KiWGMsRx9W9B3lJ6fBJpIsc/s1200/Campsite-aerial_1200w-DJI_0503.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="836" data-original-width="1200" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizNGPF95KYYFdAJ8rTjxknkI_WBMkJr1OLB-0FTkJcS7Iylg3hvcNd7k6kFwtBHqkVdwOcmYGtBJtXRSjvmkUPgBSxF9c89CR8p9YbrijwtqSyhyFZDlkko2a6XA86VtvV4sVxSD_wQ_Uy8dH7R50MFKkfXeReaXMJ3IA8KiWGMsRx9W9B3lJ6fBJpIsc/w640-h446/Campsite-aerial_1200w-DJI_0503.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
An aerial view showing the creek and my camper.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPFeiyFOUckG5GjoFSoClKyG8lLtwSnNGabVXGohnsBbgJeJyvXAgPQ1vZ4uniQaprJS1tQhj8CxESrpXXviSd6uFOUvjHdVZYxU-J1WTEljh58S90zNWV2CIneG_w_fzqZNVYSi0VydqScIL0u85K5q-GzqKYnVJgEeRR2rkXGTNCpmAYxyhwmCsCp-s/s1200/Valley-aerial_1200w-DJI_0506.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="877" data-original-width="1200" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPFeiyFOUckG5GjoFSoClKyG8lLtwSnNGabVXGohnsBbgJeJyvXAgPQ1vZ4uniQaprJS1tQhj8CxESrpXXviSd6uFOUvjHdVZYxU-J1WTEljh58S90zNWV2CIneG_w_fzqZNVYSi0VydqScIL0u85K5q-GzqKYnVJgEeRR2rkXGTNCpmAYxyhwmCsCp-s/w640-h468/Valley-aerial_1200w-DJI_0506.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
An aerial view east, farther up the valley.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>If the weather improved I could drive down to Tres Rios and camp another
night, or I could call it good and head home. I decided to pack up and break
camp. I would choose between another night camping and home later.</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Rio Chiquito Road - FR-437</h4>
<p>
By the map it's only 12-1/2 miles out to the highway, but it took about an
hour and a half to drive. Again there were very rocky stretches of basalt that
I hadn't remembered from last time which required slow going. The road follows
Rio Chiquito creek through some pretty scenery. Beavers had been at work along
the creek and later I caught up with the cattle that had trimmed my lawn.
There were a number of dispersed campsites in the upper reaches of the road
and a few sprinkled along its length. I stopped at one of those and had
lunch.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMrrWTHju5Zt9bvR3UHv6pkKsnaBfHYmf5CcFtnna47qE1TD5ML_vKLWey5tCOhE9HdA1_mHubKt5p19jpg6AE15o1psfj9ASjTf66G9VTWiS_JcTDYxPdirqDAZewum16ofUAk4o3CmFkNEmGKkjHEl9ovzuAMwUjS5bXoI02m5iE2rbABSL1j7gQPdU/s1200/RioChiquito_1200w-SL1_26259.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="791" data-original-width="1200" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMrrWTHju5Zt9bvR3UHv6pkKsnaBfHYmf5CcFtnna47qE1TD5ML_vKLWey5tCOhE9HdA1_mHubKt5p19jpg6AE15o1psfj9ASjTf66G9VTWiS_JcTDYxPdirqDAZewum16ofUAk4o3CmFkNEmGKkjHEl9ovzuAMwUjS5bXoI02m5iE2rbABSL1j7gQPdU/w640-h422/RioChiquito_1200w-SL1_26259.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Beavers had been at work here.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNvOtqYgeeksvEe0EGkUvkHHXjMEShptluHijzaTzTucIdUVapcVvTDakuG75QZuItoiF9UT8sGW7t4L2G0m_5GYUMmCPZKijS03nxlP2xPc-ZWZ5Mb0jTmcRuWYjxW6bC1ZBA3d4_NAcUWg9SW5LgE-1RZty25WNbtM211qOkzNLuAN3BbLmm8j-8FLk/s1200/Road-flowers_1200w-SL1_26262.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="790" data-original-width="1200" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNvOtqYgeeksvEe0EGkUvkHHXjMEShptluHijzaTzTucIdUVapcVvTDakuG75QZuItoiF9UT8sGW7t4L2G0m_5GYUMmCPZKijS03nxlP2xPc-ZWZ5Mb0jTmcRuWYjxW6bC1ZBA3d4_NAcUWg9SW5LgE-1RZty25WNbtM211qOkzNLuAN3BbLmm8j-8FLk/w640-h422/Road-flowers_1200w-SL1_26262.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
I took this photo to show the little sunflowers off to the side.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
Once within a few miles of the highway the terrain opens up and the lower
elevation featured different ecosystem. There are several dispersed campsites,
too, though more likely where teenagers come to party and drink beer.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwdwT9v90pmRy_hEkcsvWSpN4dXnc3FtpqOQoyVmbN43-iVBtj28ArfdwxxjHCEk0iWEESiZNU32XtoLMRdwIq4KWexyq1aOFD_dVTfIDYb6zp0JptkBlHhADbsIuw7Rxsuikmz4m7o89iUyC4QDOELeT5R7msnu42euDFqbrKcAH9JnRZt2YulrK8WIY/s1200/Road-trees_1200w-SL1_26263.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="792" data-original-width="1200" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwdwT9v90pmRy_hEkcsvWSpN4dXnc3FtpqOQoyVmbN43-iVBtj28ArfdwxxjHCEk0iWEESiZNU32XtoLMRdwIq4KWexyq1aOFD_dVTfIDYb6zp0JptkBlHhADbsIuw7Rxsuikmz4m7o89iUyC4QDOELeT5R7msnu42euDFqbrKcAH9JnRZt2YulrK8WIY/w640-h422/Road-trees_1200w-SL1_26263.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Cottonwoods at this lower elevation provide a little color.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
High Road to Taos [NM-518, NM-75, NM-76, Sombrillo Rd]
</h4>
<p>
I took the scenic route south. None of my few photos were interesting enough
to include even though the route is scenic and highly recommended. The "High
Road to Taos" is a recognized scenic byway between Santa Fe and
Taos (actually more like between Española and Ranchos de Taos.) It connects
many traditional communities in this beautiful area. I turned left on NM-518 from the forest road. The highway slowly climbs a long valley up to Pueblo Peak where there's a viewpoint.
It's pretty, but too early for aspen in this area.
</p>
<p>
I'd left the clouds behind, but hadn't decided if I'd spend one more night
camping or not. By the time I'd descended down to NM-75 I felt like I'd had a
very good trip and a hot shower sounded better than another night in the
camper. 75 goes through Peñasco then the route turns south on NM-75 and goes
through Chamisal, Trampas, Truchas, and Chimayo. Then at Sombrillo I took 106
which connects to US-285.
</p>
<p>
The route is essentially freeway from there. I bypassed Santa Fe, then drove
the interstate home. It was 88º along that last stretch and I wondered if I'd
made a mistake winterizing my evaporative cooler at home before the trip.
Luckily my house was a comfortable 73º inside.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<p>
<i>
Thanks for reading along. I hope you enjoyed the trip. There will be one more journey this season, so stay tuned.
</i>
</p>
<div><br /></div>
Bosque Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00001863270259847102noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3983525105536347837.post-32967970762381287032023-10-23T10:08:00.000-06:002023-10-23T10:08:15.453-06:00 Rio Grande del Norte National Monument - September 2023<h4 style="text-align: left;">Northern New Mexico</h4><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">September 25 - 26, 2023</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h4>
<p>
<i>The Rio Grande del Norte National Monument, proclaimed about 10 years ago,
is located primarily in the Taos Plateau in far northern New Mexico. It is
comprised of rugged, wide open plains at an average elevation of 7,000 feet,
dotted by volcanic cones, and cut by steep canyons. The Rio Grande carves an
800 foot deep gorge through layers of volcanic basalt flows and ash. Among
the volcanic cones in the Monument, Ute Mountain is the highest, reaching to
10,093 feet.</i>
</p>
<p>
<i>I'd driven by the signs and often gazed out into the vastness whenever I
drove up US-285 on my way to the Colorado or far northern New Mexico
mountains. The region can also be seen from the eastern side, though I go up
that way less frequently. I'd wondered what might be in the area, but it looked desolate and forbidding. I needed a spark.</i>
</p>
<p>
<i>Near the end of August one of my fellow New Mexicans posted a photo on
Mastodon of his visit to the monument which captured my imagination. I
reached out with questions and received recommendations in return. From this
start I gathered what information I could online, there isn't much, and
began to plan a visit. I will add detailed observations here for those who
might wish to visit the monument themselves. It wasn't a lengthy visit, but
I will include photos that I hope are representative of this area. Hopefully
this will encourage you to visit, as well. I plan to return.</i>
</p>
<p>
<i>[This trip included three more nights in the Carson National Forest at
Cabresto Lake and Rio Chiquito in the Taos Mountains, but that portion will
be a separate post.]</i></p>
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Monday, September 25</h3>
<p>
Monday morning I drove north on the Interstate, by-passed Santa Fe, got
gasoline and tacos in Española, and navigated the construction on the road to
Taos. My plan was to go through Taos and take the old John Dunn bridge across
the Rio Grande. I'd previously crossed the "high bridge" at the Gorge and at
the old Taos Junction bridge, so this would be a new sight.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTzSWBEdqQJc46Teb_jYSI92fZTPClNpgblx7tPSyvqumppfR1KPzk4L7BE-Zdi-XorA07KMx-1Le9qwmEx5uLTKVzO96uLpSyfSmrIeYPe0YY4zrDjfbVkliv2P89OnJ2snzV8n7kXXbpWzZKm6nJs4bIDTHrZ7tGRQVkiVjG8nW3ZphokJHjSg0rQPg/s1200/RioGrande-NM-68_1200w-SL1_26020.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTzSWBEdqQJc46Teb_jYSI92fZTPClNpgblx7tPSyvqumppfR1KPzk4L7BE-Zdi-XorA07KMx-1Le9qwmEx5uLTKVzO96uLpSyfSmrIeYPe0YY4zrDjfbVkliv2P89OnJ2snzV8n7kXXbpWzZKm6nJs4bIDTHrZ7tGRQVkiVjG8nW3ZphokJHjSg0rQPg/w640-h426/RioGrande-NM-68_1200w-SL1_26020.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Looking downstream at the Rio Grande from a pull-out along NM-68 on the
way north.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Visitor Center</h4>
<p>
I stopped at the BLM Visitor Center at Pilar off the east side of the highway,
adjacent to the Orilla Verde section of the Rio Grande del Norte National
Monument. I hoped to get maps and info. Good thing I did. The nice lady at the
desk told me the the section of road from the John Dunn bridge up to the
plateau was closed. "A big rock fell on it or something", she said. OK, change
of plan.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Orilla Verde</h4>
<p>With a couple new maps in hand I crossed the highway and drove up NM-570 through this lower section along the Rio Grande which I'd done way back in 2014. One could argue this stretch is where the Rio Grande Gorge really begins (ends?) with its high basalt lava cliffs.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpietfSmf3ump8GS7aQH82PogD5sEcokhJvZVHYU2sZO1Rj2TKmRzo_sG7H0CiD6kq9O7j8twy-S0d5ZaMuq-KgCid8gmYfflnIYNcYEbMCJYHXMxk1Yr8VjiQa3qtj4TNIUMLiPjDEtVB8-SSY3X0_XphBbzphlAPjP42708KibDGv5hGg-o81-5Oi_g/s1200/RioGrandeGorge-Pilar_1200w-SL1_26021.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="684" data-original-width="1200" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpietfSmf3ump8GS7aQH82PogD5sEcokhJvZVHYU2sZO1Rj2TKmRzo_sG7H0CiD6kq9O7j8twy-S0d5ZaMuq-KgCid8gmYfflnIYNcYEbMCJYHXMxk1Yr8VjiQa3qtj4TNIUMLiPjDEtVB8-SSY3X0_XphBbzphlAPjP42708KibDGv5hGg-o81-5Oi_g/w640-h364/RioGrandeGorge-Pilar_1200w-SL1_26021.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Basalt lava cliffs portend the Rio Grande Gorge.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl8-PaopLIbEtIavncdc2Fq4GHBPVFXDC2sroy7yUZjh8pYmWQ4usTmq7IKXyNi0wKECziYKV78NmOlJarDfsy8DgyIlnWeqzGKTeSe9fYkO2ba4SWsYOhhJeOmX1mSIqEbe0XsLpbZORJDM6B2FGRdaFd9s7yitkiy2asB9mntOr_gldyDQ_yOy4G0DU/s1200/RioGrande-raft_1200h-SL1_26022.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="922" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl8-PaopLIbEtIavncdc2Fq4GHBPVFXDC2sroy7yUZjh8pYmWQ4usTmq7IKXyNi0wKECziYKV78NmOlJarDfsy8DgyIlnWeqzGKTeSe9fYkO2ba4SWsYOhhJeOmX1mSIqEbe0XsLpbZORJDM6B2FGRdaFd9s7yitkiy2asB9mntOr_gldyDQ_yOy4G0DU/w492-h640/RioGrande-raft_1200h-SL1_26022.jpg" width="492" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Rafting along a calm river.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<div>A pretty drive on this clear, sunny day.
There are a number of developed campgrounds with water in this recreation area
for those less daring. Two have electric hook-ups (though one is closed while
being refurbished.)</div><div><br /></div>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Taos Junction Bridge</h4><div><br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAHYxbnWnVg9gluCc5M1MwZNaV3pRPocLSuxuGzzYIeabtYcBem-NVMqut2b9VKBfCP8EwTaiu_3Ou8aoxv29XUK5mam9XOuKwXTiMAESqtnhAnMdVb13RaYk6kS9M-fD3oqvGA-YNNz-lfek7A_ogjR7OZO351QOMSaP3LxUhvWdYCLlhpF-_3kB-KJE/s1200/RioGrandeRiver_1200w-SL1_26024.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="778" data-original-width="1200" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAHYxbnWnVg9gluCc5M1MwZNaV3pRPocLSuxuGzzYIeabtYcBem-NVMqut2b9VKBfCP8EwTaiu_3Ou8aoxv29XUK5mam9XOuKwXTiMAESqtnhAnMdVb13RaYk6kS9M-fD3oqvGA-YNNz-lfek7A_ogjR7OZO351QOMSaP3LxUhvWdYCLlhpF-_3kB-KJE/w640-h414/RioGrandeRiver_1200w-SL1_26024.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Rio Grande</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcTHhzvQfGXIVxCiPBAqIRbOata_DYwFb4QMuGWwxc6R6SXI8QJC0C5X1KZCyBRkpxdabEuizysrHG4dSWDMTtXQOdjhIg8kwdJGi6rjENGStU5vwIOeo8e9vcj5RLQDC56Tc0pQpJZplr-f8-8dPquhDVRYv0LnEikMSJAJQyL0QCgpZzNSLCYYNgcsk/s1200/TaosJunctionBridge_1200w-SL1_26028.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="748" data-original-width="1200" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcTHhzvQfGXIVxCiPBAqIRbOata_DYwFb4QMuGWwxc6R6SXI8QJC0C5X1KZCyBRkpxdabEuizysrHG4dSWDMTtXQOdjhIg8kwdJGi6rjENGStU5vwIOeo8e9vcj5RLQDC56Tc0pQpJZplr-f8-8dPquhDVRYv0LnEikMSJAJQyL0QCgpZzNSLCYYNgcsk/w640-h398/TaosJunctionBridge_1200w-SL1_26028.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The Taos Junction Bridge
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<div>The road is paved until you cross the single-lane, truss bridge. The
switchbacks up the cliffside are rough and bumpy, but passible for a careful
driver in a passenger car. Once on top the pavement begins again. I drove
straight north on West Rim Road, NM-567 through open praire to US-64. When I
got to the highway I realized I was less than a mile from the scenic bridge
across the Gorge.</div><div><br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI95qcK8mvg6izaArEURW08HpUiOURxnFIyo0UtqgnDAntc84NklzScIZ0DQWi1uWcjxDUwVIztuwEfnjjlAiqN0F8SM0-HANo3X2dQt94JU0LSuKDvJLJ0ZgJnVqDzJ05H5XAN95KYjEdQEgZ9s-EWK9025PgmSRuKL_pm4wuCNtJ4JOBkvVqyAon_TA/s1200/RioGrandeGorge-lava_1200w-SL1_26031.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI95qcK8mvg6izaArEURW08HpUiOURxnFIyo0UtqgnDAntc84NklzScIZ0DQWi1uWcjxDUwVIztuwEfnjjlAiqN0F8SM0-HANo3X2dQt94JU0LSuKDvJLJ0ZgJnVqDzJ05H5XAN95KYjEdQEgZ9s-EWK9025PgmSRuKL_pm4wuCNtJ4JOBkvVqyAon_TA/w640-h426/RioGrandeGorge-lava_1200w-SL1_26031.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
This is the view of the gorge when climbing the road up from the bridge.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">High Bridge</h4>
<p>
I turned right and drove to the rest/parking area on the west side. What
a circus! About half the non-handicapped parking is taken up by vendors of
sundry goods of questionable provenance, i.e., junk. All the other parking
spaces were full, due in part to a weirdly painted old school bus with some
sort of "patriotic" theme. What a poor impression for visitors to be subjected
to when they want to stop to see a scenic wonder. Sigh.
</p><p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">John Donn Bridge Road</h4>
<p>
I left the mêlée without stopping and drove northwest on the highway. The
turn-off I wanted is about 6 miles from the junction of West Rim Road. The
lady at the visitor center said there was a BLM sign there. I almost missed it
as I was expecting one of the nice new Rio Grande del Norte National Monument
signs. Instead, a little ways off the highway, was a plain brown sign
indicating access to the Taos Plateau. Google Maps calls this Montoso Road; my
Garmin GPS calls it John Donn Bridge Road (being the west end of the road that
normally crosses that bridge.) You follow this dirt road about a mile then
turn east. After about three miles is the junction with Cerro Montoso Road
that Google Maps calls "Cam Delovato" until they don't. There was another brown
BLM sign which gave milage to US-285 and to the Colorado Border, so at least I
knew I was on the right road.
</p><p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Cerro Montoso Road - TP-130</h4>
<p>
There are a few widely spaced homes along the first few miles of the road into
the national monument. Must be very inconvenient when you can't get across the
nearby bridge. A few of these homes were nice though not mansions; a few could
be called tiny homes, if one were to be extremely generous. All had solar
panels and all looked lived in, not vacation homes. I passed one red pickup
truck here. That was the last vehicle I saw my entire time in Rio Grande del
Norte National Monument.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijk5ITlUMTjhNVqMHKSNFavia_W-RBV2f-8b4_MlCH1UhcYT2MwIe6INMI9Xz8-vUlkA07A6vJGjFehKK1JFZ4BdtPSuHMai8s8jN4NlmrPgkd8168Xgq-2-VweWKJQnrRewq8k24664OHh3eROmuNNN-E7P46CB_ZzyO7C7IuNsAt37h_PmCgw3sSfBI/s1200/CerroMontosaRd-south_1200w-SL1_26032.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="613" data-original-width="1200" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijk5ITlUMTjhNVqMHKSNFavia_W-RBV2f-8b4_MlCH1UhcYT2MwIe6INMI9Xz8-vUlkA07A6vJGjFehKK1JFZ4BdtPSuHMai8s8jN4NlmrPgkd8168Xgq-2-VweWKJQnrRewq8k24664OHh3eROmuNNN-E7P46CB_ZzyO7C7IuNsAt37h_PmCgw3sSfBI/w640-h326/CerroMontosaRd-south_1200w-SL1_26032.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Cerro Montosa Road headed north
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>There are a few private "inholdings" within the national monument. In fact
most of the land until you are almost past Cerro Montoso to the west is
private and you will see a few ranch road junctions, but I don't think anyone
actually lives out there. The terrain is typical northern New Mexico plateau
with sagebrush and native grasses and a sprinkling of junipers. In low areas
where runoff collects are gardens of chamisa which were in full bloom at this
time of year.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgh-11MyMeMaYgRdN4LhutPIgtkr4XZ4lC3VFzdVsd8URMtq9j00ltntIg1jd8Nb9z2S010aG7QmuQCNdBM0LIO1G4Tm3Tcoxyb_p7NnvbTa4qApcQXvQsqsG6s_SR_lEiLEgItoAcmJQ0cuoRjKwdyo2B1riQmypjOGw-VxSzGhNXR9V7ZvQ1dIToXKQ/s1200/Questa-Taos-Mtns-2pano-1200w_SL1_26033-4.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="516" data-original-width="1200" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgh-11MyMeMaYgRdN4LhutPIgtkr4XZ4lC3VFzdVsd8URMtq9j00ltntIg1jd8Nb9z2S010aG7QmuQCNdBM0LIO1G4Tm3Tcoxyb_p7NnvbTa4qApcQXvQsqsG6s_SR_lEiLEgItoAcmJQ0cuoRjKwdyo2B1riQmypjOGw-VxSzGhNXR9V7ZvQ1dIToXKQ/w640-h276/Questa-Taos-Mtns-2pano-1200w_SL1_26033-4.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Beautiful vista east toward the Taos Mountains
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
The unmaintained dirt road was generally in good condition. There are rocky
places where basalt veins reached the surface where you need to go slowly. In
those aforementioned low areas the road can get very muddy, though the deep
ruts were hard as rock when I drove through. Nowhere did I need 4WD, but high
clearance is strongly recommended lest one high-center in any number of
places.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzR-UU1Gscd2u5z-9XcETuEGV6tJdIHC6Sj-g8BE1JVrY4tI-J9_Oga7wdz0ttNy7tXjSN93WO38LGrSE0W24pvtCvmN6G8_WvWfKXFl0mfCWwlElrq2tAu1pkd947wbZhvDDkSESYySoShep6qELDBvz5ZpbzVmtgSSgdllmHkBz_dXLObfHF0khPDho/s1200/CerroMontosa_1200w-SL1_26035.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="1200" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzR-UU1Gscd2u5z-9XcETuEGV6tJdIHC6Sj-g8BE1JVrY4tI-J9_Oga7wdz0ttNy7tXjSN93WO38LGrSE0W24pvtCvmN6G8_WvWfKXFl0mfCWwlElrq2tAu1pkd947wbZhvDDkSESYySoShep6qELDBvz5ZpbzVmtgSSgdllmHkBz_dXLObfHF0khPDho/w640-h420/CerroMontosa_1200w-SL1_26035.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Cerro Chiflo looks less like a volcano than the others in the area
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
Speaking of junctions and routes, if you get the official Rio Grande del Norte
NM map from BLM you will see the roads designated TP-XXX, where TP stands for
Taos Plateau since the name came long before the monument was born. You can
get the paper map from one of the two visitor centers or the same <a href="https://www.blm.gov/visit/rgdnnm" target="_blank">map in PDF form from the BLM website</a>. Those route
numbers, however, are essentially useless as nearly all the route signs you
will come across (and there are very few) have lost any legibility to
weathering. And no one else, it seems, observes the BLM road designations. My
Garmin GPS and Google have named the main north/south road Cerro Montosa Road
in the south, and after the junction leading to US-285, it's called Comino de
Lovato to the north. The BLM map will give you a general idea as to the
primary roads through the monument, but actually location should be taken with
a gain of salt.
</p>
<p>
Also, there are countless side roads throughout the national monument. Most
are little more than tracks, some have seen some traffic, but it's not hard to
follow the "main" route. These side roads may be fun to explore, if you are so inclined.</p><p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Unnamed Dirt Road West, aka TP-150</h4>
<p>
My Mastodon friend mentioned a road that took off to the west, south of Bushy
Mountain. This would lead to the south side of Cerro de la Olla where there
were dispersed camping areas. I was cautioned that these campsites might be occupied
during hunting season, so I planned my trip to be just before elk and deer
season. I was using the Earthmate app, which syncs with my inReach Satellite
Communicator, to find my position on their topo map. I would strongly
recommend some sort of GPS enabled maps for anyone visiting this area, though
this is primarily for your convenience as you can always determine roughly
where you are as the isolated volcanic cones are always visible to orient you.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbSFVd2r51GpXg908AAxKG-yAhVYuxNOml0YZxLjzRc1kdJmB35EaT7uWlLRPYPJxqp4XpbQJCtUnAtOC5NdsZi-BlpXlVV1NAxqIF-424SAk4b2hObfIE51zkLV-a61uze-Vw3SdYHXs8ONhzgUpSIY6TmIUGDVPTzJ3ODojPJbihLYwM2lNIMyb5CFk/s1200/AshCliff_1200w-SL1_26039.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbSFVd2r51GpXg908AAxKG-yAhVYuxNOml0YZxLjzRc1kdJmB35EaT7uWlLRPYPJxqp4XpbQJCtUnAtOC5NdsZi-BlpXlVV1NAxqIF-424SAk4b2hObfIE51zkLV-a61uze-Vw3SdYHXs8ONhzgUpSIY6TmIUGDVPTzJ3ODojPJbihLYwM2lNIMyb5CFk/w640-h426/AshCliff_1200w-SL1_26039.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The southwestern flank of Bushy Mountain reveals a cliff of volcanic
ash.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjElmSLnyQaIWP2AvwTPWWri-Ycpbp-jR0IRo3CXBEh-cygScH-2_yXZWcwr5DkXzu09YQEfb-NURI640XqImcmO5JQD-bZpX6V6EQJaIVeTMfFTUfl7oBNC2pGCGj60-UjzkTwwKsqWAjlOTWwSbGhrTKVvt83jHZq7dLKFhWXsEcL65ru22zgc9zbus/s1200/TaosMtnsBrushy_1200w-SL1_26040.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="816" data-original-width="1200" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjElmSLnyQaIWP2AvwTPWWri-Ycpbp-jR0IRo3CXBEh-cygScH-2_yXZWcwr5DkXzu09YQEfb-NURI640XqImcmO5JQD-bZpX6V6EQJaIVeTMfFTUfl7oBNC2pGCGj60-UjzkTwwKsqWAjlOTWwSbGhrTKVvt83jHZq7dLKFhWXsEcL65ru22zgc9zbus/w640-h436/TaosMtnsBrushy_1200w-SL1_26040.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Looking back east from the location of the photo above.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
The road that BLM designates as TP-150 looked like it goes between the two
hills of Bushy Mountain, but I found a "well travelled" road south of the
smaller hill and took that route. I'm calling it TP-150(ALT). It was a good
choice, though little more than a double-track, and after passing an
interesting hill of volcanic ash (which shows up brightly on a satellite
view), it joined the an east/west road "already in prgress." Looking at Google Maps, now I'm
home, they have these roads and junctions properly placed—at least as far as
the turn-off south of Bushy Mountain.
</p><p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Cerro de la Olla</h4>
<p>
The BLM map showed one road, TP-185 heading north into the foothills of Cerro
de la Olla. When I came upon a side road headed north I didn't know if it was the one or not, but using my GPS enabled topo I
decided this was not the right road. I could see another on the topo map farther along, which did turn out to be the designated route. TP-185 is about 4 miles from Cerro
Montosa Rd. </p>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieckzSMqUPUuKF6wObibaPnC3ASDuvBQhAp_9e1dakB2xUzWJQxWDbnmW4-U37fcS7HIG0URzsrk5hY6b1azHoAWnkck57VCkctRSghc4ACZXKEt8jM1-ssryFU6OBG01fhqlJ1RrJ4eYb2MBkRaRbyBbboqMMJg3v2goGqgxMBALFTjGhB5a0tWqE5KM/s1200/CerroDeLaOlla-access_1200w-SL1_26071.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="558" data-original-width="1200" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieckzSMqUPUuKF6wObibaPnC3ASDuvBQhAp_9e1dakB2xUzWJQxWDbnmW4-U37fcS7HIG0URzsrk5hY6b1azHoAWnkck57VCkctRSghc4ACZXKEt8jM1-ssryFU6OBG01fhqlJ1RrJ4eYb2MBkRaRbyBbboqMMJg3v2goGqgxMBALFTjGhB5a0tWqE5KM/w640-h298/CerroDeLaOlla-access_1200w-SL1_26071.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For reference, this is TP-185 that heads up into the SW foothills of the mountain.<br />If you've clicked the photo for a larger view, you can see a typical route marker sans paint.</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx-y6KMZsXVzwur1H0KUyyzWdaFxsTwaQMOitPwrc5Ol7_vhHe29bYD-sVb2YX4VG37Jx3kJLsHib1leoZvtbi9qYxIyluFeG9nPA1_3-lz3vI8Qg5B1_QMkiwHuO9435Kn-Vt2nDLNuKhAntTLGCXgvoMV5t9n43z_gIZ8W0kEqj5TtM5OqD13Oa2QQU/s1200/WestAlongRd_1200w-SL1_26070.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="647" data-original-width="1200" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx-y6KMZsXVzwur1H0KUyyzWdaFxsTwaQMOitPwrc5Ol7_vhHe29bYD-sVb2YX4VG37Jx3kJLsHib1leoZvtbi9qYxIyluFeG9nPA1_3-lz3vI8Qg5B1_QMkiwHuO9435Kn-Vt2nDLNuKhAntTLGCXgvoMV5t9n43z_gIZ8W0kEqj5TtM5OqD13Oa2QQU/w640-h346/WestAlongRd_1200w-SL1_26070.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking farther west along TP-150 from the same spot as the above photo.</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<p>This side road was much rougher than those I'd been on, but not technical,
just slow going. With the increase in elevation the junipers gave way to a
piñon forest. I came across a clearing where someone had camped previously
(and campers can be seen in the current Google satellite image), but it wasn't
particularly level. The road became a bit more rocky and rutted, but soon opened up
at a fork in the road. This area had been used for dispersed camping in
the past with several potential sites. I took a spur left up onto a knoll.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvmUtFMnGtB7i5tYFpOULBDJ8htySWKVZa4MRfTUCtKg71tScimrnQUyUTNCjmJzXIAS0jwXM2EP0ulwzOM1YF-d_3oXo3ezQZvmDVEQKvgL0rOMFN1DVThI7tnRBOFbh6_ZUDbeRCWr2qMDzUflgd5N5UnmBVIae-HOrswyTgKfg5nLYLvT-ZdV_XUmA/s1200/TaosMtnsBrushMtn-CerroOlla_1200w-SL1_26041.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="1200" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvmUtFMnGtB7i5tYFpOULBDJ8htySWKVZa4MRfTUCtKg71tScimrnQUyUTNCjmJzXIAS0jwXM2EP0ulwzOM1YF-d_3oXo3ezQZvmDVEQKvgL0rOMFN1DVThI7tnRBOFbh6_ZUDbeRCWr2qMDzUflgd5N5UnmBVIae-HOrswyTgKfg5nLYLvT-ZdV_XUmA/w640-h282/TaosMtnsBrushMtn-CerroOlla_1200w-SL1_26041.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The view back (east) as I start up Cerro de la Olla.<br />You can see
the Bushy Mountains and their ash flank in front of the Taos Mountains
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I'm always looking for the holy grail of a level site, a spectacular view, and
a wind break. I walked around the area and settled for two out of three. I
ended up camping right on the "road" as I didn't want to crush any of the
vegetation or soft soils off to the side. I had a pretty view of the
mountainside and a grove of piñon trees blocked the wind. A very short walk
took me to a view of the Taos Mountains and walking the other direction a view
across the plains. Interestingly, I had good cell service up here. I spotted a
tower in clear sight to the east near Taos. At home with a map I determined it
was only abut 12 miles away, though it felt I was much more isolated than
that.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9xFAAM02VKLRjJ8qXdncXg9YooxJu4Tg-mR4__WnljGzSQsOJf595ZzGPX140l9aGIHS2mpGsE7ofGNq-y3k71Z3Hv11MDFhP0mT3GcKoZhD0dWmXYWHOsNSbY4aOGOrAtzVAGI3cW9jVtVYeeVYyo6rVmGncegYQOhsxkCJU1XM2vOhCinnhEB8cs8g/s1200/ViewOfTaosMtns_1200w-SL1_26045.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="804" data-original-width="1200" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9xFAAM02VKLRjJ8qXdncXg9YooxJu4Tg-mR4__WnljGzSQsOJf595ZzGPX140l9aGIHS2mpGsE7ofGNq-y3k71Z3Hv11MDFhP0mT3GcKoZhD0dWmXYWHOsNSbY4aOGOrAtzVAGI3cW9jVtVYeeVYyo6rVmGncegYQOhsxkCJU1XM2vOhCinnhEB8cs8g/w640-h428/ViewOfTaosMtns_1200w-SL1_26045.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The view east from next to my campsite.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0kAYox19FSa5YoER9_e_IEUkeWsWRfZQ03qbFsgJOMQFbLfAqzo6T4m79Ycz2_FOES-cnxhe8pQOahWEwyPBqEhBbf02hgQcu54fQO-TtJoaNfz3w5Hs9wLaWg5Vc-fFlQZVC6qCH0QWU0SV842e7k1uQOJeuKjUqJwcLNJN-QEiK75SJQMpTiXWI1Y8/s1200/SW-view_1200w-SL1_26048.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="785" data-original-width="1200" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0kAYox19FSa5YoER9_e_IEUkeWsWRfZQ03qbFsgJOMQFbLfAqzo6T4m79Ycz2_FOES-cnxhe8pQOahWEwyPBqEhBbf02hgQcu54fQO-TtJoaNfz3w5Hs9wLaWg5Vc-fFlQZVC6qCH0QWU0SV842e7k1uQOJeuKjUqJwcLNJN-QEiK75SJQMpTiXWI1Y8/w640-h418/SW-view_1200w-SL1_26048.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The view across the plains toward the southwest
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>I sent my drone up for a spherical panorama. Hold your mouse button and drag
to look around. I recommend clicking the full-screen icon or
<a href="https://kuula.co/post/5Jvdn" target="_blank">open the pano in a new tab</a>.</p>
<p><br /></p>
<iframe allow="xr-spatial-tracking; gyroscope; accelerometer" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="500" scrolling="no" src="https://kuula.co/share/5Jvdn?logo=1&info=1&fs=1&vr=0&sd=1&thumbs=1" width="100%"></iframe>
<p><br /></p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Xk70oY-k2BnUlZQ6or6QrQr2802B-tVvWCAGhLQzQbZ1mKVH81d2nHnCrz-dj5v23cX9x4Q4T7VnNVt2Z4dHb6IlJ7R7RuCViHk9Qfj_e5zZSQE-iP2rvzwc80oOp8DBX_wjXWeOUh63a42rW0JkrbbX7oJperNvV9Q8O7deIBWELp4JzjNI3eNBDjI/s1200/Cerro-Mtns-pano_1200w-DJI_0480-82.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="348" data-original-width="1200" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Xk70oY-k2BnUlZQ6or6QrQr2802B-tVvWCAGhLQzQbZ1mKVH81d2nHnCrz-dj5v23cX9x4Q4T7VnNVt2Z4dHb6IlJ7R7RuCViHk9Qfj_e5zZSQE-iP2rvzwc80oOp8DBX_wjXWeOUh63a42rW0JkrbbX7oJperNvV9Q8O7deIBWELp4JzjNI3eNBDjI/w640-h186/Cerro-Mtns-pano_1200w-DJI_0480-82.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A 180º panorama from above my campsite looking east toward Taos
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I was outside in my chair having dinner when I realized the sun was casting a
gorgeous red light, but by the time I got my camera and walked down the hill
to take a photo of the mountains, I'd missed the peak. Still a pretty picture,
as is the one a few minutes later.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnAg-obL7Ndf6Y1fRfgl4ibmwC_IrovfoTYBw8x6UGGgNHBBEt6ZDs38WE3TJqZ32a2jmqYqFQ3C_IjNPafAMyeGRu5Tm9-yHchfNiTAET2ofY8wUgW2G9ic2zTXnmmG74vn360i02v5sLL3bLHz202q6SmUFekSSGlnV_9eYXWQowynsQForPgqkTI5E/s1200/TaosMths-red_1200w-SL1_26056.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnAg-obL7Ndf6Y1fRfgl4ibmwC_IrovfoTYBw8x6UGGgNHBBEt6ZDs38WE3TJqZ32a2jmqYqFQ3C_IjNPafAMyeGRu5Tm9-yHchfNiTAET2ofY8wUgW2G9ic2zTXnmmG74vn360i02v5sLL3bLHz202q6SmUFekSSGlnV_9eYXWQowynsQForPgqkTI5E/w640-h426/TaosMths-red_1200w-SL1_26056.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
I just missed the peak red light on the mountains
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIzvGZnLBKHh3oKmzlWjRO8hpwlNv9XVzcm5D51PI_24d5iveDWpS5eJDmKUtib9ZupJOI-ihIOxJ8xQkyTbbc1GO0pI581s0kdF7Brx0G9Gpc0fCnrmH0pmkPPJIVb4sACAh8-boRBsJz2wQkoqP1Mz7DVIf_6rhrwKpkrybgL-jRb5Ejxnbl4VrEUeU/s1200/TaosMtns-sunset_1200w-SL1_26057.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIzvGZnLBKHh3oKmzlWjRO8hpwlNv9XVzcm5D51PI_24d5iveDWpS5eJDmKUtib9ZupJOI-ihIOxJ8xQkyTbbc1GO0pI581s0kdF7Brx0G9Gpc0fCnrmH0pmkPPJIVb4sACAh8-boRBsJz2wQkoqP1Mz7DVIf_6rhrwKpkrybgL-jRb5Ejxnbl4VrEUeU/w640-h426/TaosMtns-sunset_1200w-SL1_26057.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A few moments later in the gloaming
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I think this is the quietest place I've ever been. I've been in some isolated
places, as you know, but in those places there were always a few commercial
airliners crossing overhead trailing a rumbling noise. Not here.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Tuesday, September 26</h3><div><br /></div>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Cerro de la Olla (continued)</h4><div><br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn_KfVo51HUnGW9LGkLv898ZDPPSdHUBV7ulN2SJI4Jr9YmZXmfkvQZVR9hmtKhCiUIZ9WqhOdNMq4Km8ncgoGuNudPJ9LhyXZ8HN8USJMppGsMP3xa33KP7oCCtiapWZI7CnliAPXFDQlrYOnxTEqLTW63meKIWUAFDdyuvT38iakJzQlF_zx1NZ7wws/s1200/Campsite_1200w-SL1_26060.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="841" data-original-width="1200" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn_KfVo51HUnGW9LGkLv898ZDPPSdHUBV7ulN2SJI4Jr9YmZXmfkvQZVR9hmtKhCiUIZ9WqhOdNMq4Km8ncgoGuNudPJ9LhyXZ8HN8USJMppGsMP3xa33KP7oCCtiapWZI7CnliAPXFDQlrYOnxTEqLTW63meKIWUAFDdyuvT38iakJzQlF_zx1NZ7wws/w640-h448/Campsite_1200w-SL1_26060.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Oops, almost forgot to take the required photo of my camper set up in my
campsite!
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<div>
Time to continue my explorations of this new area. I packed up after breakfast
and headed down the hill. I turned left, east, and headed toward Bushy Mountain, which is really two
hills. I thought I'd see if I could find the road on the BLM map that looked
like it passed between the hills. I passed the junction with the road I'd come
in on and crossed a cattle guard sans fence. </div>
<div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihWAdhn0e3UKRPRg6hXabjlXH_Mje313TknKCnGhRkF9NMRM9SK25tZtR16FMYs-KT5QE6P1iLcvTKS8PfVdM2GTmhVkAEPWkW-xSTygpfeeijYhpazQA1gxZn-wUzAhGqNT8ZKUvQNyX3fJ060zy3BUqJ0sBy_7gwriwtZgJTx1Gx34r630fBfMwfDCI/s1200/Chamisa-west_1200w-SL1_26073.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihWAdhn0e3UKRPRg6hXabjlXH_Mje313TknKCnGhRkF9NMRM9SK25tZtR16FMYs-KT5QE6P1iLcvTKS8PfVdM2GTmhVkAEPWkW-xSTygpfeeijYhpazQA1gxZn-wUzAhGqNT8ZKUvQNyX3fJ060zy3BUqJ0sBy_7gwriwtZgJTx1Gx34r630fBfMwfDCI/w640-h426/Chamisa-west_1200w-SL1_26073.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I couldn't take enough photos of the blooming chamisa, also known as rabbitbush.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /></div>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Brushy Mountain</h4>
<p>
Apparently Brushy Mountain is made of volcanic ash with only a thin layer of
soil on top. The ash was exposed here at the southwest corner. I parked not
far from an abandon well house and walked up the hill via a double-track. The
ash was surprisingly firm and previous visitors had driven up the hill and
around the top. A few daredevils had even driven down the other side. Seemed
like it was firm enough for a full size vehicle, but I didn't test it.
</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5b9r4_MHGYwh8mbMmzv0ReJIf_LspCznzbEVtR4dT55HRSdzRFVtkW-vrdbUoV7RPQXydZu7x_Iboh-13bqaExzS9cEpVR1hdtoAuIS-7u9Kn_aZJtBRKmXQeAXtrMjFwXifBKAgSm-B8kGkn_9RnKH6nCjJ2e6Bv3Tpgqh4ZVwjDHvinxMpK1kdpCso/s1200/AshMound_1200w-SL1_26075.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5b9r4_MHGYwh8mbMmzv0ReJIf_LspCznzbEVtR4dT55HRSdzRFVtkW-vrdbUoV7RPQXydZu7x_Iboh-13bqaExzS9cEpVR1hdtoAuIS-7u9Kn_aZJtBRKmXQeAXtrMjFwXifBKAgSm-B8kGkn_9RnKH6nCjJ2e6Bv3Tpgqh4ZVwjDHvinxMpK1kdpCso/w640-h426/AshMound_1200w-SL1_26075.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A view from the top of the hill of volcanic ash, looking west.<br />This photo is deceptive. The white top of the hill is about 20-30 higher than my truck.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>When I sent up the drone for a panorama I took a look at where the the road
went next. It looked sketchy. </p>
<p>If you wish to view the panorama full screen, either click the icon in the upper right or visit the <a href="https://kuula.co/post/5Jv6J" target="_blank">website</a>.</p>
<iframe allow="xr-spatial-tracking; gyroscope; accelerometer" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="500" scrolling="no" src="https://kuula.co/share/5Jv6J?logo=1&info=1&fs=1&vr=0&sd=1&thumbs=1" width="100%"></iframe>
<p><br /></p>
<p>I backtracked and recommend that if you come this way you take the road that skirts below the southern hill. I followed the road I'd come in on for a ways, then kept to the northeast when I came upon the spur that I'd come in on. This brought me back to the main north/south road where I turned north.</p><p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Cerro Montosa Road - TP-130</h4><div><br /></div><div>After turning on to Cerro Montosa Road I spotted two small, conical shaped hills to my right and a nice view across to the Taos Mountains.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoQFKTGHhA4gDbK5q1DD-NBuAJ4gXUN-x9GZ7alXNH7u_d5a0MIY7oAhplqfk6h7E5mRDSsINFRfF0NZmCiSoQJPBTh1oasIeAM9zZcfgYTEkIeQDW8558GR_YGZAfeqoFvHNUNA87uECl_6KJacVV0mNkz6OsJnnhZikCHMxLzfeLZ43UCV49zQKivJ0/s1200/CerroChiflo-mtns_1200w-SL1_26078.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="517" data-original-width="1200" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoQFKTGHhA4gDbK5q1DD-NBuAJ4gXUN-x9GZ7alXNH7u_d5a0MIY7oAhplqfk6h7E5mRDSsINFRfF0NZmCiSoQJPBTh1oasIeAM9zZcfgYTEkIeQDW8558GR_YGZAfeqoFvHNUNA87uECl_6KJacVV0mNkz6OsJnnhZikCHMxLzfeLZ43UCV49zQKivJ0/w640-h276/CerroChiflo-mtns_1200w-SL1_26078.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A view of Cerro Chiflo, left, with the Taos Mountains in the background and Guadalupe Mountain just in front of them—both are on the far side of the Rio Grande Gorge.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4wNMLsx7sRbHjwrTE482NrbW2Scy_AmkOxKghDH7z8eY4pwwG7pOO50JCvC_hlfoWWhu6knb8Trdp8-GneTyFNlR9dXPF_pQe3Phn9q7m4hrhmS2FUcx_QO32Gr-fr0Ldupcw5q8tSXdGfvtnX2TqlprvaB-54szFohoV2vHQUYAl1G3IelBXtfPemeo/s1200/SmallHill_1200w-SL1_26079.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="644" data-original-width="1200" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4wNMLsx7sRbHjwrTE482NrbW2Scy_AmkOxKghDH7z8eY4pwwG7pOO50JCvC_hlfoWWhu6knb8Trdp8-GneTyFNlR9dXPF_pQe3Phn9q7m4hrhmS2FUcx_QO32Gr-fr0Ldupcw5q8tSXdGfvtnX2TqlprvaB-54szFohoV2vHQUYAl1G3IelBXtfPemeo/w640-h344/SmallHill_1200w-SL1_26079.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking north along the road.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>As I headed north the larger Cerro de la Olla was on my left and the smaller,
and less conical, Cerro Chiflo on the right. I noticed a couple side roads on
the right leading toward higher, forested land; this might be an area to
look for campsites. The there was another track to the left that also looked promising.
I drove past then changed my mind and decided to go back and check it out as I
had plenty of time. Sure enough, there were good campsites in among the piñon
pines. I marked the spot on my GPS for my next visit, though I think that's
unnecessary as the landmarks are unambiguous. (All this was confirmed by
looking at satellite maps at home. FYI: According to the BLM map this area appears
to be private land, though it is unposted and obviously frequented by
passers-by and, likely, hunters.)</div>
<p>
After passing between the peaks, the through road turns northeast. After about 3 miles the road turns back north and quickly comes to a junction. I wasn't sure at the time, as
there was no sign or marker, but if you go west at the junction you will come out at US-285 north of San Antonio Mountain. The road
also passes the old McGreggor Place, but I have no information on that. BLM
designates this road as TP-120. I think I'll go this way on my next visit.</p><p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Comino de Lovato</h4>
<p>
I proceeded (continued) north as my goal was Colorado and the bridge across
the Rio Grande up there which I'd never seen. This section of road appears
much less travelled and in many places is double-track only. Also the land appears much dryer with only range grass and no juniper or large shrubs. The road here is
named Comino de Lovato, though still designated TP-130 on the BLM map. After several miles I crossed a
cattle guard and for the first time there were isolated herds of cattle
grazing. Twice I had to wait for one them to stand up and get off the road.
</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjoupvErENn9XLq6UcHji1utUgKoFFKYU9_KYzk2rQVQ9spVHXDsWCjlQY7t90u9u9zWI4F3EWka22hDD6U7a8CjHNHJ-f5OFJ820HuKHaMcEUM4VMCuC-f4gKOChn88RMjeLl0ZYyXAxEbAZlJ1_yRgvC1QeK8t32ErF0bQBr6-GEvEYFxlWMD47Mu80/s1200/CerroDeLaOlla-CaminoDeLovato_1200w-DJI_0493.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="799" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjoupvErENn9XLq6UcHji1utUgKoFFKYU9_KYzk2rQVQ9spVHXDsWCjlQY7t90u9u9zWI4F3EWka22hDD6U7a8CjHNHJ-f5OFJ820HuKHaMcEUM4VMCuC-f4gKOChn88RMjeLl0ZYyXAxEbAZlJ1_yRgvC1QeK8t32ErF0bQBr6-GEvEYFxlWMD47Mu80/w640-h426/CerroDeLaOlla-CaminoDeLovato_1200w-DJI_0493.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aerial view from above Camino de Lovato looking back at Cerro de la Olla.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>There are some very rocky sections from the junction to the state line where
ancient lava flows have become exposed on the surface of the landscape. It's
necessary to drive very slowly through those. There are still low areas where
water accumulates, however here the ruts have been flattened by cattle hooves.
None of the road is technical and high clearance is strongly recommended.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOm7eRMgduARKW-a0yy-lovo31Y0evqWeQQY2OjbwQLB4d9uG-ffzFJHcwqgyNllrBoKnXzI-pgJsLulaJAQMtYHfw-Ky8UE_VRWrTxT1LBHnOyV6C82LY0uSpXSoSWUcrHLt7ZojdVHoeor_TLDVhvm-I5VbAksnqdmNsSxwXcuW05CEhjjvL3khJ6FE/s1200/Tarantula_1200w-7D_26298.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOm7eRMgduARKW-a0yy-lovo31Y0evqWeQQY2OjbwQLB4d9uG-ffzFJHcwqgyNllrBoKnXzI-pgJsLulaJAQMtYHfw-Ky8UE_VRWrTxT1LBHnOyV6C82LY0uSpXSoSWUcrHLt7ZojdVHoeor_TLDVhvm-I5VbAksnqdmNsSxwXcuW05CEhjjvL3khJ6FE/w640-h426/Tarantula_1200w-7D_26298.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was lucky to spot this little tarantula skittering across the road. I just barely had enough time to pull over and stick my camera out the window. One second more and the spider had disappeared.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>A hazard to look out for are the cattle guards. My theory is the ground is too
rocky to dig the pit over which the metal rails would sit. Instead it appears
they sit a pre-cast concrete vault, with rails pre-installed, on top of the
road and pile dirt up against it as a ramp on both sides. Over time the dirt
has eroded away leaving the concrete sticking up 2+ inches above the dirt
ramp. It's like driving up and over a short curb. There may be a half-dozen of
these along Camino de Lovato.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdqkIQ08LrFLbTsuFQu1Dmf5hSriVM7UJuu2fcQVrxwb_PB7Xnfeav27LzjMvpUlYgSxK3zhRhz_qNORnGij5ygVvRN9BOzbGcLs8RgBlxBeTThVEpjdxmmaZO24pRJ_HZWhQZS_cgE3fdpd3i8DuKDavt_UX6HW9b2ihdVIEvsDbyDbKH0VK1wjTJde8/s1200/CerroDeLaOlla-CaminoLovato_1200w-SL1_26086.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="685" data-original-width="1200" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdqkIQ08LrFLbTsuFQu1Dmf5hSriVM7UJuu2fcQVrxwb_PB7Xnfeav27LzjMvpUlYgSxK3zhRhz_qNORnGij5ygVvRN9BOzbGcLs8RgBlxBeTThVEpjdxmmaZO24pRJ_HZWhQZS_cgE3fdpd3i8DuKDavt_UX6HW9b2ihdVIEvsDbyDbKH0VK1wjTJde8/w640-h366/CerroDeLaOlla-CaminoLovato_1200w-SL1_26086.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If you click for the larger photo you might be able to see the concrete curb I described.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>After one such cattle guard I backed into a rancher's side road to have lunch.
I took the opportunity to send the drone up for a <a href="https://kuula.co/post/5Jv8f" target="_blank">spherical panorama</a>.</p>
<iframe allow="xr-spatial-tracking; gyroscope; accelerometer" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="500" scrolling="no" src="https://kuula.co/share/5Jv8f?logo=1&info=1&fs=1&vr=0&sd=1&thumbs=1" width="100%"></iframe>
<p>Continuing along the road Ute Mountain to the northeast is a constant companion.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS8_FRBLbwUauNpR8X_9Hz16n7qJ2aHSgpuy3o5wl5k6jcnIvvAxzIxR_DFlnjHPrtNHbxcr8gj-Yy8ZSkbX3HHDUTvrUXOaIvYB6cVlqLEAFYODJEfdvJqiYog_o-b9Tn6jCs80_qaed8s07gKz1FHHdNhHaR9tXXf_NiVQiSaa3781nxRuGeypS24og/s1200/UteMtn-CaminoLovato_1200w-SL1_26087.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="682" data-original-width="1200" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS8_FRBLbwUauNpR8X_9Hz16n7qJ2aHSgpuy3o5wl5k6jcnIvvAxzIxR_DFlnjHPrtNHbxcr8gj-Yy8ZSkbX3HHDUTvrUXOaIvYB6cVlqLEAFYODJEfdvJqiYog_o-b9Tn6jCs80_qaed8s07gKz1FHHdNhHaR9tXXf_NiVQiSaa3781nxRuGeypS24og/w640-h364/UteMtn-CaminoLovato_1200w-SL1_26087.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ute Mountain to the northeast</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2n5qajkQvKzSuUVQhH2beEWnsfLSxjVs3bUSgIlIQwY6IP_pGXa4I0o5bF5K0pWoHx_bhYCa1EMnroT47H4ufknIalRKoQYQp65h5Vp5b0X91oNibizh_Ou_lei76mcgVJ5R6Yl8g_zofx0Qhbac-9P0Q80940jE2uWRwBhmvqn1YtDy9bmjUP3CY_kw/s1200/SanAntonioMtn-CaminoLovato_1200w-SL1_26089.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="759" data-original-width="1200" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2n5qajkQvKzSuUVQhH2beEWnsfLSxjVs3bUSgIlIQwY6IP_pGXa4I0o5bF5K0pWoHx_bhYCa1EMnroT47H4ufknIalRKoQYQp65h5Vp5b0X91oNibizh_Ou_lei76mcgVJ5R6Yl8g_zofx0Qhbac-9P0Q80940jE2uWRwBhmvqn1YtDy9bmjUP3CY_kw/w640-h404/SanAntonioMtn-CaminoLovato_1200w-SL1_26089.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clouds were building over San Antonio Mountain to the west.<br />The mountain, though geologically related to the volcanic field in the national monument, is located in Carson National Forest and is administered by the USFS.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Since entering the national monument there had been hundreds of small
grassland birds taking flight before me as I drove along. I tried time and
again to stop and hope they would alight where I could get a photo, but no
joy. My luck changed when a much larger bird flew up and landed at the side of
the road ahead. I was able to stop, and using my open door as a blind take a
number of photos. I wasn't sure at first what the bird was, but got out my
binoculars and discovered it was a Burrowing Owl. Very cool! It then flew off
the road where I was able to get a better photo.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcZXyxc_wL02f5dSwMM1PbKMGWDJEFxTKnImRjCQDIn7tei9iSodZY7EXzmyQgiQUJF6CCt1zSn3DT_U14JrJKY8QOyJzdUk9KtjG86MLLYaeIZju4UeY9RPZHPpYyd5p63vTOsRntY7drsLXJdE6Al-rROEBuvGhbBTP0zkHjiiNcU1fPy9hy2OI08Zs/s1200/BurrowingOwl_1200h-7D_26310.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcZXyxc_wL02f5dSwMM1PbKMGWDJEFxTKnImRjCQDIn7tei9iSodZY7EXzmyQgiQUJF6CCt1zSn3DT_U14JrJKY8QOyJzdUk9KtjG86MLLYaeIZju4UeY9RPZHPpYyd5p63vTOsRntY7drsLXJdE6Al-rROEBuvGhbBTP0zkHjiiNcU1fPy9hy2OI08Zs/w570-h640/BurrowingOwl_1200h-7D_26310.jpg" width="570" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Burrowing Owl is sure I'm up to no good.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJGWqVEZPR3iezJ63Jdeh1O4E3kYLiBNmnrkHqRg9zo0P5zf7gGm5slk__JUYHHpl873mLftw5_TSmnc4SPM_R_vbiAEGFBRiz5cJnPwqoupGXxksnfQbt6ccj0NA0ASCCph-uZuYXjTZoF-KEWykkiOKHNUNMVI18tJ6kmkkNi-FbWlA3C87Ud3kHDz4/s1200/SouthPinonHills-CaminoLovato_1200w-SL1_26090.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="649" data-original-width="1200" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJGWqVEZPR3iezJ63Jdeh1O4E3kYLiBNmnrkHqRg9zo0P5zf7gGm5slk__JUYHHpl873mLftw5_TSmnc4SPM_R_vbiAEGFBRiz5cJnPwqoupGXxksnfQbt6ccj0NA0ASCCph-uZuYXjTZoF-KEWykkiOKHNUNMVI18tJ6kmkkNi-FbWlA3C87Ud3kHDz4/w640-h346/SouthPinonHills-CaminoLovato_1200w-SL1_26090.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here the road is passing through a sandy area.<br />The South Piñon Hills to the north are in Colorado.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6d4fKNdV3UZC1OWHUcYteWIY87BYhJPzRstR43m0HwAtsILQK6DGnWb1EaqvMjPTeEP3Dt1Ufm_Cc1O7VTcChqEYOnjUCI1dNpGnrjxTBT4_zN08LPHPqAJCodeQSvQlYCeLEhmW4qHECgYP11iSvglqRQ9S1HLf5e49GB1Xqo5GoToEjXlXZaw2N6oA/s1200/UteMountain_1200w-SL1_26093.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="787" data-original-width="1200" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6d4fKNdV3UZC1OWHUcYteWIY87BYhJPzRstR43m0HwAtsILQK6DGnWb1EaqvMjPTeEP3Dt1Ufm_Cc1O7VTcChqEYOnjUCI1dNpGnrjxTBT4_zN08LPHPqAJCodeQSvQlYCeLEhmW4qHECgYP11iSvglqRQ9S1HLf5e49GB1Xqo5GoToEjXlXZaw2N6oA/w640-h420/UteMountain_1200w-SL1_26093.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At this point Ute Mountain is almost due east.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Also, this entire afternoon, I'd been observing a thunderstorm build over San
Antonio Mountain. Later this would move east.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2bD_LNGXieazwFBFF2iVVX8fgXQH19rJn-85B6ZDk2zpOVCirXgLEx3ni22K5Fydi_kYQ7VRqwSya1DkJyUky4odVe0GLelrwan9N1BySowyCjelpKxIgXrgCB_HrzeLFaNUHNzoHv7VF9e0y9vHD6ZVIp2Fm9xSMo0hNGnfbGMC-_4G2CEVFWHorYTc/s1200/SanAntonioMtn-storm_1200w-SL1_26096.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="734" data-original-width="1200" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2bD_LNGXieazwFBFF2iVVX8fgXQH19rJn-85B6ZDk2zpOVCirXgLEx3ni22K5Fydi_kYQ7VRqwSya1DkJyUky4odVe0GLelrwan9N1BySowyCjelpKxIgXrgCB_HrzeLFaNUHNzoHv7VF9e0y9vHD6ZVIp2Fm9xSMo0hNGnfbGMC-_4G2CEVFWHorYTc/w640-h392/SanAntonioMtn-storm_1200w-SL1_26096.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">San Antonio Mountain is obscured by the heavy thunderstorm.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><h4 style="text-align: left;">South Piñon Hills, Colorado</h4>
<p>
I crossed the state line without fanfare. There was one old-style "Welcome to
New Mexico - Taos Plateau" sign on the road facing north. That's it. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3CYc51TIzzvmOZfEok0Vm3FQ7Zn1Tgm3qcQN1SKWdu3JJEi0_4te8Z-bNRdWQRQLDhlf-v5Cyms3RUUQuNHYzqsCvsshUFp0ZbAmbuqsqhKhI-gyMc33ZyM8e8y_tlaOqFNDogiydMZcnsXRNddbOhhyphenhyphenO6wesHg4pCnotSmRzh4XKueC2vgYNnqnUcrA/s1200/NorthernBoundary_1200w-SL1_26094.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="733" data-original-width="1200" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3CYc51TIzzvmOZfEok0Vm3FQ7Zn1Tgm3qcQN1SKWdu3JJEi0_4te8Z-bNRdWQRQLDhlf-v5Cyms3RUUQuNHYzqsCvsshUFp0ZbAmbuqsqhKhI-gyMc33ZyM8e8y_tlaOqFNDogiydMZcnsXRNddbOhhyphenhyphenO6wesHg4pCnotSmRzh4XKueC2vgYNnqnUcrA/w640-h390/NorthernBoundary_1200w-SL1_26094.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hello, Good-bye</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHl23-O7kX5K7UI4knKLTIQQvhB74x1hQMwMMu8je0G4R7rQGSDYQnwD2fKAyPnEqnDDibJYzFgD6cn73UY3KT4I-QovQ6aUKpDydpDkc6Zo-RBZVZb1p9tUGh-b7ihRVGeqSu8no7loICTrHeqX7b5sUz0uJeEMYOvKy7VjD37gu7pfO9Q3nBH1pK6yc/s1200/SouthPinonHills_1200w-SL1_26097.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="630" data-original-width="1200" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHl23-O7kX5K7UI4knKLTIQQvhB74x1hQMwMMu8je0G4R7rQGSDYQnwD2fKAyPnEqnDDibJYzFgD6cn73UY3KT4I-QovQ6aUKpDydpDkc6Zo-RBZVZb1p9tUGh-b7ihRVGeqSu8no7loICTrHeqX7b5sUz0uJeEMYOvKy7VjD37gu7pfO9Q3nBH1pK6yc/w640-h336/SouthPinonHills_1200w-SL1_26097.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">South Piñon Hills in Colorado</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>The road
winds through a few small flat-topped hills, crosses a basin, then into a
larger group of hills which the maps call South Piñon Hills. The road turns
west and after a little over 4 miles ends at County Road G, though it is
unmarked here. I turned right, east, toward the Rio Grande. The road here is
wide gravel and smooth. I noticed one of the new BLM signs here for "San Luis
Hills" which apparently refers to the entire range that includes the Piñon
Hills. The clouds from earlier had already moved into these hills and the wind
was picking up.</p><p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Lobatos Bridge</h4><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhYiCk_9F80DypWbAEuNeLftX8j4aA6KfYxHhTEMgJLxG3UUQI2wXlYoqHgGicdkYGaGaEvJac0vohZd_ON1UO_cKPPxDetXdcBx6ivuzHNoIr0GRzbNAXSJEQQuiaetC3lXAu002xRWoztPk4AKArelOoXHXmXNWWjO7i3odAjO-3MyQEBK7qI46fxjU/s1200/LobatosBridge_1200w-SL1_26106.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="730" data-original-width="1200" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhYiCk_9F80DypWbAEuNeLftX8j4aA6KfYxHhTEMgJLxG3UUQI2wXlYoqHgGicdkYGaGaEvJac0vohZd_ON1UO_cKPPxDetXdcBx6ivuzHNoIr0GRzbNAXSJEQQuiaetC3lXAu002xRWoztPk4AKArelOoXHXmXNWWjO7i3odAjO-3MyQEBK7qI46fxjU/w640-h390/LobatosBridge_1200w-SL1_26106.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lobatos Bridge across the Rio Grande</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>After 6 miles I came to the single-lane Lobatos Bridge across the Rio Grande.
There is a parking area at the southwest corner of the bridge where I pulled
off for photos. Looks like you could camp there in a pinch, as this is BLM
land, and someone had built a rock fire ring. The area along both sides of the
river here is designated as the Rio Grande Natural Area.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-br7_g1bcQ9xIJv1Oi3qgJX03Jk9KLgzoF2C-n6YLlehrq2GKw3Wjwn-OtWckDxw9LDI7wV04iyQG4nYZxJ9k5gPfhOqRskfMy4qXtnHjBdstE-dCP1kzzoKWYghTX4XRgU1mWFrpSI94vNi5V-JZdPlIZ3kzCBUTqRQYaX1RRywofEbIqKmZLsecEqU/s1200/HillsFromBridge_1200w-SL1_26107.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-br7_g1bcQ9xIJv1Oi3qgJX03Jk9KLgzoF2C-n6YLlehrq2GKw3Wjwn-OtWckDxw9LDI7wV04iyQG4nYZxJ9k5gPfhOqRskfMy4qXtnHjBdstE-dCP1kzzoKWYghTX4XRgU1mWFrpSI94vNi5V-JZdPlIZ3kzCBUTqRQYaX1RRywofEbIqKmZLsecEqU/w640-h426/HillsFromBridge_1200w-SL1_26107.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking downstream.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl9oyU_pmovT5ObCi3rhnzkRehOJHLM3wr0e_xG932vwCZYfbc9JUwdIFOmFezpTy-aYk5OJh0Zb-ACyLeLrc2kgBn-UE4y9Isu_PFmo_e8qjN0aqSOCJ8rNSHb0cloJ1Z29EB5m9aKhjfaCLyXT8qc0znS6EEuILyoGn_jlWVYQqo_6gP1OrdC9xNs04/s1200/LobatosBridge-end_1200w-SL1_26108.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="801" data-original-width="1200" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl9oyU_pmovT5ObCi3rhnzkRehOJHLM3wr0e_xG932vwCZYfbc9JUwdIFOmFezpTy-aYk5OJh0Zb-ACyLeLrc2kgBn-UE4y9Isu_PFmo_e8qjN0aqSOCJ8rNSHb0cloJ1Z29EB5m9aKhjfaCLyXT8qc0znS6EEuILyoGn_jlWVYQqo_6gP1OrdC9xNs04/w640-h428/LobatosBridge-end_1200w-SL1_26108.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I would argue the bridge marks the start of the Rio Grande Gorge.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>The land east of the river must be all private. You can see from the satellite
view someone had big development plans as there are many, many roads in a grid pattern. I tried
to follow the BLM map to find the entrance to the national monument, but their
map only shows the route, not any of the junctions. I got <strike>lost</strike> a bit confused in the grid,
but figured it out by using my Earthmate app. The access road is much farther
to the east than I realized (though the map does show it in the right place.)</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Ute Mountain</h4><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjoEpF6CcvZY5YEjIGEjoI7I1bESnR9YB3pffPUzZnuKFQoHv5gWlcByTbDEXzozFqO7AUs4drGCeewFVmzo_iAXf8apNV4uS8Ajox3xTRB96f3xmmuDBuVrNSis_QjLYszojwedEzmQSfcaCwqgi5ZXwKVLOyaTsfkuDg31VYbn1YEsgSqvAUHBQ1sYs/s1200/UteMountain-entrance_1200w-SL1_26110.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="647" data-original-width="1200" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjoEpF6CcvZY5YEjIGEjoI7I1bESnR9YB3pffPUzZnuKFQoHv5gWlcByTbDEXzozFqO7AUs4drGCeewFVmzo_iAXf8apNV4uS8Ajox3xTRB96f3xmmuDBuVrNSis_QjLYszojwedEzmQSfcaCwqgi5ZXwKVLOyaTsfkuDg31VYbn1YEsgSqvAUHBQ1sYs/w640-h346/UteMountain-entrance_1200w-SL1_26110.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Welcome sign with Ute Mountain in the background.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>The entrance road is marked with an old-style BLM sign that is modern enough
to include the legend Rio Grande del Norte National Monument and has their map
under plexiglass. The road goes straight south for two miles and is smooth and
wide. It then turns straight west. It gets somewhat more confusing after that and I was keeping my eyes on the weather as the clouds were building. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9pGdtuVs_xmS_FrnF1fM6Z3HX-yenc2FZl1exgERxlc6e1_x5u5uVBY38tdQdN9T_jiH6QjfyqwtFvsS88WGciguEUfHwpuuYdYrA3opMuxcYu_2_aTF0B-ss5znd1-ql6fEj17RlBOEjzlUppwRpba-VyvT3QsvvNF5KOWWUqu4w_-WyNp8oIX3poD8/s1200/PinonHills-road_1200w-SL1_26112.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="712" data-original-width="1200" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9pGdtuVs_xmS_FrnF1fM6Z3HX-yenc2FZl1exgERxlc6e1_x5u5uVBY38tdQdN9T_jiH6QjfyqwtFvsS88WGciguEUfHwpuuYdYrA3opMuxcYu_2_aTF0B-ss5znd1-ql6fEj17RlBOEjzlUppwRpba-VyvT3QsvvNF5KOWWUqu4w_-WyNp8oIX3poD8/w640-h380/PinonHills-road_1200w-SL1_26112.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Driving west, north of the mountain</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /></div><div>The road
is double-track and at times dips deeply into one arroyo after another. There
were also rocky stretches where you have to go slow. I don't believe Google
has correctly identified the "main" roads, at least on the north side of the
mountain, so be wary. I didn't seem to follow what the BLM map showed, either. I tried to follow the most traveled turns (which might not be ideal in retrospect.)</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5MG538VNFxrp12AfjI_Kkmy-LcNolk8socn2zTkDckeQJv1-lfFs3023Vn6K_gakHrL64z8YNdwXOYPAwxB2fUP8-6OMbHmhqJ0gtmp-BsJU8PD0u67mZbipWfKEluzx4ohTu7olezBEoZZuT2Qhs2VMrn3Q_k0FE_1XGJqLZZlcizNZ53S5o9uibuxE/s1200/UteMountain-westside_1200w-SL1_26114.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="672" data-original-width="1200" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5MG538VNFxrp12AfjI_Kkmy-LcNolk8socn2zTkDckeQJv1-lfFs3023Vn6K_gakHrL64z8YNdwXOYPAwxB2fUP8-6OMbHmhqJ0gtmp-BsJU8PD0u67mZbipWfKEluzx4ohTu7olezBEoZZuT2Qhs2VMrn3Q_k0FE_1XGJqLZZlcizNZ53S5o9uibuxE/w640-h358/UteMountain-westside_1200w-SL1_26114.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">West slopes of Ute Mountain (and my last photo of chamisa, I promise.)</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /></div>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">The Gorge</h4>
<p>
I could see that the road was getting closer to the Rio Grande Gorge. I'd
noticed on a satellite view during my planning that there appeared to be a
side road leading to a dispersed campsite (or two) next to the gorge. When I
saw what looked like an appropriate turn, I took it. Sure enough, I found a
campsite right near the edge. I marked it on my GPS and also took photos and
sent the drone up for a spherical panorama.
</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrt1Tz4hbzJYhi884CBtijgz9TwIjmlvsxgYxMd9plm9HwqYhfWItZEka2z6m7KpKrEODPlIbMn-Wn2cgRsdo24OaLO_1CTtzGjqvh9GuVZjUJcL6v9jsgzK1-hYJUB30wmd___2uK-MKX3iUHTnn7XGenJoyVGkrPtMoVBBNuHbBrpdheygaPlh4bjWc/s1200/RioGrande_1200w-SL1_26117.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="819" data-original-width="1200" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrt1Tz4hbzJYhi884CBtijgz9TwIjmlvsxgYxMd9plm9HwqYhfWItZEka2z6m7KpKrEODPlIbMn-Wn2cgRsdo24OaLO_1CTtzGjqvh9GuVZjUJcL6v9jsgzK1-hYJUB30wmd___2uK-MKX3iUHTnn7XGenJoyVGkrPtMoVBBNuHbBrpdheygaPlh4bjWc/w640-h436/RioGrande_1200w-SL1_26117.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Rio Grande from next to the dispersed campsite.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivwtB1W_HxebP6Pq0ZRREYoVyVnPdq9QK936I_9dXjbpr6R8dR2vkHnyOxAxHRnB7Jp1fAScaGca0juyzTos5rIZ063QaUcgBVtMKFukSVzgVaAgnh1BRD26VlUW9JdF4FLKIk80oG4Yx12mj1pq2JGM9jln99G64tVNbodxBP3Ort3Odd01znOpUL8Wg/s1200/RioGrande_1200w-DJI_0494.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="799" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivwtB1W_HxebP6Pq0ZRREYoVyVnPdq9QK936I_9dXjbpr6R8dR2vkHnyOxAxHRnB7Jp1fAScaGca0juyzTos5rIZ063QaUcgBVtMKFukSVzgVaAgnh1BRD26VlUW9JdF4FLKIk80oG4Yx12mj1pq2JGM9jln99G64tVNbodxBP3Ort3Odd01znOpUL8Wg/w640-h426/RioGrande_1200w-DJI_0494.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can see the gorge cutting north across the plains in this aerial view.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Click the full-screen icon in the upper right or <a href="https://kuula.co/post/5Jvxm" target="_blank">open in a new tab</a>.</p>
<iframe allow="xr-spatial-tracking; gyroscope; accelerometer" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="500" scrolling="no" src="https://kuula.co/share/5Jvxm?logo=1&info=1&fs=1&vr=0&sd=1&thumbs=1" width="100%"></iframe>
<p>
I drove back to where I'd made my original turn to continue on and noticed a
yellow Dead End sign attached to a road marker. It looked fairly new, too. I
had to go a ways before I could turn around, but have confirmed from home that
road does indeed end about half a mile farther along. I was a bit puzzled. I
had seen a road cross the spur I took to the gorge campsite; maybe that was
now the "main" road though it didn't look well used.
</p>
<p>
I don't know exactly how far I drove. I know two different people who said it was
possible to drive all the way around Ute Mountain on the west side and that it
was a rough, bumpy road. Nonetheless, the road seemed to be getting worse and
I wasn't convinced I was on the through road, so I called it quits, turned
around, and headed back the way I'd come in. In looking at the satellite view
now, I believe I was on the through road and there appears to be several
cleared areas farther along where you could camp. I just wanted to clear out
in front of the weather. I decided to head south to the BLM's Wild Rivers
area. I had read the roads were paved and that seemed a good idea with the
storm coming.
</p>
<p>
I back-tracked along my route. As I was driving north on the exit road I was
treated to a pronghorn crossing in front of me. I had hoped to see pronghorn
on my drive north, but had not. Once out of the monument getting to the state
highway was a challenge. My Garmin GPS would have had me go straight east, but
there was a fence and a field in the way. I again needed my Earthmate app to
find my way to the highway, NM-522. Sheesh.</p><p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
Wild Rivers Recreation Area (a more domesticated portion of Rio Grande del
Norte)
</h4>
<p>
This is another area I'd seen on maps and never visited. It features paved
roads and developed campgrounds, though no hook-ups. Naturally, by the time I
got here the storm had dissipated and it was very warm. I turned off of NM-522
on Post Office Road in Cerro (a shortcut if coming from the north) onto NM-378
which goes into the recreation area. The highway curves around to the west
side of Guadalupe Mountain. I stopped for a photo of the gorge at the Sheep
Crossing Overlook just inside the park boundary.*
</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCaxwvzsbWkMngVT9nRkaFQCrVoiDlu6guibqQMVdtXgZ5pjubmC9g34jM276zgq04sYt8L_f6rhJZ9yQ-4pt0SpAfTeiCgM5B4YCBRIYvB-wWMYMjUSUw6bBhfG64wNvgjQ18toSjlgXx17tiU11x8G8DOTL298orYy58N9ja4TB1uC8zunoF0Nb3hYk/s1200/ChifloOverlook_1200w-SL1_26122.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCaxwvzsbWkMngVT9nRkaFQCrVoiDlu6guibqQMVdtXgZ5pjubmC9g34jM276zgq04sYt8L_f6rhJZ9yQ-4pt0SpAfTeiCgM5B4YCBRIYvB-wWMYMjUSUw6bBhfG64wNvgjQ18toSjlgXx17tiU11x8G8DOTL298orYy58N9ja4TB1uC8zunoF0Nb3hYk/w640-h426/ChifloOverlook_1200w-SL1_26122.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here at the overlook you can see the gorge is getting deeper.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>There are a number of trails into Guadalupe Mountain and a few day-use,
pull-offs on the gorge side. Once in the main fee area you enter a one-way loop
road that goes by the Wild Rivers Visitor Center. Then you come to the El
Aguaje Campground (which I somehow missed seeing on my way around the loop) on the
Red River side. At the southern end of the loop is the La Junta Campground
which is dedicated to walk-in, tent camping. No one was there.</p>
<p>
There are four small camping areas with gravel roads for vehicle camping.
Looks like each site has a ramada for shade. Every space was taken on a
Tuesday afternoon. I gather one of the big attractions of this area is that
there are trails from the campgrounds down to the Rio Grande for those who are
willing to hike for some water sports.
</p>
<p>
I decided not to try to find a site in the campground I'd missed on the other
side of the loop away from the gorge. Even if I found a site it would be too
warm for comfort and being away from the Rio Grande seemed like giving
up. I've learned later this was a good decision, too, as there is no
shade in that particular campground. The Red River is below the canyon rim, but a long way
below.</p>
<p>
I didn't get any photos of Wild Rivers beyond the one at the overlook. Basically it contains shrubs and wild
grass with piñons and juniper woods, typical of northern New Mexico.
</p><p>There was plenty of light left, so I accelerated my plans and drove back out to the highway and turned south. The remainder of this trip will be documented in a separate post.</p><p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">*Additional Dispersed Campsites</h4>
<p>
I noticed what looked like an RV on the rim of the gorge far to the north when
I was at Sheep Crossing Overlook. In looking at satellite views from home I
can see there appears to be clearings for dispersed camping along the rim just
north of the Wild Rivers Recreation Area. Where the highway starts to curve to
the south, take the dirt road west toward, then past, the transfer station.
Drive north along the rim. This BLM land is within the national monument, so
camping is legal and free here.
</p>
<p>
Also, the lady at the BLM Visitor Center had circled an area south of Wild
Rivers on one of the xerox maps she gave me and said there was dispersed
camping in that area, too. There was no detail on that map, so I looked it up
while writing this post. It seems Carson National Forest extends all the way to the Rio
Grande south of Red River (and thus south of Wild Rivers). The map
shows a gravel road, FS-9, from NM-522 (across from Rio Grande Stables) leading to a
primitive campground near the rim of the gorge on Cebolla Mesa. Looking at the satellite
view, there appears to be a vault toilet in a central camping area and a small
network of side roads leading to other dispersed sites.</p><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Thanks for reading.</h4><p><i>I hope this glimpse of Rio Grande del Norte National Monument was entertaining and informative. If you have questions, feel free to drop me an email—find my address in the menu up top under Get Email Notifications.</i></p><p><br /></p>Bosque Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00001863270259847102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3983525105536347837.post-65659346108284499482023-09-13T09:10:00.000-06:002023-09-13T09:11:22.951-06:00SE San Juan Mountains, CO & NM: Part 3<h4 style="text-align: left;">Part 3 of 3: <a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2023/09/se-san-juan-mountains-co-nm-part-1.html">Begins with Part 1</a>; <a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2023/09/se-san-juan-mountains-co-nm-part-2.html">Part 2</a></h4><p><b>Remember to click any photo for a larger version.</b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Thursday, August 24 (continued)</h3><h4 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h4><h4 style="text-align: left;">New Mexico</h4><h4 style="text-align: left;">Rio de los Piños</h4><p>The route to my favorite spot in northern New Mexico is not marked or obvious. If you come in via forest roads south of San Antonio Mountain you can easily follow the Carson National Forest map or a good atlas, such as the Benchmark series. From the north, you need to begin in Colorado. Just south of Antonito, CO I turned right off of US-285 onto County Road 12.5. This is immediately past the Cumbres & Toltec Railroad tracks. One follows the pavement until it makes a sharp bend to the left; there you continue straight on gravel.</p><p>Several years ago I was talking to someone who was familiar with this area and they asked if I knew about the Mennonite Colony around there. I did not and had not seen any indications previous years. This time as I was driving in I came across a horse drawn carriage with six young people in appropriate dress coming the other way. I slowed down and waved as they passed. The kids turned around to stare at the strange apparition they'd just seen. Lest I forget to tell you, on my way out, just across the state line in San Antonio I drove past a bearded Elder on his bicycle returning to the colony (I assume) and he gave me a wave.</p><p>It's a pleasant drive along the Rio de los Piños next to the bosque. There is a state wildlife refuge along the way which is a popular trout fishing area. They also have vault toilets at a few access points, which was appreciated as the gas station in Antonito had no facilities.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuSa3Z44s6stZAVQDy4bgcMPLyQmgyTe7q6WfySiz5J3gs5r3w0RS9h9VlhQX7BurMCqXtvu5vcrlVIk7HlgxN4YUloYVZEAs7I_bIVWUsNUJcXOaHgZagJ1LEGRdN1c2lo92cOMnHw_EIPKlNOkWPge2d5q-ocBUW-aXdTo7J0DmlCFvWjf1fN_uOYWw/s1200/tree-cliff_1200h-SL1_25601.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="940" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuSa3Z44s6stZAVQDy4bgcMPLyQmgyTe7q6WfySiz5J3gs5r3w0RS9h9VlhQX7BurMCqXtvu5vcrlVIk7HlgxN4YUloYVZEAs7I_bIVWUsNUJcXOaHgZagJ1LEGRdN1c2lo92cOMnHw_EIPKlNOkWPge2d5q-ocBUW-aXdTo7J0DmlCFvWjf1fN_uOYWw/w502-h640/tree-cliff_1200h-SL1_25601.jpg" width="502" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Road coming into the campground</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I was hoping I would find a good camping site. I was coming in fairly early on a Thursday afternoon, so thought my prospects were good. The little meadow along the river where I'd camped a couple times before was available. It was a bit on the hot side this day, but could be a Plan B, if needed. But in fact the first official site was open and looked great, so I pulled in there. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigD7vhXM8890xcIoNmXjUtUs6eoOxuEpDZ5hCSmP8FNY3ZxGKCRKNv5Noo4KEw58g2HkmhpzNhRJpbx7JqqH2Mfj2ihAMIGYCrxRWke9u2vgohKMLU2MCg--tN8XmpRMcbzOjOOFfxry_j9mJihTm8zxPRYM6RAV8o0RjK0MNXQqbLImmTodruOmsNMgc/s1200/RioDeLosPinos-campsite_1200w-SL1_25597.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="773" data-original-width="1200" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigD7vhXM8890xcIoNmXjUtUs6eoOxuEpDZ5hCSmP8FNY3ZxGKCRKNv5Noo4KEw58g2HkmhpzNhRJpbx7JqqH2Mfj2ihAMIGYCrxRWke9u2vgohKMLU2MCg--tN8XmpRMcbzOjOOFfxry_j9mJihTm8zxPRYM6RAV8o0RjK0MNXQqbLImmTodruOmsNMgc/w640-h412/RioDeLosPinos-campsite_1200w-SL1_25597.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Campsite along the river</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>It had been a couple of years since I'd been back here and it looked like the forest service had cleared away quite a bit of the underbrush and low hanging trees that had made the campground just a little claustrophobic before. They'd also brought in gravel to fill the many mud puddles that plagued the road in the past. On my walk the next day I confirmed they'd similarly cleared the other sites and added gravel to the road. </p><p>I was able to set up the camper so the solar panels got sun and I set up my comfy chair in the shade to watch the river. There was a momma Western Wood-Peewee teaching her two young how to catch flies over the river. At some point I should mention this is a New Mexico mountain river, what those from wetter climes would call a stream or a brook. But you'll figure that out from the photos, I guess.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpr8IaqCx0N0x2JOAuyPIky_3-DQmkmZKy91W59ZuIVuuqszgE0-MentcCQyagMV33Y6I9OgCsofpEEPbXzPwiLu6kR-pTjey2Io-yrd-l4ghMpnPSD_md-3eQDXA-_PWYBaM2nlz5D4-bO9XrQ1f7fIECEIyAf8EF00rO9qifox5U4LCtc_3Q0lE3kys/s1200/Peewee-juveniles_1200w-7D_25814.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="892" data-original-width="1200" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpr8IaqCx0N0x2JOAuyPIky_3-DQmkmZKy91W59ZuIVuuqszgE0-MentcCQyagMV33Y6I9OgCsofpEEPbXzPwiLu6kR-pTjey2Io-yrd-l4ghMpnPSD_md-3eQDXA-_PWYBaM2nlz5D4-bO9XrQ1f7fIECEIyAf8EF00rO9qifox5U4LCtc_3Q0lE3kys/w640-h476/Peewee-juveniles_1200w-7D_25814.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Juvenile Western Wood-Peewees</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhis9dw_Ks2mOkzhRJKvoPFz_9TLVEAzU_EcDbthhKQXkREhf-mtlS5MhbhWwpmmbQC4tJAPOSED3TH0_-tus9Nvy7VjAilrrZUu5MYx9fdSDWUu7FLat0R68ABhVKmystN7dAcGd9Jt8AmguXEI0mm2NoIHbDlLUzDyq2ccUYtjOcPOwvxrryYX7dojs/s1200/WaterStriders_1200w-7D_25852.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="834" data-original-width="1200" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhis9dw_Ks2mOkzhRJKvoPFz_9TLVEAzU_EcDbthhKQXkREhf-mtlS5MhbhWwpmmbQC4tJAPOSED3TH0_-tus9Nvy7VjAilrrZUu5MYx9fdSDWUu7FLat0R68ABhVKmystN7dAcGd9Jt8AmguXEI0mm2NoIHbDlLUzDyq2ccUYtjOcPOwvxrryYX7dojs/w640-h444/WaterStriders_1200w-7D_25852.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'd never seen Water Striders rafting before</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvbA5PdsuFd-L1qWycDZAZSOxq9Xm1CGWZVRlnoM0MOAohGt96R0ZO3r8l20D941v8V8nfI1Prk2CI-Akf0ZttVolJlqUMaKhiNG6wIXrbCj0sEpiEJCnn2jF8GD-Ky61SbN2Ra_44o93uDm58b2PeDgzBDHJqIjVDhUTRml7lX5_r6jyevUzLBccZ-bo/s1200/Rio-tree_1200h-SL1_25599.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvbA5PdsuFd-L1qWycDZAZSOxq9Xm1CGWZVRlnoM0MOAohGt96R0ZO3r8l20D941v8V8nfI1Prk2CI-Akf0ZttVolJlqUMaKhiNG6wIXrbCj0sEpiEJCnn2jF8GD-Ky61SbN2Ra_44o93uDm58b2PeDgzBDHJqIjVDhUTRml7lX5_r6jyevUzLBccZ-bo/w426-h640/Rio-tree_1200h-SL1_25599.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view from my camp chair</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I didn't notice right away that my concrete picnic table had a mural. Pretty cool. I photoshopped off some graffiti, but didn't try to fix the damage due to moisture wicking up from the ground and peeling off the paint.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdhWNUIgClbo4QVRAHAOnW66u2x2Fe7_Komi2Co5PYqxBSHPQNYDQHyuxMZbUjq4f9-X_9JXh2_S-ZUJLF8Yx0Dla8wZJ4oU-mVvpVmlpJEtETZwlosz0QUsWne0sM5Xeq-f674VQhQvbuIm8R3Tq7BBAaB6PnlPHGoiZH32FcJtS_fYUAYy4wqDKwpW0/s1200/PicnicTable_1200w-SL1_25614.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="728" data-original-width="1200" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdhWNUIgClbo4QVRAHAOnW66u2x2Fe7_Komi2Co5PYqxBSHPQNYDQHyuxMZbUjq4f9-X_9JXh2_S-ZUJLF8Yx0Dla8wZJ4oU-mVvpVmlpJEtETZwlosz0QUsWne0sM5Xeq-f674VQhQvbuIm8R3Tq7BBAaB6PnlPHGoiZH32FcJtS_fYUAYy4wqDKwpW0/w640-h388/PicnicTable_1200w-SL1_25614.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I had the coolest table in all the campground</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>It was a quiet evening after a quiet afternoon. Just before dusk a motorcyclist rode past. Looked like he was set up for back country touring/camping.</p><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Friday, August 25</h3><h4 style="text-align: left;">Rio de los Piños (continued)</h4><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKyRfNn94LEZ9zFT9qLJ8McmvcPq_b00YIrJDSafVpsEhYqLFaVGMQo5LPshZncKp0V08qhs7Cyys-hPo7m8wcBM6VI5ZWtiOAWyyMduOFEItwZdpLQ2vCruXhxqzbiro37u9OOMnoAU2hAdoU9LF_nPkNEF4TKDqKDaOwP5HWucCWAZyzLaw-TGe7tQ8/s1200/Rio-flowers_1200sq-SL1_25605.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKyRfNn94LEZ9zFT9qLJ8McmvcPq_b00YIrJDSafVpsEhYqLFaVGMQo5LPshZncKp0V08qhs7Cyys-hPo7m8wcBM6VI5ZWtiOAWyyMduOFEItwZdpLQ2vCruXhxqzbiro37u9OOMnoAU2hAdoU9LF_nPkNEF4TKDqKDaOwP5HWucCWAZyzLaw-TGe7tQ8/w640-h640/Rio-flowers_1200sq-SL1_25605.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yellow flowers along the river</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>It was a beautiful morning and I enjoyed my coffee in my chair beside the river. About 9am I decided to walk up the road with my cameras. I took a few "landscape" photos, but as I've posted many, many before I concentrated on photographing the critters—not that they cooperated. I've had to really (over) process some of these so you can see what the backlit birds even look like. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4GzFHhsqozghS0wXm3GXS5xY_D2CS1aSno-oeg5AXTcRk3hu9PWP5tnJQDYN6mTp-QlVilZGnLiz3j1AgR17yE1ZsREtO5g0QR-xf7nw7n3UTiI1V_OfR2JBsPrfahLvk_hwMPVqT7neMY0_WvgViR4wyS3rN30W-jO12XLVYIUEe4LkvOustMfP0EIA/s1200/HairyWoodpecker_1200w-7D_25881.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="886" data-original-width="1200" height="472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4GzFHhsqozghS0wXm3GXS5xY_D2CS1aSno-oeg5AXTcRk3hu9PWP5tnJQDYN6mTp-QlVilZGnLiz3j1AgR17yE1ZsREtO5g0QR-xf7nw7n3UTiI1V_OfR2JBsPrfahLvk_hwMPVqT7neMY0_WvgViR4wyS3rN30W-jO12XLVYIUEe4LkvOustMfP0EIA/w640-h472/HairyWoodpecker_1200w-7D_25881.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hairy Woodpecker</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinQERQQ2kAEaMp9K6Dmd2maufpOG0MjT_OPmWfNgUhuACaizFfqqmHKGlFmpW4Q5MnTkQIuyqYDX5PjgPyeqLUlaJ6ZdrXIKnaL7YCfnvmm9SYgZuEPZlsI7C5qQirp1x7lFdYiYWDj2zgsEfSxZ7thLMsPOaacnbStg40_Cxy53lWSUwUafSmykV9ZNQ/s1200/HouseWren_1200w-7D_25895.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="895" data-original-width="1200" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinQERQQ2kAEaMp9K6Dmd2maufpOG0MjT_OPmWfNgUhuACaizFfqqmHKGlFmpW4Q5MnTkQIuyqYDX5PjgPyeqLUlaJ6ZdrXIKnaL7YCfnvmm9SYgZuEPZlsI7C5qQirp1x7lFdYiYWDj2zgsEfSxZ7thLMsPOaacnbStg40_Cxy53lWSUwUafSmykV9ZNQ/w640-h478/HouseWren_1200w-7D_25895.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maybe the best bird photo of the trip—a House Wren</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />I kept hearing jay-like calls from many birds that flew high from one side of the canyon to the other, but evaded my eyeballs. Some were up beyond this rock formation.<div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7AsJnX2Pe44RctF6f13YPGb0SnWQ_9IqQ95iQwEVM5lh6g4QK2RsOFn43Gh-fxaHkJ535hVunqVymXqfOrHGFbqngncvVIkoV02Ev0En__ZxQtfrx4Kn1G08vLvc4Y-qPr4tOvdr57_n1jQtfmnuP0YdCvwSkbr8pK-2jaQNrFAM6bhze1PLmgZFXY-I/s1200/Rockface_1200w-SL1_25607.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="774" data-original-width="1200" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7AsJnX2Pe44RctF6f13YPGb0SnWQ_9IqQ95iQwEVM5lh6g4QK2RsOFn43Gh-fxaHkJ535hVunqVymXqfOrHGFbqngncvVIkoV02Ev0En__ZxQtfrx4Kn1G08vLvc4Y-qPr4tOvdr57_n1jQtfmnuP0YdCvwSkbr8pK-2jaQNrFAM6bhze1PLmgZFXY-I/w640-h412/Rockface_1200w-SL1_25607.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of bird activity up on the side of the canyon</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHft4sXcq6i6hrI6uLnZobb8UZXI3FVYay_S31UVbznbI5bOJdQ614ZLxRV8nKpyE5HqrDjoxyZgog6F9IwIZEXbDRPEB8GLdxcwvRxDfg7ORRjOy2YqqqZQQygrsMh04vZLnR2VXXLbvprC-B_Z1s_rgA__eP1SVchtxpKfH3iHwB1qwz_7qL20FiX20/s1200/SpottedSandpiper_1200w-7D_25909.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="897" data-original-width="1200" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHft4sXcq6i6hrI6uLnZobb8UZXI3FVYay_S31UVbznbI5bOJdQ614ZLxRV8nKpyE5HqrDjoxyZgog6F9IwIZEXbDRPEB8GLdxcwvRxDfg7ORRjOy2YqqqZQQygrsMh04vZLnR2VXXLbvprC-B_Z1s_rgA__eP1SVchtxpKfH3iHwB1qwz_7qL20FiX20/w640-h478/SpottedSandpiper_1200w-7D_25909.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spotted Sandpiper vacationing in New Mexico</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I counted the camping spots and picnic tables as I walked. There were 6 tables at nice campsites. There were a few other sites where one could camp without a table. There was another vault toilet near the 6th official site. I guess that was the end of the campground per sé.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9143OImceo8lWu09fTXk-ATgVGrJTZDBQvAzBr9hH-ek7mZomOQKiA3ZR7i7uhpV5Xb6KxVwe9MQjm78VMroZ9qa_xjCwsYL-NGFjYn_syTqUciScZGPAUysC9iC_2qk7Md_FAPlZTOyKyp9eCUloMg1ejjW2SO0u3fjn93KF-1ga3AQG9pAOXm92HlQ/s1200/FieldCrescent_1200w-7D_25960.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="868" data-original-width="1200" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9143OImceo8lWu09fTXk-ATgVGrJTZDBQvAzBr9hH-ek7mZomOQKiA3ZR7i7uhpV5Xb6KxVwe9MQjm78VMroZ9qa_xjCwsYL-NGFjYn_syTqUciScZGPAUysC9iC_2qk7Md_FAPlZTOyKyp9eCUloMg1ejjW2SO0u3fjn93KF-1ga3AQG9pAOXm92HlQ/w640-h462/FieldCrescent_1200w-7D_25960.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Field Crescent previewing the autumn colors soon to come</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>The motorcyclist was the only person I saw camping this morning, though I didn't walk as far as Cañon Atencio, so may have missed surveying a couple of sites. I spoke briefly with the man who was doing a little maintenance on his motorcycle. He was following a dirt roads backcountry route up from the southern border of New Mexico up into Colorado. I didn't bother him with a photo request.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF3WibQQGVDpZOFzOYS0C7EB2-LM52_NuQRIF8zdqtvQbdhg4ekPpVisx7G2J-lBqlI0VxbND08p5F8o8VmPOVhwSw0_f0tz2p5Xnxvqta98ExPZNDd74dZ99pBgtTEZEeyVl5CKiE3FTzfXvu4oiCronEPR6hRzmlgFsQzMIMYzG2ii89q3z3aSDBvFg/s1200/RioDeLosPinos_1200w-SL1_25610.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="931" data-original-width="1200" height="496" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF3WibQQGVDpZOFzOYS0C7EB2-LM52_NuQRIF8zdqtvQbdhg4ekPpVisx7G2J-lBqlI0VxbND08p5F8o8VmPOVhwSw0_f0tz2p5Xnxvqta98ExPZNDd74dZ99pBgtTEZEeyVl5CKiE3FTzfXvu4oiCronEPR6hRzmlgFsQzMIMYzG2ii89q3z3aSDBvFg/w640-h496/RioDeLosPinos_1200w-SL1_25610.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Such a beautiful little canyon</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Plenty of relaxing in the shade by the river that afternoon. I did manage to see and get a photo of one of those raucous birds. Turns out they were Clark's Nutcrackers. A fairly uncommon species (at least anywhere else) that I'd only seen once before. Cool.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihcq0L2oDEnA69OfihemF-k-muL34bjq1gwXdVjkhWnbnddua7VXnLQKEEBjNyn-ohVjSK_OKz0GqIX9zqQLSbn8BsYQTbA_RANVnbTLNv1NIKKLQddf3mls1XVnyV2Gb_vaF4tubmOBMf70F-Jp54ErjPN1jSZpVKmnJYGkJnW-HGxR_VrXdOIXomcVU/s1200/ClarksNutcracker_1200w-7D_25954.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="928" data-original-width="1200" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihcq0L2oDEnA69OfihemF-k-muL34bjq1gwXdVjkhWnbnddua7VXnLQKEEBjNyn-ohVjSK_OKz0GqIX9zqQLSbn8BsYQTbA_RANVnbTLNv1NIKKLQddf3mls1XVnyV2Gb_vaF4tubmOBMf70F-Jp54ErjPN1jSZpVKmnJYGkJnW-HGxR_VrXdOIXomcVU/w640-h494/ClarksNutcracker_1200w-7D_25954.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clark's Nutcracker finally revealed</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>There was some traffic driving through the campground in the afternoon and evening. Actually more than I would have expected especially as you would have to know this out of the way campground was even here. Glad I got a campsite on a Thursday. I enjoyed a pleasant evening.</p><p>About 7pm I started hearing thunder. Once I felt a few drops, I began stowing my chair, side table, etc. It was getting dark in any case. I got inside and the heavens opened up. It's easy to over estimate rainfall when in a camper with an aluminum roof, but it did pour and for quite a while, too. It was good as all the green growing things could use a good drink.</p><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Saturday, August 26</h3><h4 style="text-align: left;">Rio de los Piños (continued)</h4><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK-E9Td1KG4oDsXRtNqtUKARkG9qKOfq1rIvaHRJagX9V4-P9yKCiS0EnpdprDZ9OXPO4F0yhcU-H8_AumfGysCOFAFcyYdKrbFvvW0GUNV3nqxgBxUK4QmeAddOa-hUeDwFDyt9QU5lMKT-zyJnz7P3-VNOEkiyUXtyoty5M6WPW8EJQ03Z7I9PdycQw/s1200/Rio-coffee_1200w-SL1_25618.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="1200" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK-E9Td1KG4oDsXRtNqtUKARkG9qKOfq1rIvaHRJagX9V4-P9yKCiS0EnpdprDZ9OXPO4F0yhcU-H8_AumfGysCOFAFcyYdKrbFvvW0GUNV3nqxgBxUK4QmeAddOa-hUeDwFDyt9QU5lMKT-zyJnz7P3-VNOEkiyUXtyoty5M6WPW8EJQ03Z7I9PdycQw/w640-h360/Rio-coffee_1200w-SL1_25618.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Morning coffee</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I again enjoyed my coffee by the river. I walked around hoping for better luck with my bird photography, but it was not to be. I'd decided I'd head back to civilization today, as and the forecast I'd requested the day before using my inReach satellite communicator was for rain all day. Nonetheless, I took my time breaking camp.</p><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">On the road</h4><p>I left via the northern route as it's 45 minutes to the highway rather than a couple of hours, which is a wonderful drive in good weather, but would not be that fun if in the rain. I stopped to photograph some roadside sunflowers. I think the flowers are in New Mexico and the ridge is part of Colorado. If leaving via the north route, but going south, you can take the first right after crossing the ridge. This is Road C and goes straight to the highway.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAm5NeAH-Gb_dvlcjrEtBPlyahUqv1xkDe8TTK8DNCVxyckYw2qpm-RD72AXvMbOhKIQjli50JqNbPv9iOYmZwKrCeBRr_H4KUKULkLtVanXtYuMuV9IZ9b0xcBry3kgv5UOA_s63NU_Q1UBfqHbdPizdb3m9yI3BaJqwAtfnMpE4o6ePAU-VCJmAurV0/s1200/Sunflowers-road_1200h-SL1_25620.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="890" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAm5NeAH-Gb_dvlcjrEtBPlyahUqv1xkDe8TTK8DNCVxyckYw2qpm-RD72AXvMbOhKIQjli50JqNbPv9iOYmZwKrCeBRr_H4KUKULkLtVanXtYuMuV9IZ9b0xcBry3kgv5UOA_s63NU_Q1UBfqHbdPizdb3m9yI3BaJqwAtfnMpE4o6ePAU-VCJmAurV0/w474-h640/Sunflowers-road_1200h-SL1_25620.jpg" width="474" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roadside sunflowers and a portent on the horizon</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I also pulled over at the state line for photos. I'd had to cross back into Colorado to get to US-285. There was a nice view of San Antonio Mountain. You can also see the clouds rapidly building over the mountains I'd just left.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjywR5oorNKGVNr5E58DIAXQq83O86rRdPjX_DpdLnumJeu3hWi7K-am7enDTK56tVDo0SRqIXaoAk2bwMMx3YCVs3ZqKn1j5XOhSS133EXtMYZM_iYOv-1Fj3lhdx-otG7qjbvAfp7xlJZUWbnN3aRppse-cHUTGE1Y3s54y5gJCKCCWh5yzCFKXRTQSQ/s1200/SanAntonioMtn-welcome_1200w-SL1_25627.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="1200" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjywR5oorNKGVNr5E58DIAXQq83O86rRdPjX_DpdLnumJeu3hWi7K-am7enDTK56tVDo0SRqIXaoAk2bwMMx3YCVs3ZqKn1j5XOhSS133EXtMYZM_iYOv-1Fj3lhdx-otG7qjbvAfp7xlJZUWbnN3aRppse-cHUTGE1Y3s54y5gJCKCCWh5yzCFKXRTQSQ/w640-h360/SanAntonioMtn-welcome_1200w-SL1_25627.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">San Antonio Mountain seen from the state line</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYt8FyhU8aDwYf3xFhPNTug6AYvd1zdyxjB7qrTQpOk_3SF_62LAm38_dr35eyhdZf_uKrcslcVqC-uwKGhCGC_DhqWcpzibv29vQvtkfpsw2em8aMXC4f11DSD6hu2zIAMawglCgTqCBIdg4RDjNUS_FPut0EhIBynaF2XvoouJu2OH1ezTkR11jLYNc/s1200/StateLine_1200w-SL1_25635.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="727" data-original-width="1200" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYt8FyhU8aDwYf3xFhPNTug6AYvd1zdyxjB7qrTQpOk_3SF_62LAm38_dr35eyhdZf_uKrcslcVqC-uwKGhCGC_DhqWcpzibv29vQvtkfpsw2em8aMXC4f11DSD6hu2zIAMawglCgTqCBIdg4RDjNUS_FPut0EhIBynaF2XvoouJu2OH1ezTkR11jLYNc/w640-h388/StateLine_1200w-SL1_25635.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A view back toward where I'd been camped and the clouds rapidly building</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>No drama on the drive home. A short delay for some highway resurfacing, but otherwise a smooth trip back down through Española, Santa Fe, then the freeway to the North Valley and home where it was almost muggy due recent rain.</p><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;"><i>Thanks for reading and following along.</i></h4><p><br /></p></div>Bosque Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00001863270259847102noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3983525105536347837.post-61753490002654366052023-09-13T08:55:00.005-06:002023-09-13T09:24:25.373-06:00SE San Juan Mountains, CO & NM: Part 2<h4 style="text-align: left;">
Part 2 of 3; <a
href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2023/09/se-san-juan-mountains-co-nm-part-1.html"
>Story begins in Part 1</a
>
</h4>
<div><b>Remember to click on any photo for a larger version.</b></div>
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Wednesday, August 23</h3>
<p>East Fork Dispersed Camping Area (continued)</p>
<p>
When I got up in the morning I could smell wood smoke. Apparently the wind
shifted and the wildfire smoke was drifting this way. I'd thought I'd spend
two days in this area, but the situation had changed. I had breakfast, broke
camp, and headed back to the highway.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Rio Grande National Forest</h4>
<p>
I turned north on US-160 and drove up and over Wolf Creek Pass. In looking at
the map I'd seen a road I'd not explored that took off east of the highway to
Big Meadows Reservoir. There was a USFS campground there, but the road
continued on and perhaps there was dispersed camping up there that way.
</p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Big Meadows</h4>
<div>
I turned off the highway and shortly saw a large sign that stated camping was
only allowed in designated campgrounds. That seemed to put the kibosh on
dispersed camping. I went ahead to check out the reservoir and campground.
Looks like a good place for folks who want to fish for lake trout. I didn't
check the regulations, but I suspect they allow small trolling boats, not that
I saw any.
</div>
<div><br /></div>
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizuCNW-YT6Ok9axJMGUztFWw01iNhMzKLK1pK0gPdzG3P4_vYJKrDkJs9T1upwPtwHcCQlb0Hk25DopkSU8a-EtpU-Nz4i3XzXq6vVq_bRagXXSl6qySFqyE-bmqnrV3xD98duqB5IZzWQ1x1uaFs7T9k-BRdAFEZGxBpzM7AsVFzY7vmKvyHXKderg0M/s1200/BigMeadowsRes_1200w-SL1_25551.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="577"
data-original-width="1200"
height="308"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizuCNW-YT6Ok9axJMGUztFWw01iNhMzKLK1pK0gPdzG3P4_vYJKrDkJs9T1upwPtwHcCQlb0Hk25DopkSU8a-EtpU-Nz4i3XzXq6vVq_bRagXXSl6qySFqyE-bmqnrV3xD98duqB5IZzWQ1x1uaFs7T9k-BRdAFEZGxBpzM7AsVFzY7vmKvyHXKderg0M/w640-h308/BigMeadowsRes_1200w-SL1_25551.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Big Meadows Reservoir
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
The campground was situated up the slope beside the lake. There were sites
with views, but they were generally close together and well populated. I took
a couple photos and headed back to the highway. I was asked later if there
might have been dispersed camping farther along the road. At the time I
thought the sign was all inclusive, but don't really know. If you're
interested the District Ranger could tell you.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Eastern San Juans</h4>
<p>
A few years ago I'd driven up the Conejos River Valley from CO-17. I'd camped
in the official dispersed camping area, then continued on to Platoro, then up
and over and down Park Creek Road, FS-380. I seemed to recall there were
campsites along there. I thought I'd go up that road and around the summits,
but skip the Conejos River road as it was miles of miserable washboard.
Instead I'd go out by following the Alamosa River which would be new to me.
</p>
<p>
With this in mind I found and followed Park Creek Road. Sure enough there were
camping spots along the river, most of which were occupied. I did find one
that was available, but there was a lot of ATV traffic kicking up dust along
the road. I kept going and from looking at the satellite maps before my trip
knew there were meadows along the river farther up that might provide camping.
</p>
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg35YSNfT-ficQFWsZTJKERoRzKdEmn9Rz0rF-lWeUxh8mywYz4frJfDBfberFkKL3KaYqwrB1zNrXT2JgQJLK0ab2WNyoOmbrd5Mm3zEF8hwSSbV39WV-kTEgrgVnUYLm2acUzjcJJBt-FtjD230pvSPMoam2Lt3_Tnh5LjwTPwjgTxVvDBI_JDaT1aQA/s1200/Fireweed-Senecio_1200w-SL1_25566.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="828"
data-original-width="1200"
height="442"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg35YSNfT-ficQFWsZTJKERoRzKdEmn9Rz0rF-lWeUxh8mywYz4frJfDBfberFkKL3KaYqwrB1zNrXT2JgQJLK0ab2WNyoOmbrd5Mm3zEF8hwSSbV39WV-kTEgrgVnUYLm2acUzjcJJBt-FtjD230pvSPMoam2Lt3_Tnh5LjwTPwjgTxVvDBI_JDaT1aQA/w640-h442/Fireweed-Senecio_1200w-SL1_25566.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Black-tipped Ragwort and Fireweed
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
One of those meadows was hosting what looked like a jamboree. I passed another
that looked promising and backtracked to check it out. There was one large
trailer but the double-track appeared to follow the river and I saw no campers
there. When I started up the track I found the reason why. The area was
blocked off for landscape rehabilitation purposes. Oh, well, onward and
upward.
</p>
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0H-IAwG2xlJItBtcUf-S_84YZen77TPALWx9EONpgfmpQE5hFAl_EPNci0zROPEPD7kkCjwGb348gh7VOIwGaNqriLYINIO8fAVSrMOE1RGPP4-cPqQ6D09QqmtrI93anO4DnbVXn3M-AoxfiU89nPDWmK6X_P-wqNyNMS6UyiZoT-u-qsm5NSCHAdxY/s1200/Black-tippedRagwort_1200w-SL1_25564.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="748"
data-original-width="1200"
height="398"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0H-IAwG2xlJItBtcUf-S_84YZen77TPALWx9EONpgfmpQE5hFAl_EPNci0zROPEPD7kkCjwGb348gh7VOIwGaNqriLYINIO8fAVSrMOE1RGPP4-cPqQ6D09QqmtrI93anO4DnbVXn3M-AoxfiU89nPDWmK6X_P-wqNyNMS6UyiZoT-u-qsm5NSCHAdxY/w640-h398/Black-tippedRagwort_1200w-SL1_25564.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Black-tipped Ragwort, AKA Roadside Senecio, and some stinkweed, too
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I checked out a few side roads, but most were pretty gnarly. Another looked
sort of OK, but on closer examination the potential campsite was covered in
cow patties. Yuck. Another had neither a view or creek access. Since it was
still early due to my quick exit from the fire zone, I kept going. When I
reached the top there was an interesting spot with a fabulous view, however a
chilly wind was kicking up and the site was exposed. I kept going with a Plan
B in mind.
</p>
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRl_-tdsZPJ1G2NUDcGqVX9U1KjFLr_5K7rEXOEEXevtkE92_QSkgOdku0oU5xYSBzQQ048zPeOg5SEvTK4M6EPu0dG78PBFEJZkGtDLan59kx6k4kY2TVCUUMiQ6VYBgdgIOonTj2l4g7Dg68fM_GdRv5LdopIau1_qgby4JCvHYj7OcXaUMcwT2Bw-Y/s1200/SchinzelFlats-wide_1200w-SL1_25558.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="505"
data-original-width="1200"
height="270"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRl_-tdsZPJ1G2NUDcGqVX9U1KjFLr_5K7rEXOEEXevtkE92_QSkgOdku0oU5xYSBzQQ048zPeOg5SEvTK4M6EPu0dG78PBFEJZkGtDLan59kx6k4kY2TVCUUMiQ6VYBgdgIOonTj2l4g7Dg68fM_GdRv5LdopIau1_qgby4JCvHYj7OcXaUMcwT2Bw-Y/w640-h270/SchinzelFlats-wide_1200w-SL1_25558.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the top</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCeEIQSQpsNnylTmrJMKRef_YHgNZDAwuPl8iPCeoyNTNmjmNB60ayy_4nJrAr0fpZgr2_12motXnExvJGbEsIM9AVkh0jHb2wgZTnhbwkV0lMhqcuN3DjzTaqT9o8PVNLnoZvvJDY2pZFcn5jMfwlyBZoWDYwsvQHTbcQvloIHuf8nTJdefk3MgFYo9s/s1200/Moth-Ragwort_1200w-7D_25701.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="835"
data-original-width="1200"
height="446"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCeEIQSQpsNnylTmrJMKRef_YHgNZDAwuPl8iPCeoyNTNmjmNB60ayy_4nJrAr0fpZgr2_12motXnExvJGbEsIM9AVkh0jHb2wgZTnhbwkV0lMhqcuN3DjzTaqT9o8PVNLnoZvvJDY2pZFcn5jMfwlyBZoWDYwsvQHTbcQvloIHuf8nTJdefk3MgFYo9s/w640-h446/Moth-Ragwort_1200w-7D_25701.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A better photo of a Cop Car Moth
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhANf4JMEFsJ8SP02ebUWMUcy36w6-AB-9FSGMlXXXrXD6O-DP-8qOEFLTisJkvN3Yjq3HWOfb155CXXb0KH2nyvU8VvoRN51I0RWLg5apsyIpc-IWuMlED48wilCt8cN7Kwp0d-XvzXZj5dSonmOJdeccHM1PqWB8_u67D2yMMg9eCOkWGcqvzQOSs-0Y/s1200/BigRedMtn_1200w-SL1_25568.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="774"
data-original-width="1200"
height="412"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhANf4JMEFsJ8SP02ebUWMUcy36w6-AB-9FSGMlXXXrXD6O-DP-8qOEFLTisJkvN3Yjq3HWOfb155CXXb0KH2nyvU8VvoRN51I0RWLg5apsyIpc-IWuMlED48wilCt8cN7Kwp0d-XvzXZj5dSonmOJdeccHM1PqWB8_u67D2yMMg9eCOkWGcqvzQOSs-0Y/w640-h412/BigRedMtn_1200w-SL1_25568.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big Red Mountain</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
On my earlier trip I'd stopped in a small primitive campground near the
Stunner mine site to have lunch. That would be my fallback option.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Stunner Campground</h4>
<p>
It's good to have a Plan B. As I pulled into the campground I was the only one
there. It has a half dozen nice sites with picnic tables and a metal fire
rings. There is one vault toilet. It was only around 2pm, but I found a pretty
site that was level for the camper and could catch some sun if the clouds
would cooperate. I took the site rather than drive until I'd exhausted my
options and myself.
</p>
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUILkCpUZl2zzWWKoXRLdOd1R1Y5p_-JCXJ_Le48Jx8zNMHABnJuwX0q1uDa5Gk3_somBYwADARt21wRTskIJn20_VmSgBRSLd4BhFdCbhgq8cB_tExVUSSUysoJDTRGy_UvABU03IQXcpveMnJGeW4vAnpIK8pkrBwyrRMtLziMNMhD6GQmosftKKyDE/s1200/StunnerCG-camper_1200w-SL1_25576.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="791"
data-original-width="1200"
height="422"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUILkCpUZl2zzWWKoXRLdOd1R1Y5p_-JCXJ_Le48Jx8zNMHABnJuwX0q1uDa5Gk3_somBYwADARt21wRTskIJn20_VmSgBRSLd4BhFdCbhgq8cB_tExVUSSUysoJDTRGy_UvABU03IQXcpveMnJGeW4vAnpIK8pkrBwyrRMtLziMNMhD6GQmosftKKyDE/w640-h422/StunnerCG-camper_1200w-SL1_25576.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
My campsite with a view of the meadow and valley
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEYWym94p8NoXWjpfbOeOfIdXROZuGLLViMMi8nZCnKygKPqGivR_QowbR3hllgnLZyIni8j_TR_WXWm10F4nxqy-0hV7FeMMRM8mvpFvnisnEfqZ3Z-bE4Kf_5BPAD_3_BIPGt0BHqZDF_zOPRgAlkmLNzNChboukaZgY1gofDfxD0KrmR2kMmZ2bZzs/s1200/AlamosaRiver_1200h-SL1_25570.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="1200"
data-original-width="944"
height="640"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEYWym94p8NoXWjpfbOeOfIdXROZuGLLViMMi8nZCnKygKPqGivR_QowbR3hllgnLZyIni8j_TR_WXWm10F4nxqy-0hV7FeMMRM8mvpFvnisnEfqZ3Z-bE4Kf_5BPAD_3_BIPGt0BHqZDF_zOPRgAlkmLNzNChboukaZgY1gofDfxD0KrmR2kMmZ2bZzs/w504-h640/AlamosaRiver_1200h-SL1_25570.jpg"
width="504"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Alamosa River as seen from my campsite
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
Stunner is named for the mining camp near here established in 1892. According
to signage 400 miners, gamblers, and camp followers came to this spot, but
many quickly moved on. There is supposed to be remnants of the camp around,
but I didn't see any.
</p>
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTsg7cydDcsdgcb51oNXDkP8j81ZwifanxwN1ZmDqNusqtobFqn6frLTI1IFo7DwEKYJOFsdY2HjMiDYKpXTyAUtfOshFX29pUDoAZQ4DLXtUghmvdmjfCjiix6OIJz4TuoMkuegvR_NweWktSpfK1Q5lwuI9e465knNnrZ8PI0so9rn43lewF_MYwCz0/s1200/PerrysGentian_1200w-7D_25705.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="880"
data-original-width="1200"
height="470"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTsg7cydDcsdgcb51oNXDkP8j81ZwifanxwN1ZmDqNusqtobFqn6frLTI1IFo7DwEKYJOFsdY2HjMiDYKpXTyAUtfOshFX29pUDoAZQ4DLXtUghmvdmjfCjiix6OIJz4TuoMkuegvR_NweWktSpfK1Q5lwuI9e465knNnrZ8PI0so9rn43lewF_MYwCz0/w640-h470/PerrysGentian_1200w-7D_25705.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
I was fascinated by the intense blue of this little Gentian
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7kAU1NcpO8tIyGfxu-7oBq_611VVnkdyfgmnG0qbzkdzISq4ecT-N1pZ3tINYA3PsKhVal8DpESZ7A1rcMlUJfn93mNbfhzreKgAu2fNP8XHsILCM3Vd5mEMardyDcj1DbcRK6HLE53l4j2jb6yXfqZpkSe-Pln3sDNUJ2--EJYfTBuivvVnUXLTPBJA/s1200/Paintbrush_1200h-7D_25707.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="1200"
data-original-width="800"
height="640"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7kAU1NcpO8tIyGfxu-7oBq_611VVnkdyfgmnG0qbzkdzISq4ecT-N1pZ3tINYA3PsKhVal8DpESZ7A1rcMlUJfn93mNbfhzreKgAu2fNP8XHsILCM3Vd5mEMardyDcj1DbcRK6HLE53l4j2jb6yXfqZpkSe-Pln3sDNUJ2--EJYfTBuivvVnUXLTPBJA/w426-h640/Paintbrush_1200h-7D_25707.jpg"
width="426"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
An "artistic" shot of a little paintbrush
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I had a pleasant afternoon. One jeep came in with two older couples who had a
picnic for an hour across the way. A forest ranger came by to check on the
little wetland there have, which I know as I was out looking for flowers to
photograph so was able to speak to them briefly. I'd actually had a lazy day,
so after dinner I walked the half mile access road back to the "main" road and
took a picture of an old cabin there at the junction. Though not in good shape
it is much too new to be part of the old mining camp. It was a nice quiet
night.
</p>
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5tqt_aHag9jMQ37vtXmR6ldILmZVnm72tD66_95JaqgXzIn7dV4Grrc2GMtvZ5N62ejGbL_o5MvIlsHRBy-0GbS_d1DzPjP3wyHjBcUOASri-AYPoguw3dP8YFJqMzYvoNnCaNDxiIQW9FoKFZutHaMCPVneIXSPOxfF71O76gc4CmecDwIxv9eDtWCo/s1200/StunnerCabin_1200w-SL1_25579.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="760"
data-original-width="1200"
height="406"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5tqt_aHag9jMQ37vtXmR6ldILmZVnm72tD66_95JaqgXzIn7dV4Grrc2GMtvZ5N62ejGbL_o5MvIlsHRBy-0GbS_d1DzPjP3wyHjBcUOASri-AYPoguw3dP8YFJqMzYvoNnCaNDxiIQW9FoKFZutHaMCPVneIXSPOxfF71O76gc4CmecDwIxv9eDtWCo/w640-h406/StunnerCabin_1200w-SL1_25579.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Old cabin—perhaps a defunct forest guard station
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Thursday, August 24</h3>
<p>Stunner Campground (continued)</p>
<p>
No need to rush out of camp this morning and no reason to stay, either. After
breakfast I wandered around and took a couple dozen photo of the birds—none of
which were worth saving. Got a good photo of a chipmunk, however, as he
charged along the road right at me, until he saw me.
</p>
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih7zDTCTi0ui8Pk-1lGLHMtZGUnsujdtfxPmpmGt4phEi2RDYSSlqfhat6wvZekwIaZgyMquG46NpaGJpZSwByzdGyL6G4LMNH0pE_bn1Sb4Koo-o2jlah62I1HSrpv79zLqgSzFPFol9Oytrc1M8cB9_DjjHzpNdU4uuXuAHorcswkxiozcgVJCLQL18/s1200/Chipmunk_1200w-7D_25737.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="959"
data-original-width="1200"
height="512"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih7zDTCTi0ui8Pk-1lGLHMtZGUnsujdtfxPmpmGt4phEi2RDYSSlqfhat6wvZekwIaZgyMquG46NpaGJpZSwByzdGyL6G4LMNH0pE_bn1Sb4Koo-o2jlah62I1HSrpv79zLqgSzFPFol9Oytrc1M8cB9_DjjHzpNdU4uuXuAHorcswkxiozcgVJCLQL18/w640-h512/Chipmunk_1200w-7D_25737.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Chipmunk suddenly realized I'm standing here.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiPe80MrwBl8YSSVhE48cepMtSeTCX9AyP0IIQ8cNBxxmN-vuIBAvDB_3MFZUUL1RFkRZHAQq6Tu4YLzCwhmJDhbDPvqwJYJw6p5sBT3LWKy8zNun7oxUm9Q88mv6kqx4Izl8I0e9Dkuy_P16lxWGDg18YOYok5_I4eZXYyn5Zohh8t8IRw2EQl7YdQ8M/s1200/Stunner-river_1200w-SL1_25585.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="713"
data-original-width="1200"
height="380"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiPe80MrwBl8YSSVhE48cepMtSeTCX9AyP0IIQ8cNBxxmN-vuIBAvDB_3MFZUUL1RFkRZHAQq6Tu4YLzCwhmJDhbDPvqwJYJw6p5sBT3LWKy8zNun7oxUm9Q88mv6kqx4Izl8I0e9Dkuy_P16lxWGDg18YOYok5_I4eZXYyn5Zohh8t8IRw2EQl7YdQ8M/w640-h380/Stunner-river_1200w-SL1_25585.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A beautiful morning in the Alamosa River valley
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>Here is a spherical panorama of the area:</p>
<iframe width="100%" height="640" frameborder="0" allow="xr-spatial-tracking; gyroscope; accelerometer" allowfullscreen scrolling="no" src="https://kuula.co/share/5kssR?logo=1&info=1&fs=1&vr=0&sd=1&thumbs=1"></iframe>
<br />
<p>
I'd drive down the Alamosa River Road, FS-250, and see what was there. The map
showed a campground situated along the river near the end of the national
forest which I'd check out. But most likely I would proceed back to the
highway south of Alamosa and head to my favorite northern New Mexico camping
spot on the Rio de los Piños River. That would be a very nice conclusion to my
trip.
</p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Alamosa River Road</h4>
<p>
It was a very pleasant drive on a gravel road in good condition. The river was
on my right as I drove through the aspen. I kept my eyes peeled in case there
were any turn offs to dispersed campsites along the river, but didn't see any.
I found one site on the mountain side by a tiny creek, but it wasn't level.
</p>
<p>
Just before I got to Jasper. I saw a pond right next to the road. I pulled
over to see if there were any dragonflies and sure enough I quickly spotted
some flying by. I parked and tried my luck.
</p>
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqwiRxJuBJO9eKYTN84YqlCoi7azedSQAFaTFSwIPu1QPlr1rI0Nmeo_smPQikKMwVtIV0rdIydUG43jmnZF44k93c5DXSACCIjBlJK5R6wrUG5Ku_MoYe_PPUeMEjd3JjEHygetfX3Ng4UTc0JqQNq5gqkBPFLSbtge0PrmL5GPoWCjU3hp3VTSA2BOk/s1200/Pond_1200w-SL1_25587.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="777"
data-original-width="1200"
height="414"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqwiRxJuBJO9eKYTN84YqlCoi7azedSQAFaTFSwIPu1QPlr1rI0Nmeo_smPQikKMwVtIV0rdIydUG43jmnZF44k93c5DXSACCIjBlJK5R6wrUG5Ku_MoYe_PPUeMEjd3JjEHygetfX3Ng4UTc0JqQNq5gqkBPFLSbtge0PrmL5GPoWCjU3hp3VTSA2BOk/w640-h414/Pond_1200w-SL1_25587.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Alpine dragonfly pond
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I enjoyed about 45 minutes of walking around two sides of the pond trying my
hand at capturing whatever critters I could with my camera. The first image
here is not very good, but I'm posting it as a reminder to always check my
settings before shooting. I had a golden opportunity with a usually fast
moving darner hovering still in front of me and my shutter speed was too low.
He never cooperated again. I heard at least two Pika calling from the talus on
the far side of the pond, but never saw them.
</p>
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaKlS0J5-E836gwRItSKcsu5Fe9xvgVIatHk1SABbw-fVJUIEcvR1MarHFaxeh60MJk1wg36C_aw-ghTQx2CIa28w1DRO6ZSpoS8P93MX0XdzG-MNkSm8Kej2xHht1J0MQmfC2_OxKrVeZ-XghmW4BbDJFC9Q0rKQad0XBFt6lNu14yEEJ6rQJcJWnHGo/s1200/Paddle-tailedDarner_1200w-7D_25752.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="936"
data-original-width="1200"
height="500"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaKlS0J5-E836gwRItSKcsu5Fe9xvgVIatHk1SABbw-fVJUIEcvR1MarHFaxeh60MJk1wg36C_aw-ghTQx2CIa28w1DRO6ZSpoS8P93MX0XdzG-MNkSm8Kej2xHht1J0MQmfC2_OxKrVeZ-XghmW4BbDJFC9Q0rKQad0XBFt6lNu14yEEJ6rQJcJWnHGo/w640-h500/Paddle-tailedDarner_1200w-7D_25752.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Paddle-tailed Darner at too slow of a shudder speed
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeQBLYKNuPNuotSaRyrZzKL52hVL5g0DahD-z3qj-fEA_pwKc-xsZ0ikuBuWkwPVv2yQP2kMB4XfKf-gBdzsOTU7Ju-7I_p-g2DuK_b8-DrgAyTfxjg7MSDoFHTFOT8qyokq73qaV8vgUFmg3tc_Ospd5CdjocbgIwxjyS39EXLZDEyWIhY6kqQCa6qvE/s1200/NorthernBluet_1200w-7D_25759.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="797"
data-original-width="1200"
height="426"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeQBLYKNuPNuotSaRyrZzKL52hVL5g0DahD-z3qj-fEA_pwKc-xsZ0ikuBuWkwPVv2yQP2kMB4XfKf-gBdzsOTU7Ju-7I_p-g2DuK_b8-DrgAyTfxjg7MSDoFHTFOT8qyokq73qaV8vgUFmg3tc_Ospd5CdjocbgIwxjyS39EXLZDEyWIhY6kqQCa6qvE/w640-h426/NorthernBluet_1200w-7D_25759.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Northern Bluet damselfly
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPjgqxihulpA9XhBczcJq6Kaoz7XxH_6mfd0aQvDQASZ3NjppElZJSlWJccimeNvZ6zsQE0nyJqlas3I-CeC5o1CGQv7Wa0Dli6YyIQYd-HPLtAaOmD8XdBKNQGqpGfJHoNbSbwyTLOftY3R6ktb-HGZEmMBGVbpPZXjvPCcc8yrFYBdqq1B-Bvc3Nv-8/s1200/CanadaThistle_1200w-7D_25761.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="837"
data-original-width="1200"
height="446"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPjgqxihulpA9XhBczcJq6Kaoz7XxH_6mfd0aQvDQASZ3NjppElZJSlWJccimeNvZ6zsQE0nyJqlas3I-CeC5o1CGQv7Wa0Dli6YyIQYd-HPLtAaOmD8XdBKNQGqpGfJHoNbSbwyTLOftY3R6ktb-HGZEmMBGVbpPZXjvPCcc8yrFYBdqq1B-Bvc3Nv-8/w640-h446/CanadaThistle_1200w-7D_25761.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A terrible pest, but pretty
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgncDWv6LsOenOQd0AoPWjr2yMixpaVREWaOLL7tpmLAhMEKnQa7CIagZVPc3i8xCMmLbRB5YL51P7PvUkNEx4GI8fmPTvOOdVcHwLGscfnB-pPo9p5mOVWHZRyoLdcGt788u8L_uQinlG7cQ45DNIYiTd3WaEqGL5GpDvd8trQF7CV6gciwZNYSOQmdEg/s1200/NorthernBluet-tandem_1200w-7D_25773.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="857"
data-original-width="1200"
height="458"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgncDWv6LsOenOQd0AoPWjr2yMixpaVREWaOLL7tpmLAhMEKnQa7CIagZVPc3i8xCMmLbRB5YL51P7PvUkNEx4GI8fmPTvOOdVcHwLGscfnB-pPo9p5mOVWHZRyoLdcGt788u8L_uQinlG7cQ45DNIYiTd3WaEqGL5GpDvd8trQF7CV6gciwZNYSOQmdEg/w640-h458/NorthernBluet-tandem_1200w-7D_25773.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Northern Bluets in tandem
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5XfTTkcBLHt09K50axL5q-eo4_fKkpIRI2XI_Q6bEPLnjpQ5gt856j5tfnvNmyJSaq6MMqP_nXSNn7PngtkLrrEeWuHe2NEcuzjJedv2nHDZTGgUYtbm0qCT42gkGJzzvelyXTxRO0DM40mwAifQZKetyLlBTiRYv2vbhunvETV2bnP3lFt29Hn2PfaE/s1200/NorthernSpreadwing_1200w-7D_25787.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="897"
data-original-width="1200"
height="478"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5XfTTkcBLHt09K50axL5q-eo4_fKkpIRI2XI_Q6bEPLnjpQ5gt856j5tfnvNmyJSaq6MMqP_nXSNn7PngtkLrrEeWuHe2NEcuzjJedv2nHDZTGgUYtbm0qCT42gkGJzzvelyXTxRO0DM40mwAifQZKetyLlBTiRYv2vbhunvETV2bnP3lFt29Hn2PfaE/w640-h478/NorthernSpreadwing_1200w-7D_25787.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A Northern Spreadwing—my first
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcdLbVuYlgVusDpG7gD4kFGGw5OapG94uHOfhb6xZnlEdMPPIIAzdHGGnpU1DYrxnnp0vpi0biTyRBv_F7oh7Ba29xbBQnnq6PBrsPOp-A619HgJ-hzvklyM8pilpl177yXki_wx2ZRBO1OWaMh_gThGD-lBkmYPqgwGC8xtkFvl4WZPSD3DCCj-vTSeI/s1200/Hummingbird_1200w-7D_25803.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="931"
data-original-width="1200"
height="496"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcdLbVuYlgVusDpG7gD4kFGGw5OapG94uHOfhb6xZnlEdMPPIIAzdHGGnpU1DYrxnnp0vpi0biTyRBv_F7oh7Ba29xbBQnnq6PBrsPOp-A619HgJ-hzvklyM8pilpl177yXki_wx2ZRBO1OWaMh_gThGD-lBkmYPqgwGC8xtkFvl4WZPSD3DCCj-vTSeI/w640-h496/Hummingbird_1200w-7D_25803.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Enormous dragonfly... or perhaps a juvenile Broad-tailed Hummingbird
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Alamosa Campground</h4>
<p>
Jasper is simply a long strip of private land which extends a mile or so
farther downstream where folks have built cabins and summer homes. I saw no
businesses. There is a last section of the national forest before more private
and state land. The Alamosa Campground sits at the bottom of the forest land
and is a very pleasant, free campground on the river. There are a half dozen
sites, three on the river itself, and one vault toilet. Two of the river sites
seemed to be long-term campers; 4 the other sites were open. I found a spot to
rest and have a picnic lunch.
</p>
<p>
Continuing down FS-250 one quickly leaves the pines and conifers for a drier
area of piñon and juniper. The road skirts Terrace Reservoir before being
directed into a parallel valley. At that point I changed over to FS-255 which
would take me south and east to Capulin over dry and dusty gravel roads though
desert like terrain. From there it was a straight shot east to La Jara and
US-285.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Conejos County</h4>
<p>
One of the eBooks I'd brought along turned out to be a short novella rather
than a full-length novel, so I wanted more reading material. Once I was back
on the grid I tried to use my phone as a hot-spot to access the online
library. For some reason this just didn't work. Rats! A couple miles south on
the highway is a USFS office I stopped there to see if they had WiFi. They had
guest WiFi, but it wasn't working. The young man working there provided
directions so I could go back about a mile to the county library to use their
WiFi. I did and asked the librarian if a traveler could use their WiFi. She
wrote out the password for me. I was able to return the books others where
waiting for and check out a hold that was ready for me. Excellent.
</p>
<p>
I filled up the truck at an unattended, credit card only gas station in
Antonito, CO. It also seemed to be the only gas in the village and offered
only regular grade. Fortunately it was at a good price.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<a
href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2023/09/se-san-juan-mountains-co-nm-part-3.html"
>Story continues in Part 3</a
>
</h4>
<p><br /></p>
<div><br /></div>
Bosque Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00001863270259847102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3983525105536347837.post-79101457969839010082023-09-13T08:41:00.002-06:002023-09-13T09:21:33.712-06:00SE San Juan Mountains, CO & NM: Part 1<p>Part 1 of 3</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">August 20-26, 2023</h2>
<p>
<i
>It had been an unusually hot and dry summer in the middle Rio Grande Valley
that I call home. I needed a break, perhaps in the cool Colorado
mountains. However, I seen myself in previous years that many, many others
will have had the same plan. I thought if I visited lesser known locales I
might find respite. I'd camped along the East Fork of the San Juan River,
east of Pagosa Springs, twice before. It has many dispersed campsites along
the scenic river. In search of additional options in the same general area I
began a thorough search using online satellite imagery. </i
>
</p>
<p>
<i
>I found two excellent prospects both west and east of Pagosa; Hunter Piedra
and Quartz creek. I also thought I'd go back up into an area I'd briefly
passed through—the Summit area on the other side of the Continental Divide.
OK, I had a rough plan.</i
>
</p>
<p>
<b
>Remember to click a photo for a larger version which opens a screen you may
arrow through</b
>
</p>
<p>
<b><br /></b>
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Sunday, August 20</h3>
<p>
I finished loading my truck and camper and drove north on I-25 from the
Albuquerque area. Took the Santa Fe by-pass and stopped briefly in Española
for tacos. The day was quickly heating up. The drove to Pagosa Springs on
US-84 where I filled the gas tank. I drove west from Pagosa on US-160 to First
Fork Road that parallels the east side of the Piedra River.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Hunter Piedra Campground</h4>
<p>
Twelve miles up the good, gravel road is a small, primitive campground which I
had found in the satellite view and confirmed via the San Juan National Forest
map. As I drove in I was passed twice by trucks pulling medium-small camping
trailers (and also a big truck pulling a long stock-trailer). I was hoping
they were on their way home and there would be sites available for me. I was
also expecting the temperature to drop with elevation, but it didn't seem to.
</p>
<p>
There is deluxe concrete bridge that leads to the First Fork Trailhead. Before
the bridge you can turn right, upstream, and the road leads you to a
stock-trailer parking area and a loop with a vault toilet. There appeared to
be a group camped there with a number of tents and vehicles.
</p>
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU2bwab-hs_SxnfWMa7nOcIBN-F9GVm-xMTPWKhnNlq1Dhig3v3cbl8y-RCKvgEtRcvwanOJ3-XcL-l99xaOsUp8MPghK_RcZn0KEdEMvxr3DimI3mRA4DfzInVjGGEETllJvEhWVt_zY8y52EnVXHRQ-Txp8Fe5f5OzVVX92G17EJ_mf1xaipYyoIFlw/s1200/PiedraRiver_1200w-SL1_25514.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="800"
data-original-width="1200"
height="426"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU2bwab-hs_SxnfWMa7nOcIBN-F9GVm-xMTPWKhnNlq1Dhig3v3cbl8y-RCKvgEtRcvwanOJ3-XcL-l99xaOsUp8MPghK_RcZn0KEdEMvxr3DimI3mRA4DfzInVjGGEETllJvEhWVt_zY8y52EnVXHRQ-Txp8Fe5f5OzVVX92G17EJ_mf1xaipYyoIFlw/w640-h426/PiedraRiver_1200w-SL1_25514.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Piedra River</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
If you turn left before the bridge a track takes you to several dispersed
campsite with views of the river. There was only one truck in the area with
two men preparing to fly fish in the Piedra River. No one was camped so I had
my choice. I went all the way to the downstream end to set up. It was close to
90º, not the cool mountain air I'd been hoping for, so after setting up I
found a nice piece of shade for my chair and watched the river flow.
</p>
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAxaSU8IuhDusHKr3_pJsHKKNANorg7qPHIGvdYjWhA4qpZorPEYfxvOeSnoI-lqdJFST41GHGD1qeGqNGEk0uGpbtELDLsPoBLo0ZoDCOH1vwatUPnbl6Y00pVS4CXpXI5C3YzRuEL0bZvyrI4xXb-tnaVlj0fPllN-A7-_YjWmyvwItXfIUf6qv-72A/s1200/PiedraRiver-camper_1200w-SL1_25513.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="787"
data-original-width="1200"
height="420"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAxaSU8IuhDusHKr3_pJsHKKNANorg7qPHIGvdYjWhA4qpZorPEYfxvOeSnoI-lqdJFST41GHGD1qeGqNGEk0uGpbtELDLsPoBLo0ZoDCOH1vwatUPnbl6Y00pVS4CXpXI5C3YzRuEL0bZvyrI4xXb-tnaVlj0fPllN-A7-_YjWmyvwItXfIUf6qv-72A/w640-h420/PiedraRiver-camper_1200w-SL1_25513.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
My campsite at Hunter Piedra dispersed campground
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8YiMcLCnSsSqbolT7K5u0X_xOPwa1W8HRtq878OW21iCeHQwXvCdvXQ0Tn-ZOonGzUWkOKPyFbLX8LVg-7x7N_2PV0h9OLMImg71ZB-ZMc7StREXmUQMWLRWH_x-qGUoxYtAzKIEKMv70b3ElnB7cyEWHjuduW_9SYhIGqieytn7R7VO_eXAFYZ2MJOs/s1200/PiedraRiver-view_1200h-SL1_25510.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="1200"
data-original-width="974"
height="640"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8YiMcLCnSsSqbolT7K5u0X_xOPwa1W8HRtq878OW21iCeHQwXvCdvXQ0Tn-ZOonGzUWkOKPyFbLX8LVg-7x7N_2PV0h9OLMImg71ZB-ZMc7StREXmUQMWLRWH_x-qGUoxYtAzKIEKMv70b3ElnB7cyEWHjuduW_9SYhIGqieytn7R7VO_eXAFYZ2MJOs/w520-h640/PiedraRiver-view_1200h-SL1_25510.jpg"
width="520"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Yellow flowers along the river bank
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I saw lots of butterflies on some yellow flowers next to the river. While
trying to get a photo a young woman walked up the river in shorts and water
shoes. I said hello and we spoke for a few minutes. She lives in Pagosa and
comes up to this area regularly for day hikes and to enjoy the river,
including kayaking when there is enough water. I mentioned the butterflies and
she said that actually they were "Cop Car" moths (as they are black &
white.) She knew the scientific name, but that didn't stick in my brain. I
wasn't able to get an in-focus photo of one of the moths this afternoon,
however.
</p>
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf91-FXwhv-jAv_A2oGnVhwb9gwXLqNhSySdmUgs-qhZeBRe9Wkj1m6j0DPXzIWd8t9A56D8w56p-95PHbcLpRhvhSuxWWaHXlsR0ag1H30qDq552vQjX2LhQ-_Lt0umgNHkqx6-jbRLT70NSdwYDcPRtbFJSZMOfBPMjFcHRgr5hs6e4_9WMq79ZG7RM/s1200/Sneezeweed-bee_1200w-7D_25643.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="791"
data-original-width="1200"
height="422"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf91-FXwhv-jAv_A2oGnVhwb9gwXLqNhSySdmUgs-qhZeBRe9Wkj1m6j0DPXzIWd8t9A56D8w56p-95PHbcLpRhvhSuxWWaHXlsR0ag1H30qDq552vQjX2LhQ-_Lt0umgNHkqx6-jbRLT70NSdwYDcPRtbFJSZMOfBPMjFcHRgr5hs6e4_9WMq79ZG7RM/w640-h422/Sneezeweed-bee_1200w-7D_25643.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A fuzzy bee is gathering dinner
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
The truck and stock-trailer was a regular commuter heading out, then about a
hour or so later driving back in. I finally figured out that the trailhead up
by the bridge was the terminus of guided horseback rides. Folks would ride
from the other end of the trail, finish here then the wranglers would load up
the horses and clients to drive back down the mountain. That kept up until
dusk, but fortunately wasn't too disruptive.
</p>
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB4C54qluXKy2yr1Z5k3xjrejRVfQSNOTNMZnxvNtahiWgjyDjcsBmqe1fW5hG8ZcpWoUKZhkmnEssNRW1CoDF_GULweoGSXWKo1j5y7pDU1AAWxGlsW1FeUgsJznpvfY5po6mjco9AxqRUzzbpXWxDf9Exo6-VyOGXd5jutlk35r2w06F-qJl1wX9FP0/s1200/Moon-above_1200h-SL1_25521.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="1200"
data-original-width="1086"
height="640"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB4C54qluXKy2yr1Z5k3xjrejRVfQSNOTNMZnxvNtahiWgjyDjcsBmqe1fW5hG8ZcpWoUKZhkmnEssNRW1CoDF_GULweoGSXWKo1j5y7pDU1AAWxGlsW1FeUgsJznpvfY5po6mjco9AxqRUzzbpXWxDf9Exo6-VyOGXd5jutlk35r2w06F-qJl1wX9FP0/w580-h640/Moon-above_1200h-SL1_25521.jpg"
width="580"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A bit of color in the evening sky
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
It cooled off some in the evening. There wasn't much of a sunset, but there
was a photogenic sliver of moon.
</p>
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9-rEl-3pxtP-VJgChiB23SamcZ5kOBhh-YqmUgA7LiskkQltLtzQ9LYx30G2Oz49FMp05irO_v-58oBdyQhkYgHQ0aNCDNuy6VCcnB7uHwTk1w3OEMsO67fVy8iXs6WUYb_8GUnMuSE75-61CDvcc-Q_PEj8wYabsEp1N1vgfzWOIrjrUY8qwqRkW8Xg/s1200/Moon_1200sq-7D_25663.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="1200"
data-original-width="1200"
height="640"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9-rEl-3pxtP-VJgChiB23SamcZ5kOBhh-YqmUgA7LiskkQltLtzQ9LYx30G2Oz49FMp05irO_v-58oBdyQhkYgHQ0aNCDNuy6VCcnB7uHwTk1w3OEMsO67fVy8iXs6WUYb_8GUnMuSE75-61CDvcc-Q_PEj8wYabsEp1N1vgfzWOIrjrUY8qwqRkW8Xg/w640-h640/Moon_1200sq-7D_25663.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A hand-held photo of the moon using my wildlife lens
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Monday, August 21</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Hunter Piedra Campground (continued)</h4>
<div><br /></div>
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzqQ8sPF8QvtvU1RpO3Q3T2NHN3TdK7-_rfhQr9Fs9FsxZBiUZBC2ff9sQQe59FqpUKMOMENTMGe1Q8YjPyqgKW26zlU-W5UM6wBSFKH9L41PKTRkBuLC5k-fPd2ZIKTugatFTS4gtOMR1lWg5hT6k3yX-7Mt6CIM1O7k_X-Lfi4zqLDEskUi8qxdfeug/s1200/HunterPiedraCG_1200w-SL1_25523.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="775"
data-original-width="1200"
height="414"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzqQ8sPF8QvtvU1RpO3Q3T2NHN3TdK7-_rfhQr9Fs9FsxZBiUZBC2ff9sQQe59FqpUKMOMENTMGe1Q8YjPyqgKW26zlU-W5UM6wBSFKH9L41PKTRkBuLC5k-fPd2ZIKTugatFTS4gtOMR1lWg5hT6k3yX-7Mt6CIM1O7k_X-Lfi4zqLDEskUi8qxdfeug/w640-h414/HunterPiedraCG_1200w-SL1_25523.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
My campsite at the downstream end of the camping area
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
It was a beautiful morning. There were three wild turkeys grazing in the
meadow next to my camper, but of course they fled when I tried to get a photo.
I enjoyed a relaxing morning watching the chipmunks feeding on the
chokecherries and other berries along the river. There were birds feeding,
too, but they didn't pose for photos. I got an insight into nature when I
noticed the critters didn't just grab a fruit, but would carefully examine
each bunch and only pick the ripe ones. This is why the bunches look so picked
over—because they are!
</p>
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4N-yDCP7urJNN_nsQg2-U3FbFgeZnfMPSGQJ5DzjsO8hViZD7KG6-nlpprpvZjKa0r_6IKmxdzsUy3KG0GMgsnGKWcefNeieOl0NoDURpXm8AyA7P5RGVNK0KX5BO1IqPD56yxNZqGWY6pBwD_ln8ppaMtB6GdxrtOXkawCXQXvwPt9pOBtJeeNP8X4g/s1200/Chipmunk_1200-7D_25666.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="909"
data-original-width="1200"
height="484"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4N-yDCP7urJNN_nsQg2-U3FbFgeZnfMPSGQJ5DzjsO8hViZD7KG6-nlpprpvZjKa0r_6IKmxdzsUy3KG0GMgsnGKWcefNeieOl0NoDURpXm8AyA7P5RGVNK0KX5BO1IqPD56yxNZqGWY6pBwD_ln8ppaMtB6GdxrtOXkawCXQXvwPt9pOBtJeeNP8X4g/w640-h484/Chipmunk_1200-7D_25666.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The chipmunk would forage in the bushes then return to this boulder to
eat
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOPqHciJ2tB9XWLIfRxG7FDWZ1LwqQ_RG6Za2u1Z9aoYoBlUSw_Dn-s-G6UwCTtRQN8M86J1exCm3NgSor1c5VKbaKvAhlXDBeSX3IitKNTW1iuRMMz6rCnh32PQIvFpji5MtPAXp6kTxJv2KeuGcos_klEnVPXY7ZYsSJ7ipHCTDouvF7kf1jze586co/s1200/Chokecherry-berries_1200w-SL1_25534.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="860"
data-original-width="1200"
height="458"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOPqHciJ2tB9XWLIfRxG7FDWZ1LwqQ_RG6Za2u1Z9aoYoBlUSw_Dn-s-G6UwCTtRQN8M86J1exCm3NgSor1c5VKbaKvAhlXDBeSX3IitKNTW1iuRMMz6rCnh32PQIvFpji5MtPAXp6kTxJv2KeuGcos_klEnVPXY7ZYsSJ7ipHCTDouvF7kf1jze586co/w640-h458/Chokecherry-berries_1200w-SL1_25534.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Chokecherries thinned out by the squirrels and birds
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNZ_-bq2qlWv4fiqQMa_LAMfgIgbaJqi31H2-YPzIcFiT7Hc1_bk0swFPjoQd_FMqIJIvrtspJoj_AffoWlVLO6yFE0iaOFGc3RHRi4a1fudN8HsaZLet9Dc1HI-xjbFCZHn6rvSPMgGO9oCILObZ_pMk7Nj1T2EZFdCFNG-ITNv-ygcHz3vcPc81fiC0/s1200/Moth-Sneezeweed_1200w-7D_25676.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="823"
data-original-width="1200"
height="438"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNZ_-bq2qlWv4fiqQMa_LAMfgIgbaJqi31H2-YPzIcFiT7Hc1_bk0swFPjoQd_FMqIJIvrtspJoj_AffoWlVLO6yFE0iaOFGc3RHRi4a1fudN8HsaZLet9Dc1HI-xjbFCZHn6rvSPMgGO9oCILObZ_pMk7Nj1T2EZFdCFNG-ITNv-ygcHz3vcPc81fiC0/w640-h438/Moth-Sneezeweed_1200w-7D_25676.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Finally a half-way decent photo of a Cop Car Moth (and a couple of bees)
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>Here is a spherical panorama of the area:</p>
<iframe width="100%" height="640" frameborder="0" allow="xr-spatial-tracking; gyroscope; accelerometer" allowfullscreen scrolling="no" src="https://kuula.co/share/5k2jc?logo=1&info=1&fs=1&vr=0&sd=1&thumbs=1"></iframe>
<br />
<p>
It warmed up quickly, but was about ten degrees cooler than the day before.
Still, it was too hot to hike and I quickly abandoned my walk up the road past
the bridge and returned to camp. I enjoyed more relaxing in the shade and a
good book I'd brought along. I had the campground to myself most of the day.
Late in the afternoon an occasional car would park next to the bridge and a
family would splash around in the river for a while.
</p>
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhABYbOaGpLn_HFGanIXwNBEHAJnhezgKvtqPnw9LW9l__BY7qCzKmP6fF1mE4z7WwgjBS4-wxqF12qQnwfBxqYfZtbG563XSkQIQP9q9JTnmgS8PLbYrMRMA93jGtPH_Oh9X4rt4uTlJm274UF5ll7j7nIwjEjmLYKLGp6LJg5Ni7fpeaEga0Urbw9eKQ/s1200/HunterPiedra-campsite_1200w-DJI_0466.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="799"
data-original-width="1200"
height="426"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhABYbOaGpLn_HFGanIXwNBEHAJnhezgKvtqPnw9LW9l__BY7qCzKmP6fF1mE4z7WwgjBS4-wxqF12qQnwfBxqYfZtbG563XSkQIQP9q9JTnmgS8PLbYrMRMA93jGtPH_Oh9X4rt4uTlJm274UF5ll7j7nIwjEjmLYKLGp6LJg5Ni7fpeaEga0Urbw9eKQ/w640-h426/HunterPiedra-campsite_1200w-DJI_0466.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
An aerial view of my campsite along the Piedra River
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
Early that evening I heard thunder and dark clouds were building. It cooled
off then. While preparing dinner it rained a little bit. After which I noticed
a double-rainbow which I attempted to photograph.
</p>
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCiP0I7WPYo2Kf80eBUWbvsEb4QnCXLDQUWfIbc4Xad8QvLmNwOCYJUoBs0rFzfQQPneBu4fz3vqaERxQHI6yMyUABZttnPQDRT8PBH4KsMQFrFAr6vWgfFN3IJqGQ6KVC3BIUpnu4pSqGKpgAMwMJtic_SENIhvjVcEAdvZ_1thG7rEliDJG48N2ZsdQ/s1200/DoubleRainbow_1200w-SL1_25526.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="946"
data-original-width="1200"
height="504"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCiP0I7WPYo2Kf80eBUWbvsEb4QnCXLDQUWfIbc4Xad8QvLmNwOCYJUoBs0rFzfQQPneBu4fz3vqaERxQHI6yMyUABZttnPQDRT8PBH4KsMQFrFAr6vWgfFN3IJqGQ6KVC3BIUpnu4pSqGKpgAMwMJtic_SENIhvjVcEAdvZ_1thG7rEliDJG48N2ZsdQ/w640-h504/DoubleRainbow_1200w-SL1_25526.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Double-rainbow = two pots of gold or simply a delightful sight
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Tuesday, August 22</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Hunter Piedra Campground (continued)</h4>
<p>
The previous day I'd learned the camping area was shaded by the ridge to the
east until around noontime. Consequently I was unable to fully charge my
batteries. I thought I'd return to the highway and head to the Quartz Creek
camping area I'd also selected via online maps. I hit the road about 9:30am,
stopping briefly to take a photo back up the valley.
</p>
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicShLTRPbXC-gMkt8Pk3EYuAiGk62CLHXug8_YK1OMOI58gOoixxY2mD9-yXBpoBrCf-bScmN1Ftfj0SO7k-KBitLmWzelvnRXmeHIekieQ0zYqy9CV2ZzHoII4mXaTlCLVmJelFQ-bYOMor2-F4hOcsb7zulf6I3ya-nw-Nr0SA8_BcG0qnajf1BMngc/s1200/PiedraRiverValley_1200h-SL1_25535.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="1200"
data-original-width="953"
height="640"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicShLTRPbXC-gMkt8Pk3EYuAiGk62CLHXug8_YK1OMOI58gOoixxY2mD9-yXBpoBrCf-bScmN1Ftfj0SO7k-KBitLmWzelvnRXmeHIekieQ0zYqy9CV2ZzHoII4mXaTlCLVmJelFQ-bYOMor2-F4hOcsb7zulf6I3ya-nw-Nr0SA8_BcG0qnajf1BMngc/w508-h640/PiedraRiverValley_1200h-SL1_25535.jpg"
width="508"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Looking up the valley on my drive out
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
When I was a mile or two from the highway I noticed several dispersed
campsites along the river. They were not as nice as Hunter Prieta, but would
still be nice, especially for those traveling though. I also took a slight
detour to explore the USFS Lower Piedra developed campground. It's about a
mile off the highway on the west site of the river. It looked very nice and
about half the sites were next to the river. There were a few folks camped
there.
</p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Pagosa Springs</h4>
<p>
I stopped at City Market in west Pagosa Springs for a few fresh provisions
(and lunch) on my way back to the east. Then drove through town and north on
US-160 to East Fork Road.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">East Fork Road</h4>
<p>
Readers who frequent backroads in the west are familiar with the staging areas
provided for visitors who bring their ATVs up on a trailer. The staging area
up East Fork Road was filled with many and various wildfire fighting trucks
and personnel. I hadn't heard of any fires in the area and there was no
evidence of smoke. Puzzling. I'd not seen this before. As I continued up the
road I had to pull over for a red FIRE tank truck spraying water on the road
and a bit later a red FIRE grader resurfacing the road. Stranger yet.
Something else I'd never seen.
</p>
<p>
A few miles in just after the road crosses the river is a popular dispersed
camping area. First time I'd driven by with no one camped there. A dispersed
camping area that I've used a couple of times begins when the road again
crosses the East Fork of the San Juan. At the first large site I saw multiple
FIRE trucks and young adults in their uniforms of yellow long-sleeved shirts
and green pants. The fire fighters were standing around the river bank and
waved as I drove by. There was a day-glo red sign which read FIRE CAMP. I'd
not seen this before either, but realized the various Hot Shot teams from
around the west would need camps to stay between fires or when rotated off the
fireline.
</p>
<p>
I noticed a few of the other dispersed sites I drove by were similarly
occupied. Though this area is very scenic and I've camped here twice before,
this trip I was going several miles farther up the road to an area I'd never
been along Quartz Creek which feeds the river. The road farther up has some
very rough sections, but nothing technical.
</p>
<p>
I'd thought also of stopping at the Silver Falls trailhead as I'd read that
was a pretty spot. However as Silver Creek ran across the road I noted there
was very little water. There were more FIRE trucks and horse trailers at the
trailhead so I decided to explore the falls on a later trip, perhaps early
summer when the creek would have more water.
</p>
<p>
I few miles farther up the road forks. A 4WD road, which I heard is suitable
only for ATVs, climbs up to Elwood Pass at the Continental Divide and to the
right a gravel road follows Quartz Creek for a couple miles to a meadow where
I'd hoped to camp. There was, however, a FIRE brush truck parked at the
junction. I asked about the road and was told the road to Quartz Meadows was
closed due to wildfire, not that I could see any evidence. I turned around and
drove back down the rough road.
</p>
<p>
Unfortunately, I never thought to stop and take photos of any of the FIRE
trucks or fire fighters. I'm sure no one would have minded and it would have
made a nice addition to this post.
</p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">East Fork Dispersed Camping Area</h4>
<p>
I didn't like the selection of open campsites in the usual area and considered
continuing on out to go somewhere else. I stopped and looked at my map. I also
thought about my admitted weakness for searching for the perfect spot which
sometimes causes me to spend too much time and effort driving around and
rarely results in finding the ideal. So I returned to the established
dispersed camping area and found a "nice enough" spot next to the river. It
was actually a pretty location. I was concerned as there were several other
sites situated very close by, so hoped if I got neighbors they would be quiet
and well behaved. The other issue was that these sites were within the trees
and didn't get much direct sun for my solar panels.
</p>
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7JWAHdkO564WYufvj9ng__e0Q86s3OEmMdkpgIqU0pH06rqMahtsqNQip1PvCLauzKdCQNlUYKdW4WV6Vze7d3EJA11-WwtpIP5xfAcQfNNZq8T8YerG8m9EMWgTmreDBZZm9msrTiC90q8OU7Oeg1KPLhk7-969gzzly5-kEt8_sMG--0f_v0klnxb0/s1200/EastFork-campsite_1200w-SL1_25540.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="848"
data-original-width="1200"
height="452"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7JWAHdkO564WYufvj9ng__e0Q86s3OEmMdkpgIqU0pH06rqMahtsqNQip1PvCLauzKdCQNlUYKdW4WV6Vze7d3EJA11-WwtpIP5xfAcQfNNZq8T8YerG8m9EMWgTmreDBZZm9msrTiC90q8OU7Oeg1KPLhk7-969gzzly5-kEt8_sMG--0f_v0klnxb0/w640-h452/EastFork-campsite_1200w-SL1_25540.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A nice spot to sit and enjoy the river and the trees
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I got out my deployable 100W panel and placed it in the sun (and moved it the
shade moved.) It was at least easy to find a shaded spot for my camp chair. I
relaxed and read. I tried to photograph a few birds that came through. Only
one other camper came to the area, a fellow with a hard side, slide-in camper,
but he took a site as far away as he could. I like minded soul, I guess.
</p>
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrbiJOnzvvHv61rKFRlXrlOobxd7HGD4LkJ69TWP0BuiVTvNvMLAKHnzsvY1OqQn_87PxRLSJU-Z0xeazNwXCFLfivsiOxBgZne0hZX_fmKmILFn2ZxCT-teq8IX4gL-1ln7dJZXrc7wxZfnh9Aa5SxgoWKnpyDmSfOlO9y0yxOJjJWSFsd5OBB_CPtuk/s1200/EveningGrosbeak_1200w-7D_25695.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="935"
data-original-width="1200"
height="498"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrbiJOnzvvHv61rKFRlXrlOobxd7HGD4LkJ69TWP0BuiVTvNvMLAKHnzsvY1OqQn_87PxRLSJU-Z0xeazNwXCFLfivsiOxBgZne0hZX_fmKmILFn2ZxCT-teq8IX4gL-1ln7dJZXrc7wxZfnh9Aa5SxgoWKnpyDmSfOlO9y0yxOJjJWSFsd5OBB_CPtuk/w640-h498/EveningGrosbeak_1200w-7D_25695.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
An Evening Grosbeak checks me out as I take his picture
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7kXrC2BZvYn6M9SRB-JD17D7vpT4V65eNdMVWxSiDYiw1oM8zy-QhZqTXOq8IE-Uz2WnusuTPXqVbQiFQxOY6SAeGoSszPArip7Rtf4LXaIa3IhA_SRK447rvSYmP5223e46wPG8CQVeHYGa4h3G98IBpot4fN9N6R8Hkms2bO9OT5DzKeQ9jcYKt5Ns/s1200/EastFork-clouds_1200w-SL1_25547.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="805"
data-original-width="1200"
height="430"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7kXrC2BZvYn6M9SRB-JD17D7vpT4V65eNdMVWxSiDYiw1oM8zy-QhZqTXOq8IE-Uz2WnusuTPXqVbQiFQxOY6SAeGoSszPArip7Rtf4LXaIa3IhA_SRK447rvSYmP5223e46wPG8CQVeHYGa4h3G98IBpot4fN9N6R8Hkms2bO9OT5DzKeQ9jcYKt5Ns/w640-h430/EastFork-clouds_1200w-SL1_25547.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A little color in the evening sky before the rains move in
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
After dinner I could hear thunder. I took a few photos of the clouds, then
retreated inside when the rain started. It rained until dark, but not heavily.
</p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<a
href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2023/09/se-san-juan-mountains-co-nm-part-2.html"
>Continued in Part 2</a
>
</h4>
<p><br /></p>
Bosque Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00001863270259847102noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3983525105536347837.post-38686441495815963112023-06-16T08:29:00.003-06:002023-06-16T08:39:41.266-06:00Late Spring Utah - May 2023: Part 4<h4 style="text-align: left;">Part 4 of 4<br /><br /></h4>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Starr Springs, Cockscomb Black Table Road, Colorado River, Moss Back Road,
& the Way Home
</h3>
<p><span style="color: #cfe2f3;">Click on a photo to see a larger version.</span></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
May 19th (continued from
<a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2023/06/late-spring-utah-may-2023-part-3.html">Part 3</a>; go to
<a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2023/06/late-spring-utah-may-2023-part-1.html">Part 1</a>)
</h3>
<p>
Once I came out of Poison Springs Canyon I stopped just before re-entering the
highway to weigh my options. The sky, for the most part, had stayed clear, and
it was very warm, approaching hot. The Henry Mountains were a possibility even
with clouds building overhead. At this point I lamented not having better maps
of this area. Looking at my Benchmark Atlas I saw a road cutting off UT-276
several miles south of the junction with 95 and I recalled seeing a
Backcountry Byway sign there. I thought I'd try that then work my way south
looking for dispersed camping. I didn't want to try to go over the pass as
that was likely too high, too cool, and possibly under a rain cloud.<br /><br />
</p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">East Trachyte Ranch Road</h4>
<p>
I found the road and turned west. After a few miles I saw a couple of vehicles
that looked like campers or travelers come out which I assumed meant this was
a through road. However, before long I came to a junction not on either my map
or the GPS. I slowed to look, but passed it by. After a couple of miles the road I'd been following looked like it
terminated at a ranch. I turned around and went back to the unidentified road which was in
good condition and well traveled. After a few miles it dipped into a valley. It passed a deluxe campsite that was already occupied with camping and
horse trailers. Immediately afterwards the road dropped down to ford a creek.
It was running fast, looked deep, and was an opaque grey blue. I hesitated. I
could not see evidence that anyone else had crossed recently—both banks were
dry. I decided it would be foolish to try it, so backed out, turned around,
and headed back to the highway. Looking at satellite maps from home I believe
this was Trachyte Creek.<br /><br />
</p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Starr Springs Campground</h4>
<p>
Seemed like the thing to do at this point would be to continue south on 276
and head up to Starr Springs where I'd camped once before in a nice little BLM
campground. Just before entering the campground, however, I drove a bit
farther to see if there was a dispersed site nearby. There's one nearby site
that seems to be always occupied by two travel trailers. I tried a couple
spurs beyond that, but they are no more than ATV trails with no place to camp
that I could see. Consequently, I returned to the campground.
</p>
<p>
Many sites in this small, neat campground were already taken. I found a
level site. It fit me well, but would be
less ideal for a tent camper as the tent/table area is on a lower area reached
by a short set of stairs. This was the only location on this trip where I found
mosquitoes, or rather they found me. Not surprising due to the verdant nature
of the campground.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirAXuklE5yNW-2uTE_lLIt49GSs4ZpnD5SuBk5SDxZmd6IedqckVmIl5RL6xYUESxi3_8ArLvAkz_doSYwzicQgTO8GXW3sCHeGid4JccyNOG9IK6BFzwiGWubAHP1kXJ3y67i4essuqLxtuRmA7QCfM2rmAiqxfp_AXFHMmBSv6-nq5dkWF1lSBWQ/s1200/StarrSprings-campsite_1200w-SL1_25035.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="726" data-original-width="1200" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirAXuklE5yNW-2uTE_lLIt49GSs4ZpnD5SuBk5SDxZmd6IedqckVmIl5RL6xYUESxi3_8ArLvAkz_doSYwzicQgTO8GXW3sCHeGid4JccyNOG9IK6BFzwiGWubAHP1kXJ3y67i4essuqLxtuRmA7QCfM2rmAiqxfp_AXFHMmBSv6-nq5dkWF1lSBWQ/w640-h388/StarrSprings-campsite_1200w-SL1_25035.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<p>
Although I had neighbors, they were not around much. I finally figured out
after talking to one the next morning that several sites were occupied by
friends from Colorado. They were using the campground as a base for daily
excursions and in the evening would gather at a site farther away from me.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Saturday May 20<br /><br /></h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Starr Springs (continued)</h4>
<p>
I walked around the campground in the morning looking for the birds I could
hear and taking a few photos. I got a few glimpses of warblers and vireos, but
they were too far into the bush for photos. As I drove out I stopped a couple
of times to photograph the wildflowers with the mountains in the background.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt0psRPFuuDPIIWXZ0WZpHDg6yQx3WVwunB6YzZ8UztFfQyOU31oUkw96iX9imELZhbavni5PA2ubSX8duq4m8cq8xxw7mcDxweYtv8674XAkA5UqIZ15u2ky3HQiPjYkDQdmG1XlG4D5o6en7AtjcWxJerDjj1z2B6vxVDVNcYYP__-xdow2T_Jtm/s1200/StarrSprings-mountain_1200w-SL1_25037.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt0psRPFuuDPIIWXZ0WZpHDg6yQx3WVwunB6YzZ8UztFfQyOU31oUkw96iX9imELZhbavni5PA2ubSX8duq4m8cq8xxw7mcDxweYtv8674XAkA5UqIZ15u2ky3HQiPjYkDQdmG1XlG4D5o6en7AtjcWxJerDjj1z2B6vxVDVNcYYP__-xdow2T_Jtm/w640-h426/StarrSprings-mountain_1200w-SL1_25037.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV2SJY2Z_wIZFqD6jhSo6vKwgcF_pOx1RpQDb70Xiew3xU3LAbkjbtVS55S-m4leCpUsD65yHJm2KK4AviAObWue4XUtrKZ7L620GpXNhtiTF9QUO2k8YCwCi-4y7AATlW_mG73RDIHXsLWJUlURHW0mEiMZzevFSUTzF9UxRYNbC7fd1H8AXqc8Th/s1200/StarrSprings-campsite_1200w-SL1_25040.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="744" data-original-width="1200" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV2SJY2Z_wIZFqD6jhSo6vKwgcF_pOx1RpQDb70Xiew3xU3LAbkjbtVS55S-m4leCpUsD65yHJm2KK4AviAObWue4XUtrKZ7L620GpXNhtiTF9QUO2k8YCwCi-4y7AATlW_mG73RDIHXsLWJUlURHW0mEiMZzevFSUTzF9UxRYNbC7fd1H8AXqc8Th/w640-h396/StarrSprings-campsite_1200w-SL1_25040.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVrjlYC_KXs2WK3g9nfbX7ybPGI8ykUm4VEGBm_-OfnYVUNbDBe60h2XTuLHFrEkKF7sGZcXWc65jvEOPZmdt195me8c-2Gaw8P8xMe_i--ePxUv5UsqCePjm-TWFBQqUL8eWoHoLc1I6kQhKE7ToyulhdRynqzGKOc75GG8WlFzKNyHzIVXS9hdU5/s1200/StarrSprings-fence_1200w-SL1_25048.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="701" data-original-width="1200" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVrjlYC_KXs2WK3g9nfbX7ybPGI8ykUm4VEGBm_-OfnYVUNbDBe60h2XTuLHFrEkKF7sGZcXWc65jvEOPZmdt195me8c-2Gaw8P8xMe_i--ePxUv5UsqCePjm-TWFBQqUL8eWoHoLc1I6kQhKE7ToyulhdRynqzGKOc75GG8WlFzKNyHzIVXS9hdU5/w640-h374/StarrSprings-fence_1200w-SL1_25048.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Cockscomb Black Table Road</h4>
<p>
Rather than head straight back to the highway, I decided to be just a little
adventurous and explore north along the gravel road below the campground. This
is an interesting road running northeast along the sloped plain below Mt.
Hillers.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoIFzCNt5noWy39X38ayKcDvWod_gnws-K1NKl2Q8WS8ylwSkbEI6pUN44YFzy-XZntf9GxWJdCoyz-no2YrNmeugu-X4ilXuTwvklJufLLGyTwskTP6N1LHShuk9jU-BSouVt_4ZhNu3raM41yLUOWkJwQqu5xdwmnOGJwUbmaRLN7lGkoe5QUoip/s1200/MtHillers_1200w-SL1_25049.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="539" data-original-width="1200" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoIFzCNt5noWy39X38ayKcDvWod_gnws-K1NKl2Q8WS8ylwSkbEI6pUN44YFzy-XZntf9GxWJdCoyz-no2YrNmeugu-X4ilXuTwvklJufLLGyTwskTP6N1LHShuk9jU-BSouVt_4ZhNu3raM41yLUOWkJwQqu5xdwmnOGJwUbmaRLN7lGkoe5QUoip/w640-h288/MtHillers_1200w-SL1_25049.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Mt. Hillers of the Henry Mountains.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFp5dxV_TipAXhT5SwuL1hywWnV1lGz2saFk6kNx2wLR2udMY0fim69MnfxmlTyE-f3HxSad0IsNxWAEe1v5jyywDlvauSQFh7Uyep8BuWHAR8_Dq-t9cD-YS5F9E7OtBZyiDDAlCPFyhOBdn86H9Q9xCTAiG_Nycqm3cbQ_NvHCsprkKleIw9x7On/s1200/TheCockscomb_1200w-SL1_25051.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="620" data-original-width="1200" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFp5dxV_TipAXhT5SwuL1hywWnV1lGz2saFk6kNx2wLR2udMY0fim69MnfxmlTyE-f3HxSad0IsNxWAEe1v5jyywDlvauSQFh7Uyep8BuWHAR8_Dq-t9cD-YS5F9E7OtBZyiDDAlCPFyhOBdn86H9Q9xCTAiG_Nycqm3cbQ_NvHCsprkKleIw9x7On/w640-h330/TheCockscomb_1200w-SL1_25051.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The road leading me to the Cockcomb
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
The view toward the east is extraordinary, although best appreciated when the
atmosphere is clear and the sun in the west. This morning it was very hazy and
cloudy muting the color and contrast of the red rock country. I took lots of
photos, even dug out my polarizing filter, but there is simply no way to
compensate for the conditions. I do want to return at the right time of day
and weather to try and capture this beauty. I’m not going to post any of the
bad photos of this time.
</p>
<p>
I came to a junction with a well traveled road heading northwest. This was
signed as Chaffins Way. A short while later a similar junction with Rainbow
Road. Cockscomb Black Table Road became much narrower and a bit rougher from
this point on. If you look at a satellite image you can see that those two
named roads meet about a mile up and between them are side roads and loops
that might have been someones dream of a residential subdivision back when
Lake Powell was a thriving recreation destination (with water levels as
"intended" and a working ferry.) There appears to be one or two houses there.
After returning home I phoned the Henry Mountains BLM office and they said the
subdivision is on state land and that there are cabins up there and the land
is considered private.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj9zIMky-6cZiDWEzby8X8De_9CIo6EButPzvJIWFEjivLtYINS07kKGPU6o-BUxNI9u5iET03Xkb4nPWWbRXUeFgjgp058hOICsrgxIT_uIPE14iuFOLV763GrKGgNiJifFMPVD7R3x89raPOA8tsjY4NWkA-iuskw8fN5sR4rs0eg_WnGhZH0QdN/s1200/MtHillersCockscomb_1200w-SL1_25066.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="673" data-original-width="1200" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj9zIMky-6cZiDWEzby8X8De_9CIo6EButPzvJIWFEjivLtYINS07kKGPU6o-BUxNI9u5iET03Xkb4nPWWbRXUeFgjgp058hOICsrgxIT_uIPE14iuFOLV763GrKGgNiJifFMPVD7R3x89raPOA8tsjY4NWkA-iuskw8fN5sR4rs0eg_WnGhZH0QdN/w640-h358/MtHillersCockscomb_1200w-SL1_25066.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Looking back at the way I came with Mt. Hillers and the Cockscomb in
view.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
The road continues NE across a terrace and a hogback where a cattle guard is
to be found. There were lots of wildflowers and amazing views. The road gets rougher,
but not technical, as it descends crossing a few canyons before
coming out at UT-276. An enjoyable alternate route and I even identified a
probable dispersed campsite about 2 miles from the highway.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtIu_-Qvvw2V9HLospKcDyL9EtZlm86CdsfSRmcVFg6mKkV016D_jVuiMR3xV_LvGA1QA34fN-GSqGshHXTk8vWoHdnpO-Hc6DzOKRTPT6XxnLue0-nFZgMhXXFBsSR9v7QQV-0DOLcdhjcSRHUQgAbwh1b6St5lHEyvpUqhZDl_-jReNDcKNQx71R/s1200/UtahPenstemon_1200h-7D_25364.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="895" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtIu_-Qvvw2V9HLospKcDyL9EtZlm86CdsfSRmcVFg6mKkV016D_jVuiMR3xV_LvGA1QA34fN-GSqGshHXTk8vWoHdnpO-Hc6DzOKRTPT6XxnLue0-nFZgMhXXFBsSR9v7QQV-0DOLcdhjcSRHUQgAbwh1b6St5lHEyvpUqhZDl_-jReNDcKNQx71R/w478-h640/UtahPenstemon_1200h-7D_25364.jpg" width="478" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A close-up view of a Utah Penstemon.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfnwhu4CYWgkgRAmtWkhQ18CQNHuddY5-Qas9uLHFv2Eg_Amb6kPU8GxOSsE1D1oAZ3ecuejKq41-VpR44cXoWch6BETGELNrktISato8qXg2Ib6eGCTXwIzb8dbcNE3uc7wPJURnayvkWj7HJtvXdyH2aQbXaIKPn6nuzk5AVIUmK09WGZnLZM8wl/s1200/RoadsideFlowers_1200w-SL1_25078.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="802" data-original-width="1200" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfnwhu4CYWgkgRAmtWkhQ18CQNHuddY5-Qas9uLHFv2Eg_Amb6kPU8GxOSsE1D1oAZ3ecuejKq41-VpR44cXoWch6BETGELNrktISato8qXg2Ib6eGCTXwIzb8dbcNE3uc7wPJURnayvkWj7HJtvXdyH2aQbXaIKPn6nuzk5AVIUmK09WGZnLZM8wl/w640-h428/RoadsideFlowers_1200w-SL1_25078.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZk94_KBnsJGM31Olv50ualtZQOYqABQGW7qpYlijk5yGqGqaBnZ91_ZHw1yxj5h1UM6aGgwPoVUAfLlBZLApuGekw0AO5xpqwgEUBWZ8MYUxDpvRD_8WNH94V0ADIFsPCyBY8a30t9Xw5kENJgRz2L8ymBtsIQ1v73yQgS-0C5Pn_kqn6SGosu1jk/s1200/CBTRoad-descending_1200w-SL1_25082.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="701" data-original-width="1200" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZk94_KBnsJGM31Olv50ualtZQOYqABQGW7qpYlijk5yGqGqaBnZ91_ZHw1yxj5h1UM6aGgwPoVUAfLlBZLApuGekw0AO5xpqwgEUBWZ8MYUxDpvRD_8WNH94V0ADIFsPCyBY8a30t9Xw5kENJgRz2L8ymBtsIQ1v73yQgS-0C5Pn_kqn6SGosu1jk/w640-h374/CBTRoad-descending_1200w-SL1_25082.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The road drops off the hogback and Canyon Lands appear.<br />The camera
is not pointed into the sun so was able to salvage this photo somewhat.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbZa_dMBIlXDvqrmjZKTdaFFuNC8nDxS6wUpnPuzPz0gU5BBWdvzfTOStt63SnqStwhQhua2CrZPyAtrUU5adFeA7kJIwZwDEaqkek1ewMnECpwIO0xrKTefB5zrvdAWIbYVg3LXjyTDMOgaBIW6e6O3IupRxvsFbywooeSfoWg-nB6pBThwRBTnm5/s1200/WhiteAster_1200w-SL1_25084.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="877" data-original-width="1200" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbZa_dMBIlXDvqrmjZKTdaFFuNC8nDxS6wUpnPuzPz0gU5BBWdvzfTOStt63SnqStwhQhua2CrZPyAtrUU5adFeA7kJIwZwDEaqkek1ewMnECpwIO0xrKTefB5zrvdAWIbYVg3LXjyTDMOgaBIW6e6O3IupRxvsFbywooeSfoWg-nB6pBThwRBTnm5/w640-h468/WhiteAster_1200w-SL1_25084.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
I spent a long time trying to ID this wildflower without success. The
serrated leaves simply do not come close to matching any flower I could
find. No one on iNaturalist has suggested a species, either.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
In a "palm of hand meets forehead" moment: I was home, checking maps while
writing this narrative, before I realized the large, dark, flat-topped peak
I'd seen from several vantage points while driving the road was the Black
Table. I almost didn't include the one photo I took. Black Table appears to be
basalt rather than your typical Utah sandstone butte, not surprising
considering the geology of the Henry Mountains.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEFa7qjOu49IUWzYXQ5OCCzHccHteyPleqBLxwiNJetiCclydAosZ1TF8lzBmWpvJijxjK1K2Q54bUurBuqv8YUcBct54tuVoQQEIAbk3OVR8UPMi2aW_rbWrCppFDQpkhdTPYto8zHpEF8dUQ3JiM_RTlIX5Z7xNZcDs9f6AMyaVg19KBNc-5wCzM/s1200/CBTRoad-BlackTable_1200w-SL1_25085.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="760" data-original-width="1200" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEFa7qjOu49IUWzYXQ5OCCzHccHteyPleqBLxwiNJetiCclydAosZ1TF8lzBmWpvJijxjK1K2Q54bUurBuqv8YUcBct54tuVoQQEIAbk3OVR8UPMi2aW_rbWrCppFDQpkhdTPYto8zHpEF8dUQ3JiM_RTlIX5Z7xNZcDs9f6AMyaVg19KBNc-5wCzM/w640-h406/CBTRoad-BlackTable_1200w-SL1_25085.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Colorado River</h4>
<p>
I took UT-276 back north to UT-95 and turned east. Anyone who is familiar with
this section of highway probably recalls it parallels a wash that runs all the
way to the lake. I've never seen water in it, but this morning it was flowing.
I guess all that rain from the east side of the Henry Mountains had to go
somewhere. That, along with all the wildflowers, made this an even prettier
drive than usual.
</p>
<p>
I had time so thought I'd stop and take photos of the bridge across the
Colorado near Hite. Kind of a tourist thing to do, but don't think I'd stopped
once in the last decade, at least. I bet many of you haven't either.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6LVv-zUbuIc1EwdE9aKfV_4lTknNK5DvnfocPHdD4ltzXvEZkQ8CJ5V_MvfqzeRGsWA02X1l9PUfgirehJg-0BkqGjDnoQL1raOH90x2GXbOWSzVS0zLWKobAFbHjc4FTtrD8xcqtFt146npYxkCgEChrEinJUOwMXIjHwLcYyQv4XuoTw_jnskAD/s1200/ColoradoRiver-downstream_1200w-SL1_25088.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6LVv-zUbuIc1EwdE9aKfV_4lTknNK5DvnfocPHdD4ltzXvEZkQ8CJ5V_MvfqzeRGsWA02X1l9PUfgirehJg-0BkqGjDnoQL1raOH90x2GXbOWSzVS0zLWKobAFbHjc4FTtrD8xcqtFt146npYxkCgEChrEinJUOwMXIjHwLcYyQv4XuoTw_jnskAD/w640-h426/ColoradoRiver-downstream_1200w-SL1_25088.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Looking downstream toward Lake Powell
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilUhMXIlzAzFQPUNGep1hv0YFbNJTBmjvdJGxRt42ztzINCudfMwQ8eiLsKIbSz9uddwz-NG8IrMKVRmjRekye2-zJFxRdU8tMK_k5AiS95ifgw6D5pAC6rjA0gfXhFjHDA7aqAM2RM2vm3ygEkdHtUANuj6NswvbYLZA_jkWGXdUG73JNIlWlzo0b/s1200/ColoradoRiver-bridge_1200w-SL1_25090.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="791" data-original-width="1200" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilUhMXIlzAzFQPUNGep1hv0YFbNJTBmjvdJGxRt42ztzINCudfMwQ8eiLsKIbSz9uddwz-NG8IrMKVRmjRekye2-zJFxRdU8tMK_k5AiS95ifgw6D5pAC6rjA0gfXhFjHDA7aqAM2RM2vm3ygEkdHtUANuj6NswvbYLZA_jkWGXdUG73JNIlWlzo0b/w640-h422/ColoradoRiver-bridge_1200w-SL1_25090.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Hite Crossing Bridge
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB3kN4glX8Vi_JvzPTMyBsmB4VncQ0YHUAJUMOtPlYaMJH1IzlHs8MYi0xTB4JtdInlpSza2tUYNXZ_LxLwpRglcjvGufss4NeLOCzrQbaK_pz58dRTqmXv4AeBpGr5flaD2DIPo-L7OXpKo5Hi6QmLHnM__ZPdmv8_RsGi_-aQ-kGokO5PGhtK3Ma/s1200/ColoradoRiver-upstream_1200w-SL1_25092.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB3kN4glX8Vi_JvzPTMyBsmB4VncQ0YHUAJUMOtPlYaMJH1IzlHs8MYi0xTB4JtdInlpSza2tUYNXZ_LxLwpRglcjvGufss4NeLOCzrQbaK_pz58dRTqmXv4AeBpGr5flaD2DIPo-L7OXpKo5Hi6QmLHnM__ZPdmv8_RsGi_-aQ-kGokO5PGhtK3Ma/w640-h426/ColoradoRiver-upstream_1200w-SL1_25092.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Looking upstream from the bridge.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I also decided to check out Hite, which I don't think I've ever done. When I'd
been poking around the internet looking for destinations and places to camp, I
kept stumbling across posts praising the camping at the primitive campground
there. I had thought Hite was all closed up with the lake so low, but there
was only one way to find out.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF3lvBzlv21HRO9YjoOGdPyZViaBV5wDf3PXZJoQhph1d0UpvOh9Da1Akj3qpwYuy0aTWAY8_VDveFC7D-1vwjL0NrXXvxnbK7cKKggOKkFEHX-KaW8WG9s8vJAguEPYhJme_62k2Z4l_1hzLUbdjmSfO0NSr7_Zz1drHI2nxGm52vsNtMwD8Oaibf/s1200/HighwayToHite_1200w-SL1_25102.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="707" data-original-width="1200" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF3lvBzlv21HRO9YjoOGdPyZViaBV5wDf3PXZJoQhph1d0UpvOh9Da1Akj3qpwYuy0aTWAY8_VDveFC7D-1vwjL0NrXXvxnbK7cKKggOKkFEHX-KaW8WG9s8vJAguEPYhJme_62k2Z4l_1hzLUbdjmSfO0NSr7_Zz1drHI2nxGm52vsNtMwD8Oaibf/w640-h378/HighwayToHite_1200w-SL1_25102.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Highway to Hite</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
Well, there were concrete barricades with pretty permanent looking
"Temporarily Closed" signs just about everywhere. My determination is that it
is all closed up. This is part of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and
with funding as it is, I'm guessing this area will stay closed for a while.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Fry Canyon / Moss Back Road</h4>
<p>
I hadn't placed Moss Back Road as a priority for this trip as I'd camped there
twice last year. But it's a gorgeous location and fit in nicely now as a
finale to my week in Utah. I pulled off onto Radium King Road, sign posted as
Fry Canyon, and proceeded on the gravel road. It turns to dirt before climbing
the butte, but was in very good condition. I turned onto Moss Back Road which
had minor wash damage.
</p>
<p>
I returned to the site where I camped last spring. I'd camped farther in last
fall, but this site I think has the most varied and beautiful views of all. I
was all set up by 1pm and got in some good relaxing with intervals of walking
around taking photos of wildflowers, lizards, rocks, and the views. It was
partly cloudy with a mild breeze.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHol_pxHBpX-FXzEvDBYlJyCUBdkIH4EhNf9Xa67NMOt9xh2wQ1Ks4KE0SVFvmjkJNI3EurN-R5npJOrSNqoppc3iOG7M_iFI-jwnEzFdNbcqlQZA4rAQUQNNE1TCCTwsiuKqZmviW65EdL9F60t6eZbYw2cDw1eATr8SF6nPurgHKDfwPdiOgfsCe/s1200/RedCanyon_1200w-DJI_0454.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="735" data-original-width="1200" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHol_pxHBpX-FXzEvDBYlJyCUBdkIH4EhNf9Xa67NMOt9xh2wQ1Ks4KE0SVFvmjkJNI3EurN-R5npJOrSNqoppc3iOG7M_iFI-jwnEzFdNbcqlQZA4rAQUQNNE1TCCTwsiuKqZmviW65EdL9F60t6eZbYw2cDw1eATr8SF6nPurgHKDfwPdiOgfsCe/w640-h392/RedCanyon_1200w-DJI_0454.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Just look at this view across Red Canyon!
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
Around 4pm I could hear thunder rumbling and clouds building behind the butte
to the north. I could see rain falling across Red Canyon. It got darker and
within an hour began to rain lightly, then a bit heavier. Those who also own a
camper with an aluminum sheet roof know how it can amplify the sound of the
rain. It sounded like a torrent outside, but it was barely wetting the
rocks.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY4j5mzH9EiepvW2CcGvBRZ-xf0JAevmtRE0UUdbjY4zh6_E_IVOS99RzMLu8wjXBk4s0CQU18WmgRghpdlA3ZXEsKM3VoWyCQE_MpVWyaDDxrNC0oeR_TOQgtb2VzdWAkJHeKEcNkq_AtTGMCeXglA62__Se96u59KmfQRL_BG5myaPedJRypUOuF/s1200/RedCanyon-rain_1200w-SL1_25132.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="799" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY4j5mzH9EiepvW2CcGvBRZ-xf0JAevmtRE0UUdbjY4zh6_E_IVOS99RzMLu8wjXBk4s0CQU18WmgRghpdlA3ZXEsKM3VoWyCQE_MpVWyaDDxrNC0oeR_TOQgtb2VzdWAkJHeKEcNkq_AtTGMCeXglA62__Se96u59KmfQRL_BG5myaPedJRypUOuF/w640-h426/RedCanyon-rain_1200w-SL1_25132.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjU9pACi91DIkWhphRRTEgYqRCeXW8ifAeP3UGhqQPxvpDNk-x_zqjYljwnoGO_YTJsmzlHXApGj-fb05_7brRV28nQhR90acWcGACDsrXPUlNxGHSo1nZRRcgBTKXBRbBWbh6BB_qvBET4aCBIxs8_yYZFdBJwhgbPXplGFgp5HlCORRa3FH4ZjCr/s1200/RedCanyon-AfterRain_1200w-SL1_25137.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="740" data-original-width="1200" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjU9pACi91DIkWhphRRTEgYqRCeXW8ifAeP3UGhqQPxvpDNk-x_zqjYljwnoGO_YTJsmzlHXApGj-fb05_7brRV28nQhR90acWcGACDsrXPUlNxGHSo1nZRRcgBTKXBRbBWbh6BB_qvBET4aCBIxs8_yYZFdBJwhgbPXplGFgp5HlCORRa3FH4ZjCr/w640-h394/RedCanyon-AfterRain_1200w-SL1_25137.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<p>
Still I had some concerns if it lasted too long and I didn't know how heavy
the rain was on the other side of the butte where the road has more clay to
get slippery. Nonetheless, I was well positioned here on solid rock and away
from any washes.
</p>
<p>
The rain didn't last too long and I couldn't see any running water or even
puddles out my windows. It remained dark and overcast. It cooled off enough
that defrosting and heating up some of my homemade soup sounded attractive for the first time
on this trip.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2kNWdtAwux96ER1jBVa_Rqf7X-poWijtf5n-JIKlONm9L9H-9B7LHl5HMaPN6-2gE5tT8F2DMhKeIe1VjaFcpIMwAd1Iobkfq7iXwrDw5Eje9v1OJkVW7qTZRZjZNXxZeNgI-nZG5oEg8ByhdPlY4NgwVxUpJ0GoV_qUR54f977F7sMDos6x5FhJR/s1200/ClaretCupCactus_1200w-SL1_25134.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="838" data-original-width="1200" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2kNWdtAwux96ER1jBVa_Rqf7X-poWijtf5n-JIKlONm9L9H-9B7LHl5HMaPN6-2gE5tT8F2DMhKeIe1VjaFcpIMwAd1Iobkfq7iXwrDw5Eje9v1OJkVW7qTZRZjZNXxZeNgI-nZG5oEg8ByhdPlY4NgwVxUpJ0GoV_qUR54f977F7sMDos6x5FhJR/w640-h446/ClaretCupCactus_1200w-SL1_25134.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<p>
Just before 8pm I noticed there was a gap in the clouds near the western
horizon and sunlight was leaking in. I grabbed my camera and scooted out the
door. I started taking pictures around my camp, then realized I was going to
get actual golden sunlight at an angle to illuminate the Tables of the Sun. I
began walking up the road enjoying the beautiful evening taking photos every
which way.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk93vzpTCx2CtMvcfJPlXPot1h_wxhTvwt8IWOAEg7W0vCcGRl5cAsttarM1yOqAzjQix2v4nDN00dzOn1GJ-mHlRsFtlCgtJPDZBiJ9lAvw7QUgW-xxAS6VenTa4bzLjNvSlEtTJOGhdu9UxksR9RjRkw-NCRFWoj2sTjTk-PHVc9voecz97OoSxS/s1200/TableOfTheSun-juniper_1200w-.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="849" data-original-width="1200" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk93vzpTCx2CtMvcfJPlXPot1h_wxhTvwt8IWOAEg7W0vCcGRl5cAsttarM1yOqAzjQix2v4nDN00dzOn1GJ-mHlRsFtlCgtJPDZBiJ9lAvw7QUgW-xxAS6VenTa4bzLjNvSlEtTJOGhdu9UxksR9RjRkw-NCRFWoj2sTjTk-PHVc9voecz97OoSxS/w640-h452/TableOfTheSun-juniper_1200w-.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgph3mx8qA1NCBwGH-POspMM3sIe1j-bkWK4hu0wxgfHXNkKzJe95JASc8phrgBlknVx_B1vfMrJ5oF1CrSCPOe99-5qa-qhVTK0aWMjBe97Rsjfc0Yy0siKKV8azMVqLC_6_u0w8wWEMKxThanxsGEl3Sox8VdZDTaKZyacJt5U12CJtvp5X68CeSS/s1200/WindingMariposaLily_1200w-SL1_25153.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="835" data-original-width="1200" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgph3mx8qA1NCBwGH-POspMM3sIe1j-bkWK4hu0wxgfHXNkKzJe95JASc8phrgBlknVx_B1vfMrJ5oF1CrSCPOe99-5qa-qhVTK0aWMjBe97Rsjfc0Yy0siKKV8azMVqLC_6_u0w8wWEMKxThanxsGEl3Sox8VdZDTaKZyacJt5U12CJtvp5X68CeSS/w640-h446/WindingMariposaLily_1200w-SL1_25153.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQcWMwWf8wWik9YZsHbu516KJLyvPDsOvIj2xB0WsW2rN4mDRs-pXQpcwBp7dZZNlgEefHwj-dlff6PYbjXFSrzcltow-YuhqxcXdweepKpu6zQIDrGvpBHncBHuWoJQusBaiY7Cakog6PhX84jInq91QYU5VKFn-k2tbvD2ZYnNsxFzLZgFbyhCXx/s1200/ThriftyGoldenweed_1200w-SL1_25159.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="786" data-original-width="1200" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQcWMwWf8wWik9YZsHbu516KJLyvPDsOvIj2xB0WsW2rN4mDRs-pXQpcwBp7dZZNlgEefHwj-dlff6PYbjXFSrzcltow-YuhqxcXdweepKpu6zQIDrGvpBHncBHuWoJQusBaiY7Cakog6PhX84jInq91QYU5VKFn-k2tbvD2ZYnNsxFzLZgFbyhCXx/w640-h420/ThriftyGoldenweed_1200w-SL1_25159.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFAywHqxUh156YqF5mKxcCrnCU8Pi0QYGUXM2MuT7uqSpesekatlA3lOc24zS-9tVXY3ewFc-Q40-0Vbma_7dN9yLGrvKaIZUJDRBJmCdpZ0AoUcQVYhIzv320IOu6eFImMaY9nN6akIPWIpxo_Sk2JwjMdtLiGjxJq41sWGfe-7HDNHD_B8V_jIhj/s1200/TableOfTheSun-south_1200w-SL1_25162.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1200" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFAywHqxUh156YqF5mKxcCrnCU8Pi0QYGUXM2MuT7uqSpesekatlA3lOc24zS-9tVXY3ewFc-Q40-0Vbma_7dN9yLGrvKaIZUJDRBJmCdpZ0AoUcQVYhIzv320IOu6eFImMaY9nN6akIPWIpxo_Sk2JwjMdtLiGjxJq41sWGfe-7HDNHD_B8V_jIhj/w640-h384/TableOfTheSun-south_1200w-SL1_25162.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<p>
When the sun sank below the horizon I began walking back to camp and was
treated to the best sunsets of the trip. What a delight.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEYHX34vLoxjN5d6G81eVyc0Xu9l2LM24uBUto95EP-cCW7D5Iu3b2--5x8OFS0EDfjK1gcAi9hr2nGN3J-RjFqUQF3qE83X95KLk5HMEX32gKgmR-mjXbuhQhUdp5mwEFJXAPxcsdW9LUQz5q43fqDykh2C_hWC7U-Y4unsxj5rY8JBUCD55kldKC/s1200/Canyon-Mesa-sunset_1200w-SL1_25169.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEYHX34vLoxjN5d6G81eVyc0Xu9l2LM24uBUto95EP-cCW7D5Iu3b2--5x8OFS0EDfjK1gcAi9hr2nGN3J-RjFqUQF3qE83X95KLk5HMEX32gKgmR-mjXbuhQhUdp5mwEFJXAPxcsdW9LUQz5q43fqDykh2C_hWC7U-Y4unsxj5rY8JBUCD55kldKC/w640-h426/Canyon-Mesa-sunset_1200w-SL1_25169.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW95_gwNYlpuTKfTX73MoD98T2Je0HBRbB298bUEKi_KusDQtcc-fYVNsnk_Dqxyx9ALYdmxczYkpQw_hsKQeX2OvQq21LwxnQJM63eJFhNPxcIisL-6iFG3wYb77p5f2o2Hkv90E8xyvVApioloulY0xFRKFNOU4Z0par1cT2kufkQfYUxVIVieqG/s1200/Boulders-Mesa-sunset_1200w-SL1_25181.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW95_gwNYlpuTKfTX73MoD98T2Je0HBRbB298bUEKi_KusDQtcc-fYVNsnk_Dqxyx9ALYdmxczYkpQw_hsKQeX2OvQq21LwxnQJM63eJFhNPxcIisL-6iFG3wYb77p5f2o2Hkv90E8xyvVApioloulY0xFRKFNOU4Z0par1cT2kufkQfYUxVIVieqG/w640-h426/Boulders-Mesa-sunset_1200w-SL1_25181.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Sunday May 21<br /><br /></h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Moss Back Road (continued)<br /><br /></h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXe-xtcqAm8V0wcPhKrLAU4Afl4l3TNsvgtUU6wKwwAYX3x1aQXOck83qj3CzI_SSN9ZTTwj0-iW2__EEl5TU4NzM5VeTzN8SDXBvEnNBhEKRVKT0DGt27i9KutEqx7XqF8Aw80AH456QIUQv27pfqDSe1ig08I01V_eUC0MDfWZklm25tECxHH7jQ/s1200/Camper-Mesa_1200w-SL1_25216.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXe-xtcqAm8V0wcPhKrLAU4Afl4l3TNsvgtUU6wKwwAYX3x1aQXOck83qj3CzI_SSN9ZTTwj0-iW2__EEl5TU4NzM5VeTzN8SDXBvEnNBhEKRVKT0DGt27i9KutEqx7XqF8Aw80AH456QIUQv27pfqDSe1ig08I01V_eUC0MDfWZklm25tECxHH7jQ/w640-h320/Camper-Mesa_1200w-SL1_25216.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbaa6I4-xmCpb-2WxKUgJQaoeXWcfPynQVnrKAa1RQr2MYosazabXyms-Bcd3sbKN3WEca31E_UScXNF0Jj2ID4IXfvX2P2I9e8r_5UYfErCufDS2NnAFoc0oh-eUL7S1y1qLUG4GuV7FXdz5plm403nq-XWG3qcdnPUTXOU6gJc9NXrlSR2TDyUd8/s1200/Camper-canyon_1200w-SL1_25219.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="779" data-original-width="1200" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbaa6I4-xmCpb-2WxKUgJQaoeXWcfPynQVnrKAa1RQr2MYosazabXyms-Bcd3sbKN3WEca31E_UScXNF0Jj2ID4IXfvX2P2I9e8r_5UYfErCufDS2NnAFoc0oh-eUL7S1y1qLUG4GuV7FXdz5plm403nq-XWG3qcdnPUTXOU6gJc9NXrlSR2TDyUd8/w640-h416/Camper-canyon_1200w-SL1_25219.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<p>
I love this campsite. Just about anywhere else being this close to the road
would be a major disadvantage, but I've camped here twice without anyone ever
driving by. When I camped two days at the site farther in only two vehicles slowly
drove past in all that time.
</p>
<p>
I got outside just after dawn hoping to capture that wonderful light. I sent
the drone up for a spherical panorama. The result is striking as the light
before sunrise has brought out the diversity of this landscape of contrasting
rock and soils. The
<a href="https://kuula.co/post/NDLDY" target="_blank">spherical panorama I took last year</a>
is much prettier and you may prefer to view it.
</p>
<p>
<a href="https://kuula.co/post/5m6C9" target="_blank">View on the Kuula site</a> or in the frame below, In either case,
click the Full Screen icon in the upper right corner to get the full
experience.
</p>
<iframe allow="xr-spatial-tracking; gyroscope; accelerometer" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="640" scrolling="no" src="https://kuula.co/share/5m6C9?logo=1&info=1&fs=1&vr=0&sd=1&thumbs=1" width="100%"></iframe>
<br />
<p>
I knew I had a full day of driving ahead to get back home, but did take the time
to walk the other direction along the road & cliff edge to get more
photos. The Cliff Rose bushes were were showing a riot of blossoms. I've never seen
such a display. I didn't realize there were so many all around. When not blooming they
are just another desert scrub brush.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2-kyKaBOVO2HJqPvx63dZCVzfSOq5MCIjE8pAXeysjPIbQha2Q7zgXB0YiB6YyLezhQbthE6cpk85mf2Jf_dPM3t9w5wYie1oqfmHD_g3T_N4-AaeDrc-O-yzkTfHWR66__Vwq8Pa9KsvSCSS1DKBr4X0_j3gUpRvP6bNdukdOb_q4MBUPjMQ3Waf/s1200/CliffRose-mesa_1200w-SL1_25244.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2-kyKaBOVO2HJqPvx63dZCVzfSOq5MCIjE8pAXeysjPIbQha2Q7zgXB0YiB6YyLezhQbthE6cpk85mf2Jf_dPM3t9w5wYie1oqfmHD_g3T_N4-AaeDrc-O-yzkTfHWR66__Vwq8Pa9KsvSCSS1DKBr4X0_j3gUpRvP6bNdukdOb_q4MBUPjMQ3Waf/w640-h426/CliffRose-mesa_1200w-SL1_25244.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A Cliff Rose in full bloom.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUUHpU7xu2SxGPbvYVYrpkI6Z3dFS9x0uFMpSQsnqU3yUKUTt6fuillXTXEFkBiML0JPW46O_P6XGZgPS8PnIzbstv-ZULoA95AIQns9hmTS_i26e5lTKca1MEkLdZ3whNgE8uQ3v-sdEPI7wAhHaHER8cqObcRmjHe8qHL3xjJ40LdiOsO4AZ_SPX/s1200/PerkySue_1200sq-SL1_25246.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUUHpU7xu2SxGPbvYVYrpkI6Z3dFS9x0uFMpSQsnqU3yUKUTt6fuillXTXEFkBiML0JPW46O_P6XGZgPS8PnIzbstv-ZULoA95AIQns9hmTS_i26e5lTKca1MEkLdZ3whNgE8uQ3v-sdEPI7wAhHaHER8cqObcRmjHe8qHL3xjJ40LdiOsO4AZ_SPX/w640-h640/PerkySue_1200sq-SL1_25246.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbSOGNhT7kM6w0gD5g4W0Zn_RETz6WiV7iKLXMSkMXXzlcuRIGTj0Wdwdzghf1xALv8xmGmuqpO5MjPld1yonACdwUAR37QmyePOmUHQimxVM_ahWvJqYbRt-Z8zBw4OSJRVNTMoGrNkKu1Z1g-HMe0sXG3li0ueyaKxtSa8vxUpfTETKzILNXuFVD/s1200/CliffRose-many_1200w-SL1_25247.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbSOGNhT7kM6w0gD5g4W0Zn_RETz6WiV7iKLXMSkMXXzlcuRIGTj0Wdwdzghf1xALv8xmGmuqpO5MjPld1yonACdwUAR37QmyePOmUHQimxVM_ahWvJqYbRt-Z8zBw4OSJRVNTMoGrNkKu1Z1g-HMe0sXG3li0ueyaKxtSa8vxUpfTETKzILNXuFVD/w640-h426/CliffRose-many_1200w-SL1_25247.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Cliff Roses on the rock bench with Wingate Mesa in the background.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuwKryA-ZOUQ4kDcZHOUcm533T8ugBFA5blxaaziwbjPHdWKrkzWpb-je3bIQ1iEheGnrGNXuxg_tcFsintf24f6tvGNpp4iKPsfSE9_qY4-BV7pY_RAE1kfr__MpTDEhFBT_DyBbyghAK8CtzLzkfjXpw3Z433Tl_Hr_zq9q6XjYF74RfpX_FDOq3/s1200/CliffRose-detail_1200w-SL1_25254.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="804" data-original-width="1200" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuwKryA-ZOUQ4kDcZHOUcm533T8ugBFA5blxaaziwbjPHdWKrkzWpb-je3bIQ1iEheGnrGNXuxg_tcFsintf24f6tvGNpp4iKPsfSE9_qY4-BV7pY_RAE1kfr__MpTDEhFBT_DyBbyghAK8CtzLzkfjXpw3Z433Tl_Hr_zq9q6XjYF74RfpX_FDOq3/w640-h428/CliffRose-detail_1200w-SL1_25254.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A close-up photo of the Cliff Rose blossoms.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: left;">On the Road Again</h4>
<p>
It was a lovely morning across southeastern Utah. Lots of wildflowers and
views across the canyons to the mountains. I took my usual route including the Cow
Canyon Road cut-off to Montezuma Creek. The Globemallows were thick on the
shoulder of the road, and as there was no other traffic, I stopped for photos.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3vVl872VkXoWiA1Bcyqu4a7WLGZceVwsvvW8NQYuEtbLsFqtWSKW4aG50VTdGA0caeWn0WiKa8Xj0xWXFRLUei4Yop5B223PVzxDlLnoU_z2zPEyKriSSEDd37Fy3iX6rBDT14ytYzQxVfaJMuJx15KzHyXt3zpJy9GKZZXZaRjCZsRLaR34REOBl/s1200/RoadsideGlobmallow_1200sq-SL1_25259.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3vVl872VkXoWiA1Bcyqu4a7WLGZceVwsvvW8NQYuEtbLsFqtWSKW4aG50VTdGA0caeWn0WiKa8Xj0xWXFRLUei4Yop5B223PVzxDlLnoU_z2zPEyKriSSEDd37Fy3iX6rBDT14ytYzQxVfaJMuJx15KzHyXt3zpJy9GKZZXZaRjCZsRLaR34REOBl/w640-h640/RoadsideGlobmallow_1200sq-SL1_25259.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<p>
I drove south on Red Mesa Road and stopped at Tony's Road for photos
of yucca blooming.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2vNZiK3Vqm7Oz2bl7CQpLIpaEEP3rLrT7YDH0-IMswGU4UVGNi-Pm8XEVUrkexfKpYPWcK0smggxpECUKj-RTN5ITUACMurfEUZKl7E9yAPkRmn1Wk0IOwlAc5P7SP7g8QL7AAd_HESKO5BQpS6u3O89zPsn63MurCSRvzOSLzheVairhbJ1Q2Y6s/s1200/Yucca-blooming_1200h-SL1_25265.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="912" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2vNZiK3Vqm7Oz2bl7CQpLIpaEEP3rLrT7YDH0-IMswGU4UVGNi-Pm8XEVUrkexfKpYPWcK0smggxpECUKj-RTN5ITUACMurfEUZKl7E9yAPkRmn1Wk0IOwlAc5P7SP7g8QL7AAd_HESKO5BQpS6u3O89zPsn63MurCSRvzOSLzheVairhbJ1Q2Y6s/w486-h640/Yucca-blooming_1200h-SL1_25265.jpg" width="486" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<p>
Filled my tank at Beclabito then stopped once more for a photo of yet more
Globemallow, then again for a giant storm cloud.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz3HebsnXJpUm4ZNjZRWvQ5sM2lEMh4n933vT7xR2U43tyoxpCJ4SsFP2MW-3M2yqzgneJAJHjWleEZrEPvufXODz9APoKt5Ih2JndBvpgP9bysdRrKyVgtga8ISDTLj5QHrs9b4lqz0DCzqB3HaKNUXNhIrxA_TSkR9iiGUK8AETy0boQ6Y4muuFt/s1200/Mallow-Mountains_1200w-SL1_25267.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="807" data-original-width="1200" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz3HebsnXJpUm4ZNjZRWvQ5sM2lEMh4n933vT7xR2U43tyoxpCJ4SsFP2MW-3M2yqzgneJAJHjWleEZrEPvufXODz9APoKt5Ih2JndBvpgP9bysdRrKyVgtga8ISDTLj5QHrs9b4lqz0DCzqB3HaKNUXNhIrxA_TSkR9iiGUK8AETy0boQ6Y4muuFt/w640-h430/Mallow-Mountains_1200w-SL1_25267.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj4CqD0ijph5a0gEVSknzgy2uKKgEJVaMe_5lw1R_fKvzfmmvx2hbpYjGD2gmXSWjVlZeK3Dz-KGT9wPvQ1s_i7O2iL3emAxv4L-HX_sEM4v-ipyskYtKGAo4muzAWEjL7CVLRMBEBPDpvpriyOMog0DMAQwVIXlENnMge_UOdRO_YQYJHS-lDGf5O/s1200/US64-cloud_1200w-SL1_25269.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="638" data-original-width="1200" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj4CqD0ijph5a0gEVSknzgy2uKKgEJVaMe_5lw1R_fKvzfmmvx2hbpYjGD2gmXSWjVlZeK3Dz-KGT9wPvQ1s_i7O2iL3emAxv4L-HX_sEM4v-ipyskYtKGAo4muzAWEjL7CVLRMBEBPDpvpriyOMog0DMAQwVIXlENnMge_UOdRO_YQYJHS-lDGf5O/w640-h340/US64-cloud_1200w-SL1_25269.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<p>
I drove though a brief rain shower on US-550 thus completing my record of
being rained on every single day of the trip (even if only briefly.) Still, a
wonderful trip with mild temperatures and no bad winds—quite the
accomplishment for spring. It would have been nice to have a bit more sun for
photography, but you probably think I posted more photos than warranted
anyhow.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">
<b><i>Thanks for following along on my little adventure.</i></b>
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2023/06/late-spring-utah-may-2023-part-1.html">Return to Part 1</a>
</h3>
<div><br /></div>
Bosque Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00001863270259847102noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3983525105536347837.post-9582924402853032532023-06-16T08:27:00.000-06:002023-06-16T08:39:37.227-06:00Late Spring Utah - May 2023: Part 3<h4 style="text-align: left;">Part 3 of 4<br /><br /></h4>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Cathedral Valley, Hanksville Dinosaur Quarry, Poison Springs Canyon
</h3>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
May 18th (continued from
<a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2023/06/late-spring-utah-may-2023-part-2.html">part 2</a>; go to
<a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2023/06/late-spring-utah-may-2023-part-1.html">Part 1</a>)
</h3>
<p><span style="color: #d9ead3;">Click a photo to view a larger size—highly recommended</span></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Capitol Reef National Park</h4>
<p>From Boulder Mountain UT-12 drops down into sunny Torrey where I filled my tank for the next leg of
my journey. My thoughts were on a return to Cathedral Valley and the weather
looked promising. I phoned the Capitol Reef National Park information line and
got the latest road conditions—good to go. I drove east on UT-24 and into the
park. I had thought maybe I'd drive into the park and drive Grand Wash Road, which I'd missed
previously, and maybe take a short hike. But once I turned off the highway at
the visitor center I changed my mind. It was a circus in the park with all the
cars, trucks, RVs, buses, pedestrians, bikes, and what not. I did spot a
couple pop-up campers, and we exchanged waves, but I turned around and got the
heck out of Dodge as quick as I could.
</p>
<p>
I turned back east on the highway exercising caution around the various
attractions with their tourist traffic. The road reports didn't mention an
issue with the ford on the Fremont River, but I checked out the flow as I
drove down the highway anyway.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Hartnet Road</h4>
<p>
I turned off the highway at Hartnet Road and drove the short distance to the
ford. It looked fine, so I ventured across. [The park service cautions that
the Cathedral Valley loop is strictly 4WD/high-clearance.] I decided to stop
in the shade along the road beneath a cottonwood tree for lunch before venturing into the desert. I set out my
little table and my Home Depot bucket with its padded seat.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHgLmkPJTqj8B3Ucxk0LdQlTfPoVJRx-ImJVWogDvHIzHBf8lcJV8kXxia1YvrUaS2M1I2fw001TtxYxR_efsmE9A_UGuheL-XychNvv6ealyhTDk_SnRRhgZyBuy7x0BX5BG-fsi0RsTY9mxXDM45LE0hQgqxHFqt_kljNz-8xz-ef4YHkAxT6SiV/s1200/PicnicSite_1200w-SL1_24866.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="785" data-original-width="1200" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHgLmkPJTqj8B3Ucxk0LdQlTfPoVJRx-ImJVWogDvHIzHBf8lcJV8kXxia1YvrUaS2M1I2fw001TtxYxR_efsmE9A_UGuheL-XychNvv6ealyhTDk_SnRRhgZyBuy7x0BX5BG-fsi0RsTY9mxXDM45LE0hQgqxHFqt_kljNz-8xz-ef4YHkAxT6SiV/w640-h418/PicnicSite_1200w-SL1_24866.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
My picnic spot in the Fremont River bosque.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
Many of my readers know about
<a href="https://www.wanderthewest.com/forum/">WanderTheWest.com</a> - an
interesting and informative forum for campers, most of whom have pop-up truck
campers. Many years ago one of the moderators offered bumper stickers and I
had applied one to the back of the camper. It just has the tent logo and the letters WTW. Never got any comment about it. As I was having lunch a white
pickup with a pop-up camper came through the ford and stopped next to me. The
driver yelled out "Wander the West!" Wow, cool.
</p>
<p>
I walked over and had a short chat with the gentleman and his wife in their
full-size pickup with ATC pop-up camper. He introduced himself and I
recognized his name and face; I introduced myself to Vic. Thought at first I'd
met him at a meet-up, but he assured me I had not. He thought I just
recognized him from the forum where he uses his picture as his avatar. A very
cool meeting. They drove on ahead and I finished my lunch.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu_7KdPkFR-4EFHMicMbSOAowT5jQbfkx2chtw-A-ybnqs_X0E1RXRuxwa0W8nZtwkrELGWfx2OzsMom0Y2-W59__UhzL99Svj_ZiVpcReG8VXdBv48X75U8zXqH9VG34OmeRV-MEggUtO_n6-xRHLFUGgKF36Cgm76A6k7nda7KhrmUXTXB5zrfP3/s2400/EarlyHills-2pano_2400w.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="925" data-original-width="2400" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu_7KdPkFR-4EFHMicMbSOAowT5jQbfkx2chtw-A-ybnqs_X0E1RXRuxwa0W8nZtwkrELGWfx2OzsMom0Y2-W59__UhzL99Svj_ZiVpcReG8VXdBv48X75U8zXqH9VG34OmeRV-MEggUtO_n6-xRHLFUGgKF36Cgm76A6k7nda7KhrmUXTXB5zrfP3/w640-h246/EarlyHills-2pano_2400w.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
After climbing out of the river valley the land quickly gets
interesting.<br />Double-wide exposure pano—click for a larger version.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpekr5c3gtoTx2OfQHYNjcprUhNzLsYBXRFbjeaJAkPNF72lVzsxrvlI54oRGZFp2edWB_k6SdQZ0am2IkV-SO-Bh5IOOWdJ1UFiMa2L9wrP8CZxS_PddELG97KQm1MO5fduN4lhhGNLjjwQUQUJE-PnHyChz76soPaqMbThEiDmoFxJDjVGhhs1My/s1200/RoadsideCanyon_1200w-SL1_24869.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="734" data-original-width="1200" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpekr5c3gtoTx2OfQHYNjcprUhNzLsYBXRFbjeaJAkPNF72lVzsxrvlI54oRGZFp2edWB_k6SdQZ0am2IkV-SO-Bh5IOOWdJ1UFiMa2L9wrP8CZxS_PddELG97KQm1MO5fduN4lhhGNLjjwQUQUJE-PnHyChz76soPaqMbThEiDmoFxJDjVGhhs1My/w640-h392/RoadsideCanyon_1200w-SL1_24869.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A rugged canyon off to the right side of the road.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
As I drove north I couldn't help but see the clouds building and there was
even a rain storm to the northeast. I crossed my fingers. The road was in
pretty good shape though there were quite a number of places where it crossed
an arroyo or even continued along the bottom for a short while. The bottom was
a fine gravel, very moist from previous rain. I used 4WD as a precaution and
kept my momentum up. It was definitely shifty under tire and sometimes there
was a ledge on either side. I did drive through a couple of small rain
showers. These isolated storms were moving across the area from NW to SE.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtnX2lPAUC5hD93zy_lRs2eNQf3FTjk0HBhgXg6jxoUbZ-4dHx8lkfwtrYBi3xPFnbJEC9IX4HY_kTjttICEnq1G10kwKH1ZTGuovsQ2BS584P8uEN83FLwucy0zV9GV3md1WPJvkQAHmfry6PiDjL7gYkXbAdPfV58OMtZKEyFfWMltYvVKH0ycOO/s1200/BentoniteHills_1200w-SL1_24870.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="647" data-original-width="1200" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtnX2lPAUC5hD93zy_lRs2eNQf3FTjk0HBhgXg6jxoUbZ-4dHx8lkfwtrYBi3xPFnbJEC9IX4HY_kTjttICEnq1G10kwKH1ZTGuovsQ2BS584P8uEN83FLwucy0zV9GV3md1WPJvkQAHmfry6PiDjL7gYkXbAdPfV58OMtZKEyFfWMltYvVKH0ycOO/w640-h346/BentoniteHills_1200w-SL1_24870.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The rain clouds were getting closer as I entered the Bentonite Hills.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I skipped the Lower South Desert Overlook road, as I'd done it before and
recalled it was a few miles long. I wanted to make sure I got to the official
campground while there were still sites available. It has only 6 sites and is
first-come. I did, however, turn off for the Upper South Desert Overlook as it
was within sight of the "main" road.
</p>
<p>
As I pulled into the tiny parking area I found my newly met friends already parked.
There is a tall hill as part of the overlook and I could see Vic and his wife
at the very top. By the time I walked to the lower overlook they had made it
down. We got to talking again about camping and travels when suddenly Vic had a eureka moment. He'd
misheard me when we'd introduced ourselves. Now he realized he knew who I was. He is
a regular reader of this blog and has used my adventures as take off points for
his own travels. What makes this small-world moment even more amazing to my
mind is that he drove down from his home in Canada. We enjoyed more conversation before they
headed on out. They were going to do the whole loop before returning to Fruita
where they were staying in a double campsite with relatives. It's great fun, and
gratifying, to meet my audience while on the road—it's only happened a couple
of times.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikdsCCIonDtLa5lqkdDKJ8dOjn7WpQHykuG0VZwTM_I0D_vxHlJYpQaLG1or-gx_ashRrJLtgDgt9bot558iLVHFoDTha4QGUK6l4Nd-zkRn69HKugvP-m5fcG1C7fEWk_8qbZe9Ew_uvWiw4k7j35VOrfq46RagxQidNYe3SELPusK3jk9ikeyny2/s2400/UpperSouthDesertOverlook_2400w.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1310" data-original-width="2400" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikdsCCIonDtLa5lqkdDKJ8dOjn7WpQHykuG0VZwTM_I0D_vxHlJYpQaLG1or-gx_ashRrJLtgDgt9bot558iLVHFoDTha4QGUK6l4Nd-zkRn69HKugvP-m5fcG1C7fEWk_8qbZe9Ew_uvWiw4k7j35VOrfq46RagxQidNYe3SELPusK3jk9ikeyny2/w640-h350/UpperSouthDesertOverlook_2400w.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The expansive view from the lower overlook.<br />Double-wide exposure
pano—click for a larger version.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Cathedral Valley Campground</h4>
<p>
When I pulled into the campground I was delighted that the site I'd hoped for
was open. When I was last here one of my new friends from the previous days' S.U.W.A. meet-up was camped in this site. It features a short path to the edge of the
bluff with an overview of Cathedral Valley itself. Three of the other sites
were occupied when I pulled in and by the evening all would be full. I set up camp.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcFKLzJQvurcFTX7J0PbGlWVsPvVt2b0vGIKqompzfcZJpLqZirX-yxbXPaQxxcq8ZkNy8w2gAPRjgqmkZ-PsTCDTwJ2KFfjwYQenTosRVhg89LzyGdmkCKpqBM1msXOyMlke_HhRyx6A8bjQx3Z_KzsGm0pZAn7S0pryTBr4TuAlVdWjXF8sI7849/s1200/CapitolReef-CG_1200w-SL1_24901.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="685" data-original-width="1200" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcFKLzJQvurcFTX7J0PbGlWVsPvVt2b0vGIKqompzfcZJpLqZirX-yxbXPaQxxcq8ZkNy8w2gAPRjgqmkZ-PsTCDTwJ2KFfjwYQenTosRVhg89LzyGdmkCKpqBM1msXOyMlke_HhRyx6A8bjQx3Z_KzsGm0pZAn7S0pryTBr4TuAlVdWjXF8sI7849/w640-h366/CapitolReef-CG_1200w-SL1_24901.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<p>
It was a windy afternoon and evening, but my site was somewhat shielded from
the worst. I made a point of making it to my "private" overlook for the golden
hour to take pictures. There were quite a few clouds moving across the sky, so
lighting was hit or miss. I probably spent about 90 minutes trying to get good
light. I'm not always so patient. </p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxPm2ebINqT77JB5L7XiZXXkvIDTAqQVYqYyOivLiboyCUzlO9ZJmvT0yd5wS0Y_lN1EVJJ9wTe9THax2u99BzqfkzEI1f0t9dVzBJeSopy1No-07SxLNObst9Iw-WfMt5tC5ukLgGEM5lzhN2YOFWQUgZYl_drQwVgYcUWM1k5_t4ch1o74ofc5sX/s1200/CathedralValley_1200w-SL1_24886.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="756" data-original-width="1200" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxPm2ebINqT77JB5L7XiZXXkvIDTAqQVYqYyOivLiboyCUzlO9ZJmvT0yd5wS0Y_lN1EVJJ9wTe9THax2u99BzqfkzEI1f0t9dVzBJeSopy1No-07SxLNObst9Iw-WfMt5tC5ukLgGEM5lzhN2YOFWQUgZYl_drQwVgYcUWM1k5_t4ch1o74ofc5sX/w640-h404/CathedralValley_1200w-SL1_24886.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
I think of this as the main cathedral complex of the valley.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAgevP8KJzA--jpITX_KgozHi2NEmZVa_QzE_VY8ujNYy5Z_Ssol04KrE5JrEoWFZ-yCVh4EPX0ASV2byOXvp3soJlHrwxdbXIL7hGsQYmQ5YNFByfDhEBwMOAuT4vfMGpK9f3LtUare2mk9c78HzFDjr9gGS7kLurg8Ng9hZJOGyl8bcg7rLSoDkA/s1200/CathedralValley-vista_1200w-SL1_24891.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1200" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAgevP8KJzA--jpITX_KgozHi2NEmZVa_QzE_VY8ujNYy5Z_Ssol04KrE5JrEoWFZ-yCVh4EPX0ASV2byOXvp3soJlHrwxdbXIL7hGsQYmQ5YNFByfDhEBwMOAuT4vfMGpK9f3LtUare2mk9c78HzFDjr9gGS7kLurg8Ng9hZJOGyl8bcg7rLSoDkA/w640-h384/CathedralValley-vista_1200w-SL1_24891.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
This is a larger view of Cathedral Valley proper.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFp98J-t_ryjNNweNvFn18RLnoOdiU4DCIQEfkIhnQcNhBVjgaoGthr_GrMQK2xhvbHAaA4nEm1YcVfRlc49wnoCQL0TJJ5i6ttJ9U5mqRBPJrz8jxfGV4X6vErQmjKc6ruFPUzOruR35DTFPuBLjm_tx9cv_eJbDwvhiyfppN8Y9IIq96MwmQD6Xy/s1200/CathedralValley-LastLight_1200w-SL1_24922.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="815" data-original-width="1200" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFp98J-t_ryjNNweNvFn18RLnoOdiU4DCIQEfkIhnQcNhBVjgaoGthr_GrMQK2xhvbHAaA4nEm1YcVfRlc49wnoCQL0TJJ5i6ttJ9U5mqRBPJrz8jxfGV4X6vErQmjKc6ruFPUzOruR35DTFPuBLjm_tx9cv_eJbDwvhiyfppN8Y9IIq96MwmQD6Xy/w640-h434/CathedralValley-LastLight_1200w-SL1_24922.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
And finally, a dramatic view of the eastern end of the valley in the
last of the sunlight.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><br />Friday May 19</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Cathedral Valley (continued)</h4>
<p>
The morning started mostly sunny, which was very nice to see. My plan for the
day was to head out via Cathedral Valley proceeding easterly. If I timed
things right I hoped to reach the highway and scoot up toward Hanksville in
time to make the 1pm tour at the Hanksville-Burpee Dinosaur Quarry. BLM
announced tours three times a day during the week and twice on Saturday for
two weeks in May and one in June (skipping Memorial Day week.)
</p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Cathedral Valley Road</h4>
<p>
I descended the switchbacks below the campground into the valley. I took pictures of the
"cathedrals" from the various angles provided by the path of the road. I again
enjoyed the wildflowers; a recurring theme this trip.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1hMdkdQIKQ1HJjFhROg7v4Etot0tiVidzLx6sVvv7Ec0akcVic_sbJSJixpttEjnWnJl9locxSW8u9AbQ79284rnpKgnDDIxCswqUeomYvOi5HsiUqwdwKA2kf3Ak5CMVh4iK_Fn1WxMAPr6Lnr0CfIwFEW8OnDIota9Z46UNwDmUW0JixyTYsE09/s1200/CathedralValley-morning_1200w-SL1_24928.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="670" data-original-width="1200" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1hMdkdQIKQ1HJjFhROg7v4Etot0tiVidzLx6sVvv7Ec0akcVic_sbJSJixpttEjnWnJl9locxSW8u9AbQ79284rnpKgnDDIxCswqUeomYvOi5HsiUqwdwKA2kf3Ak5CMVh4iK_Fn1WxMAPr6Lnr0CfIwFEW8OnDIota9Z46UNwDmUW0JixyTYsE09/w640-h358/CathedralValley-morning_1200w-SL1_24928.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Photo of the main cathedrals taken as I started down the switchbacks.<br />You
can see the road farther along in the lower right as it crosses the
valley.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisx3x3vh46MNCZ3aULjaIm5fFtmqFDn9MG4wfu-aMKz9r-_q16GTgno0rspubsX8Q1Qw9STipSM5AXW4juHVrwB2laQciNRR7lU3eGhBmefDSToX72bOZwYV3GzymTfA4MPTc3Aq_bz5wYYltPqMmOga79rN7yq4_XBdOYr8iF4epofK5rzaOW9rEz/s1200/Cathedrals-narrow_1200w-SL1_24930.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisx3x3vh46MNCZ3aULjaIm5fFtmqFDn9MG4wfu-aMKz9r-_q16GTgno0rspubsX8Q1Qw9STipSM5AXW4juHVrwB2laQciNRR7lU3eGhBmefDSToX72bOZwYV3GzymTfA4MPTc3Aq_bz5wYYltPqMmOga79rN7yq4_XBdOYr8iF4epofK5rzaOW9rEz/w640-h426/Cathedrals-narrow_1200w-SL1_24930.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
An "end view" of the two cathedrals seen in the photo previous to this
one.
<br />There was a short path to this view point.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwyBvrxVsJK2hCkZilSiKV-_NPK8DSQB80a4JrRSc_8sBOI0CWbOKCZZ4GcY8HOLmdAdal63TTqciTpMXdb2poFVD5r09poYHYadE0ItKbJWN73LLDCm8Amt-Ynv2lsw_J-Wniglx5QWvpxD7S3rjcRF0YDk1836Qx2Ak56upTv7CMfqhNIOkdmrX-/s1200/Wash_1200w-SL1_24935.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="733" data-original-width="1200" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwyBvrxVsJK2hCkZilSiKV-_NPK8DSQB80a4JrRSc_8sBOI0CWbOKCZZ4GcY8HOLmdAdal63TTqciTpMXdb2poFVD5r09poYHYadE0ItKbJWN73LLDCm8Amt-Ynv2lsw_J-Wniglx5QWvpxD7S3rjcRF0YDk1836Qx2Ak56upTv7CMfqhNIOkdmrX-/w640-h390/Wash_1200w-SL1_24935.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Looking upstream from an arroyo. Notice all the lava rocks rounded by
eons of tumbling.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
The road crossed a number of arroyos. These were generally narrower with
steeper banks than on Hartnet Road. High clearance definitely required as even
I dragged my behind in one. There was also an evidence of recent water in many, probably
from the storms I saw moving through the afternoon before. There were clouds
developing above the snow capped mountains to the west, but most of the sky
was clear.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGNhXfK9trOS37n9cFw8T93YEcLtuyENm6HQP8k-1XVU1zMTNtO6w3eaCt1C-JD1RbaKy-hWRIhoYT18aIAZ9lNTufHShsj9QH3SPQWlzROgdiVsBI5VCFtk5XMErF9WhEZ6EiQhCe_QDF_yMw_FaXlHQdxRoTvJegJSOB-hxBGhAxTkDpGF1HyCK6/s1200/CathedralValley-north_1200w-SL1_24940.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="602" data-original-width="1200" height="322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGNhXfK9trOS37n9cFw8T93YEcLtuyENm6HQP8k-1XVU1zMTNtO6w3eaCt1C-JD1RbaKy-hWRIhoYT18aIAZ9lNTufHShsj9QH3SPQWlzROgdiVsBI5VCFtk5XMErF9WhEZ6EiQhCe_QDF_yMw_FaXlHQdxRoTvJegJSOB-hxBGhAxTkDpGF1HyCK6/w640-h322/CathedralValley-north_1200w-SL1_24940.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Looking back at the main cathedral complex.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPHKu5JjOmTfdRSirLmFukAQbsejHcwJsEpvlIheaE1wIvMAM1avJNnfepWZE8kNq0M7K2hFhrkifEsk8M8w13lperya8PuPyX8TE-z7fa811QZyk8BbcrIn-eCbcuTlegT_oUlfH6zv_y3yXgPzir0dhUayo7Te5ggVIXD8EjYDsn3gmKHNBAjDVr/s1200/PopcornFlower_1200w-SL1_24946.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="912" data-original-width="1200" height="486" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPHKu5JjOmTfdRSirLmFukAQbsejHcwJsEpvlIheaE1wIvMAM1avJNnfepWZE8kNq0M7K2hFhrkifEsk8M8w13lperya8PuPyX8TE-z7fa811QZyk8BbcrIn-eCbcuTlegT_oUlfH6zv_y3yXgPzir0dhUayo7Te5ggVIXD8EjYDsn3gmKHNBAjDVr/w640-h486/PopcornFlower_1200w-SL1_24946.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br /><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz9Gf1CWz99Vlj6V7PBM4YWC52ReO1OKb2RXsz5IYZlVkB40SZ2pO0Z0BFV_EjBD2VSAQlfFT5YX1iKOR0YcvefyGuhxEFPMZoRnaPJIinUXOqbE5xf4ISYvrnNGGCp99GW8iOPXHVwii0a3RWtxMAmyiq_O_2KbwkVZqKqgMfXSNQM3Bw6mx1bG3x/s1200/Lupine_1200w-SL1_24960.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="813" data-original-width="1200" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz9Gf1CWz99Vlj6V7PBM4YWC52ReO1OKb2RXsz5IYZlVkB40SZ2pO0Z0BFV_EjBD2VSAQlfFT5YX1iKOR0YcvefyGuhxEFPMZoRnaPJIinUXOqbE5xf4ISYvrnNGGCp99GW8iOPXHVwii0a3RWtxMAmyiq_O_2KbwkVZqKqgMfXSNQM3Bw6mx1bG3x/w640-h434/Lupine_1200w-SL1_24960.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
There were lots of lupine around, as well. This one was in a small
wash; note the moist soil.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzAXalRaUtpgWguZy_b3kcGqvtdjmwfdV5gnT_nIa1JVARLLfxiTdrD5gdQFEyUOL7ru-axtzwRz9ndzvnNGquKWNQzeIqecq0ViRR0cj5fMceg9JI6eB1264XbDP123uPOTzq0pZ0IJ15YnSniDxeXhqLexpbKI5VrW6wqSsBn0Df3fRpZ2iSvr0M/s1200/CathedralValley-tower_1200w-SL1_24952.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="724" data-original-width="1200" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzAXalRaUtpgWguZy_b3kcGqvtdjmwfdV5gnT_nIa1JVARLLfxiTdrD5gdQFEyUOL7ru-axtzwRz9ndzvnNGquKWNQzeIqecq0ViRR0cj5fMceg9JI6eB1264XbDP123uPOTzq0pZ0IJ15YnSniDxeXhqLexpbKI5VrW6wqSsBn0Df3fRpZ2iSvr0M/w640-h386/CathedralValley-tower_1200w-SL1_24952.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkziDNCwEHb3yYUu_qz0QQ47VwbmWMN7eml4AJBskzR7sbobt8FkanCHB1qLx-68c78FHJ-mwXPqOEPXXmPyGBhiAw07ayVVXt6VYKzPOJ7v98kHVSJjH_sEg71bBjV_J4hTSOKTksOo5UyZfgt5EMyVMtHyDyqg66dVafbdn6nuXWCj_CGsariRz-/s1200/Globemallow_1200w-SL1_24959.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="866" data-original-width="1200" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkziDNCwEHb3yYUu_qz0QQ47VwbmWMN7eml4AJBskzR7sbobt8FkanCHB1qLx-68c78FHJ-mwXPqOEPXXmPyGBhiAw07ayVVXt6VYKzPOJ7v98kHVSJjH_sEg71bBjV_J4hTSOKTksOo5UyZfgt5EMyVMtHyDyqg66dVafbdn6nuXWCj_CGsariRz-/w640-h462/Globemallow_1200w-SL1_24959.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT-2XTXiJ9z8GWUKYmLIBnZvPD-9I1tDBr8RuH4ex6035e7JNcaG_P6k9VCrXjJc6598BZGvg3LMusU-IPmsBwqkcfHAhPUEn4BY-aEf7c4r-4wup_dYv-kmn_TubgTs09Q4hQkgn7z7JaiDXQ8DamioyiKwPkI_cKxyS8m-SCxSn3V3XgDlc9xXDZ/s1200/CathedralValley-fortress_1200w-SL1_24955.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="730" data-original-width="1200" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT-2XTXiJ9z8GWUKYmLIBnZvPD-9I1tDBr8RuH4ex6035e7JNcaG_P6k9VCrXjJc6598BZGvg3LMusU-IPmsBwqkcfHAhPUEn4BY-aEf7c4r-4wup_dYv-kmn_TubgTs09Q4hQkgn7z7JaiDXQ8DamioyiKwPkI_cKxyS8m-SCxSn3V3XgDlc9xXDZ/w640-h390/CathedralValley-fortress_1200w-SL1_24955.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOJ5lyeHUIb5x_J1muoD5zLzjh0TFdGob15uH9BygmzpSilaLqB08WjdiJEAxkRtokhioIayYxCXec-yi8brQkXcFOhEh4elVZlPrzuCQPc37zKBKOimdjA3m8_mLF-kmOHgvbtJ7NKTi6kLbhQ39ciqZACCjxE6PxNTlVcl1-GPkoFgM_lqt0QuV-/s1200/Balsamroot_1200sq-SL1_24962.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOJ5lyeHUIb5x_J1muoD5zLzjh0TFdGob15uH9BygmzpSilaLqB08WjdiJEAxkRtokhioIayYxCXec-yi8brQkXcFOhEh4elVZlPrzuCQPc37zKBKOimdjA3m8_mLF-kmOHgvbtJ7NKTi6kLbhQ39ciqZACCjxE6PxNTlVcl1-GPkoFgM_lqt0QuV-/w640-h640/Balsamroot_1200sq-SL1_24962.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: left;">The Temples and Glass Mountain</h4><p>
I turned off onto the short side road to visit the Temples of the Sun and Moon
even though I wasn't all that impressed with them my previous trip. That could
have been because it was about a million degrees that afternoon. Much nicer
this morning. There was a junction with a small sign I hadn't noticed last trip, "Glass Mountain",
pointing to the right. Hmmm, I'll check that out first. I soon came to a small
loop and to the side was a strange lump. I asked a man standing beside his
pickup "Is that Glass Mountain?" "Yes," he replied, "it's much more
interesting from the other side." And was he ever right.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLbwWH4YqafGRqiWBWfDbHPy92UIblguLGZNcPK6FF5wPZaUaNqWiVvm4BjUTd_qiEWHBaekplf-WCjIp24sf_LYRbFOaV90eU2bHInz_9Gm7oH7KJQAhf1b0WbSA9qqcfkXqN0ob2Fzt0-QV_u0k6rQ05WwX2kf57OVaPOYwws2Li6K3pHxt4EGJi/s1200/GlassMtn-man_1200w-SL1_24966.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="711" data-original-width="1200" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLbwWH4YqafGRqiWBWfDbHPy92UIblguLGZNcPK6FF5wPZaUaNqWiVvm4BjUTd_qiEWHBaekplf-WCjIp24sf_LYRbFOaV90eU2bHInz_9Gm7oH7KJQAhf1b0WbSA9qqcfkXqN0ob2Fzt0-QV_u0k6rQ05WwX2kf57OVaPOYwws2Li6K3pHxt4EGJi/w640-h380/GlassMtn-man_1200w-SL1_24966.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Glass Mountain with a human for scale. Really more of a lump than a
mountain.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXGln04XUzyZ-TbS2Eth1wo7nF0KQwqs1Lu1x0gQbF2_85yO5z8g-LkMnjwGMli2uQ_YZRPqGoHsxUmAGliRbqduDYm_89IMYHDAYkYrzX9U7Jod09qgt7d_Di9xcYKDKQ1mZGQd_7nz6aMj-qT9BwazrUcfhub2sReEDfX_ixc8BdSiiCRdRhNzV7/s1200/GlassMtn-Temples_1200w-SL1_24969.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="824" data-original-width="1200" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXGln04XUzyZ-TbS2Eth1wo7nF0KQwqs1Lu1x0gQbF2_85yO5z8g-LkMnjwGMli2uQ_YZRPqGoHsxUmAGliRbqduDYm_89IMYHDAYkYrzX9U7Jod09qgt7d_Di9xcYKDKQ1mZGQd_7nz6aMj-qT9BwazrUcfhub2sReEDfX_ixc8BdSiiCRdRhNzV7/w640-h440/GlassMtn-Temples_1200w-SL1_24969.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Temples of the Sun and Moon arise behind the Glass Mountain.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I took a number of photos and chatted with another visitor and we speculated
what the heck this was. It looked like sheets of soft crystal had been broken
up into chunks, stirred up in all directions and orientations, then smushed
tightly together to form this hump.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIotcNSponMu8-SZD2M8RBX5Imjmma076M8id-wHvTrb001q50g4sv_eZL3Vf3T5SdYqWCfU0CpdYZWscODo8jF18SMHEziwm9Vw62R3Hdcilt38Qi8DflJTm7yDl-82nLDifcVxdCZmMRrkH0RxFcGIwcXM6cjHlJzXK9F2ObjehZdhtg3XXqB4Hh/s1200/GlassMtn-detail_1200w-SL1_24978.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="758" data-original-width="1200" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIotcNSponMu8-SZD2M8RBX5Imjmma076M8id-wHvTrb001q50g4sv_eZL3Vf3T5SdYqWCfU0CpdYZWscODo8jF18SMHEziwm9Vw62R3Hdcilt38Qi8DflJTm7yDl-82nLDifcVxdCZmMRrkH0RxFcGIwcXM6cjHlJzXK9F2ObjehZdhtg3XXqB4Hh/w640-h404/GlassMtn-detail_1200w-SL1_24978.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A closer view of the gypsum crystals.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYoDQuUdPyUxDf6UgFkdUIvdVJSZfgn9u9A-cxEaub5RNiUHkbOUz7IyLQ6rexlRRKRFfGL6TQeJESpR3McbVStR8XvYN5P__Edx_6jAp0oubaNuiEV8Sj05OI4dWhp4DrTRUTcNSIO1mgu-3geAXq21I7J1b6Ni382BaRZO7vKmv9YOtmwnsJED0n/s1200/GlassMtn-Globemallow_1200h-SL1_24979.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYoDQuUdPyUxDf6UgFkdUIvdVJSZfgn9u9A-cxEaub5RNiUHkbOUz7IyLQ6rexlRRKRFfGL6TQeJESpR3McbVStR8XvYN5P__Edx_6jAp0oubaNuiEV8Sj05OI4dWhp4DrTRUTcNSIO1mgu-3geAXq21I7J1b6Ni382BaRZO7vKmv9YOtmwnsJED0n/w426-h640/GlassMtn-Globemallow_1200h-SL1_24979.jpg" width="426" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The globemallows were growing every where.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>About the time I was going to leave a large SUV came in with "Waterpocket
Adventure Company" on the doors. The visitor I had been talking with asked the
man who stepped out of the truck about the glass mountain. I overheard him
saying that it was composed of gypsum crystals and geologists were not exactly
certain on how it formed, but that gypsum as it crystalizes changes direction
as it grows, so the haphazard took to the formation was its natural growth.
The knowledgable guide was showing two clients the area. He was the
owner/operator of a
<a href="https://waterpocketadventures.com" target="_blank">tour company</a>
that provides a number of different tours around the Capitol Reef area with a speciality in geology.</p>
<p>
He also explained that the Temples, as with the other formations in Cathedral
Valley, were built from thin, alternating layers of Entrada sandstone and much
softer siltstone overlain by the marine Curtis formation*. This explains their
appearance. He sounded like an interesting guide should you be looking for a
hosted day adventure.
</p>
<p>
[* <i>actually, I didn't remember him saying all this, but filled in the details from a
<a href="https://pubs.usgs.gov/pp/0363/report.pdf" target="_blank">USGS paper</a>
on the area I found online.</i> ]
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBEX-_oHNceX4STByMrcnMitB13GqPbUXDmmRYumlSLXNUYLxMeM6xtrrLuwDBhPTKLtSysdZoXlbcZ2ODs9M77Qi2kMvWSNdxYpjl6WAB1iNbMmnu31Wnfe9Fix4_vgREKKrQis4drDeN4-3i-BRWg7jmrJBqVXKI7tDiFObzpeBh_eeCTNVl2gyX/s1200/Temples_1200w-SL1_24965.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="761" data-original-width="1200" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBEX-_oHNceX4STByMrcnMitB13GqPbUXDmmRYumlSLXNUYLxMeM6xtrrLuwDBhPTKLtSysdZoXlbcZ2ODs9M77Qi2kMvWSNdxYpjl6WAB1iNbMmnu31Wnfe9Fix4_vgREKKrQis4drDeN4-3i-BRWg7jmrJBqVXKI7tDiFObzpeBh_eeCTNVl2gyX/w640-h406/Temples_1200w-SL1_24965.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Temples of the Sun, foreground, and Temple of the Moon
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I returned to the main loop road and continued. I came through some bentonite hills
and saw an older gentleman metaphorically scratching his head. I pulled
alongside to see if he needed help. He asked if he was on the right road to
find the Temple of the Sun. I assured him he was and they were not far up the
road. I laughed and said the first time I visited I had to stop and ask
someone coming out if I was on the right road, too. The east entrance is a bit
more ambiguous than the west due to there being some side roads.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUdFw87-oZoYleObBg17CWx513Q-benhZDb-57yiuoIivjzbiui_rf4dANo2eaKv-Bl6KVl1_4gPvtbUaHXyAnPipvHbaXSeIbMStmPn1MeMcnSHSDWOL5G-x_Per4vc1gOqfLbW7tDDSlBPFP99NMTdmYKJJuKTG9bfJreP4A8ui8n9ArojnvvC0G/s1200/EveningPrimrose-bush_1200h-SL1_24987.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="796" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUdFw87-oZoYleObBg17CWx513Q-benhZDb-57yiuoIivjzbiui_rf4dANo2eaKv-Bl6KVl1_4gPvtbUaHXyAnPipvHbaXSeIbMStmPn1MeMcnSHSDWOL5G-x_Per4vc1gOqfLbW7tDDSlBPFP99NMTdmYKJJuKTG9bfJreP4A8ui8n9ArojnvvC0G/w424-h640/EveningPrimrose-bush_1200h-SL1_24987.jpg" width="424" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A globe of Evening Primrose along the roadside.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I passed through one more section of rocky undulating terrain, then was
approaching UT-24 near Caineville. My GPS said I was about 15 miles to the
turn-off for the quarry. The lady at the BLM office said it was 8 miles from
the highway and to allow about 25 minutes. I was cutting it close, but thought
I'd make the 1pm tour just in time.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijfpxqQVmHI4p_FEyHf0V6--gKOvR_XtyeeYglrYITunobNcLTxW1vqTuJTJqtwVsLOL5rAlaU2kCQSNy2qIQSev3sCg3AwyQ0OI4dV5nb_EPKcEHsgrrLkk8Wzdho-zw95M46jwDogM916Vl_b7K4E-TfyjnreKm1trqq7hvl98wtWygdzfMJHg9I/s1200/CathedralValleyRd-badlands_1200w-SL1_24990.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="679" data-original-width="1200" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijfpxqQVmHI4p_FEyHf0V6--gKOvR_XtyeeYglrYITunobNcLTxW1vqTuJTJqtwVsLOL5rAlaU2kCQSNy2qIQSev3sCg3AwyQ0OI4dV5nb_EPKcEHsgrrLkk8Wzdho-zw95M46jwDogM916Vl_b7K4E-TfyjnreKm1trqq7hvl98wtWygdzfMJHg9I/w640-h362/CathedralValleyRd-badlands_1200w-SL1_24990.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<p>
<i>A note on camping in Cathedral Valley. The NPS is quick to point out
camping is only allowed in the one campground and I don't suggest you ignore
this prohibition. However, much of Hartnet Road leading in (or out,
depending) is not within the park, but is BLM land where you are allowed to
camp providing you adhere to their commonsense dispersed camping
regulations. I did see a couple of double-tracks off Hartnet Road where you
might find camping, though I didn't explore those, and they might be risky.
Close to the campground is Polk Creek Road which comes in from the national
forest. Not far past the gate on Polk Creek Road, which marks the park
boundary, is a dispersed camping area according to my sources. However, on
this trip the gate was reported locked by the park service as the road
beyond was still under seasonal closure. There are a number of roads off
Cathedral Valley Road on the north (east) side. Exercise good judgement on
any of these side roads as it may be a long time before anyone else comes
along to help dig you out. There is one obvious site on the main road, west
of the Temples turn-off (you can even see it from a satellite map.) </i>
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Hanksville Dinosaur Quarry</h4>
<p>
Heading east on UT-24 I nearly missed the junction even though I had it marked
in my GPS. I was warned there was no road sign for Cow Dung Road, which is
the turn-off. The quarry had put up their own sign, but I didn't see
it until I'd already turned off. Their sign is green, about 3' wide by 5' tall
(not that big if you are going the speed limit) and sits on a small knoll just
east of the turn-off. It is hard to make out what it says, but there is a
bright yellow arrow mid-way down that points north, toward the quarry and a small,
unpainted board under the sign which read "OPEN."
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL4r0OWwfHQsL5k0FVtD0_IBtnOf3CFm5DhtU_snBPdGzVnxJAZtZerwKyhAhZ5a95bborPv3BL5QkTibhTsSUQtrbggdXppAJaNZfCuHD7ve3iG0pfaStonB967ppkZ-eG3jVlrhInA9oEN-3GxxVO2M3Duh9MF5ZtDhFo73gBe1NGci1-MiVV2Tn/s1200/CowDungRoad_1200w-SL1_25012.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL4r0OWwfHQsL5k0FVtD0_IBtnOf3CFm5DhtU_snBPdGzVnxJAZtZerwKyhAhZ5a95bborPv3BL5QkTibhTsSUQtrbggdXppAJaNZfCuHD7ve3iG0pfaStonB967ppkZ-eG3jVlrhInA9oEN-3GxxVO2M3Duh9MF5ZtDhFo73gBe1NGci1-MiVV2Tn/w640-h426/CowDungRoad_1200w-SL1_25012.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<p>
The road travels through sandstone, salt flats, and bentonite hills -
the very picture of a Utah desert. The going was slow as you have to watch
out for inverted speed bumps, i.e., nearly invisible erosion troughs crossing
the road. I passed the Mars Desert Research Station that I'd heard rumors of before. I'd take a photo on the way out. I was really beginning to think I'd
drive forever when the road finally arrived at the dig. There was a rail fence
with cars parked up to it and two chemical toilets.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpIOxfsgSY8Gcdfxxc4K1RHzq0c5DsFzde9ywhrNSnutWwu3PDHVTQGD7c51OqRRsPWUQCMdA93Y2bAy6vNlPnK658JJcIq3IjJOgCztlUyb8hW7mL_tXj8HrmclRmDE8ct3ExWIMUTdwx8DTF6ljlvlQPvbqBqrwrxcv5HJ2PDThSxR_JrPRO0i3v/s1200/DinoQuarry-enter_1200w-SL1_24991.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="713" data-original-width="1200" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpIOxfsgSY8Gcdfxxc4K1RHzq0c5DsFzde9ywhrNSnutWwu3PDHVTQGD7c51OqRRsPWUQCMdA93Y2bAy6vNlPnK658JJcIq3IjJOgCztlUyb8hW7mL_tXj8HrmclRmDE8ct3ExWIMUTdwx8DTF6ljlvlQPvbqBqrwrxcv5HJ2PDThSxR_JrPRO0i3v/w640-h380/DinoQuarry-enter_1200w-SL1_24991.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<p>
Inside the fenced area was a blue tarp pavilion with a number of folks sitting
in camp chairs underneath. It was a couple of minutes past 1pm and I thought
these were the other people out for the tour. When I stepped under the awning all heads turned toward me and I said "I hope
I'm not too late." "Nope, right on time," someone said to the amusement of
all. Seems I was the only one there for the tour and everyone else was part
of the crew finishing their lunch in the shade.
</p>
<p>
Hudson, an intern of the
<a href="https://burpee.org/hanksville-burpee-dinosaur-quarry" target="_blank">Hanksville-Burpee Dinosaur Quarry</a>, offered to show me around. We started with the area he was working and he explained the pneumatic tools everyone was using—a micro
jackhammer device like a vibrating ice pick—to carefully separate the
fossilized bones from the surrounding matrix. The sound of the gasoline
powered air-compressors to run the tools was a constant. I'll spare you the
names of the species and the types of bones as I remember very little to be
honest. He explained how every bone was recorded as to position and
orientation.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizwdix8QSRkmR0y7uaFFHYzMH71cj6_URTiiqj52gVdH-xgosxSt9A2rVeKe48KH008RxKH3OK7FqqpzQJFdTwSjXvvZWNfWWt6vU9YP3rEeFidhMPJ7DiYmF1OoJpUib0LD471LD5byDpbao_FGsL-UsGEXB-VCLVCg7csW9o4ffSzNV2ASXLX4dh/s1200/DinoQuarry-2workers_1200h-SL1_24994.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="950" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizwdix8QSRkmR0y7uaFFHYzMH71cj6_URTiiqj52gVdH-xgosxSt9A2rVeKe48KH008RxKH3OK7FqqpzQJFdTwSjXvvZWNfWWt6vU9YP3rEeFidhMPJ7DiYmF1OoJpUib0LD471LD5byDpbao_FGsL-UsGEXB-VCLVCg7csW9o4ffSzNV2ASXLX4dh/w506-h640/DinoQuarry-2workers_1200h-SL1_24994.jpg" width="506" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
You can see the pneumatic pick in the hand of the man in the dark blue shirt.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrISE92rRS0bwFUo3SHMo2Ul9shPBrxNRBB1nrVl_UMatpbciBrlUnCLMoFTnudsM2YOSWsbYzvR9KkiIbRApmJvT4Uef44Xl96qGVOC6mhFHVUkldgq_29F1dwS2j3cBMFZR5ujNHjZArpd5d5OeWtj94O_DVI-hYw8orxN_U5cKLmnI52xN7qcRh/s1200/DinoQuarry-bones_1200w-SL1_24996.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrISE92rRS0bwFUo3SHMo2Ul9shPBrxNRBB1nrVl_UMatpbciBrlUnCLMoFTnudsM2YOSWsbYzvR9KkiIbRApmJvT4Uef44Xl96qGVOC6mhFHVUkldgq_29F1dwS2j3cBMFZR5ujNHjZArpd5d5OeWtj94O_DVI-hYw8orxN_U5cKLmnI52xN7qcRh/w640-h426/DinoQuarry-bones_1200w-SL1_24996.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Dinosaur bone fossils
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtHPAGl2Rvrzev3IBJqhQmo1rp0xV99mnzrQbl5XyDQYdUdR52SmjxqXKSDm3vxqkWu16qLmLTPNeEgW70Q7gTRglkxGYL5KjQsedYLQlCzwzIqIMU1QmEN-l7yulaiJOtBbEDuE5ocQy-ltSoR9vKhNpzTSpaH9hnaaeqXDviMwVnFUaeECxWiT5p/s1200/DinoQuarry-fragments_1200w-SL1_24998.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtHPAGl2Rvrzev3IBJqhQmo1rp0xV99mnzrQbl5XyDQYdUdR52SmjxqXKSDm3vxqkWu16qLmLTPNeEgW70Q7gTRglkxGYL5KjQsedYLQlCzwzIqIMU1QmEN-l7yulaiJOtBbEDuE5ocQy-ltSoR9vKhNpzTSpaH9hnaaeqXDviMwVnFUaeECxWiT5p/w640-h426/DinoQuarry-fragments_1200w-SL1_24998.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Every angular black stone on this random piece of ground is a dinosaur
bone.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
However, I do remember that the entire area is filled with bones. That this
was a Jurassic stream and many dinosaurs washed up here, especially young
ones. Hudson pointed to the ground where dark, jagged stones were actually a
piece of bone. Looking carefully you could see the pores. Pretty amazing.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyx4DNrv5luOwvwqDCsUN9tOJCrcUlJU_Jtrg1hPVq-Xluol0DNRS2HcYXDk-xTRf_IlK7wIIYvcDlzMxSGIFFLXY6LguZT1QHiEjUxMyND8gIn7I1L1W2O_xtIQn7WKd_RmgPxgGnz2Un1O9tzO0rjFbMz0TY70TrjvXvqaWPAs0PKfg_FPNMOIOS/s1200/DinoQuarry-survey_1200w-SL1_25008.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyx4DNrv5luOwvwqDCsUN9tOJCrcUlJU_Jtrg1hPVq-Xluol0DNRS2HcYXDk-xTRf_IlK7wIIYvcDlzMxSGIFFLXY6LguZT1QHiEjUxMyND8gIn7I1L1W2O_xtIQn7WKd_RmgPxgGnz2Un1O9tzO0rjFbMz0TY70TrjvXvqaWPAs0PKfg_FPNMOIOS/w640-h426/DinoQuarry-survey_1200w-SL1_25008.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A spacial record is kept of the in situ location of every single bone
excavated.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><br /></p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK73MiwB3sI4K7CaE8jQaxLTMgeho2LTH8xDO64niKaxWYqDJC311xgwYp11k3d9XpDljJymaL2_bvNxKwdHcmgAGEBej9fzMU6q-Z_p-Jw53mFGR_NFR8PToRmbhdOn49SKocje846sZtEI1LPHVvvEjCIY_5nt7eRRuxdOrI3SIt79XKxSlcscRL/s1200/DinoQuarry-canyon_1200w-SL1_25011.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK73MiwB3sI4K7CaE8jQaxLTMgeho2LTH8xDO64niKaxWYqDJC311xgwYp11k3d9XpDljJymaL2_bvNxKwdHcmgAGEBej9fzMU6q-Z_p-Jw53mFGR_NFR8PToRmbhdOn49SKocje846sZtEI1LPHVvvEjCIY_5nt7eRRuxdOrI3SIt79XKxSlcscRL/w640-h426/DinoQuarry-canyon_1200w-SL1_25011.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A view to the northwest from the quarry. This whole area is full of
bones according to Hudson.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
Hudson also said that they were always happy to give folks who drove out a
tour. You don't have to come at any specific time of day. I'd say look for
that green sign near the highway and if the "OPEN" board is up, you can
probably get a tour. They only work the quarry for about 6 weeks every year, May and early June.
I was told when they leave for the season, they cover all their work in progress so
fossil hunters wouldn't be able to find the excavations.
</p>
<p>
As I drove away I stopped a couple of times to take photos, including the
<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mars_Desert_Research_Station" target="_blank">Mars Desert Research Station</a>
where they apparently practice "living and exploring" on Mars.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEyY4bMYcityLDq9TyDml7wN8UimiOVcq5v2vtUnDGhGFkayTLsJCjcP69L_6Us_6tb5Fk0dn3G7vSZCiMXA5QTgZiNHgajC-oI9gShgqCTL5pZl7_r4Ov4oqSLzi-kTnpFELplgs-X-8uki4EmdRLwGUhDqQfaVVbETXSqMS3zli6S4JICaXCftHc/s1200/MarsStation_1200w-SL1_25015.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="769" data-original-width="1200" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEyY4bMYcityLDq9TyDml7wN8UimiOVcq5v2vtUnDGhGFkayTLsJCjcP69L_6Us_6tb5Fk0dn3G7vSZCiMXA5QTgZiNHgajC-oI9gShgqCTL5pZl7_r4Ov4oqSLzi-kTnpFELplgs-X-8uki4EmdRLwGUhDqQfaVVbETXSqMS3zli6S4JICaXCftHc/w640-h410/MarsStation_1200w-SL1_25015.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Are we on Mars? Or maybe only in Utah.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm50CA3YU_LKhJ5xr3sUluCh3YcBGPd_7QyBjTpTi01MBHySSzlv1lSCB4flIHMgnkke3fyVw1AlT3PPONz5BeU6Hz1ydswfXQHrcy3XTZZZw6Hhutx1k-q4otdTOCVwXQ8rbLTMLIxGdRcHMNlR9zaxPOggb3l4uEl-8KEEhn1iDmFiGkK6P7YtDQ/s1200/MountEllen_1200w-SL1_25016.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="624" data-original-width="1200" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm50CA3YU_LKhJ5xr3sUluCh3YcBGPd_7QyBjTpTi01MBHySSzlv1lSCB4flIHMgnkke3fyVw1AlT3PPONz5BeU6Hz1ydswfXQHrcy3XTZZZw6Hhutx1k-q4otdTOCVwXQ8rbLTMLIxGdRcHMNlR9zaxPOggb3l4uEl-8KEEhn1iDmFiGkK6P7YtDQ/w640-h332/MountEllen_1200w-SL1_25016.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
On the way out a glimpse of the north end of the Henry Mountains.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
When I got back to the highway I drove into Hanksville to top off my gas tank.
Then I drove south on UT-95 following the coordinates I'd programmed into my
GPS for the junction with Poison Springs Canyon Road.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Poison Springs Canyon Road</h4>
<p>
The day had stayed clear and it was quite warm. Although the highway
intersection is not marked, there is a wooden BLM sign a short way down the
dirt road cautioning the road is high-clearance 4WD and giving distances to
various landmarks/destinations. As I left the highway a wide vista opened up.
I don't know if this rising feature has a name. On an old USGS geological map
it is simply labeled "Canyon Lands." Seems reasonable as it's in the general
direction of Canyonlands National Park and The Labyrinth.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfLBis2gIq2B5Pq6N0ct7_oG0W2ubj7na83gsOaRUoVzItAjeEihORzu_v5qPcSbnrAX6j3PATd5wXxVZmIAWMO8T7Tre2ZOUqI2KWFPSQ17xk8xQJaQ-dqxupdjFq4bAq7MhY7WUgIAoakoi8G_eVyf07ZRNORsCO0nkvJO0HNDSWmehAQGKyXhaq/s1200/PoisonSprsRd-approach_1200w-SL1_25018.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="1200" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfLBis2gIq2B5Pq6N0ct7_oG0W2ubj7na83gsOaRUoVzItAjeEihORzu_v5qPcSbnrAX6j3PATd5wXxVZmIAWMO8T7Tre2ZOUqI2KWFPSQ17xk8xQJaQ-dqxupdjFq4bAq7MhY7WUgIAoakoi8G_eVyf07ZRNORsCO0nkvJO0HNDSWmehAQGKyXhaq/w640-h318/PoisonSprsRd-approach_1200w-SL1_25018.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Road to Canyon Lands.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
The road then dropped down into the canyon which had pink sandstone walls. The
road followed the bottom and had been graded once upon a time. It was
surprisingly rough and bumpy. None of the videos I'd watched mentioned this
aspect. I could barely make 5mph.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA9agZ8K71VK2sjcrGiOu9NIiZMEppr-81qR1DAIigOTYzrLsinTrocy6tXO77tgaB5EwtrHNSrYwIqfJ42OxEqVAEx1VGMSquh0ZQYYMFX1qQUl3_PzlEoYDJX2xbrNVtBN4Bs0B2HTWISm39mSgrbxGmq3ZG1rIlD0LFFArAAcdzyoH3rVfFVgrp/s1200/DesertSpinyLizard_1200w-7D_25359.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="743" data-original-width="1200" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA9agZ8K71VK2sjcrGiOu9NIiZMEppr-81qR1DAIigOTYzrLsinTrocy6tXO77tgaB5EwtrHNSrYwIqfJ42OxEqVAEx1VGMSquh0ZQYYMFX1qQUl3_PzlEoYDJX2xbrNVtBN4Bs0B2HTWISm39mSgrbxGmq3ZG1rIlD0LFFArAAcdzyoH3rVfFVgrp/w640-h396/DesertSpinyLizard_1200w-7D_25359.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Going slow enough to spy this Spiny Desert Lizard.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifVEYOXbLkDrgJWvOkFTYg5iURBOiLsvS5lPijiyW9vrUzT095yfcfEdrMx9FXKjvwKkTpgmK0bo5yVgqr3gaBfycFCONipYiXMA9sscnYW_pYgsQj1ai8_mBPoBQ8ODdQrX-0aXeY5NkWTFtSosU8NJlMWxjCJk08WrI_fzR9R5rWkCCZRk7dbb8L/s1200/PoisonSprsCynRd-cliffrose_1200w-SL1_25021.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifVEYOXbLkDrgJWvOkFTYg5iURBOiLsvS5lPijiyW9vrUzT095yfcfEdrMx9FXKjvwKkTpgmK0bo5yVgqr3gaBfycFCONipYiXMA9sscnYW_pYgsQj1ai8_mBPoBQ8ODdQrX-0aXeY5NkWTFtSosU8NJlMWxjCJk08WrI_fzR9R5rWkCCZRk7dbb8L/w640-h426/PoisonSprsCynRd-cliffrose_1200w-SL1_25021.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
An early section of canyon with a blooming Cliff Rose.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg17GVH5AYEsu8odZZEGBLzM3nUBRBTEbZ4XVel2hWZWiD1WypIuxk10ro9G4Yd6yZjulBp7b3r3w5mahGIW0Hmof2UmZ0Js_tzmA_8oK4ImWRYjEDdC-owO4kEtGbGECST3izThJHxdBlGUZUJU_dLlzYJ29Wcn2bKrSbH_vm3rQV3YUl9OypvzMb8/s1200/PoisonSprsCynRd-dome_1200w-SL1_25022.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg17GVH5AYEsu8odZZEGBLzM3nUBRBTEbZ4XVel2hWZWiD1WypIuxk10ro9G4Yd6yZjulBp7b3r3w5mahGIW0Hmof2UmZ0Js_tzmA_8oK4ImWRYjEDdC-owO4kEtGbGECST3izThJHxdBlGUZUJU_dLlzYJ29Wcn2bKrSbH_vm3rQV3YUl9OypvzMb8/w640-h426/PoisonSprsCynRd-dome_1200w-SL1_25022.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0piORKPY0KEbQuRocm3QL08xs7pgQkHR5e9btX5MKBWuVfdhj9RSes3ssOUcKvEhM4uHrrXZZHqdkUWF65gFTN9m7LnyM5i9VCf-3paM_SI3zQPOeUkEgLsPyAv-ZxPcmzUQsOmnnW78QqdPKCR5RBz2uP296zoM39RhVV-9ADoyyrHk8cXNMv49B/s1200/PoisonSprsCynRd-cottonwoods_1200w-SL1_25026.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0piORKPY0KEbQuRocm3QL08xs7pgQkHR5e9btX5MKBWuVfdhj9RSes3ssOUcKvEhM4uHrrXZZHqdkUWF65gFTN9m7LnyM5i9VCf-3paM_SI3zQPOeUkEgLsPyAv-ZxPcmzUQsOmnnW78QqdPKCR5RBz2uP296zoM39RhVV-9ADoyyrHk8cXNMv49B/w640-h426/PoisonSprsCynRd-cottonwoods_1200w-SL1_25026.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
That's water to the left side of the road. The road itself can become
inundated.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
It was an interesting canyon, but not unique and not quite up to the praise of
the YouTube review I watched, IMHO. Before the trip I had scoped out two
possible campsites and entered their coordinates in my GPS. It took the
longest time to limp only a couple of miles to the first spot where I found
many vehicles already camped. About this time ATVs started to come out where
they'd been exploring farther in. The next possible campsite, which hadn't
looked as nice as this one, was over 5 miles farther. I felt no inclination to
drive that far on this awful road (especially since I'd then have to drive it again on the way out.) I did go a bit farther just to see a little
more, found some blooming cacti, then turned around to head out. Many more
ATVs passed as I made my way out. Still, if you drive a vehicle that does well
on rocky roads you may enjoy the canyon.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhADR1-IfKIGtEvdFTpjoUUs-vR5aCSfZR0twc1yxEm-MXuJ32WfIEi61-xSJ_VjyEA7p2C1VSYoOHhay5mXyEKPEegoiAbAsOAjfn4_Lw114pPD6yUGR9M44Wd4oWQ_h-GgCf8VDOIRq_Heh_Duds6WSs8pARYeemHhGIf1TuPO6z8LSMgCr7DpHpY/s1200/Cactus-canyon_1200h-SL1_25033.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="755" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhADR1-IfKIGtEvdFTpjoUUs-vR5aCSfZR0twc1yxEm-MXuJ32WfIEi61-xSJ_VjyEA7p2C1VSYoOHhay5mXyEKPEegoiAbAsOAjfn4_Lw114pPD6yUGR9M44Wd4oWQ_h-GgCf8VDOIRq_Heh_Duds6WSs8pARYeemHhGIf1TuPO6z8LSMgCr7DpHpY/w402-h640/Cactus-canyon_1200h-SL1_25033.jpg" width="402" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
This is where I turned around.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHU9luRdS8ntCmzTFoNR46mMIwQP4WIAIZmduwkhExN7MedsA6EvJM6fANmM4XaHmYnlTB4ZVkKjgpGy-5ga4LbgUF_ZBSzx71L_4Egl4aYCLjOOpCLLOArtIq6VJ54RglseWv7SCe9KJ3gv7oVT28rJlC4wdtgvLpcle7RKExpLrJBt5U-abn4Oyz/s1200/Cactus-flower_1200sq-SL1_25030.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHU9luRdS8ntCmzTFoNR46mMIwQP4WIAIZmduwkhExN7MedsA6EvJM6fANmM4XaHmYnlTB4ZVkKjgpGy-5ga4LbgUF_ZBSzx71L_4Egl4aYCLjOOpCLLOArtIq6VJ54RglseWv7SCe9KJ3gv7oVT28rJlC4wdtgvLpcle7RKExpLrJBt5U-abn4Oyz/w640-h640/Cactus-flower_1200sq-SL1_25030.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Close-up of one of the blossoms in the previous photo.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2023/06/late-spring-utah-may-2023-part-4.html">Go to Part 4</a> for the Henry Mountains and Red Canyon.</h3>
Bosque Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00001863270259847102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3983525105536347837.post-90833154294230976362023-06-16T08:25:00.000-06:002023-06-16T08:39:33.074-06:00Late Spring Utah - May 2023: Part 2<h4 style="text-align: left;">Part 2 of 4<br /><br /></h4>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Wolverine Loop, Burr Trail, Spencer Flat, Head of Rocks, The Hogback
</h3>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">May 16th (<a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2023/06/late-spring-utah-may-2023-part-1.html">continued from Part 1</a>)</h3>
<p><b><span style="color: #fff2cc;">I recommend you click on a photo for a larger version and use full screen
for panoramas.</span><br /><br /></b>
</p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Wolverine Loop</h4>
<p>
Before my trip I plugged the coordinates of the junction into my navigator
before the trip, Wolverine Loop is not hidden, but easy to miss. This was a
road I'd wanted to check out for a number of years. I did watch one of those
time-lapse videos of the road so I had an impression what I might see and was
guessing there would be dispersed campsites along the southern most section,
which also appeared to be the most scenic.
</p>
<p>
I turned south and drove through a piñon juniper forest. Before I drove very
far at all I saw a dispersed site on the left - handy for travelers heading
east late in the day as there is no camping in the national park other than in
campgrounds, and there are none at the south end of the park. Within a mile
(?) there was a second, then no more for a long time. The road was good, but
travels though a draw, or arroyo, much of the time, so water might be an issue
in monsoon rains. I took this unexciting photo to give you a sense of the
terrain.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivun5MA3cE0NVVsVI6Wb6tXuMW9TfXIbo__sP312E6dYT0NLmI0nTbd54TJUvX09P2e492wUMQIHs5ZCAtp28Oua4O8GNo5L_7qzA3UIvi6DY7lTuEI-GfvZX6zOB_xMw5HRPn344GMSObi7LrD2ihcu8v_MdTSIHir45vRctkYy_HyBs0m2W2Xai9/s1200/WolverineLoop-typical_1200w-SL1_24739.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="755" data-original-width="1200" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivun5MA3cE0NVVsVI6Wb6tXuMW9TfXIbo__sP312E6dYT0NLmI0nTbd54TJUvX09P2e492wUMQIHs5ZCAtp28Oua4O8GNo5L_7qzA3UIvi6DY7lTuEI-GfvZX6zOB_xMw5HRPn344GMSObi7LrD2ihcu8v_MdTSIHir45vRctkYy_HyBs0m2W2Xai9/w640-h402/WolverineLoop-typical_1200w-SL1_24739.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Typical terrain along the northern part of the east side of Wolverine
Loop.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
My impression is that there are two classes of visitors along Wolverine Loop.
Those who drive through in a few hours just to check out the scenery and those
who head for one of the trailheads for hiking and/or backpacking. This later
seems to be a prime use and one for which most information is available. I
didn't find anything about dispersed car camping and just assumed I'd find
some. Before my trip I spent a little time looking at the satellite views of
the area and guessed Moody Canyon Road might have campsites.
</p>
<p>
I only saw one possibility for a campsite before I reached the junction—a
trail off to the side, but I couldn't see much. I drove south on Moody Canyon
Road for a couple of miles, but it didn't look promising at all. I turned
around and at the junction drove west on the main loop, in the direction of my
intended travel. The terrain and views were interesting, but absolutely
nowhere to get off the road to camp. [Note: some of the "roads" shown in
Google Maps are not roads at all.] After two long miles I made the decision to
backtrack to the only possibility I'd seen and crossed my fingers. That turned
out to be an excellent decision.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhojad1PG1n-lMSYksp8YWA-eBIFJjY8c2KoKy0RxNsAY6gd8h6Qh7kTuLxavyhmcavTFOgHSEbI900sPFAJiVz3oG2oDJOWbtllpg687I2EQRxpwmfJMqc0OTYCYbYF1ZprbHRZqZ3Rhv_gJsNcgbeU_wmEuuA5cf562BwgUP9wzIUUhLd0cXvRQxI/s1200/WolverineLoop-campsite_1200w-SL1_24742.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="676" data-original-width="1200" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhojad1PG1n-lMSYksp8YWA-eBIFJjY8c2KoKy0RxNsAY6gd8h6Qh7kTuLxavyhmcavTFOgHSEbI900sPFAJiVz3oG2oDJOWbtllpg687I2EQRxpwmfJMqc0OTYCYbYF1ZprbHRZqZ3Rhv_gJsNcgbeU_wmEuuA5cf562BwgUP9wzIUUhLd0cXvRQxI/w640-h360/WolverineLoop-campsite_1200w-SL1_24742.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
My campsite. Look to the left of my camper and you can see Navajo
Mountain in the distance.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I found a very nice dispersed camping area. It was level and would be ideal
for a small group. I was able to back into a site with a view down a wide
canyon with views of red buttes and, in the distance, Navajo Mountain. It was
after 5pm and I set up quickly as rain clouds were gathering. It barely
sprinkled. I was able to walk around and get a few wildflower photos, but it
wasn't until nearly sundown that there was interesting light to grab a
landscape.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg65gA42HrkZC74X4RODP4t8thZxdsb57pWwGKSzXPtXrQqqFxL2gr5lyZQHCWRRklJrGK8FCqwO0c8EBdYM40ArFl68Mk8Me3zK8vnjgXAFESAbaqbnoMlJW8HGgDdsU-8S-zLz75REXbJB0pM_7t__bBF3azKPTKVyh1O_SstSwk140fU0qG5pvG/s1200/OVBeardstongue_1200h-SL1_24743.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="863" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg65gA42HrkZC74X4RODP4t8thZxdsb57pWwGKSzXPtXrQqqFxL2gr5lyZQHCWRRklJrGK8FCqwO0c8EBdYM40ArFl68Mk8Me3zK8vnjgXAFESAbaqbnoMlJW8HGgDdsU-8S-zLz75REXbJB0pM_7t__bBF3azKPTKVyh1O_SstSwk140fU0qG5pvG/w460-h640/OVBeardstongue_1200h-SL1_24743.jpg" width="460" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
I hope my species ID is correct for this beautiful penstemon.<br />No
one on iNaturalist has disagreed at the time of this post.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_fWRoCN1TO7T41dqOV9fh6_lDpKwBeA0zPjV2FL2oIfAwxRJ6A222QANu2A8GR08SxLPu2KnqwhGQqAtfVsPrgsyGC5Dno9MuSahb0gMMRBfRGOb180yXpm9AqAAmx3Z4ge1TNjoEe5i5Lxd3q3mnYI86z112V8XsoSBPUL7z0DqmUDLMllk_fBoW/s1200/DwarfSandVerbena_1200sq-SL1_24745.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_fWRoCN1TO7T41dqOV9fh6_lDpKwBeA0zPjV2FL2oIfAwxRJ6A222QANu2A8GR08SxLPu2KnqwhGQqAtfVsPrgsyGC5Dno9MuSahb0gMMRBfRGOb180yXpm9AqAAmx3Z4ge1TNjoEe5i5Lxd3q3mnYI86z112V8XsoSBPUL7z0DqmUDLMllk_fBoW/w640-h640/DwarfSandVerbena_1200sq-SL1_24745.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Another beautiful wildflower near my campsite.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvVdqX_BNEa6AmgZMVSa-dmXZkb7ZuCDbSwQcy_DZPpCXQiZroJVBuj4IrzClxEMQ94vc2ZR5L2yMu3GhnR4JVSk959-wmcMIZ69s2opjA4CcuCxUX8n_aEZ-bXwNGp-MCUOpuYrKM5wH64nC8UIu8VO-xlcUt4E3zgBaEVIkJbCi02SmEg36QiMrv/s1200/WolverineLoop-view_1200w-SL1_24749.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvVdqX_BNEa6AmgZMVSa-dmXZkb7ZuCDbSwQcy_DZPpCXQiZroJVBuj4IrzClxEMQ94vc2ZR5L2yMu3GhnR4JVSk959-wmcMIZ69s2opjA4CcuCxUX8n_aEZ-bXwNGp-MCUOpuYrKM5wH64nC8UIu8VO-xlcUt4E3zgBaEVIkJbCi02SmEg36QiMrv/w640-h426/WolverineLoop-view_1200w-SL1_24749.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A little horizontal sunshine crept in under the cloud cover.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Wednesday May 17</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Wolverine Loop (continued)</h4>
<p>
It was cloudy in the morning. Before I broke camp I sent the drone up to
capture a panorama. The resut is not spectacular, but will give you a good
idea about the countryside.
</p>
<p>
<a href="https://kuula.co/post/5mBpk" target="_blank">View on the Kuula site</a>
or in the frame below, In either case, click the Full Screen icon in the upper
right corner to get the full experience.
</p>
<iframe allow="xr-spatial-tracking; gyroscope; accelerometer" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="640" scrolling="no" src="https://kuula.co/share/5mBpk?logo=1&info=1&fs=1&vr=0&sd=1&thumbs=1" width="100%"></iframe>
<br />
<p>
I set off to continue the loop. The light may have been too poor to fully
bring the colors out of the buttes and canyons, but the copious wildflowers
shown brightly all along the road and I stopped many times for photos.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX-M-6a0YQBE2fH8MTBTf3NfTkqSN_ZNVWYeCAnzXkDVUTcNsjNI5npZUd7b4WpHBJCAxKI9FMsDCHn0hzVI325ZdGd7JtWENWoYp0sQYFCBvVbvyIzyDmgXcle5l4mHIqqC0EO0WoCk0-gej4n8s7re1RTg_XAOwVySGbOuugfI7089V_81K_wY_s/s1200/UtahPenstemon_1200h-SL1_24751.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1107" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX-M-6a0YQBE2fH8MTBTf3NfTkqSN_ZNVWYeCAnzXkDVUTcNsjNI5npZUd7b4WpHBJCAxKI9FMsDCHn0hzVI325ZdGd7JtWENWoYp0sQYFCBvVbvyIzyDmgXcle5l4mHIqqC0EO0WoCk0-gej4n8s7re1RTg_XAOwVySGbOuugfI7089V_81K_wY_s/w590-h640/UtahPenstemon_1200h-SL1_24751.jpg" width="590" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
I haven't enhanced the color of this Utah Penstemon. It's actually even
brighter in person.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk5m5gjBOWxncHu9hAlvszi9yVLqXcM1egusmoE7Yyjxj9Jiv6JwuaZV3qeIZc3dw-wbkIa6xCnhtMN-9qA5PgDiq3nn9fNR9PBeeJe7PffL3rwcLy8sZKIdphnaqnG9iMZQMwXkVwLN9ym6gUef9SrTOXBvTLMSE9-rnQEYyOhG_PzDZ0MLuB7xYh/s1200/WolverineLoop-AM_1200w-SL1_24754.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="625" data-original-width="1200" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk5m5gjBOWxncHu9hAlvszi9yVLqXcM1egusmoE7Yyjxj9Jiv6JwuaZV3qeIZc3dw-wbkIa6xCnhtMN-9qA5PgDiq3nn9fNR9PBeeJe7PffL3rwcLy8sZKIdphnaqnG9iMZQMwXkVwLN9ym6gUef9SrTOXBvTLMSE9-rnQEYyOhG_PzDZ0MLuB7xYh/w640-h334/WolverineLoop-AM_1200w-SL1_24754.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A view from the loop as it turns westerly. Big Brown Bench in the middle
distance.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj17qyEVjN_OrpJLHfVvOPeICoqqJMlZF5FOfKpULA5uPmYg8JoGO-i5S-OhZRJuUjdDnc86SDBHm7BDDJzkRAbWGuv2G0p3M1gRp1s1tUHGhi5zAsDMe8ktHdTVPqjKyRx2scQ0_3gUz8LWJ9y3q__afJtoRo9u_PgjR7i-xiu6LGoHEkzBQp44DwQ/s1200/PopcornFlower_1200w-SL1_24756.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="928" data-original-width="1200" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj17qyEVjN_OrpJLHfVvOPeICoqqJMlZF5FOfKpULA5uPmYg8JoGO-i5S-OhZRJuUjdDnc86SDBHm7BDDJzkRAbWGuv2G0p3M1gRp1s1tUHGhi5zAsDMe8ktHdTVPqjKyRx2scQ0_3gUz8LWJ9y3q__afJtoRo9u_PgjR7i-xiu6LGoHEkzBQp44DwQ/w640-h494/PopcornFlower_1200w-SL1_24756.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZzwlT345BZubr_wukh0F7B_S3Q3bk2cx0nxcbV3aY618rEyNR2Kli0KWYRpRjOt4Y5E5JH4Xeq3qSvniTBtsernqXjN644p2_x-Plh-SIBEb48gEzihND3D4EtbYG2qbupeV5S1qBRbATpR5DkuUYUp7htDCI4mlxGakLaa8PzYKpZjdGYgLdNxxk/s1200/BigBrownBench_1200w-SL1_24757.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="760" data-original-width="1200" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZzwlT345BZubr_wukh0F7B_S3Q3bk2cx0nxcbV3aY618rEyNR2Kli0KWYRpRjOt4Y5E5JH4Xeq3qSvniTBtsernqXjN644p2_x-Plh-SIBEb48gEzihND3D4EtbYG2qbupeV5S1qBRbATpR5DkuUYUp7htDCI4mlxGakLaa8PzYKpZjdGYgLdNxxk/w640-h406/BigBrownBench_1200w-SL1_24757.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A closer view of Big Brown Bench and terrain next to the loop road.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I passed the junction with Cutoff Road. I didn't drive it, but it heads NE and
connects with the east loop road within a couple miles of the highway.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7AYYrtZwwaABNOF0IkEgHgN8YI2Y_0eVx2FL80gvWrm1UFYpq02kCbcFrRVmvP5zRz9lniAgI94BDGUARjHGlbw_Ry5MHY45_31KctcVuLxom6YLbyphKsLUD9XoXj8WFHnib3iIpLsXN4Aj-v9NSPlGMK-WsbyAnb8HOx6MDjQC5r9WkZniqMFey/s1200/Sweetvetch_1200w-SL1_24759.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="922" data-original-width="1200" height="492" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7AYYrtZwwaABNOF0IkEgHgN8YI2Y_0eVx2FL80gvWrm1UFYpq02kCbcFrRVmvP5zRz9lniAgI94BDGUARjHGlbw_Ry5MHY45_31KctcVuLxom6YLbyphKsLUD9XoXj8WFHnib3iIpLsXN4Aj-v9NSPlGMK-WsbyAnb8HOx6MDjQC5r9WkZniqMFey/w640-h492/Sweetvetch_1200w-SL1_24759.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfKZc9tUiuxd3Hz1pbaRy7cl2Lj6r7P6OiI-4U9a9xwZosOH7inLo1UD2PpFCg76gDQpr_xE772K_2bxZad1CqZJ9biwzgKy0ZVsBahYpBH4QIeXKkua7D2qmIFcnsusZZwPwehx6n6Gu-wtv0nRQKwaBcjx7_w2VtHLbLOoLxf2PnlWhazJx1xf6n/s1200/DesertPaintbrush_1200w-SL1_24762.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="970" data-original-width="1200" height="518" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfKZc9tUiuxd3Hz1pbaRy7cl2Lj6r7P6OiI-4U9a9xwZosOH7inLo1UD2PpFCg76gDQpr_xE772K_2bxZad1CqZJ9biwzgKy0ZVsBahYpBH4QIeXKkua7D2qmIFcnsusZZwPwehx6n6Gu-wtv0nRQKwaBcjx7_w2VtHLbLOoLxf2PnlWhazJx1xf6n/w640-h518/DesertPaintbrush_1200w-SL1_24762.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Little Death Hollow Trail</h4>
<p></p>
<p>
There were a number of cars and trucks parked the Little Death Hollow
trailhead. I pulled in to see if an information board could give me an idea if
there might be an interesting short hike for me. I lamented not researching
this aspect before my trip. As I parked I noticed three ladies pulling their
gear for backpacking out of a Sprinter van. I wished them a good morning and
asked about their plans. They were headed out for two nights camping. They
would go in this canyon and loop out on another.
</p>
<p>
I asked if they were familiar with the trail and if they had a recommendation
for a short hike. I hadn't been adversely affected by my hike up North Mule
Canyon the day before, but know my limitations. They responded that there was
a very large rock to the side of the trail, about a mile and a half in, that
had petroglyphs. This sounded ideal and one of the ladies read to me from
their trail guide about it.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTn7_ySaWNo38MDXii86MBdsYBgpT4CsyhRSGsBSDZWzA6p95z8s3gUSpiOELRsJXnGokXWso8YRZ9uTkCF11GOxjC1wOnNW6slXjX6lxicLoWxpLLoKFHy-0sgd9G9taqTqzUE97nZCTRihHmB9DgMZGI-FH8s1INCNhPOojvs99uadSBUyQAxw19/s1200/LDHTrail_start_1200w-SL1_24774.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTn7_ySaWNo38MDXii86MBdsYBgpT4CsyhRSGsBSDZWzA6p95z8s3gUSpiOELRsJXnGokXWso8YRZ9uTkCF11GOxjC1wOnNW6slXjX6lxicLoWxpLLoKFHy-0sgd9G9taqTqzUE97nZCTRihHmB9DgMZGI-FH8s1INCNhPOojvs99uadSBUyQAxw19/w640-h426/LDHTrail_start_1200w-SL1_24774.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The beginning of the trail.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0mhZgD79v4uClqWiVqXcHLpx0SK_dyVxcSZnVCp95wZXT18lXHxNmcYcxilGa3QOAUkqwIPtIIwsTVPdWOdN2m_qEUo-EHDZ5SOpdzSyBTmLNVW_Gy9ZnwprHfrAY2ELz8_GSlhKM8YYDvtfqsyHshjo7X9KhMNQe5j5kgyAL9w6oQnlxc0xOIMMM/s1200/EPrimrose-CatsEye_1200sq-SL1_24775.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0mhZgD79v4uClqWiVqXcHLpx0SK_dyVxcSZnVCp95wZXT18lXHxNmcYcxilGa3QOAUkqwIPtIIwsTVPdWOdN2m_qEUo-EHDZ5SOpdzSyBTmLNVW_Gy9ZnwprHfrAY2ELz8_GSlhKM8YYDvtfqsyHshjo7X9KhMNQe5j5kgyAL9w6oQnlxc0xOIMMM/w640-h640/EPrimrose-CatsEye_1200sq-SL1_24775.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpHWZ-X-SP6XyXGyq5AH_l5h6DYYT8y32EZjFEpoKlw-UG6lKR-TpPCnI-1pN7YHWDxE3-pCHrUzegKNX_ooidAmyd-M_kCgBpYVk2BcuH_ZtuTajmaFQSleHTDYrUIr4rDrVvxpq7-9AGm6i9CR2xTpAkkR6jbdxBwpepTlQ5qwFi6-yRB762I3lf/s1200/LDHTrail-rock_1200w-SL1_24778.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="1200" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpHWZ-X-SP6XyXGyq5AH_l5h6DYYT8y32EZjFEpoKlw-UG6lKR-TpPCnI-1pN7YHWDxE3-pCHrUzegKNX_ooidAmyd-M_kCgBpYVk2BcuH_ZtuTajmaFQSleHTDYrUIr4rDrVvxpq7-9AGm6i9CR2xTpAkkR6jbdxBwpepTlQ5qwFi6-yRB762I3lf/w640-h374/LDHTrail-rock_1200w-SL1_24778.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
As the canyon narrows, a large rock, but not the one.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
They started out and I followed shortly after donning my Camelbak and camera
gear. The wide canyon floor was sandy, with sagebrush, Mormon tea bushes,
native grasses, and wildflowers. The trail was flat except the many times it
crossed the serpentine arroyo that flowed through the middle. I saw a very
large rock ahead in the middle of the canyon... but it was not the one. Later
I spied an even larger rock and saw the three backpackers just leaving the
site with a wave.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZRlikc7bWhEY01NXmz6oBAl8j25IK8g-jFa7aw91XKZa3xgjUGgsm8GQRa0R8zUowoax1D0IIAUZ4WuIz3KserQ7809EAEhAD40GjUuFXBDdmDcf2GzQH-IPSEB3W8C2TZ7H2aWsVapg-uQPb7fNDWSAj_FwdAMJ_crhIgT9BZeuynQgsaSY6Bjw3/s1200/LDHTrail-hikers_1200w-SL1_24780.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="704" data-original-width="1200" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZRlikc7bWhEY01NXmz6oBAl8j25IK8g-jFa7aw91XKZa3xgjUGgsm8GQRa0R8zUowoax1D0IIAUZ4WuIz3KserQ7809EAEhAD40GjUuFXBDdmDcf2GzQH-IPSEB3W8C2TZ7H2aWsVapg-uQPb7fNDWSAj_FwdAMJ_crhIgT9BZeuynQgsaSY6Bjw3/w640-h376/LDHTrail-hikers_1200w-SL1_24780.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The backpackers continue on the trail after viewing the petroglyphs.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
The position of the petroglyphs was uncommon, from my experience, as they were
arranged along the very bottom edge of the rock barely above the ground. I
wonder if over the span of time the canyon bottom filled in? It was a
beautiful series of glyphs, mostly of animals such as deer and, perhaps,
pronghorn; also a wild critter with four horns and two tails; and someone
getting ready to club a lizard about half again as large as the person! The
only downside is some imbecile had decided to carve their own words on the
rock (which I have obscured using Photoshop in the image above). At least they
didn't deface the petroglyphs. Sigh.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDeraJEYwkc7hXRMPhaKZJmdZXZn9Pn85qOz2qUzEigDIz26QxKx0eyRo8CefsE5lLM_ydAC8xp-IYmwkujfM0f6tRpE8zIihnwkB5wLpkouqFpTcF0l9URdMs1MJcSiNirBw93sdRDa28vq-4phgSJkeDw9imS4aEu88mwfcqJvrmwXKbmw_89xey/s2400/LittleDeathHollow-petroglyphs_2400w.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="821" data-original-width="2400" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDeraJEYwkc7hXRMPhaKZJmdZXZn9Pn85qOz2qUzEigDIz26QxKx0eyRo8CefsE5lLM_ydAC8xp-IYmwkujfM0f6tRpE8zIihnwkB5wLpkouqFpTcF0l9URdMs1MJcSiNirBw93sdRDa28vq-4phgSJkeDw9imS4aEu88mwfcqJvrmwXKbmw_89xey/w640-h218/LittleDeathHollow-petroglyphs_2400w.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Click the photo for a larger version, then maybe enlarge your browser
window, too.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I took a few photos of canyon features as I walked back to my truck. It was
still cloudy. I had mentioned to the ladies that I wished for just a little
sun, but they replied they were looking forward to hiking in the cooler
temperatures. OK, I can see that.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTjWDn9WoCSq6l352NRzzkZuY6HOiNPxD-SsusELfKKeWoIJwrBUZvMf_tZFdcqDPKHsakB2ciPG7r3zvtwcE4H0hKMU9MkddFpfuR7c9FYhsXB97LAYj-RGuxYj98T32_7EO9qtYSeVlyGx2pZf4lloa1ve_tNHpe_57mb1GY5CjCv-SuEBvJm7K7/s1200/LDHTrail-banch_1200w-SL1_24789.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="815" data-original-width="1200" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTjWDn9WoCSq6l352NRzzkZuY6HOiNPxD-SsusELfKKeWoIJwrBUZvMf_tZFdcqDPKHsakB2ciPG7r3zvtwcE4H0hKMU9MkddFpfuR7c9FYhsXB97LAYj-RGuxYj98T32_7EO9qtYSeVlyGx2pZf4lloa1ve_tNHpe_57mb1GY5CjCv-SuEBvJm7K7/w640-h434/LDHTrail-banch_1200w-SL1_24789.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLRvRsi59caYWnENu6R3DBeaEywF2awJLqFmzrUNorTFNTGdFro_2pVlm4kZedX85_gkoVMEDYRpEteiqkscbgRhqUpw0w2vuil2Rpa2ztbxG7-f8CYfcTAha3agJh4LFHIe0pTku_dcjlA_6OsV4UmiIYtCRko88VL7lYQIPXRgFdic5g1j5cn6Dx/s1200/YellowBeePlant_1200w-SL1_24802.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="668" data-original-width="1200" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLRvRsi59caYWnENu6R3DBeaEywF2awJLqFmzrUNorTFNTGdFro_2pVlm4kZedX85_gkoVMEDYRpEteiqkscbgRhqUpw0w2vuil2Rpa2ztbxG7-f8CYfcTAha3agJh4LFHIe0pTku_dcjlA_6OsV4UmiIYtCRko88VL7lYQIPXRgFdic5g1j5cn6Dx/w640-h356/YellowBeePlant_1200w-SL1_24802.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Continuing on Wolverine Loop</h4>
<p></p>
<p>
Once back at my truck I had a light lunch before setting out to complete the
loop road. I spotted a bit of a road leading into the next canyon to the west.
I pulled in to check it out. I didn't drive to the end, which is only about
500', but one could camp there if needed. There were a few nice wildflowers
and a blooming cactus, but not much else.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhABc5YJno7VMDez_bODkRzVaedndSyaS83r5sLoCSnNyIxT5Kg41q3q8PKjzOYn-KoUNolRdjMdlF2kUqOf19c4Iu8u6YA5UeaN1sVX_CiCmrNTYp5gvHNxoFwx67FcTQ8GCtD0YbtsgQLmqcOXX82iYDCp8EM9GBMKTMnGl5zoPl90xaQHihR0v-g/s1200/WolverineLoop-BBench_1200w-SL1_24808.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="619" data-original-width="1200" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhABc5YJno7VMDez_bODkRzVaedndSyaS83r5sLoCSnNyIxT5Kg41q3q8PKjzOYn-KoUNolRdjMdlF2kUqOf19c4Iu8u6YA5UeaN1sVX_CiCmrNTYp5gvHNxoFwx67FcTQ8GCtD0YbtsgQLmqcOXX82iYDCp8EM9GBMKTMnGl5zoPl90xaQHihR0v-g/w640-h330/WolverineLoop-BBench_1200w-SL1_24808.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The next canyon to the west.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht62a12hwyVACgaPVxcgadv1wRIIV1dXQRd0CtGTUcIzADYqD9P2evm2x5ZJQ4MvLAqxnPz_eIEusGVHs1ZyNf4P76yLOLIZRMUwzYWI4KEBi_hjNaOWPWJWvJkgW4yvXQHS0z9Z4Lluem8myYD_x5Rc6Ey0qiuRgDTmAwxKJ4sMQmHXds5qY49D5Q/s1200/FishhookCactus_1200h-SL1_24809.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1015" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht62a12hwyVACgaPVxcgadv1wRIIV1dXQRd0CtGTUcIzADYqD9P2evm2x5ZJQ4MvLAqxnPz_eIEusGVHs1ZyNf4P76yLOLIZRMUwzYWI4KEBi_hjNaOWPWJWvJkgW4yvXQHS0z9Z4Lluem8myYD_x5Rc6Ey0qiuRgDTmAwxKJ4sMQmHXds5qY49D5Q/w542-h640/FishhookCactus_1200h-SL1_24809.jpg" width="542" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Fishhook cactus—don't get caught!
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihtzr1Yb8da5gSyPQ3sCcVLHcTltEYjTVR0l4zc1n-IgWljiVQr7kozNADznBTLY7IJpeGxPIsAi6JHOG9BGWNZkxtfGAirXUxrNrzZI9XapdFPsbuJLDLY4QH5A07jcZXoDHUqR1zlfOL6Jco98397Kep_y8f_J9vbTw-ftTGrkvoVIczOrak31pb/s1200/FishhookCactus_1200w-SL1_24810.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="979" data-original-width="1200" height="522" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihtzr1Yb8da5gSyPQ3sCcVLHcTltEYjTVR0l4zc1n-IgWljiVQr7kozNADznBTLY7IJpeGxPIsAi6JHOG9BGWNZkxtfGAirXUxrNrzZI9XapdFPsbuJLDLY4QH5A07jcZXoDHUqR1zlfOL6Jco98397Kep_y8f_J9vbTw-ftTGrkvoVIczOrak31pb/w640-h522/FishhookCactus_1200w-SL1_24810.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A top-down look at the fishhook cactus and its rosette of blossoms.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpoCGgZ-hVI1xbg5HSZEzg3vQgTK04COUy8DkglixlIWJi1kCvCb-SE65uDvvcICFnr_gyb3RatM8XOOr4rvJky5dypHYowqrWkHWdtOHszu6ASMDJNVFueidg_xtYF8muD6VuKbaEXSGP3UxqYljumt-k1jhQxLloOF3pzfT6BavTlVVy06nfI2-u/s1200/GoldenMariposaLily_1200sq-SL1_24813.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpoCGgZ-hVI1xbg5HSZEzg3vQgTK04COUy8DkglixlIWJi1kCvCb-SE65uDvvcICFnr_gyb3RatM8XOOr4rvJky5dypHYowqrWkHWdtOHszu6ASMDJNVFueidg_xtYF8muD6VuKbaEXSGP3UxqYljumt-k1jhQxLloOF3pzfT6BavTlVVy06nfI2-u/w640-h640/GoldenMariposaLily_1200sq-SL1_24813.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
I'm always in awe of the delicate beauty of these Mariposa lilys.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
About a mile farther along I was fascinated by a field of Navajo sandstone
that had been deeply eroded over the years, perhaps eons. Looking at the
satellite maps from home there appears to be a very large sheet that is
exposed in this area at about 5700' elevation—an old sea bottom, perhaps.
Storm water here would drain into Wolverine Creek. I took several photos
trying to capture the narrow, deep fissures, but they don't come close to the
reality of the scene. There was standing water way down there.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN8okvEZXJwqb6wPjzSzfCgBre7UossiRWTYHlyZC1frCWNBkAUoTFlhJAQqu9RLjWCiceLj5iyRX5p5in6EHttrqkqJdJPRa5V0vYD-TPqHassD_a0qA-rCDEi6swClhR1id6JRDhzthg1r626Xv6z_9s2AjFpBlrA4h7tcz9M_4IHcpWKdQ6rn0m/s1200/WolverineRd-sandstone_1200w-SL1_24814.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="689" data-original-width="1200" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN8okvEZXJwqb6wPjzSzfCgBre7UossiRWTYHlyZC1frCWNBkAUoTFlhJAQqu9RLjWCiceLj5iyRX5p5in6EHttrqkqJdJPRa5V0vYD-TPqHassD_a0qA-rCDEi6swClhR1id6JRDhzthg1r626Xv6z_9s2AjFpBlrA4h7tcz9M_4IHcpWKdQ6rn0m/w640-h368/WolverineRd-sandstone_1200w-SL1_24814.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Parked beside the large strata of Navajo sandstone that has been deeply
etched.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQb4MzZ5JaseMIC4mYqXnrLkivLXwM6Q46eQSFpc7cK2TXqNLn_NYSB51vcEdLG7UOEQDLND8Q3-baEaKdoBDdJjC0jLN7CPIUlbDy7IUZgcgitYWi2A1EoEFsOn0PeFZzdDdk2L8xLyLBEeJCT9eqVJj1c091FL63EsCC9im801dduh0PTNoUMjDP/s1200/WolverineRd-fisure_1200h-SL1_24820.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQb4MzZ5JaseMIC4mYqXnrLkivLXwM6Q46eQSFpc7cK2TXqNLn_NYSB51vcEdLG7UOEQDLND8Q3-baEaKdoBDdJjC0jLN7CPIUlbDy7IUZgcgitYWi2A1EoEFsOn0PeFZzdDdk2L8xLyLBEeJCT9eqVJj1c091FL63EsCC9im801dduh0PTNoUMjDP/w426-h640/WolverineRd-fisure_1200h-SL1_24820.jpg" width="426" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Carefully looking down into the fissure.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I also found what I would consider as a super-bloom of Evening Primrose and
Golden Mariposa Lilies. Those familiar with super-blooms in California may
scoff, but this was very cool.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGt1VjRzER28lAI6IiuySKIML6hk7V2vhfhD2nBhyt2aKePMJePavJd99iHeNfRun2ZNgKwehuY9JcFW8LKFVLkxr3Fz-h0fr27g_BXjVbItVYkDrgFy4qvTDhANkwoTGJZwjUpgFF2aADQuVVMycup1p-C97gRIbh3S5EeOgOCHJ4iLOt0WlK9ZsS/s1200/Primrose-Mariposa_1200w-SL1_24822.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="1200" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGt1VjRzER28lAI6IiuySKIML6hk7V2vhfhD2nBhyt2aKePMJePavJd99iHeNfRun2ZNgKwehuY9JcFW8LKFVLkxr3Fz-h0fr27g_BXjVbItVYkDrgFy4qvTDhANkwoTGJZwjUpgFF2aADQuVVMycup1p-C97gRIbh3S5EeOgOCHJ4iLOt0WlK9ZsS/w640-h374/Primrose-Mariposa_1200w-SL1_24822.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<p>
I pulled into the Wolverine trailhead, but didn't stop. This is apparently a
popular location to day hike to a petrified wood area. No collecting allowed.
A place to explore another time.
</p>
<p>
I also turned off onto the road leading to Horse Canyon. This narrow canyon is
much wetter than the other areas with many cottonwood trees. There is a
clearing near the junction where folks have camped. The primitive road leads
into the canyon. I started that way, but quickly turned around as it looked
sketchy. I've found very little info subsequent to my trip. One report says
it's an old cowboy road; another that it runs about 12 miles to an abandoned
cabin.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRl8UvAU7Q7W4cBE1Qs5QUVTQZPSdrbqPm3RBOrDgKThnFT9W1xR8jywamCcbEbeBi9qAH-cnMCZOXdFGrMth7bma_QOPomGFVXjv4MlTbBVmvAhmmTim82PVKY5yYrSxjwiNMrE58jO4QoHU82zKli6tefCVXFhrFYh6U801savkZm3xyhYmKAbml/s1200/WolverineLoop-road-bench_1200w-SL1_24823.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="761" data-original-width="1200" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRl8UvAU7Q7W4cBE1Qs5QUVTQZPSdrbqPm3RBOrDgKThnFT9W1xR8jywamCcbEbeBi9qAH-cnMCZOXdFGrMth7bma_QOPomGFVXjv4MlTbBVmvAhmmTim82PVKY5yYrSxjwiNMrE58jO4QoHU82zKli6tefCVXFhrFYh6U801savkZm3xyhYmKAbml/w640-h406/WolverineLoop-road-bench_1200w-SL1_24823.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Wolverine Bench—last landmark before turning north.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I should have taken at least a few photos of the last section of the loop road
as I traveled out, but the light was poor and the scenery not very exciting. A
section of the road was along a dry wash, so caution in rainy weather.
</p>
<p>
Note the entire loop road was in very good condition. There were a few small
sections where you need to go slow and though high-clearance is recommended,
it wouldn't have been necessary this time. Heavy rain, however, could cause
trouble as long sections both east and west are through the bottoms of
arroyos; and there is one section of clay that might be impassable.
</p>
<p>
<i>A last word on dispersed camping along Wolverine Loop Road. Other than the
nice site I stumbled across, the only area where I saw a few possible
campsites was between Little Death Hollow trailhead and Horse Canyon
trailhead. There seemed to be several along there, but I did not explore
them. I also didn't drive the Cutoff Road which connects the main loop a
couple of miles down the eastern section to the southern section just east
of Little Death Hollow trailhead. And just like the eastern section, there
appeared to be two dispersed sites, suitable for travelers, near where the
loop connects to the paved highway.</i>
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Continuing West on Burr Trail</h4>
<p>
Long Canyon is always a scenic drive, even in cloudy conditions. This time I
remembered to stop at the semi-official vista point at the top, east end. The
view is really too expansive to photograph, so I settled for just a small
piece to share.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLEZkGgI6BtS2S7nzvWC7kkqejzwFgIT06VxpDDvbFk7eRaoy87SxKC3BguBsnnZhEFUndDxwXmYko453lFr-iuGsJzS0-ZuCqPosraw84Erm1DCQqKnJQr27xy3Mt2WHw1AdxGYr1MOsFXNdi88yl3Dhen3zDBMzZANShGbYLU8G8ijYx3TV68SSN/s1200/LongCanyon-east_1200w-SL1_24825.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLEZkGgI6BtS2S7nzvWC7kkqejzwFgIT06VxpDDvbFk7eRaoy87SxKC3BguBsnnZhEFUndDxwXmYko453lFr-iuGsJzS0-ZuCqPosraw84Erm1DCQqKnJQr27xy3Mt2WHw1AdxGYr1MOsFXNdi88yl3Dhen3zDBMzZANShGbYLU8G8ijYx3TV68SSN/w640-h426/LongCanyon-east_1200w-SL1_24825.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Looking east from the top before descending into Long Canyon.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
When I got to the place where the highway climbs out of the canyon I swore I
wouldn't stop for a photo like every other time... good intentions.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiosYv8_1z6uhn1t6GL4NdH4ETiXROi-ewZGE7xYvKPpti8GA9qasYlMrfKtTJoC2A-T5y_01dz7WOn3JnRwigwlhHfbK0LsDllRLpETyWfLWbrd_a-thVCy82eiOZp2QKs7-rh4pccoQuFscdmW0qQouE0Q6mEO1T5MhcVF12QKRYFUzo08EW1vQVm/s1200/LongCanyon-west_1200w-SL1_24832.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="732" data-original-width="1200" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiosYv8_1z6uhn1t6GL4NdH4ETiXROi-ewZGE7xYvKPpti8GA9qasYlMrfKtTJoC2A-T5y_01dz7WOn3JnRwigwlhHfbK0LsDllRLpETyWfLWbrd_a-thVCy82eiOZp2QKs7-rh4pccoQuFscdmW0qQouE0Q6mEO1T5MhcVF12QKRYFUzo08EW1vQVm/w640-h390/LongCanyon-west_1200w-SL1_24832.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Looking up the canyon after the road climbs up and out.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
Burr Trail comes out at UT-12 in the village of Boulder. I turned left and
stopped at the
<a href="https://hillsandhollowsmarket.com/" target="_blank">Hills & Hollows Mini Mart</a>/Sinclair Gas at the western edge of the village to fill my tank before
continuing west. I didn't sample the fare at the Wild Indigo Cafe (which is a
food trailer with a couple of picnic tables), but there were others there
chowing down with enthusiasm.
</p>
<p>
Years ago I'd camped at the first dispersed campsite off UT-12 on Spencer Flat
Road. The road had been recommended to me by the ranger at the Escalante
visitor center. That day had been pouring rain with more to come and I
enquired where I might camp without fear of getting stuck in the mud or washed
away. It was a very nice spot, though close to a cattle guard on the highway
that sang with every passing vehicle. Fortunately there was little traffic
after dark. This trip I would explore a bit farther down that road to see if
there were any good campsites, preferably with a view of the sandstone dunes
to the east.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Spencer Flat Road</h4>
<p>
There were actually quite a few folks camped along the road, more than I'd
seen yet on my trip. The "best" sites were already taken. The road was smooth
and would not be a problem for passenger cars when dry. A little over four
miles in I turned around as the road dropped down into a open basin, Big
Spencer Flat. Heading back I turned into a site I'd passed on earlier as it
had offered a choice of deep sand or uneven white sandstone. There was also a
wide site on the other side of the road which I was sure would fill up with
(possibly) noisy neighbors. (I did get a small RV and pickup truck as
neighbors, but thankfully they were quiet.)
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3nNhwAjz9ahG-lPzv1t7S1sU2rqjIcEiL1nr-kJlJ9d9UFA8iRQoO5begCjihcTTaZXO1bI2jwpyhv83NaEMfwnqSBsRLBs-AeHKTNFJ4dCQ8As-e8I4R1bBwYGb_Y2BVBu0-g31zM_hdqhpO_3pJ_wWpFtpIMKwEcL4zJ05Ht1Like5CBX0EiQCQ/s1200/SpencerFlatRd-campsite_1200w-SL1_24843.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="709" data-original-width="1200" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3nNhwAjz9ahG-lPzv1t7S1sU2rqjIcEiL1nr-kJlJ9d9UFA8iRQoO5begCjihcTTaZXO1bI2jwpyhv83NaEMfwnqSBsRLBs-AeHKTNFJ4dCQ8As-e8I4R1bBwYGb_Y2BVBu0-g31zM_hdqhpO_3pJ_wWpFtpIMKwEcL4zJ05Ht1Like5CBX0EiQCQ/w640-h378/SpencerFlatRd-campsite_1200w-SL1_24843.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My level campsite</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I chose the sandstone side and was actually able to position my camper
perfectly level with no rocks or other assists. It turned out to be a good
place to camp. There was a modest view of a Little Spencer Flat to the south
and it had a small bluff to the east. I discovered a bit later that a short
walk took me to the top of a modest cliff with a great view off to the
northeast. My photo, below, doesn't do that view justice as there is no sense
of the elevation differences. If only someone sold AR goggles with the
capability of taking 3D photos. [wink, wink]
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisMrWp2mzQTlXVWrP06Sxdj9ZaVINS8AEsJWGFAVz7T1VmWn4Qk5nSPw6KNCb3qEcMM6_LjQDJ1j9anpRxW6cYFTAhTXEp5rw81mChjGZoy8CeMLG3lMXEAo-38SoKPuncslxQA2tKMEbGjhyawnsAYxejxHmRqwxEVyjPzUeNFRPjUdsA3cTgmbMa/s1200/SpencerFlat-view_1200w-SL1_24839.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="680" data-original-width="1200" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisMrWp2mzQTlXVWrP06Sxdj9ZaVINS8AEsJWGFAVz7T1VmWn4Qk5nSPw6KNCb3qEcMM6_LjQDJ1j9anpRxW6cYFTAhTXEp5rw81mChjGZoy8CeMLG3lMXEAo-38SoKPuncslxQA2tKMEbGjhyawnsAYxejxHmRqwxEVyjPzUeNFRPjUdsA3cTgmbMa/w640-h362/SpencerFlat-view_1200w-SL1_24839.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A northerly view from near my campsite.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Thursday May 18</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Spencer Flat Road (continued)<br /><br /></h4>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz5Enmr1fg1baz1srRGlyo7fYTBA4UtqzJurwTTQPespgm0Gx1Qlc1-D_seXBuO9ppX0pxHGSfmI7gTc6Yc3ctKt5evG_p_vlYCW6-oB1AxiUTO6A5JO9p1OeUrVj1CnvKXr_C_qGHGO2xvFMwYbX4Az2TwKQ5jJvB8e8Bi1kV7ZNBHVAxt1yJpGay/s1200/SpencerFlat-camper_1200w-SL1_24846.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="779" data-original-width="1200" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz5Enmr1fg1baz1srRGlyo7fYTBA4UtqzJurwTTQPespgm0Gx1Qlc1-D_seXBuO9ppX0pxHGSfmI7gTc6Yc3ctKt5evG_p_vlYCW6-oB1AxiUTO6A5JO9p1OeUrVj1CnvKXr_C_qGHGO2xvFMwYbX4Az2TwKQ5jJvB8e8Bi1kV7ZNBHVAxt1yJpGay/w640-h416/SpencerFlat-camper_1200w-SL1_24846.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Morning light with Little Spencer Flat in the background.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I woke up to clear skies, which was a delight. I crossed my fingers that it
would stay that way for the rest of my trip. I leisurely broke camp with the
idea of stopping at my old campsite just before the highway. I thought that
might make a good spot to take my drone up for photos.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Head of the Rocks</h4>
<p>
No one was in the site, so I could fly without disturbing anyone. I took a
couple spherical panoramas and a series of stills. The pano turned out pretty
well and conveys a little of the amazing sandstone vista. The 5 image pano
turned out good, too, but I've never found an acceptable way to display a very
wide aspect photo in this blog, so I'm afraid you won't get to see that.
</p>
<p>
<a href="https://kuula.co/post/5mBFH" target="_blank">View on the Kuula site</a> or in the frame below, In either case,
click the Full Screen icon in the upper right corner to get the full
experience.
</p>
<iframe allow="xr-spatial-tracking; gyroscope; accelerometer" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="640" scrolling="no" src="https://kuula.co/share/5mBFH?logo=1&info=1&fs=1&vr=0&sd=1&thumbs=1" width="100%"></iframe>
<br />
<p>
Head of the Rocks is the name of the overlook on UT-12 near the top, before
the highway turns toward Escalante. So this is the name I've given to the
whole amazing wide canyon of white and red sandstones. There's a spot at the
eastern, lower edge where you can park off the highway, though it's not
official. From there you can walk the sandstone south to get a spectacular
view of the rock dunes if you wish.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">The Hogback</h4>
<p>
I also stopped at one of the overlooks along The Hogback on the east side of
the Escalante River to fly my drone. This is another amazing spot featuring
the white sandstone, plus Calf Creek Canyon to the west. These photos came out
well, though I was glad I took two spherical panoramas as one had fatal
stitching errors. Still, an amazing job done by the M2P which is 5 year old
technology at this point. One of the stills turned out good, complete with a
distant Navajo Mountain with clouds looking like an erupting volcano.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8eXgd9beoXm3plTDk-UWWl1JZS5I1u1MW7Fi4d6IJIClSwRzFV5wZqAY2qDkAACbgeOAck2P5wKVMmTGNs3Lf47iHh6QporZSdp-bFX5s6TZQZ0Gpa5VT7bzPy145ofUElSCpwN7IuaV1tKXiJF0l8_LcFzR5csbU0FAJ9CRbtUf5uA2caNS6NsMt/s1200/TheHogback_1200w-DJI_0448.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="799" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8eXgd9beoXm3plTDk-UWWl1JZS5I1u1MW7Fi4d6IJIClSwRzFV5wZqAY2qDkAACbgeOAck2P5wKVMmTGNs3Lf47iHh6QporZSdp-bFX5s6TZQZ0Gpa5VT7bzPy145ofUElSCpwN7IuaV1tKXiJF0l8_LcFzR5csbU0FAJ9CRbtUf5uA2caNS6NsMt/w640-h426/TheHogback_1200w-DJI_0448.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Looking south along The Hogback. Enlarge to see Navajo Mountain on the
horizon.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
<a href="https://kuula.co/post/5L0wg" target="_blank">View on the Kuula site</a> or in the frame below, In either case,
click the Full Screen icon in the upper right corner to get the full
experience.
</p>
<iframe allow="xr-spatial-tracking; gyroscope; accelerometer" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="640" scrolling="no" src="https://kuula.co/share/5L0wg?logo=1&info=1&fs=1&vr=0&sd=1&thumbs=1" width="100%"></iframe>
<br /><br />
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Boulder Mountain</h4>
<p>
I drove through Boulder village and up across the mountain. I'd forgotten how
high that gets — the pass is well over 9300' with small patches of snow still
around. I'd researched a few of the campgrounds along this stretch as a "just
in case." Glad I didn't need one as they were all still closed for "winter"
despite what the Fishlake National Forest website displayed. There were clouds
gathered over the mountain, perhaps unsurprisingly, and I could see rain
falling to the east. I stopped at two vista points to take photos of the
expansive vista across to Capitol Reef National Park and surrounds.
Unfortunately, looking toward the sun with the rain and clouds the light was
unforgiving. No way I could salvage those for you even with my advanced
Photoshop skills. Maybe next time... or better yet, go see for yourself!
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2023/06/late-spring-utah-may-2023-part-3.html">Go to Part 3</a> and Cathedral Valley</h3>
<p><br /></p>
Bosque Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00001863270259847102noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3983525105536347837.post-41760050858801293802023-06-16T08:21:00.000-06:002023-06-16T08:39:28.392-06:00Late Spring Utah - May 2023: Part 1<h3 style="text-align: left;">Late Spring 2023 - UT</h3>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">May 15 through May 21 in 4 Parts</h2>
<p>
I was looking forward to my spring trip, researching ideas for new
destinations within my favorite areas of SE Utah. I had watched a couple of
YouTube videos about Wolverine Loop off of Burr Trail (as I'd seen the
turn-offs on previous trips and was curious.) This looked like a prospect and
the road was reportedly in good condition for high clearance. One of those
YouTubers mentioned Poison Springs Canyon Road as a much more beautiful road.
I watched his video and it did look interesting. That road was also reported
as open.
</p>
<p>
As I was checking the Hanksville BLM website I found a notice for free tours
of the nearby dinosaur quarry. That sounded interesting, so when I called for
a Poison Springs Canyon Road report I got details. Visitors were to meet at
the quarry 8 miles up a dirt road off UT-24 west of Hanksville.
</p>
<p>
I now had three primary destinations. I figured I'd string them together with
other places and roads I was familiar with "on the fly". Now if the weather
would just cooperate.
</p>
<p>
One thing or another delayed my departure to mid-May. The clear sunny weather
of early May had moved to a wetter pattern though the long-range forecast was
for party-cloudy and partly-sunny. There was something like a 10% chance of
rain. Not ideal, but even a retiree has time constraints.
</p>
<p><b><span style="color: #fff2cc;">I recommend you click on a photo for a larger version and use full screen
for panoramas.<br /><br /></span></b></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Part 1 of 4<br /><br /></h4>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">North Mule Canyon, White Canyon, Burr Trail<br /><br /></h3>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Monday May 15</h3>
<p>
Monday morning I left home in good weather, taking my usual route to the
northwest. There were clouds and rain all around, but not bad. By the time I
topped off my tank in White Mesa, UT I felt I would rather not drive too long
and thought I'd check to see if one of my favorite camping spots was open.
</p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">North Mule Canyon</h4>
<p>
There is a little hollow in North Mule Canyon just beyond the bridge on Arch
Canyon Road. There are a couple of cottonwood trees that have seen better
days; white sandstone cliffs that are not too tall; a stream bed that often
has at least a little water. For some reason I find this place serene and
restful.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdk8sRqFVSlrHJSnC56PDarlLZZ3RX49kS9RM9A2ziWb0fO1Q8NZaHsu1WRnOLDUq8t-Wg1Cfbyl9LEyFxN-FNfiC1p_O_SL3d4F7Q9E8p49ReybUJs9LEAdnEZt4S5ESmx9Yn7wYFqNlNs_Loan3rZepiWPxxsrsh6PUKvQ3bmPQ2iCEyyGDdc3gI/s1200/NMuleCyn-campsite_1200w-SL1_24650.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="809" data-original-width="1200" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdk8sRqFVSlrHJSnC56PDarlLZZ3RX49kS9RM9A2ziWb0fO1Q8NZaHsu1WRnOLDUq8t-Wg1Cfbyl9LEyFxN-FNfiC1p_O_SL3d4F7Q9E8p49ReybUJs9LEAdnEZt4S5ESmx9Yn7wYFqNlNs_Loan3rZepiWPxxsrsh6PUKvQ3bmPQ2iCEyyGDdc3gI/w640-h432/NMuleCyn-campsite_1200w-SL1_24650.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Here I am, set up within North Mule Canyon. Creek on the right.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I was fortunate the site was unoccupied. I backed in and set up camp with blue
sky and puffy clouds which had me hopeful for my upcoming week. There were red
and yellow wildflowers blooming and water flowing (barely) in the creek
bed.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdOn0O6nOLnQoPtJ4xypAs33TTXljNeTEMxtx0j1Fxe0I2b41Rv0-sA1-GmJl-cQk-4ldA8Fh3ufUciKAIoc_cGapoNNGQUQiVJbYN5rZP-Jl1UjQfnWI-CrW_1bKVzNLnwJgazRTCX8Glbr2iAeJIVxyb7EwVVWkQD3Ee4dsAq08GTRC9Kn-rwnG4/s1200/PerkySue-cliff_1200w-SL1_24652.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="880" data-original-width="1200" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdOn0O6nOLnQoPtJ4xypAs33TTXljNeTEMxtx0j1Fxe0I2b41Rv0-sA1-GmJl-cQk-4ldA8Fh3ufUciKAIoc_cGapoNNGQUQiVJbYN5rZP-Jl1UjQfnWI-CrW_1bKVzNLnwJgazRTCX8Glbr2iAeJIVxyb7EwVVWkQD3Ee4dsAq08GTRC9Kn-rwnG4/w640-h470/PerkySue-cliff_1200w-SL1_24652.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd9rFPjAcwRA4Bc1oP18p2ODZVoUkFk4uY64q5u3NdiUoMNHXdW8eSBOoicLL5WXsAIzlE_7qRBZRe6aIx1vW073RnmdW3-_5dE1PB3CHqFM33du7g2r6tHeg6Jk2-RwCv6kOrHI6dEwByA6eDUYD-mDBfKb9TC0wiJd_uk_CQ8d2uqDe_Bseo5hbr/s1200/Penstemon-Bladderpod_1200w-7D_25275.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1030" data-original-width="1200" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd9rFPjAcwRA4Bc1oP18p2ODZVoUkFk4uY64q5u3NdiUoMNHXdW8eSBOoicLL5WXsAIzlE_7qRBZRe6aIx1vW073RnmdW3-_5dE1PB3CHqFM33du7g2r6tHeg6Jk2-RwCv6kOrHI6dEwByA6eDUYD-mDBfKb9TC0wiJd_uk_CQ8d2uqDe_Bseo5hbr/w640-h550/Penstemon-Bladderpod_1200w-7D_25275.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<p>
I relaxed in my chair between strolls to photograph flowers, birds, and
scenery. That evening a giant cloud formed in the east, lit up by the setting
sun, but there didn't appear to be any threat of rain. I fell asleep listening
to the frogs sing.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkFOmmElXOd1vrqM0XxrSBGYVF4vcwpX10p2DBiveqqnCeH6grLbFvEfMr0FGkdoz9l8TapplttS1hHgIcuTxWNY-0ae-6ZzcvF7GjxAvDGrSBZ0RiSLc9gcGh99l50klGSPkj1KQ49jYdnLCEDXq9PQCWg5bMhCmN6O1_QKtey8jAtTDjN4Qsezo1/s1200/PlumbeousVireo_1200w-7D_25281.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="822" data-original-width="1200" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkFOmmElXOd1vrqM0XxrSBGYVF4vcwpX10p2DBiveqqnCeH6grLbFvEfMr0FGkdoz9l8TapplttS1hHgIcuTxWNY-0ae-6ZzcvF7GjxAvDGrSBZ0RiSLc9gcGh99l50klGSPkj1KQ49jYdnLCEDXq9PQCWg5bMhCmN6O1_QKtey8jAtTDjN4Qsezo1/w640-h438/PlumbeousVireo_1200w-7D_25281.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Plumbeous Vireo caught beating its supper into submission
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiytbkzcyqLOgoaTqJDLG1v7OGnmQmQPDQjYBddx2T3dd3dy56q0ldOHau_Ssxg92DQK3bi3SNcPyfJiSPZwh9gUx_Vz_ZTOvdU0dmqc1gZ6qO4GN5YAnEJ6hnpu5Vt9wV01RDy8aF1fImbyOprlBy7HFjUsB1B8b91MFBB-a4ADD3BAAkdEQhbkZPx/s1200/StraightBladderpod_1200h-SL1_24654.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1037" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiytbkzcyqLOgoaTqJDLG1v7OGnmQmQPDQjYBddx2T3dd3dy56q0ldOHau_Ssxg92DQK3bi3SNcPyfJiSPZwh9gUx_Vz_ZTOvdU0dmqc1gZ6qO4GN5YAnEJ6hnpu5Vt9wV01RDy8aF1fImbyOprlBy7HFjUsB1B8b91MFBB-a4ADD3BAAkdEQhbkZPx/w554-h640/StraightBladderpod_1200h-SL1_24654.jpg" width="554" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLhvaT_mKVes7yVSMbrnabyUl77cXpUZbm9FiakMQjvQpHA2nTblfSuOmHzlICXE1v6vnJoQvEeNlAvuEn1Senf_aNlaZGRvRI_OOfXsENDragq0zbxgw2OOJWpSMICYlRVF6jZLMZPpu1VoKt1S1l4R_WFlQtBQgEIDfczUOFLAwWA2VlqCF5Wiz0/s1200/FenceLizard_1200w-7D_25314.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLhvaT_mKVes7yVSMbrnabyUl77cXpUZbm9FiakMQjvQpHA2nTblfSuOmHzlICXE1v6vnJoQvEeNlAvuEn1Senf_aNlaZGRvRI_OOfXsENDragq0zbxgw2OOJWpSMICYlRVF6jZLMZPpu1VoKt1S1l4R_WFlQtBQgEIDfczUOFLAwWA2VlqCF5Wiz0/w640-h426/FenceLizard_1200w-7D_25314.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaWyIosPUCDfENHFH5b4uR5S7TjrhPWawRkDIOWPJ75_7firztb3iacibkjjXGJdP0aaWv5obmnnOLDS8tf-ecLtWUPFySGhoVItQ5vpyLf4gVx2NVW6tLDyQrZvP0rG-6Rsog_68PBb4kHTeRdYti10rX4Hfl2X4vFyIFoacliK6fgLanLT9pF8Pi/s1200/NMuleCyn-cloud_1200-SL1_24670.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaWyIosPUCDfENHFH5b4uR5S7TjrhPWawRkDIOWPJ75_7firztb3iacibkjjXGJdP0aaWv5obmnnOLDS8tf-ecLtWUPFySGhoVItQ5vpyLf4gVx2NVW6tLDyQrZvP0rG-6Rsog_68PBb4kHTeRdYti10rX4Hfl2X4vFyIFoacliK6fgLanLT9pF8Pi/w640-h426/NMuleCyn-cloud_1200-SL1_24670.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFoYYbCL4ItrzCW6V0Pc0Vw9wwGL0CX787pxHvldKw8BwMHswXjVdPaOgNwA17AjtFPr-KI7DjG1HAxpsqBkyRqR8VgQzQGdepG0gwzwg2nUxNooowEeQJ4xwogu7zbawr-8yO6fEKeER3ONyx_97xn-ydiD4gRelCTNBhpRSMUVFH2jTO8Hglo8LA/s1200/NMuleCyn-sunset_1200w-SL1_24685.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFoYYbCL4ItrzCW6V0Pc0Vw9wwGL0CX787pxHvldKw8BwMHswXjVdPaOgNwA17AjtFPr-KI7DjG1HAxpsqBkyRqR8VgQzQGdepG0gwzwg2nUxNooowEeQJ4xwogu7zbawr-8yO6fEKeER3ONyx_97xn-ydiD4gRelCTNBhpRSMUVFH2jTO8Hglo8LA/w640-h426/NMuleCyn-sunset_1200w-SL1_24685.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset in a cloud</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Tuesday May 16<br /><br /></h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">North Mule Canyon (continued)</h4>
<p>
It was a beautiful morning with blue sky and singing birds. I walked up to the
area above the cliff north of the canyon. There were lots of Evening
Primroses, red and yellow flowers, and two species of cacti blooming.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmje8Rggnd58ChiHjmT0ytdPPqnkF6UkuG14fOwN8n_uKh6064GTQ699phMqGihW1GBagzE6abXi3Aff9XAdDe2OFFgG_bXUoEu7TlBvEvgjl9zKL2_lzqvjAl1lvMQTLP1RPSFqeYnjj72JheTJC6p1rQ4_9q9Tf7eqDKvRmOlIxjCHI249zmSiWy/s1200/TuftedEveningPrimrose_1200w-SL1_24695.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1031" data-original-width="1200" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmje8Rggnd58ChiHjmT0ytdPPqnkF6UkuG14fOwN8n_uKh6064GTQ699phMqGihW1GBagzE6abXi3Aff9XAdDe2OFFgG_bXUoEu7TlBvEvgjl9zKL2_lzqvjAl1lvMQTLP1RPSFqeYnjj72JheTJC6p1rQ4_9q9Tf7eqDKvRmOlIxjCHI249zmSiWy/w640-h550/TuftedEveningPrimrose_1200w-SL1_24695.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAV9zJPDmobHSdoIucldFn4GhC3-7_ODiDTVN2H6zdsHbp1TS-VCVdM-4GgS0W5f3hpyPzWDUMsuF46YUmQsjxVYchYiZeBkRIV47qQMw0O4wtfwYj53rLDRoIDaELLRP1QbfRWmJogGo9TrUc6HVd9CKmGhenHmcaVILa6us_X-Xi0e8KbRtJDOnw/s1200/PerkySue_1200sq-SL1_24697.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAV9zJPDmobHSdoIucldFn4GhC3-7_ODiDTVN2H6zdsHbp1TS-VCVdM-4GgS0W5f3hpyPzWDUMsuF46YUmQsjxVYchYiZeBkRIV47qQMw0O4wtfwYj53rLDRoIDaELLRP1QbfRWmJogGo9TrUc6HVd9CKmGhenHmcaVILa6us_X-Xi0e8KbRtJDOnw/w640-h640/PerkySue_1200sq-SL1_24697.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkkojhpAghEv4dnjnyOkiZcbu5FYjfszMyRu-uc25Iy0xndsmkjZN6B_hqfpIW850UAbk3vpms7xdE1ThAcNXM3kudLizWJYERQzrTAJEnQr7MYL1YFubi_2SrAB10cQOypBh4_lD1F1mIJybBEBAGmoF8vSkFhbfcQJM0ysuIXBsUw4urmYM21mYm/s1200/Terrain_1200w-SL1_24702.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkkojhpAghEv4dnjnyOkiZcbu5FYjfszMyRu-uc25Iy0xndsmkjZN6B_hqfpIW850UAbk3vpms7xdE1ThAcNXM3kudLizWJYERQzrTAJEnQr7MYL1YFubi_2SrAB10cQOypBh4_lD1F1mIJybBEBAGmoF8vSkFhbfcQJM0ysuIXBsUw4urmYM21mYm/w640-h426/Terrain_1200w-SL1_24702.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Note the dark <a href="https://www.nps.gov/glca/learn/nature/soils.htm" target="_blank">cryptobiotic soil crusts</a> on the right.</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjup5W6T35OljLyXHRMeu8x4fCrSRDVyMen7FJDxo4RATXA1hJcfiSuPBT6Ly8WRHO9NPYuyhJcHGY43ZqRxcdjT3z1hUxZOAgitnJzaiaW09beNf6b5VVSC930e1EZiUydkqOuh8vnVxfUcetIZDfW8Txh7AYqVggppVICSjPRQztZmGDMKJSnrA8Q/s1200/FishhookCactus_1200w-7D_25351.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1063" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjup5W6T35OljLyXHRMeu8x4fCrSRDVyMen7FJDxo4RATXA1hJcfiSuPBT6Ly8WRHO9NPYuyhJcHGY43ZqRxcdjT3z1hUxZOAgitnJzaiaW09beNf6b5VVSC930e1EZiUydkqOuh8vnVxfUcetIZDfW8Txh7AYqVggppVICSjPRQztZmGDMKJSnrA8Q/w566-h640/FishhookCactus_1200w-7D_25351.jpg" width="566" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<p>My left knee, which is usually my "good" one, had been complaining for the
last week, but felt good this morning after my walk. So I decided I would take
an easy hike up North Mule Canyon. I hoped I'd be in good enough shape to make
it to the hanging garden I found last time, but would just see how it went.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1osMcoJwwEl934osja10RxEF45DVP9-JPY0N_23vtTit_zUPFHzf0wFsAPHUS3_yQNwM5GYInNqvjIoq4xu6REL9OqaMg2JQLWTefjS4geogM5pXUM6xCuRDCkjao5ULyvMvTK1_QGaqBcbCkoAMrWSTdfAYrJeBzfqyuBUM4X51w81t5_cVfYR3k/s1200/NMCTrail-start_1200h-SL1_24707.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="783" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1osMcoJwwEl934osja10RxEF45DVP9-JPY0N_23vtTit_zUPFHzf0wFsAPHUS3_yQNwM5GYInNqvjIoq4xu6REL9OqaMg2JQLWTefjS4geogM5pXUM6xCuRDCkjao5ULyvMvTK1_QGaqBcbCkoAMrWSTdfAYrJeBzfqyuBUM4X51w81t5_cVfYR3k/w418-h640/NMCTrail-start_1200h-SL1_24707.jpg" width="418" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Early section of trail before it drops into canyon bottom.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi4fX_zreu_aETooNWOVktZctXIua0EE1Sm9vvftGUpXA355c248pDR2vjV108KvWlGgcOAsCbL3jUG5XZ5Y3g7W0_r2O9NPUH4xr33EZLE_t1Fq-AnQUgOh_knPaeuB_HqN3w18g6FVtclybEUZCL8TGbkWBFgpMrI0WZ3m_40uB2g165-fi5hClg/s1200/NMCTrail-rock-tree_1200h-SL1_24711.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="915" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi4fX_zreu_aETooNWOVktZctXIua0EE1Sm9vvftGUpXA355c248pDR2vjV108KvWlGgcOAsCbL3jUG5XZ5Y3g7W0_r2O9NPUH4xr33EZLE_t1Fq-AnQUgOh_knPaeuB_HqN3w18g6FVtclybEUZCL8TGbkWBFgpMrI0WZ3m_40uB2g165-fi5hClg/w488-h640/NMCTrail-rock-tree_1200h-SL1_24711.jpg" width="488" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Farther up are large Ponderosa pines.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
The trail seemed to be in better condition than last time, but there is still
quite a bit of clambering around, more so than in South Mule Canyon, I
believe. Nonetheless, the morning was delightful and there were plenty of
subjects for my camera. I took an alternate route around a enormous rock that
had fallen into the canyon eons ago and found the remains of a very, very
small ruin under a ledge.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ-dLCziJCRAOzM4TKTNWVingm6zHPb4EKVKsTHNfD_Z7nv-wZe7KMB1TMjTTARXJ8BxzebJBaVSSXw3Kh3DIha0mJKNsC_c1wWKseLYxwOrJKSZgQoC3JvQKi7uMv9os5IZGqT4cOuQ5slWOeiDbE-yPrYsCQ9GWHr8MBIqJgIeSTYz7VcSZSBd99/s1200/NMCTrail-ruins_1200w-SL1_24713.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ-dLCziJCRAOzM4TKTNWVingm6zHPb4EKVKsTHNfD_Z7nv-wZe7KMB1TMjTTARXJ8BxzebJBaVSSXw3Kh3DIha0mJKNsC_c1wWKseLYxwOrJKSZgQoC3JvQKi7uMv9os5IZGqT4cOuQ5slWOeiDbE-yPrYsCQ9GWHr8MBIqJgIeSTYz7VcSZSBd99/w640-h426/NMCTrail-ruins_1200w-SL1_24713.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A mortared column of rocks is all that's left of this ruin.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib3eD3QhscARChs8sJNPcjvmUPQg5lZ76vS4IRAoqIZQmMJ-cN8WWZUQjyXTlPCCvXC6qPXTbr3Qz6eYAxcQLjrCuH87EYSNsXxx7AqCYcFvOtta-tjKEXY9G7tt4023jzJwz5miy8MhYnR8EeLo94Lf4p9adcTlJ24dvDT14sEhnahE0dDeDSFyNj/s1200/NMCTrail-bottom_1200w-SL1_24715.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="701" data-original-width="1200" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib3eD3QhscARChs8sJNPcjvmUPQg5lZ76vS4IRAoqIZQmMJ-cN8WWZUQjyXTlPCCvXC6qPXTbr3Qz6eYAxcQLjrCuH87EYSNsXxx7AqCYcFvOtta-tjKEXY9G7tt4023jzJwz5miy8MhYnR8EeLo94Lf4p9adcTlJ24dvDT14sEhnahE0dDeDSFyNj/w640-h374/NMCTrail-bottom_1200w-SL1_24715.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Looking up the canyon and seeing clouds beginning to build.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
As I was taking a break I studied the topo map in my Earthmate app that syncs
its position with my inReach Explorer. The hanging garden is near where the
canyon forks and I'd only gone about 2/3rds of the way. I reluctantly decided
it would not be wise to push myself too far on my first day and returned down
canyon.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD2cs3Wo0sPlCvhgEqGJYCNpgbCuYUFlYLLyXcDSLzfuMuFkKqFHEKEdg6Ptlwz-cLs1kAM1K2bAWCM2-_jXsz0UIJrqphrag5ScS9hAosaAHKdj_aO5XSt8ZQcy1m1lIZlQYHkjzx3n1KCos3Ddv9nI8FKqUsp4B-Vj_ewSIcV5_bW9cBjyJnlVhD/s1200/EatonsPenstemon_1200w-SL1_24717.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="904" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD2cs3Wo0sPlCvhgEqGJYCNpgbCuYUFlYLLyXcDSLzfuMuFkKqFHEKEdg6Ptlwz-cLs1kAM1K2bAWCM2-_jXsz0UIJrqphrag5ScS9hAosaAHKdj_aO5XSt8ZQcy1m1lIZlQYHkjzx3n1KCos3Ddv9nI8FKqUsp4B-Vj_ewSIcV5_bW9cBjyJnlVhD/w482-h640/EatonsPenstemon_1200w-SL1_24717.jpg" width="482" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<p>I could hear thunder rumbling by the time I returned to camp. I'd considered
staying here another day, but started breaking camp on impulse. By the time I
was pulling out it was starting to rain.<br /><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">On the Highway passing White Canyon</h4>
<p>
More rain as I drove west on UT-95. The highway was fine and
the heaviest storm was off to the north. I drove through this beautiful area
of white sandstone canyons and red cliffs wondering where I should go. I
pulled off the highway at a spot where White Canyon, below Natural Bridges,
comes close to the highway. I had been hoping to get a spherical panorama
there, though with the clouds I was not particularly sanguine about the
results. It turned out not too bad as you can see. Kind of cool seeing the
rain falling over Bears Ears.
</p>
<p>
<a href="https://kuula.co/post/5m6y5" target="_blank">View the spherical pano on Kuula</a>
or using the frame below. In either case, click the Full Screen icon in the
upper right corner to get the full experience.
</p><br />
<iframe allow="xr-spatial-tracking; gyroscope; accelerometer" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="640" scrolling="no" src="https://kuula.co/share/5m6y5?logo=1&info=1&fs=1&vr=0&sd=1&thumbs=1" width="100%"></iframe>
<br />
<p>
As I drove farther west I could see a large storm right on top of the Henry
Mountains. One idea I'd had when doing preliminary research for the trip was
to finish the short section of Fortknocker Road I'd skipped last time. (I came
in via Burch Canyon Road and Wooden Shoe Road, though on a whim exited via
North White Canyon Road. That turns out to have been a better idea than I'd
realized.) I found the west end of Fortknocker and turned north off UT-95. I
didn't go more than a hundred yards or so as the road was in very poor shape
with rocks and washouts. I turned around and wobbled back to the highway. I'd
also spied on the satellite map a dirt road leading northeast on the other
side of the Colorado River. I turned in there to check it out. Flint Trail
Road looked like it would be miserable to drive, as well, or maybe I gave up
too soon.
</p>
<p>
I continued on 95 then drove south on UT-276. I thought about Starr Springs
Campground but it was early in the afternoon and I didn't want to sit in my
camper just to listen to the rain. I decided I'd continue down toward
Bullfrog, then skirt the southern end of the mountains, hopefully staying out
of the rain. I was surprised when I got to Ticabo to discover acres and acres
of very large houseboats up on railroad tie blocks all along the highway. I
should have stopped to take pictures, but don't think that would have conveyed
the scale. Hard times for businesses built on Lake Powell. It was hot and dry
down here.
<br /><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Burr Trail</h4>
<p>
I turned west off the highway before Bullfrog onto Burr Trail Road. This
southeastern end of the road is paved, though narrow with sand drifts
encroaching in this first stretch. Within a mile or so I passed a Glen Canyon
NRA ranger's truck coming from the west. Good to know this empty quarter is
periodically patrolled. That was the only vehicle I saw the entire length
until I climbed the switchbacks. The two large campgrounds that used to be
along the shoreline are barricaded closed, which shouldn't have been a
surprise.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicl2VILMb1NSFDvov2yT8osVHaYnYiWPnzXkYqojdmGT7yg2j5ISSsXW9v6lMSImnfirCU7ti-cG3Ohw184ZoLHeCMcK-mni-11sdd1-R8OImp6nHIs6u2qqPPK_nVxSet-pI82vwTcX3UnNBc5qsGi3N8EzZeY53RXJBgheqKPiMYimSx4oF_5Xmb/s1200/MiddlePoint_1200w-SL1_24722.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="653" data-original-width="1200" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicl2VILMb1NSFDvov2yT8osVHaYnYiWPnzXkYqojdmGT7yg2j5ISSsXW9v6lMSImnfirCU7ti-cG3Ohw184ZoLHeCMcK-mni-11sdd1-R8OImp6nHIs6u2qqPPK_nVxSet-pI82vwTcX3UnNBc5qsGi3N8EzZeY53RXJBgheqKPiMYimSx4oF_5Xmb/w640-h348/MiddlePoint_1200w-SL1_24722.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The road climbs up out of Bullfrog Creek Canyon.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
Even after crossing Bullfrog Creek the land is barren and appears hostile
along this southern stretch with barely any vegetation, just white sandstone.
The cool moisture was well north of here and the temperatures were climbing
toward ninety. The road roughly parallels the creek as it heads north. Soon
the landscape becomes quite dramatic with views of the canyon and cliffs and
the highway climbs a ramp up to a plateau. There are views of the Henry
Mountains to the east. Worth a visit.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIFFEej-gWllNmJhShzRtiGytEaarA4-Uk5POnR9DyWgCfKVYD5AkdCgf9lWQ2pVivP5JhB7huOM7l9m2zBWuWnna_rn7bPTdtkMFlv1BFrb_D_mpakyvSoCmQlCSetV7I5H5tbEkij9GHRviD8FjgtSZ8jJylIplTfPR2TMtNpwBiJQPfFCsszVb6/s1200/BullfrogCkOverlook_1200w-SL1_24723.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="696" data-original-width="1200" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIFFEej-gWllNmJhShzRtiGytEaarA4-Uk5POnR9DyWgCfKVYD5AkdCgf9lWQ2pVivP5JhB7huOM7l9m2zBWuWnna_rn7bPTdtkMFlv1BFrb_D_mpakyvSoCmQlCSetV7I5H5tbEkij9GHRviD8FjgtSZ8jJylIplTfPR2TMtNpwBiJQPfFCsszVb6/w640-h372/BullfrogCkOverlook_1200w-SL1_24723.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Looking back down into Bullfrog Creek Canyon
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
The pavement ends as it comes to a 'T' at the Eggnog-Starr Springs Road. On a previous trip when I camped at Starr Springs Campground I drove
out to the west on this road.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnHTNUPQ6ItN_hjXsl-ElNI6C-gfIr75e4mMvXI6ZFYPQsITCDOs3DeuV5a__c9c-UNkX2_6FabULeB1KzM3Zcub97q8zFwUt6yemstZf_tNxnxjFfwuYacptw8IkHsx7YgVnBTANpgqN0G7FMtEtXBkr_u8B3E4SKnLOFF8tQmpqbXqRmj0ah-z4z/s1200/Globemallow-switchbacks_1200h-SL1_24733.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="936" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnHTNUPQ6ItN_hjXsl-ElNI6C-gfIr75e4mMvXI6ZFYPQsITCDOs3DeuV5a__c9c-UNkX2_6FabULeB1KzM3Zcub97q8zFwUt6yemstZf_tNxnxjFfwuYacptw8IkHsx7YgVnBTANpgqN0G7FMtEtXBkr_u8B3E4SKnLOFF8tQmpqbXqRmj0ah-z4z/w500-h640/Globemallow-switchbacks_1200h-SL1_24733.jpg" width="500" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
This globemallow was huge!
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
The mostly gravel road was in good condition as it went west then north toward
the south end of Capitol Reef National Park. I was alert as I recalled there
were sections, just before dropping into Waterpocket Fold, that were posted
with warning signs for flooding. Although it had been raining on the Henry
Mountains all afternoon, I was relieved none of that had come in this
direction. I was back in more familiar territory as I drove up the fold toward
the switchbacks.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheJG236WeDlw_jV71lmk6xr0NdlCoHVBH7n48_AfMyvZlpbt3S5iApLu7qLEUrX4ZmfREb2E2c505fHiUk6Ar9TeIERlLgOJMn8P1yC7EFm0Bo56Yvu4LqCrabF11EBhnO_HlSFs1Nl9KvPqXSnYLLOeUmMLq0P_fzrJhQcRNOQhlRmrvWnt1MZoCf/s1200/HenryMtns-switchbacks_1200w-SL1_24736.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="723" data-original-width="1200" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheJG236WeDlw_jV71lmk6xr0NdlCoHVBH7n48_AfMyvZlpbt3S5iApLu7qLEUrX4ZmfREb2E2c505fHiUk6Ar9TeIERlLgOJMn8P1yC7EFm0Bo56Yvu4LqCrabF11EBhnO_HlSFs1Nl9KvPqXSnYLLOeUmMLq0P_fzrJhQcRNOQhlRmrvWnt1MZoCf/w640-h386/HenryMtns-switchbacks_1200w-SL1_24736.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Looking east toward the Henry Mountains from most of the way up the
switchbacks.<br />In the middle distance the valley is the Waterpocket
Fold geologic landform.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I wasn't going to stop and take a picture down the switchbacks, as I have many
already, but it was impossible not to get one more even though the light
wasn't the best! When the road exits the national park it is paved once again.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2023/06/late-spring-utah-may-2023-part-2.html">Go to Part 2</a> and Wolverine Loop Road</h3>
<div><br /></div>
Bosque Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00001863270259847102noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3983525105536347837.post-83861097728349181742022-11-04T09:53:00.001-06:002022-11-04T09:55:50.771-06:00Southeastern Utah - October 2022 - Part 3<p><a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2022/11/southeastern-utah-october-2022-part-2.html"> Continued from Part 2</a></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Fry Canyon Ruins - Moss Back Road - Red Canyon</h2><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">October 14th (continued)</h3><h4 style="text-align: left;">Fry Canyon Ruins</h4><p>Those who read the blog post for my May trip earlier this year may recall I spotted a sign for Fry Canyon Rd which Google called Fry Canyon Ruins road. I did not explore it at the time. I decided to check it out this trip since I was going to be nearby. The road sign is gone. This short road crosses an old airstrip (which looks like it would be a disaster zone if any pilot had to use it.) There are a couple of dispersed sites along the road, one which was occupied by two trailers while the campers were apparently off exploring. The road deteriorates before the end and high clearance is necessary. You can pull off before that point as it's not that much farther to walk.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnqI87Rqi_Agsa_ZWxw6Ae_u8khdeMPoote-KOizNvd_Xs52Ys22yRYLYCeMOUv6nWUm5RzDcPwd4lblTfSGhju0lGVHM6w1sFG08mc5r_kf9S6kcbT2nIGM5L2GMmZM4lAgAvw_nmKe1VtXd9rGzl8Rz-7c2qLLsqdgGnZeTXJz0kKzpW9mkzmV4k/s1200/FryCynRuins-upstream_1200w-SL1_24160.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnqI87Rqi_Agsa_ZWxw6Ae_u8khdeMPoote-KOizNvd_Xs52Ys22yRYLYCeMOUv6nWUm5RzDcPwd4lblTfSGhju0lGVHM6w1sFG08mc5r_kf9S6kcbT2nIGM5L2GMmZM4lAgAvw_nmKe1VtXd9rGzl8Rz-7c2qLLsqdgGnZeTXJz0kKzpW9mkzmV4k/w640-h426/FryCynRuins-upstream_1200w-SL1_24160.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view up Fry Canyon from the overlook.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFlaltpLAu6v-nGegXyXGJNVAC6EKwCXbZPmkciW6cGCS_y9HOhdkHvjwGXcXPFzzVUm19R39QrWRhQgZ0BnZxvxAJW6JrRI5QSAMYb_kfiZN6VNJL4X2oriE3v5_XOvu7Ye6LFDVGucYOAt4oop6m-4EQ8rlA8mCvHmPItzt0E8pg-gHfp4OOkwAQ/s1200/FryCynRuins-downstream_1200w-SL1_24161.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFlaltpLAu6v-nGegXyXGJNVAC6EKwCXbZPmkciW6cGCS_y9HOhdkHvjwGXcXPFzzVUm19R39QrWRhQgZ0BnZxvxAJW6JrRI5QSAMYb_kfiZN6VNJL4X2oriE3v5_XOvu7Ye6LFDVGucYOAt4oop6m-4EQ8rlA8mCvHmPItzt0E8pg-gHfp4OOkwAQ/w640-h426/FryCynRuins-downstream_1200w-SL1_24161.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view down canyon. The ledge mid-way down on the far side leads to the ruins.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>The ruins, cliff dwellings, are clearly visible from the rim of the narrow canyon, but were in shadow. I tried to compensate for this during photo post-processing. I saw no way down into the canyon from this side of the canyon.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigiR6qv7CYinnjJPPOdQND9KYRmY60FrNO2PMcpLb61tVsgLySf1icQwVSwJ3Tqa2Eu_amgMrF45dVIUIxsxhZ0o8nRJj9BUmtAc9Zf6NoSVcGbRZApoNV6eVHV1X2zjlxcKA4YHp7f4mUXQjWbDcctDcEjmgO6OXxS3myFmFZ1W54HDv3ATUU1N8B/s1200/FryCanyonRuins_1200w-SL1_24173.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigiR6qv7CYinnjJPPOdQND9KYRmY60FrNO2PMcpLb61tVsgLySf1icQwVSwJ3Tqa2Eu_amgMrF45dVIUIxsxhZ0o8nRJj9BUmtAc9Zf6NoSVcGbRZApoNV6eVHV1X2zjlxcKA4YHp7f4mUXQjWbDcctDcEjmgO6OXxS3myFmFZ1W54HDv3ATUU1N8B/w640-h426/FryCanyonRuins_1200w-SL1_24173.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fry Canyon Ruins.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><h4 style="text-align: left;">Moss Back Road</h4><p>Back on the highway I took the turn south on Radium King Road. The road had been washed out in several places in the recent past, but the county had come through and made complete repairs. For a more detailed description of the road, with photos, see my earlier <a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2022/05/spring-fling-ut-april-2022-part-2.html" target="_blank">post</a>. I turned onto Moss Back Road. Though this road had not washed out, there were many, many places where flood waters had washed over the road - not enough to block travel, but I had to slow the truck to a near standstill multiple times to cross without impact.</p><p>I really liked my previous campsite, but wanted to try another location. I drove for a couple of miles, creeping over the washes. I found an interesting site off the road, a little ways from the rim. I figured out a level spot with the side of my camper where the fridge is mounted on the north side as the sun was hot even with mild temperatures.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Z8yRSleM4CCHGezeVmj4hWCJHoJPX5U4HfQW2PtoV4YOS_KZ8Vs_gxU8L0ZMA_5Mudj8JcnGZFmIsr4qOjkmFc-tisYo5kOPhUnWDLGX5l3IIV16hxi1G-LeM1aOPYg9lgBghpIqDoOb67EawdrME6tMFXNI9r1uPjzq2uzPIIKj_uU1EcuixgGj/s1200/MossBackRd-campsite_1200w-SL1_24180.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="1200" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Z8yRSleM4CCHGezeVmj4hWCJHoJPX5U4HfQW2PtoV4YOS_KZ8Vs_gxU8L0ZMA_5Mudj8JcnGZFmIsr4qOjkmFc-tisYo5kOPhUnWDLGX5l3IIV16hxi1G-LeM1aOPYg9lgBghpIqDoOb67EawdrME6tMFXNI9r1uPjzq2uzPIIKj_uU1EcuixgGj/w640-h374/MossBackRd-campsite_1200w-SL1_24180.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My campsite.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>One of the nice features of my campsite was a nearby ancient juniper. There was plenty of room underneath in the shade to set up my chair - a rare treasure indeed to find in arid Utah. I sat in my chair, enjoyed a cool drink, and gazed out over Red Canyon.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF6mEPS2-VjvLU6UIVJews-fz7o8pwjpSRLPQBHJb-m76OBbjchG__e2ZoHDPJlAZfbLpwnJ9oyf6c6Lqi_DzzUOjYj-u821Xpdoo1a_MzRa4bYUe-1fpZj0DnIIf-Cnl9eWopuOUPB9VPVFpdbh1rVSL5Ul6tisrvTZtuBppq7S5jcvN8FeWQqVFD/s1200/MossBackRd-juniper-table_1200w-SL1_24187.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="659" data-original-width="1200" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF6mEPS2-VjvLU6UIVJews-fz7o8pwjpSRLPQBHJb-m76OBbjchG__e2ZoHDPJlAZfbLpwnJ9oyf6c6Lqi_DzzUOjYj-u821Xpdoo1a_MzRa4bYUe-1fpZj0DnIIf-Cnl9eWopuOUPB9VPVFpdbh1rVSL5Ul6tisrvTZtuBppq7S5jcvN8FeWQqVFD/w640-h352/MossBackRd-juniper-table_1200w-SL1_24187.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This juniper was the largest I saw anywhere around.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9iGJA1sII7si1uCnNCQczXmpnqEaPbpMLBlCXBQbIN5Um6MfVnKV5KIZBDPPtjCikUsJH7XHoyIaGhaJ2039ALDBZfpNIBKFOkSRuoDBIcZZ_S4QkYbI63UOCqow3xB-IQlhYH4S0zeX70nHxTgSuN_ffdnlBNklT6jDrQeIajaYb9-WqWCimSZv0/s1200/MossBackRd-middleTable_1200h-SL1_24181.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="902" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9iGJA1sII7si1uCnNCQczXmpnqEaPbpMLBlCXBQbIN5Um6MfVnKV5KIZBDPPtjCikUsJH7XHoyIaGhaJ2039ALDBZfpNIBKFOkSRuoDBIcZZ_S4QkYbI63UOCqow3xB-IQlhYH4S0zeX70nHxTgSuN_ffdnlBNklT6jDrQeIajaYb9-WqWCimSZv0/w482-h640/MossBackRd-middleTable_1200h-SL1_24181.jpg" width="482" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking along the rim of Red Canyon toward Tables of the Sun Middle.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn011DxN3IQXRH-XRXVyGqLdQhBoQqThOiKUJBkqP5lcNafmTUpv8zQQ4GeYFo2-AVC7T15rPppv3N8-qZRVOuje-rVt5rXJW3elkgxUu3LxMvfRDaeS4dkzivLxu80LMr35kgZPby19zImUVwC-CeMGF-XrRqm3ud7M3Gmio6rkRI8ToLM2x4p2vl/s1200/MossBackRd-RedCanyon_1200w-SL1_24183.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn011DxN3IQXRH-XRXVyGqLdQhBoQqThOiKUJBkqP5lcNafmTUpv8zQQ4GeYFo2-AVC7T15rPppv3N8-qZRVOuje-rVt5rXJW3elkgxUu3LxMvfRDaeS4dkzivLxu80LMr35kgZPby19zImUVwC-CeMGF-XrRqm3ud7M3Gmio6rkRI8ToLM2x4p2vl/w640-h426/MossBackRd-RedCanyon_1200w-SL1_24183.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red Canyon looking toward Monument Valley.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5svygz4EyQCtjVA2gkgzRpbiIPADHxVf1VdqAKGBJ4-nsh7J76l45Xx5IuIvYzYgXV1KwdtG9sZEqoNp2m-dGMz4zUTYLfOo-trlKoENUUrZgUoknrqv1UXurVw-8_dLdT1MwatDtSFMjNKJUKNS7EFlOuk7R7-Ylr6MCgp6Jw5fdrj7MkVOXrjBV/s1200/MossBackRd-middle-southTable_1200w-SL1_24190.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="742" data-original-width="1200" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5svygz4EyQCtjVA2gkgzRpbiIPADHxVf1VdqAKGBJ4-nsh7J76l45Xx5IuIvYzYgXV1KwdtG9sZEqoNp2m-dGMz4zUTYLfOo-trlKoENUUrZgUoknrqv1UXurVw-8_dLdT1MwatDtSFMjNKJUKNS7EFlOuk7R7-Ylr6MCgp6Jw5fdrj7MkVOXrjBV/w640-h398/MossBackRd-middle-southTable_1200w-SL1_24190.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another photo of the edge of Red Canyon.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>As the day moved into the golden hour, I wandered about taking a few photos. There were no clouds, so not much sunset photo potential. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd9NN93dI9OzrvCjFUFNnPMq7KwRtC4ak_L_sZ_6kY1FpF0o45WWCIdHGyKca4eTKbYVoiyPfvw1Oed5Y1As5NWawF9blkJIiWeJMXN1MsfxMlM5Rrh8yP_kGdLNbQoOZ39A7vSEVLYf9PT6AvNTg30w1ALqFThSvkx6PP9721nF-kv74h5jY3wByo/s1200/MossBackRd-northTable_1200w-SL1_24203.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="855" data-original-width="1200" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd9NN93dI9OzrvCjFUFNnPMq7KwRtC4ak_L_sZ_6kY1FpF0o45WWCIdHGyKca4eTKbYVoiyPfvw1Oed5Y1As5NWawF9blkJIiWeJMXN1MsfxMlM5Rrh8yP_kGdLNbQoOZ39A7vSEVLYf9PT6AvNTg30w1ALqFThSvkx6PP9721nF-kv74h5jY3wByo/w640-h456/MossBackRd-northTable_1200w-SL1_24203.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking up a recent rain wash toward North Tables of the Sun.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg98BxRgmCPKzxqv72iJ6otA1NLF8G-YGkjcgPRarOWJjpnEScr6Np_1othRTKP6Da_3TOHkjSn-XU10y2FBTGY2eyVwG3SEqjS4topAFBSqeSORxZD4HTWmiV3T9mW-G_E2SDKJIMVDVfzWLTaJBLs9AvtmgVX7_Wt1A30iR-sJel_hEGAeRSVszVV/s1200/MossBackRd-juniper-sunset_1200w-SL1_24209.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg98BxRgmCPKzxqv72iJ6otA1NLF8G-YGkjcgPRarOWJjpnEScr6Np_1othRTKP6Da_3TOHkjSn-XU10y2FBTGY2eyVwG3SEqjS4topAFBSqeSORxZD4HTWmiV3T9mW-G_E2SDKJIMVDVfzWLTaJBLs9AvtmgVX7_Wt1A30iR-sJel_hEGAeRSVszVV/w640-h426/MossBackRd-juniper-sunset_1200w-SL1_24209.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No traditional sunset, but I loved the look of the ancient juniper against the darkening sky.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I suddenly realized I should try to shoot the sky when it got truly dark. I got out my tripod and my camera for which I had a remote shutter release. I set that up and remembered I needed to set focus on infinity while there was still light enough to see. Venus was up by that time and I tried a couple of exposures. With a little tweaking in Photoshop one of those turned out pretty well. (Photographers, I was able to use Live View with magnification to dial in my exposure; then gaffer tape to hold it for night shots.)</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyhAFDwvyDqLsnW1t2OMRVpbPEGyfpc-b2VEWVFHhR8s8vS9yupBknoLo2vSXIzl4r7U_XAmoDWPCcCVu38EklR_DN5iGZCDUVubOBtNZF5N-F_5JGieXJ5OBA3k1dMNUeTG_o0B9SeymyJolSzyavdrkCJaNDA46BJAthENBnNbTmkuJtSSKpMdYp/s1200/MossBackRd-Venus_1200w-7D_24376.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="524" data-original-width="1200" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyhAFDwvyDqLsnW1t2OMRVpbPEGyfpc-b2VEWVFHhR8s8vS9yupBknoLo2vSXIzl4r7U_XAmoDWPCcCVu38EklR_DN5iGZCDUVubOBtNZF5N-F_5JGieXJ5OBA3k1dMNUeTG_o0B9SeymyJolSzyavdrkCJaNDA46BJAthENBnNbTmkuJtSSKpMdYp/w640-h280/MossBackRd-Venus_1200w-7D_24376.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Venus rising over Middle Tables of the Sun butte.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4ZiB_fTjNh2kwKArGLrRRtJ0a9dd3DAFjX7w06PZ7V5Wo3dyk1AJogGLSrd4WrrJss59HBGnxBlYy5CeOU1xZVc2Y6TE9oe5IkB1YctPznrNHTakXHv709K6OzGvVT-F3Q2kxx63qCp0rPcYNskgGk5bCEgZlQAITbUvKq5W9IMP7sVAvZXniWuDp/s1200/MossBackRd-stars-venus_1200w-7D_24382.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="621" data-original-width="1200" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4ZiB_fTjNh2kwKArGLrRRtJ0a9dd3DAFjX7w06PZ7V5Wo3dyk1AJogGLSrd4WrrJss59HBGnxBlYy5CeOU1xZVc2Y6TE9oe5IkB1YctPznrNHTakXHv709K6OzGvVT-F3Q2kxx63qCp0rPcYNskgGk5bCEgZlQAITbUvKq5W9IMP7sVAvZXniWuDp/w640-h332/MossBackRd-stars-venus_1200w-7D_24382.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You may need to click the photo to enter the lightbox viewer to see the stars.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I was disappointed when I looked at the photos to discover the Milky Way was simply too faint for my 10 year old camera sensor to capture. Maybe I should have tried a wider aperture and might have the following night except for (spoilers) there were clouds, so I didn't even try. I did try my hand a light painting using a bright red LED flashlight.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSrhXs1R_qZu9qgIB7GsoGc9eChPXIdaruNnhmX9-KCYHYCi2ZEMxg1ZM2-m6Cb4dlsr_TDO_l5BPwweHe9HP6RBW-NOb9rwtpdlqeOTdEf9kXC6aA_Fm3xQ-D3jOfxgQG8caIhRU9TwmZCvJwOtiekkdst8AbWvp-YjuDRjcJFQsEDCOyTod72PQh/s1200/MossBackRd-SStars_1200w-7D_24393.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSrhXs1R_qZu9qgIB7GsoGc9eChPXIdaruNnhmX9-KCYHYCi2ZEMxg1ZM2-m6Cb4dlsr_TDO_l5BPwweHe9HP6RBW-NOb9rwtpdlqeOTdEf9kXC6aA_Fm3xQ-D3jOfxgQG8caIhRU9TwmZCvJwOtiekkdst8AbWvp-YjuDRjcJFQsEDCOyTod72PQh/w640-h426/MossBackRd-SStars_1200w-7D_24393.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Milky Way faintly shows on the left side of the photo.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC1251cIpCTZzZlO1Oaea1NMZ32hI4Ft7C5mWAufGTx_4zY8c6Gz88bajysxp8AIUO6A_IWhmi9XWFXL-emrliQg45VLDun-_20jnnzL7fn2C_d0u979w8VXhPJFrN78J5OuGdYeDq_D0GJMjiegtxKC9q8FBuayuIpzXOHOe4FXW-cPrOwS8QW-L1/s1200/Stars-lightpainting_1200w-7D_24398.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC1251cIpCTZzZlO1Oaea1NMZ32hI4Ft7C5mWAufGTx_4zY8c6Gz88bajysxp8AIUO6A_IWhmi9XWFXL-emrliQg45VLDun-_20jnnzL7fn2C_d0u979w8VXhPJFrN78J5OuGdYeDq_D0GJMjiegtxKC9q8FBuayuIpzXOHOe4FXW-cPrOwS8QW-L1/w640-h426/Stars-lightpainting_1200w-7D_24398.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My first ever attempt with the "light painting" technique.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeRe8T3lBwZdu3rEjq_NWHcLWjCV5ZvdG44RF3fCa2u-I_Xpf46J2JsL7L9SOOuD_YIy5m9GPMnO4aGCYFwzANUy9NebUXX7s-0-WT8zKp-wA0bFj6oygZPZNwqtVP_DE8ix5J5Q2fJ2pWrPExnnVR5ezwWKISg5RWQCxvg7OCW-MTgKcyCgjPNNUp/s1200/MossBackRd-starsDippers_1200w-7D_24400.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeRe8T3lBwZdu3rEjq_NWHcLWjCV5ZvdG44RF3fCa2u-I_Xpf46J2JsL7L9SOOuD_YIy5m9GPMnO4aGCYFwzANUy9NebUXX7s-0-WT8zKp-wA0bFj6oygZPZNwqtVP_DE8ix5J5Q2fJ2pWrPExnnVR5ezwWKISg5RWQCxvg7OCW-MTgKcyCgjPNNUp/w640-h426/MossBackRd-starsDippers_1200w-7D_24400.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Big Dipper (bottom center) and the Little Dipper with North Star.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">October 15</h3><h4 style="text-align: left;">Moss Back Road (continued)</h4><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZIP0om3CHkMnNRv9h67JkKXJGj5AqdbhnGD0ML1PNhbxppL6w3e1tTRO6adXpaCqDAWdnpNGLp2bKcWtp78GQw-H_b63tL-2G9HPEJYErSsha594zD45VLkPYMHHvT69CO-ufPaul9ak8l2zNd02Q82mpz4OPco5rSWQ8YAWhY0n_ak3Hz7Q53zX1/s1200/MossBackRd-dawn_1200w-SL1_24212.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="651" data-original-width="1200" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZIP0om3CHkMnNRv9h67JkKXJGj5AqdbhnGD0ML1PNhbxppL6w3e1tTRO6adXpaCqDAWdnpNGLp2bKcWtp78GQw-H_b63tL-2G9HPEJYErSsha594zD45VLkPYMHHvT69CO-ufPaul9ak8l2zNd02Q82mpz4OPco5rSWQ8YAWhY0n_ak3Hz7Q53zX1/w640-h348/MossBackRd-dawn_1200w-SL1_24212.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early dawn at the campsite.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIDIublvZjevkz10pQAYbLdbSw4nKPoBeRtabVhxcVSpCqNkNHAKP7eF6IlRzlCHhwJZy6ZPflvzRksXK43njj1ZKijRgXazfW6wbXLcmklJeaeovDBaqdoYct5X1mviCAhe5Nibv2UyA8xl4sQrO42WYoKB1bAISc29o0cUuq8QzWs-gn_7743lGK/s1200/MossBackRd-canyon-mesa_1200w-SL1_24223.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="753" data-original-width="1200" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIDIublvZjevkz10pQAYbLdbSw4nKPoBeRtabVhxcVSpCqNkNHAKP7eF6IlRzlCHhwJZy6ZPflvzRksXK43njj1ZKijRgXazfW6wbXLcmklJeaeovDBaqdoYct5X1mviCAhe5Nibv2UyA8xl4sQrO42WYoKB1bAISc29o0cUuq8QzWs-gn_7743lGK/w640-h402/MossBackRd-canyon-mesa_1200w-SL1_24223.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking east along the rim as the sun begins to lighten Wingate Mesa.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>A gorgeous early morning. I took a few photos, then later walked north along the road. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvZsoBOWddh4J18HpUE2EMa7w1nsVEJlrmw72HcHIKc7_SBj9ar1koSYUM3aWeMCMz5YqRc__LpFAy4fQqYuWZ8wF1FPjFg7uz78Blh-w-SYTQ-pICUhIDEkGwb9nNDTDCAVPF9KwB6spQYhvHqpEEIHzwyoW8embSC7xtafj4JmIQspsdw01YsspP/s1200/MossBackRd-RedCyn_1200w-SL1_24268.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="754" data-original-width="1200" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvZsoBOWddh4J18HpUE2EMa7w1nsVEJlrmw72HcHIKc7_SBj9ar1koSYUM3aWeMCMz5YqRc__LpFAy4fQqYuWZ8wF1FPjFg7uz78Blh-w-SYTQ-pICUhIDEkGwb9nNDTDCAVPF9KwB6spQYhvHqpEEIHzwyoW8embSC7xtafj4JmIQspsdw01YsspP/w640-h402/MossBackRd-RedCyn_1200w-SL1_24268.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here an entire section of the rock bench subsided into Red Canyon.<br />You can also see patterns in the foreground where water flowed over the edge in the storm.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghIdJHgKMyC0g8BK2RgWgRySGsmdXq6GNKfoJFyP2nZ_HyfKbqWe86JJMn86lRGTvrgZcs9bOfwQubbnyjYN2J39MClxZxR92X8NRKpByI352CFeqnttWPIFTBBzssYFI_arenPzjl9xtVsjRSTPFOf_H7A2s6r7DuQ5WKGW-_DFVeDiZNfM9MhlfT/s1200/MossBackRd-RedCyn2_1200w-SL1_24270.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="1200" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghIdJHgKMyC0g8BK2RgWgRySGsmdXq6GNKfoJFyP2nZ_HyfKbqWe86JJMn86lRGTvrgZcs9bOfwQubbnyjYN2J39MClxZxR92X8NRKpByI352CFeqnttWPIFTBBzssYFI_arenPzjl9xtVsjRSTPFOf_H7A2s6r7DuQ5WKGW-_DFVeDiZNfM9MhlfT/w640-h374/MossBackRd-RedCyn2_1200w-SL1_24270.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red Canyon. Sure are a lot of photos of rocks in this post.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>One thing I noticed was that the heavy rains seemed to have severely damaged the cryptobiotic soils washing away much, or sometimes most, of the protective crust. My hope is that the microorganisms are still present in the soil and will be able to recover before more erosion of the soils can occur. I took a photo to show you, but perhaps unsurprisingly it just looks like a picture of dirt.</p><p>Though I loved this new campsite and enjoyed gazing at the view for hours, I don't think it's quite as photogenic as my earlier site. So I again encourage you to view <a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2022/05/spring-fling-ut-april-2022-part-2.html" target="_blank">my previous blog post on this area</a>.</p><p>After lunch I "raised" my home-made awning. It is not nearly as convenient as the permanently mounted awnings, but it has one big advantage. I attach it at the roofline so it shades the entire side of the camper - all the mounted units I've seen on pop-ups are at the top of the hard side, so the soft sides and windows still get full sun. My awning shades the entire camper keeping it cool enough inside for an afternoon nap! Of course in a situation like here there is not enough soil for staking the pole guy lines, so had to use either conveniently placed dwarf trees and large rocks. But those worked very well as a substitute.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB9Tbm7FzNH3wCSiI44CE9H2GaSk6C8gQhWQyaPOAdpNJK4qC7NKS4qEiT55J7O8Go6dgMWp1yJ23o07Nxke6NQdtnSW3mEg05bO-hoTekMYn_Bb1JgkhM15KVJFdmn2DIwin7BdxxrSLRwqgkmLAO-Nhu8kUf9VBrHUbnLCtQFLKqtuJGYO_pANLD/s1200/MossBackRd-awning_1200w-SL1_24280.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="737" data-original-width="1200" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB9Tbm7FzNH3wCSiI44CE9H2GaSk6C8gQhWQyaPOAdpNJK4qC7NKS4qEiT55J7O8Go6dgMWp1yJ23o07Nxke6NQdtnSW3mEg05bO-hoTekMYn_Bb1JgkhM15KVJFdmn2DIwin7BdxxrSLRwqgkmLAO-Nhu8kUf9VBrHUbnLCtQFLKqtuJGYO_pANLD/w640-h396/MossBackRd-awning_1200w-SL1_24280.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My cheap home-made awning with guy lines anchored with rocks.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I took my drone up in the afternoon to capture a panorama and some images of my campsite. The spherical panorama was not nearly as good as the image set I got last spring which show the colors much better. I encourage you to view that <a href="https://kuula.co/post/NDLDY" target="_blank">panorama</a> and pan around at the scene. I did get a more traditional stitched panorama of the mesas and buttes, and a shot showing my campsite.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_ofRfsln-J-hs3bYCuycSKp_CLDE5JjRnPDpfvp6yiHQP5oUVvpClJNHv9hdTkmryS8n-0F45kW52KcQo88h2cYtpvjxOC-aJIV2q9feP3fepzzwOGhpfOKDxkdbrY4EZuJW9zlwmpVAMQcrzv3oXpbkKGWW5kjbznJ2dIyd0H4DJYE9gMxW6L_v4/s1200/MossBackRd-2panoV_1200w-DJI_0418-0419.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1046" data-original-width="1200" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_ofRfsln-J-hs3bYCuycSKp_CLDE5JjRnPDpfvp6yiHQP5oUVvpClJNHv9hdTkmryS8n-0F45kW52KcQo88h2cYtpvjxOC-aJIV2q9feP3fepzzwOGhpfOKDxkdbrY4EZuJW9zlwmpVAMQcrzv3oXpbkKGWW5kjbznJ2dIyd0H4DJYE9gMxW6L_v4/w640-h560/MossBackRd-2panoV_1200w-DJI_0418-0419.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wish I'd panned down a bit more, but you get the idea.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg-Xpx0caDxF8eXsHCM_bUeOI2TqbHFFZ745SRr_q0vC_3wLV2jPdmhj6fwAxvjay3qBTgh2zz2v2TgaPnvKb6Fwy2pWI3inGQTuX4CLvq1xH3_F1pLDeGhl-V58Bjc59KirOFco-7nCAAMPekXG9Dd1ygc3x4zuNoUwztGg3kXn5ob0cotUgYbLwl/s2400/TablesOfTheSun-5pano_2400w-DJI_0420-0424.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="495" data-original-width="2400" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg-Xpx0caDxF8eXsHCM_bUeOI2TqbHFFZ745SRr_q0vC_3wLV2jPdmhj6fwAxvjay3qBTgh2zz2v2TgaPnvKb6Fwy2pWI3inGQTuX4CLvq1xH3_F1pLDeGhl-V58Bjc59KirOFco-7nCAAMPekXG9Dd1ygc3x4zuNoUwztGg3kXn5ob0cotUgYbLwl/w640-h132/TablesOfTheSun-5pano_2400w-DJI_0420-0424.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Multi-exposure horizontal panorama. Click for larger view.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>High clouds started moving in during the late afternoon. Looked like the weather forecast was going to be accurate. At least, I thought, there would be clouds for a spectacular sunset. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN2jjFbMCM86_zCs9_nOoxo-MYZL1Z3HbI_dQG16fiXGlTeVz5afQh-Y-PPxJlzJ98_OXUTmM_i88z3f0y8vZSJH6A0pp7tVqIDY3dqIdzx9POHxYvEjmQYi291KwP9kpWfVc4aSc2_2wM64cOhikPYClQHyn1aIpP58HKFUvQri7gIce7YNsxOswF/s1200/MossBackRd-tables-canyon-wide_1200w-SL1_24299.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="620" data-original-width="1200" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN2jjFbMCM86_zCs9_nOoxo-MYZL1Z3HbI_dQG16fiXGlTeVz5afQh-Y-PPxJlzJ98_OXUTmM_i88z3f0y8vZSJH6A0pp7tVqIDY3dqIdzx9POHxYvEjmQYi291KwP9kpWfVc4aSc2_2wM64cOhikPYClQHyn1aIpP58HKFUvQri7gIce7YNsxOswF/w640-h332/MossBackRd-tables-canyon-wide_1200w-SL1_24299.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Middle & South Tables of the Sun and Red Canyon as the sun goes down.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj94PwTA4eV2d6B6BY2SJkC9Vwjuy7qI5Ua3iWaFrNmJZ0Az_oZmlDYbAF4suc_4je3L7aGaVQ2E3DRN-ax3D8zkMi9ivXwt8lYh-qwiAfya3otqHcuL4DjCkZXOfzI___mR-_1nwmFeeq5uyHJdB-kN6JPzRbTF3V3q4nB96zm_3j1ycGUZBYnivnG/s1200/MossBackRd-sunset_1200w-SL1_24356.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="597" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj94PwTA4eV2d6B6BY2SJkC9Vwjuy7qI5Ua3iWaFrNmJZ0Az_oZmlDYbAF4suc_4je3L7aGaVQ2E3DRN-ax3D8zkMi9ivXwt8lYh-qwiAfya3otqHcuL4DjCkZXOfzI___mR-_1nwmFeeq5uyHJdB-kN6JPzRbTF3V3q4nB96zm_3j1ycGUZBYnivnG/w640-h320/MossBackRd-sunset_1200w-SL1_24356.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The clouds didn't really cooperate, so this is the best I could do.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">October 16</h3><h4 style="text-align: left;">Moss Back Road (continued)</h4><p>No photos today. It was breezy and cloudy when I got up per the forecast, so simply packed and broke camp. On the way out I saw two "campsites" close to Radium King Road were occupied. I was surprised they camped there rather than driving just a little farther and getting the full view. Both had vehicles that could have easily driven the road. Whatever. </p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Homeward Bound</h4><p>I made my way down to the highway and turned east. One benefit of the cloudy morning was that I didn't have to stare into the sun as I drove.</p><p>I took the "northern" route across the top of Cedar Mesa, crossing Comb and Butler Washes to the highway south of Blanding. Red Mesa had relatively inexpensive gasoline, and my gauge was nudging E, so I filled up. I took my usual short cuts down through Montezuma Springs and Red Mesa Road. I was feeling hungry by the time I made New Mexico so stopped at the little C store in Beclabito. They have a hot cabinet full of locally made burritos, chimichangas, corndogs, etc. I got one red and one green chili baked burrito. Hit the spot.</p><p>My usual route from there. Looked like it had been raining in Albuquerque and I drove through a light storm once I got close. Made it home safe, but had to unpack in light rain and coldest temperatures of the entire week. No worries, I was home safe after a great trip, and looking forward to a hot shower.</p><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;"><i>Thanks for coming along on my fall trip to Utah.</i></h4><p><br /></p>Bosque Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00001863270259847102noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3983525105536347837.post-86633398734191222502022-11-04T09:36:00.001-06:002022-11-04T09:55:45.691-06:00Southeastern Utah - October 2022 - Part 2<p><a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2022/11/southeastern-utah-october-2022-part-1.html"> Continued from Part 1</a></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Johns Canyon Road - Muley Point East - Cedar Point Road</h2><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">October 12th (continued)</h3><h4 style="text-align: left;">Johns Canyon Road</h4><p>I first drove on this road back in 2014. I'd been to Muley Point East and I spent the night (and nearly got blown away... or so it felt.) When I was admiring the views I noticed the road far below and wanted to explore it. When I was planning this trip I remembered seeing some amazing views of the San Juan canyon, spectacular sights of Muley Point and the bluffs above the road. I remembered there was a gate (there are two) and I remember a few rough spots, but nothing too bad. At that time I saw a couple of places that I thought might make good camping sites, and I remember the springs where I turned around. But that's about it. So I thought I'd drive it again to camp and explore.</p><p>You get to John's Canyon Road from the paved road to Goosenecks State Park from UT-261. It angles off on the north side about a half-mile from the state highway. The initial section is in pretty good shape. </p><p>A short while later I stopped to talk to two women coming out driving a jeep. I wanted to ask them how far they'd gone on the road. Turns out they'd been hiking the Honaker Trail which I'd never heard of (but later found on Google Maps.) They explained the hiking trail leads down to the San Juan River. They told me how to drive there by turning left at the large tank (which is about 2-1/2 miles from the pavement) and mentioned there were two nice campsites. They had stayed at one of those last night, but said many people park before the road drops down. They claimed the road wasn't bad, but it was wise to stop at the rock cairn rather than drive all the way to the trailhead. I took the turn-off, but stopped where the other cars were parked. I wanted to do more research before going farther. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM6ldFMmlsmZ22M-fa9tEen6gXtTKRMX4kMZAcbYD3X6-xkiFtOZmV-q1QDYY5Wl_88ddMNc6-FCZxnKCU2s4zPuatgL48qAUGnVUmrbN57L2omgPqfBkEM9xMj8O7Dp_sr6kwjVWl4Gih1cZDkQM_P6KDPeIg06Agoeuvgkcw5vMloq-DND1gz0fb/s1200/JohnsCynRd-points_1200w-SL1_23984.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="704" data-original-width="1200" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM6ldFMmlsmZ22M-fa9tEen6gXtTKRMX4kMZAcbYD3X6-xkiFtOZmV-q1QDYY5Wl_88ddMNc6-FCZxnKCU2s4zPuatgL48qAUGnVUmrbN57L2omgPqfBkEM9xMj8O7Dp_sr6kwjVWl4Gih1cZDkQM_P6KDPeIg06Agoeuvgkcw5vMloq-DND1gz0fb/w640-h376/JohnsCynRd-points_1200w-SL1_23984.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Johns Canyon Road about 3.5 miles from the turn-off.<br />Cedar Point on the right; Muley Point ahead to the left.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I returned to Johns Canyon Road and proceeded west. A mile or so after entering the canyon proper I pulled out on a short side road that could be a camp site. I had a snack and looked around. I noticed another vehicle pulled over a few hundred feet farther along the road, so when I started up again I stopped by them to say hello and ask if they had driven the road. They had not. They'd pulled over so he could walk up the road to where it looked like it had been washed out. The road had not washed out, but was hard to see in advance and he had not wanted to have to back out. They didn't know if they wanted to go on or not, but he said the section he examined was certainly drivable. I continued on.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNy7maZ_b1HMI-tRhtq2O8wDqR2XSQ8dlwXS0WKQ1Mr46y1lznez2MEmnr7ZeayI-9az7kxm1LTxxef55pecrFdzItte0PfQnDWcokA9zwaZAm1ppQKnKYCxsCZYrL2jAbHrtHdfLuDiqD2bKda7AFvCNd5HX9ty6c6swVMk48BQn-lYQlfw_Zua5R/s1200/JohnsCynRd-canyon_1200w-SL1_23986.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="712" data-original-width="1200" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNy7maZ_b1HMI-tRhtq2O8wDqR2XSQ8dlwXS0WKQ1Mr46y1lznez2MEmnr7ZeayI-9az7kxm1LTxxef55pecrFdzItte0PfQnDWcokA9zwaZAm1ppQKnKYCxsCZYrL2jAbHrtHdfLuDiqD2bKda7AFvCNd5HX9ty6c6swVMk48BQn-lYQlfw_Zua5R/w640-h382/JohnsCynRd-canyon_1200w-SL1_23986.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking out the truck window toward the San Juan River.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>That section was not bad, though it was certainly steep with a drop-off. I came to the first gate. It is below Muley Point East. I opened it, drove through, then closed it. Always leave gates open or closed as you find them. The next section was nasty. There were couple of steep, rocky stretches where I used 4LO to get up. After that the road was in good shape.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsAcBpIYZOFSlHR2Iz0yUw8xtdrE3Ivx0wIs_z8UX-DQrEj9t06VWAlQdS14Z0Ie8gRJYnYMwu0EsQnagNGWYxzmPgrLC99LtK5A1W-rv439g9MHnj-l3u9WpJVXuO3ilZfwCDfKh9O7Gw-Yz1kfr2oBixg8ZPqekzugSAO7Nb-IoTCc1GPvLqMOCD/s1200/JohnsCynRd-MuleyPt_1200w-SL1_23990.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="757" data-original-width="1200" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsAcBpIYZOFSlHR2Iz0yUw8xtdrE3Ivx0wIs_z8UX-DQrEj9t06VWAlQdS14Z0Ie8gRJYnYMwu0EsQnagNGWYxzmPgrLC99LtK5A1W-rv439g9MHnj-l3u9WpJVXuO3ilZfwCDfKh9O7Gw-Yz1kfr2oBixg8ZPqekzugSAO7Nb-IoTCc1GPvLqMOCD/w640-h404/JohnsCynRd-MuleyPt_1200w-SL1_23990.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can see the road clinging to the ledge at right. Muley Point ahead.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>The road however was much longer than I'd remembered. I kept waiting to find the second gate as I knew there was a big rock just past that and a prospective camp site. I finally came to the gate and the rock. The site was desolate and baren. Much of Utah and the four corners area had seen a good monsoon season. The bench between Cedar Mesa and the San Juan River looked like it hadn't seen rain in years. It was hot, dry, and not the least inviting.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg2sgEEmREtwU1HcPibhO7i2LfBZ5cMDvj6k6LExoZDpc7PLmr2hF_stl3GbcpCyHMtoXsL6J89Go2fbn8g3TywDlmJCzudEZcYeGFXfFcDjZoK7GriTi6QTofOkK-NS6LC-BQLPcywU3q3zN167cHeDNuAGv5-FSj-bvRG-Lm2eoSNJeue144KMjW/s1200/JohsCynRd-MuleyPt-truck_1200w-SL1_23998.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="1200" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg2sgEEmREtwU1HcPibhO7i2LfBZ5cMDvj6k6LExoZDpc7PLmr2hF_stl3GbcpCyHMtoXsL6J89Go2fbn8g3TywDlmJCzudEZcYeGFXfFcDjZoK7GriTi6QTofOkK-NS6LC-BQLPcywU3q3zN167cHeDNuAGv5-FSj-bvRG-Lm2eoSNJeue144KMjW/w640-h372/JohsCynRd-MuleyPt-truck_1200w-SL1_23998.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the point of Muley Point seen from a prospective campsite.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I continued on aiming for Johns Canyon Spring and hoping it would be more verdant and offer a camping site. Again it was much farther than I'd remembered. Yes, there were trees and greenery in the area of the spring, but there was absolutely no where to camp even if one were willing to ignore the prohibition for camping near a water source. There was barely room to turn around and it wasn't even level.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPKmlJ9O1M5kOLSDQPkhdJ_K8P6IKgPxV3nGAiIrsWnL5ARWIVnpNd4Zu72t5mJat5ywPdmfVqUjJVMMhm51kAkEWMPHtGCCSuJYvoZDlYLKI5ghp2SuxPTWcQRqk4SNxpc3JnudAU1yC14Jg5FkKLDGaX85hzf4ELp-gXb_lNTK8felJcJmkf-Ii5/s1200/JohnsCynSprings_1200w-SL1_24001.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="756" data-original-width="1200" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPKmlJ9O1M5kOLSDQPkhdJ_K8P6IKgPxV3nGAiIrsWnL5ARWIVnpNd4Zu72t5mJat5ywPdmfVqUjJVMMhm51kAkEWMPHtGCCSuJYvoZDlYLKI5ghp2SuxPTWcQRqk4SNxpc3JnudAU1yC14Jg5FkKLDGaX85hzf4ELp-gXb_lNTK8felJcJmkf-Ii5/w640-h404/JohnsCynSprings_1200w-SL1_24001.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Johns Canyon Springs.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I walked around a bit, enjoying the scene, and taking a few photos. I then climbed in my truck to make my way out. Somewhere on the long way out I decided I'd quit the canyon and camp somewhere else, maybe Muley Point.</p><p>I did spot a big rock right by the road with petroglyphs which was very interesting. Somehow I had not seen it when I drove by the time before.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizyJfogf1o45RelRyro2qLORgSNe2-f6W35MoVHMQhnzvU-AINkPO1EuFLFvdk947g3mPcpACncz2M45gnYA5JmV58PbBVkF8ltFiU4css6aMqYh3vxOPe0ANYnOg3lAX9gZWXUZQ-32NdS3m2H0ruzphKqRY6VuF3pPJXoE6FHA93-eUjp5K58Arz/s1200/JohsCynRd-petroglyphs-closeup_1200w-SL1_24009.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizyJfogf1o45RelRyro2qLORgSNe2-f6W35MoVHMQhnzvU-AINkPO1EuFLFvdk947g3mPcpACncz2M45gnYA5JmV58PbBVkF8ltFiU4css6aMqYh3vxOPe0ANYnOg3lAX9gZWXUZQ-32NdS3m2H0ruzphKqRY6VuF3pPJXoE6FHA93-eUjp5K58Arz/w640-h426/JohsCynRd-petroglyphs-closeup_1200w-SL1_24009.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Petroglyph rock.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6SSidb8MpS9aM43fDvxTUT3ERl9THq_W0DAGQyrsoR9XJyfnyH88X0d4u8pKwGBBIuHIxEduEY0nH9qpd17Y3JAoC7tw7GjJLztHD4-NXL2IATEF0BQE5kBE3s4JskZQOexxnHIFpoX0s5A3vOY87SzAYtvTWwvFdJMAWpwojLIgoLi5mrXvGTc25/s1200/JohsCynRd-petroglyphs-context_1200w-SL1_24010.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6SSidb8MpS9aM43fDvxTUT3ERl9THq_W0DAGQyrsoR9XJyfnyH88X0d4u8pKwGBBIuHIxEduEY0nH9qpd17Y3JAoC7tw7GjJLztHD4-NXL2IATEF0BQE5kBE3s4JskZQOexxnHIFpoX0s5A3vOY87SzAYtvTWwvFdJMAWpwojLIgoLi5mrXvGTc25/w640-h426/JohsCynRd-petroglyphs-context_1200w-SL1_24010.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Petroglyph rock <i>in situ</i> with Muley Point East in the background.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<p>The dodgy section just west of the first gate was no better on the way out. If anything it was worse and I had to use 4LO in several sections. I think it was much worse than in 2014. I was glad to be out of there. I cannot recommend driving John's Canyon Road past that first spur (37.225291, -109.967893) about a half mile after you pass Cedar Point unless you are experienced and have the proper vehicle.</p><p>I returned to the highway and headed up the Moki Dugway. At the top I turned south on Muley Point Road.</p><p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Muley Point East</h4>
<p>As I was driving up to what Google Maps now calls Muley Point East and what lots of folks mistake for Muley Point proper. (It actually has more spectacular views as it's right on the edge whereas the official vista point is not.) I saw a side road leading east. It's maybe a hundred yards before you get to the vista point. I was curious, but didn't explore at the time. </p>
<p>By the way, the Muley Point area along the bluffs is actually within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and their regulations apply. "All human body waste solids shall be contained and carried out using a portable toilet or a specifically engineered bag waste containment system." Which is really the only responsible thing to do everywhere in the backcountry. Some other jurisdictions allow burying human waste, but even those now require you bag your toilet paper and pack it out.</p>
<p>I found a spot to park and set up camp a ways back from the edge of the bluff. I walked the to the edge to look around. It was very hazy across the canyon, not ideal for photos and as I had nice ones from previous trips, I only took one down at John's Canyon Road where I'd just driven. The road sure looks tame from above.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_H28BgRRonbjdDnnyAgTd58Kl3oexkpzqRz6rwxhmbtGh1NiFMx9xuaoPORUswyW_YUWvVVIs3i4ZEeW6I0370OkXqTk6XD1-yksGzbExTtnvI6GwNKovinnCyoICjvxVsIDhj5PTVVFfWkYb6nvZPkKBHKnWakwArHurA3C75PtzOv26ZqnVzxcB/s1200/MuleyPtE-JohnsCynRd_1200w-SL1_24016.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="765" data-original-width="1200" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_H28BgRRonbjdDnnyAgTd58Kl3oexkpzqRz6rwxhmbtGh1NiFMx9xuaoPORUswyW_YUWvVVIs3i4ZEeW6I0370OkXqTk6XD1-yksGzbExTtnvI6GwNKovinnCyoICjvxVsIDhj5PTVVFfWkYb6nvZPkKBHKnWakwArHurA3C75PtzOv26ZqnVzxcB/w640-h410/MuleyPtE-JohnsCynRd_1200w-SL1_24016.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking over the edge of Muley Point East down at Johns Canyon Road.<br />You may notice the profile of Monument Valley on the horizon.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>As the afternoon progressed to evening, more and more vehicles were setting up to camp in this area. Their voices easily carried in the quiet. Finally I decided it was just too crowded and rather than sit and fume about the noise, I'd move camp. I stowed my gear and closed the top.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinDkKGwDVyHOlnDDfQOcXlXJj3XaawzFuOE5sUGi3nngUZhIvz6bTOQUgc_kSa6Lfc_2nmMKJZUQpZiVW-D9USY3cGagSXzUUAU4xVVxcGbsDGNNK61O4r5TmIxpaDakVBSbWze_4AbTFGf9QYFSN1b6pfQhkr9rDILv6WUJ4KgmjoMp99VDzxl3Nr/s1200/MuleyPtE-view_1200w-SL1_24026.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="767" data-original-width="1200" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinDkKGwDVyHOlnDDfQOcXlXJj3XaawzFuOE5sUGi3nngUZhIvz6bTOQUgc_kSa6Lfc_2nmMKJZUQpZiVW-D9USY3cGagSXzUUAU4xVVxcGbsDGNNK61O4r5TmIxpaDakVBSbWze_4AbTFGf9QYFSN1b6pfQhkr9rDILv6WUJ4KgmjoMp99VDzxl3Nr/w640-h412/MuleyPtE-view_1200w-SL1_24026.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking along the edge of Muley Point East.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<p>I drove onward on Muley Point Road. There were a number of nice campsites along the road, but they seemed to be already occupied. (Looking from home I see there is a side road that heads westerly for some ways with a few dispersed sites along it; the satellite view even captured what looks like a pop-up camper about 4000' along the road at a spot with an amazing view. Maybe I'll check that out next time.) I turned around to check out that side road I'd seen earlier in the day.</p><p><br /></p><h4>Cedar Point Road</h4><p>The road is not labelled in Google Maps, but I'll call it Cedar Point Road as it heads generally in that direction. I drove about a mile down the road to a nice campsite where I set up. It was getting along toward dark, so didn't take any photos that evening.</p><p>The fall is the season to camp at Muley Point or any other exposed site in southern Utah; summer is too hot and in spring the winds might keep you up at night as they blast your camp.</p><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">October 13</h3><h4 style="text-align: left;">Cedar Point Road (continued)</h4><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3zbY1--6YIlPEUUlty1vm74NX-v_achdGWNHe13wRiABj-SUeMBv6KHqoAqL8hVLLznG57Gane8xJqjrUXASEQavvDuFn-kGvnyYce7tNKP4E-Wz7SvuMpxfd3HcYiFdlD2ohca7J5jWw5u9CCyOICqP_0U-roH-0gsUkb_nwix9NKJdKTiUj5tsc/s1200/CedarPtRd-truck-moon_1200h-SL1_24034.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1152" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3zbY1--6YIlPEUUlty1vm74NX-v_achdGWNHe13wRiABj-SUeMBv6KHqoAqL8hVLLznG57Gane8xJqjrUXASEQavvDuFn-kGvnyYce7tNKP4E-Wz7SvuMpxfd3HcYiFdlD2ohca7J5jWw5u9CCyOICqP_0U-roH-0gsUkb_nwix9NKJdKTiUj5tsc/w614-h640/CedarPtRd-truck-moon_1200h-SL1_24034.jpg" width="614" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dawn at my campsite with the moon still high in the sky.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>It was a beautiful dawn as light spread across the landscape. I tried to capture the sunrise, but without any clouds to reflect the light all I got was overexposures. I did much better capturing a view of Monument Valley, Arizona and Muley Point with Navajo Mountain and the San Juan canyon behind it.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLVmwLh7QeP0Old7Hqh_YpeYL-AVgVA9s2PqDPFylc-H0URC45h7gI1Pc028R_CQzdh1FLIpobpRcyFFMDd1gH_WZZrRW-a49l2mZRCcEkkrQKwM9Ah8Wd5NZBR8D9Mz_SSHZWgE2bH3LEZ_JF6whOpVciBUErmcAOQGLg5qXL1EH1jI88uNhnKJG9/s1200/CedarPtRd-MonumentValley_1200w-SL1_24049.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="680" data-original-width="1200" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLVmwLh7QeP0Old7Hqh_YpeYL-AVgVA9s2PqDPFylc-H0URC45h7gI1Pc028R_CQzdh1FLIpobpRcyFFMDd1gH_WZZrRW-a49l2mZRCcEkkrQKwM9Ah8Wd5NZBR8D9Mz_SSHZWgE2bH3LEZ_JF6whOpVciBUErmcAOQGLg5qXL1EH1jI88uNhnKJG9/w640-h362/CedarPtRd-MonumentValley_1200w-SL1_24049.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Monument Valley, Arizona is across the San Juan River valley.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<p>Last night I had spied a campsite a bit farther along Cedar Point Road where a small white van was parked. It looked like it might have even a better view. I decided if the van left I'd check the site out. It did and I did. I moved my campsite to this higher vantage which was also farther away from any adjacent sites, not that I had been bothered last night.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihaFK8OIhlAYRxhHnvNdbMsGVrML44SWiq2cLBPERRA89gfJWKF95CCjn13L-bEZk0fSyKj9LxkTxqVAcMX5sK6kbYbYOE44mAAN1c7D_f_RrEdAKk7dBqpEOOqCx0iQotC6ZeC6FyU7do-eHLNBqZydQfKpiufrnrpg6NK39UH4r5OaWXXaEYj7GZ/s2400/MuleyPoint-dawn-2pano_2400w-SL1_24060-61.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="822" data-original-width="2400" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihaFK8OIhlAYRxhHnvNdbMsGVrML44SWiq2cLBPERRA89gfJWKF95CCjn13L-bEZk0fSyKj9LxkTxqVAcMX5sK6kbYbYOE44mAAN1c7D_f_RrEdAKk7dBqpEOOqCx0iQotC6ZeC6FyU7do-eHLNBqZydQfKpiufrnrpg6NK39UH4r5OaWXXaEYj7GZ/w640-h222/MuleyPoint-dawn-2pano_2400w-SL1_24060-61.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Muley Point (right) with Navajo Mountain in the background.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<p>I enjoyed the rest of my coffee in my comfortable camp chair. Later in the morning I walked farther along the road to see what was there. I saw a couple other campers, I spotted at least two side roads that led down toward the edge of the bluffs, one looked very rough. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibeC0QZwHqq3DM7swDsZ6QzLq7l-CqjxCeIzht0Vma2k_76gBaIdn0-RCiuu44j10PJtiZ-l3VJb-IBQj-bzKTxgf07uD6nlXyQEvRnmhMf9z-wPdkhWKEIU9hLxFOuq-0OgXA3WiD2xnw3zqWm6nt8Q78EEkdEnzCM1DHOwWgEFsTkPhCW7RQMuLM/s1200/CedarPtRd-pinon-valley_1200w-SL1_24093.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="748" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibeC0QZwHqq3DM7swDsZ6QzLq7l-CqjxCeIzht0Vma2k_76gBaIdn0-RCiuu44j10PJtiZ-l3VJb-IBQj-bzKTxgf07uD6nlXyQEvRnmhMf9z-wPdkhWKEIU9hLxFOuq-0OgXA3WiD2xnw3zqWm6nt8Q78EEkdEnzCM1DHOwWgEFsTkPhCW7RQMuLM/w640-h400/CedarPtRd-pinon-valley_1200w-SL1_24093.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cedar Point Road view.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I walked to where I could look east toward Valley of the Gods and took a photo. I was curious if the road stretched all the way to the end of Cedar Point, but in looking at the satellite view from home, it doesn't look like it does. It does appear to go farther north, as double track, but I bet it is not a comfortable surface.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMtQq1gfPBLuW6Jw8C4w_jJ3CnAqhDDGK779-IXkXcUcuawy9Hx_JAYRjR9LnAfp6bmcm3jErGFzaoalH6rVDQnYMubfWOzPoEFJuvvIb8ogiqA4U4IWVJrbAZnHhkXk2xVYfgZfErWCdmjKdYxt_UEypoU8wyC6Hi5wneZ-U30xzoxl7pUqotUhi2/s1200/CedarPtRd-VotG_1200w-SL1_24083.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="718" data-original-width="1200" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMtQq1gfPBLuW6Jw8C4w_jJ3CnAqhDDGK779-IXkXcUcuawy9Hx_JAYRjR9LnAfp6bmcm3jErGFzaoalH6rVDQnYMubfWOzPoEFJuvvIb8ogiqA4U4IWVJrbAZnHhkXk2xVYfgZfErWCdmjKdYxt_UEypoU8wyC6Hi5wneZ-U30xzoxl7pUqotUhi2/w640-h384/CedarPtRd-VotG_1200w-SL1_24083.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Near the east end of Cedar Point Road with a view of Valley of the Gods. <br />You can just see Ute Mountain, Colorado on the horizon.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<p>After lunch I wandered around the immediate area and took photos of some of the miniature plants thriving close to the ground. I made a collage of six species. You can judge the comparative size of the plants by the size of the gravel in the photo, as the decomposed sandstone is the same size and consistency in all the images.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGTkP_w_yNm7ei1CdApUnPzsiL10gytohgGCdfsf4n3wHb3x2xUHhPSYBH04FPey7EqbU13yIL4oEQyTPAzoPzj1ttdN9dMr8nnKRkyv4jaaqNiDs03ZQbNZXm6DrvtZ-ud_zJ2hT-16c8sgZEPf0BxBqIB3tzzN9oMz-4sOvwA63k1ikJI5F33cPy/s1200/CedarPointRd-miniPlants_1200sq.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGTkP_w_yNm7ei1CdApUnPzsiL10gytohgGCdfsf4n3wHb3x2xUHhPSYBH04FPey7EqbU13yIL4oEQyTPAzoPzj1ttdN9dMr8nnKRkyv4jaaqNiDs03ZQbNZXm6DrvtZ-ud_zJ2hT-16c8sgZEPf0BxBqIB3tzzN9oMz-4sOvwA63k1ikJI5F33cPy/w640-h640/CedarPointRd-miniPlants_1200sq.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miniature plants seemed to be thriving throughout this area.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<p>I was pretty lazy the rest of the day. Sitting in my chair hypnotized by the view or reading my library book.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCV_d4PFkkDxUZJYWIB0zAn9RXjzk80qk3L33MoyrCKEpY81WLBYYh-uYx7uZIHIvKu85_yKgi2yD6Pgq0pKZZEFYtH_jqw3aUT06WucX8DNIqgyjxmsgk6SQ5zgX8qT4UfGvGL97uJMxwM4idkKLMsEpz4inwlvR1XDMudXyXQ_XPB2kvYaVqaqRM/s1200/CedarPtRd-camper_1200w-SL1_24100.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="654" data-original-width="1200" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCV_d4PFkkDxUZJYWIB0zAn9RXjzk80qk3L33MoyrCKEpY81WLBYYh-uYx7uZIHIvKu85_yKgi2yD6Pgq0pKZZEFYtH_jqw3aUT06WucX8DNIqgyjxmsgk6SQ5zgX8qT4UfGvGL97uJMxwM4idkKLMsEpz4inwlvR1XDMudXyXQ_XPB2kvYaVqaqRM/w640-h348/CedarPtRd-camper_1200w-SL1_24100.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My campsite as the sun was going down.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>The light was delightfully crimson as the sun went down. There were no clouds to manufacture a full sunset, as had been the case the previous nights, but I caught the last of the sunlight illuminating the side of Navajo Mountain.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf5H8H9iWxOPf5SlBqra_FkiGAN-w2L5-n9dG2Kcu_110Go7KGCFwBIPG8Bj6RyCMyUmHz_AYfWw2cdjKr7TkZXhChihQemKrS4CnAUGx40dX8vLr2Hw2E0tth9VTGRxFhTX4Ku2YsLPm_HjTO_l6q-jxDI-rhWjXf9XyzzZBLOHGCaDzV5ER9mD2M/s1200/CedarPtRd-sunset_1200w-SL1_24113.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="727" data-original-width="1200" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf5H8H9iWxOPf5SlBqra_FkiGAN-w2L5-n9dG2Kcu_110Go7KGCFwBIPG8Bj6RyCMyUmHz_AYfWw2cdjKr7TkZXhChihQemKrS4CnAUGx40dX8vLr2Hw2E0tth9VTGRxFhTX4Ku2YsLPm_HjTO_l6q-jxDI-rhWjXf9XyzzZBLOHGCaDzV5ER9mD2M/w640-h388/CedarPtRd-sunset_1200w-SL1_24113.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The last of the light reflecting on the side of Navajo Mountain.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>The wind came up during the evening. It wasn't bad, but after dark something was rattling on the outside of my camper. I stepped out to quiet it and was astonished by the night sky. The first night of my trip the nearly full moon was too bright to see more than a few stars. Tonight they were out in their glory. It was windy, but very mild, so I stood out for a while admiring the diamonds in the sky. The Milky Way was directly overhead, too. Beautiful. In the short time I was outside I saw two falling stars, as well!</p><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">October 14</h3><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Cedar Point Road (continued)</h4><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiX6L7Rtm0Bxws5W5xiGmsjJTjKwcvV4Vhh9_Vaa7EaSq_bmZJeBGeEmjB2_MNmQF9bQlD8aADas151uy8AdriesT14g39lrmRXJTaBgrIs9IPlTzxnrcXyURJAkigv_QFXCLqD7ek2s_TTwONNPngRAjVmMhTPmNd3agOjlm_cKzaDhweyouacXO_/s1200/CedarPtRd-NavajoMtn_1200w-SL1_24157.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="598" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiX6L7Rtm0Bxws5W5xiGmsjJTjKwcvV4Vhh9_Vaa7EaSq_bmZJeBGeEmjB2_MNmQF9bQlD8aADas151uy8AdriesT14g39lrmRXJTaBgrIs9IPlTzxnrcXyURJAkigv_QFXCLqD7ek2s_TTwONNPngRAjVmMhTPmNd3agOjlm_cKzaDhweyouacXO_/w640-h320/CedarPtRd-NavajoMtn_1200w-SL1_24157.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Navajo Mountain seen in the early morning light from my campsite.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p>Early morning was amazing. I sat in my chair, drinking my fresh brewed coffee, and watched as the sunlight slowly crept from the tops of the mesas to down across the landscape. I took a number of multiple exposure panoramas. I've processed two of those, but haven't figured out how to share the very wide images on Blogspot.</p><p>I packed up and headed out. I drove north on UT-261 up the middle of Cedar Mesa. I stopped at the Kane Gulch Ranger Station. I didn't know if they'd be open, as their hours had been limited in the past, but they have nice vault toilets by the long term parking area. They were open. I talked to a lady inside and apparently with the new permitting requirements they are open every day. According to the Trip Planner I was given they are actually only open mornings during the spring and fall.</p><p>Here are some useful links: <a href="https://www.blm.gov/sites/blm.gov/files/Utah_Cedar_Mesa_Trip_Planner.pdf" target="_blank">Cedar Mesa Trip Planner (PDF)</a>; <a href="https://www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/permits-and-passes/lotteries-and-permit-systems/utah/cedarmesa" target="_blank">Cedar Mesa Permits & Passes</a></p><p>See also: <a href="https://www.blm.gov/programs/national-conservation-lands/utah/bears-ears-national-monument" target="_blank">Bears Ears National Monument</a></p><p><br /></p>
<p>End of Part 2; <a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2022/11/southeastern-utah-october-2022-part-3.html">continues in Part 3</a>.</p><br />Bosque Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00001863270259847102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3983525105536347837.post-5660425923436175132022-11-04T09:06:00.002-06:002022-11-04T09:55:36.677-06:00Southeastern Utah - October 2022: Part 1<h1 style="text-align: left;">Valley of the Gods - Johns Canyon Road - Muley Point & Cedar Point - Moss Back Road & Red Canyon </h1><h2 style="text-align: left;">October 10 - 16, 2022</h2><p><i>The monsoon season this year was welcomed by southwestern trees, plants and shrubs, but not necessarily by those of us wanting to go camping. The rains seemed to be continuing well into October and I wondered if I'd be able to get out this month. Suddenly the forecast changed and the week ahead looked dry, sunny, and mild. I quickly gathered my supplies and headed for southeastern Utah. My tentative plans were two nights each in Valley of the Gods, John's Canyon, and Moss Back Road above Red Canyon, UT.</i></p><p><span style="color: #fcff01;">Remember to click on a photo to see a larger version</span></p><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Part 1 - Valley of the Gods</h2><h3 style="text-align: left;">October 10</h3><p>I had to fill my tank before I left the city and the lines at Costco were the worst I'd ever experienced, but finally got on the road. I took my usual route up to the four corners area, not that there is really any choice. Instead of turning north as I often do, I continued on US-160 to US-191 which crosses the San Juan River just west of Bluff, UT. Although the forecast was clear there sure seemed to be a large thunderstorm to the north. I was concerned, though as I traveled farther west I could see it was over the Abajo Mountains and Elk Ridge west of Monticello. It appeared Valley of the Gods was probably safe, but I didn't know how dry.</p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Comb Ridge</h4><p>After crossing the ridge I looked up Comb Wash and saw a photo opportunity. I turned north and took a few photos. I was pleasantly surprised the road was dry so was hopeful my destination would be dry, too. I continued west on US-163.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgweqzH_P1soYbsh_8GKDu5F0incdyuTR7_dBGxRRfm0PhkNiDqZl2ztmJQQH0ijGP3hmCxd8AzJzW1IG5dRbTonZfZuXbpmI9uBIad7TNLlswI86sqnxPE2iN-JyzYyNwuUnZaubauPAt2cPi3za9tBirmzBeVCDY4HYA54SECf-YeHFYMMLMoL72U/s1200/CombRidge_1200w-SL1_23831.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="755" data-original-width="1200" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgweqzH_P1soYbsh_8GKDu5F0incdyuTR7_dBGxRRfm0PhkNiDqZl2ztmJQQH0ijGP3hmCxd8AzJzW1IG5dRbTonZfZuXbpmI9uBIad7TNLlswI86sqnxPE2iN-JyzYyNwuUnZaubauPAt2cPi3za9tBirmzBeVCDY4HYA54SECf-YeHFYMMLMoL72U/w640-h402/CombRidge_1200w-SL1_23831.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking north along the west side of Comb Ridge.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><h4 style="text-align: left;">Valley of the Gods</h4><p>I turned off the highway at the east entrance of Valley of the Gods. The water crossing that's within sight of the highway was no deeper than usual, so I guessed the storm had passed well to the north. The first several dispersed camp sites were empty, but soon the camping areas within sight of the distinctive sandstone formations were full of RVs and travel trailers. That middle stretch of the east side is popular with the big rigs as the sites are large with easy access.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSlUWu145WF-RnykNxOl3r2LYvGBT2zhsraF47Yngu5DflG_8kcv977KhClctLpE_LgiNskynZ92UPfErFSt144yIL9hU_zs_tQdHfUCcnNauVs5erBAh9aXQq6GYkPdKRKYUo7_2XwobBEJfnL7gtE_KAtzD4eAo_yWM94-f-cqV76rBK7581Yjio/s1200/VotG-entry_1200w-SL1_23839.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="658" data-original-width="1200" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSlUWu145WF-RnykNxOl3r2LYvGBT2zhsraF47Yngu5DflG_8kcv977KhClctLpE_LgiNskynZ92UPfErFSt144yIL9hU_zs_tQdHfUCcnNauVs5erBAh9aXQq6GYkPdKRKYUo7_2XwobBEJfnL7gtE_KAtzD4eAo_yWM94-f-cqV76rBK7581Yjio/w640-h350/VotG-entry_1200w-SL1_23839.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking north toward the middle stretch of the east side.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>As I got to the northern third of the road all my previous campsites were occupied. I crossed my fingers and kept driving. I made the horseshoe turn just past Castle Butte, and those nearby sites were taken, as well. Past the tall formations west of the road I spied a pop-up camper set up near the road next to a little hillock. It looked similar to a FWC or ATC, but was another brand. As the folks were by their truck I rolled down my window to say "hi." It was a Caribou Lite from Outfitter Mfg. in Colorado. The nice folks were from Montana.</p><p>Turns out there was a good campsite beyond that hill which I quickly claimed. It had a great view across the valley and the adjacent hill provided privacy between the two sites. As I set up my new neighbors waved as they pedaled by on their bicycles to explore down the road.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWzqmi9G7n8Tui4HSrYam3kLM9PGZx6wz-mxHAE3Gfq1mwkbc0ToUYU6l__mWIg42LfnP_bj6ztub43yrGesZS2uBQvghYPJxfg6YJVCrm9giXFJ79wDuO4y-LKzdNMKxcYMNm1FfLRVg7xmkooq3ypBiWk9DUxhHzRLaeY6WOKhUmP_Q8MSzukRdY/s1200/VotG-campsite_1200w-SL1_23843.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="646" data-original-width="1200" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWzqmi9G7n8Tui4HSrYam3kLM9PGZx6wz-mxHAE3Gfq1mwkbc0ToUYU6l__mWIg42LfnP_bj6ztub43yrGesZS2uBQvghYPJxfg6YJVCrm9giXFJ79wDuO4y-LKzdNMKxcYMNm1FfLRVg7xmkooq3ypBiWk9DUxhHzRLaeY6WOKhUmP_Q8MSzukRdY/w640-h346/VotG-campsite_1200w-SL1_23843.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My campsite for the first night.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I didn't see much in the way of wildlife on this trip. There were bats flying in the late evening in the valley and I heard one coyote sing out in the no-mans-land between the U of the road. Only very few birds here or at the later locations. Not many wildflowers still blooming in October, either, but I did see a few.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBu9xe3cLGrt9G7IrdXmpJWg5CxgB6u6cm3FTubKZPqTdltvQR0lLETx0uXbHB1n4AnPgI-JGN7UcUznKBQ7N_3drY-72owLL1cTukCLpDCBEzvkJnFSEQchdBdBYxJ28rf2IbUpJEVMRf8TEMcKniyWY5nJWWE-UKaSrDm_OmIrM1WLyNIbl7M08G/s1200/YellowBeeplant_1200h-SL1_23847.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="990" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBu9xe3cLGrt9G7IrdXmpJWg5CxgB6u6cm3FTubKZPqTdltvQR0lLETx0uXbHB1n4AnPgI-JGN7UcUznKBQ7N_3drY-72owLL1cTukCLpDCBEzvkJnFSEQchdBdBYxJ28rf2IbUpJEVMRf8TEMcKniyWY5nJWWE-UKaSrDm_OmIrM1WLyNIbl7M08G/w530-h640/YellowBeeplant_1200h-SL1_23847.jpg" width="530" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some variety of Beeplant though it doesn't match any I found online.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I relaxed in my camp chair and watched the shadows grow. If there was a sunset, I missed it.</p><p>A note on campsites in Valley of the Gods: for the most part sites are simply bare patches of natural gravel near the road in seemingly random locations. A few are down short spur roads. A few may be perched near a wash. There are a few piñon trees in the area and a few of the larger washes may have cottonwood trees along their course. Most campsites have none of those trees. None have any amenities. Most are vulnerable to winds in season. Yet the sites are gorgeous because of the amazing views of the sandstorm buttes and canyons. It's one of my favorite places to camp in the world. (And judging by the number of campers there, I'm not alone in my opinion.)</p><p>Also note that I've not stayed in the same campsite twice in this beautiful area, so each separate blog post has photographs from unique vantage points. This will make the 8th post I've published for this spot. Look at the locations list in the right-hand column for additional photos and descriptions of this area.</p><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">October 11</h3><h4 style="text-align: left;">Valley of the Gods (continued)</h4><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEBRh6InTiBTv0iaJ_mD5SDYDqp77ZcWhyV55nejMBexl3JbJx9XkYevLwNgxGLVIOusdg1SkXXcEEpSJ4RDRov_XngqtBVMcgKnIQqD0veorJ1WtTC1NaLHzEFgsj9V0mI_wlEmJa9sIIhps1yMLEjNSBYXvaceTX35wbOXbJU2KmfjnRM1-Yty6t/s1200/VotG-sunrise_1200w-SL1_23878.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="770" data-original-width="1200" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEBRh6InTiBTv0iaJ_mD5SDYDqp77ZcWhyV55nejMBexl3JbJx9XkYevLwNgxGLVIOusdg1SkXXcEEpSJ4RDRov_XngqtBVMcgKnIQqD0veorJ1WtTC1NaLHzEFgsj9V0mI_wlEmJa9sIIhps1yMLEjNSBYXvaceTX35wbOXbJU2KmfjnRM1-Yty6t/w640-h412/VotG-sunrise_1200w-SL1_23878.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Moonset at sunrise from my campsite.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHayJ_gXiivJeH6ufRYHDxMYnD89FrBD8CVupjVbQk1gHIKJjsLLVa_A3n3na0DlsNCjEyg-HgQPNYd1Sjc3HyoQzw0FF4X4EjBxS1eKwC6L5nGB39DUsHztR9Sr1puFfSCnUKIg-H1CMKsYB1OgZaYL2EC9TvlK7wCiIz-8823wZIwQL7vU22dQZ6/s1200/VotG-campsite-sunrise_1200w-SL1_23886.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="715" data-original-width="1200" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHayJ_gXiivJeH6ufRYHDxMYnD89FrBD8CVupjVbQk1gHIKJjsLLVa_A3n3na0DlsNCjEyg-HgQPNYd1Sjc3HyoQzw0FF4X4EjBxS1eKwC6L5nGB39DUsHztR9Sr1puFfSCnUKIg-H1CMKsYB1OgZaYL2EC9TvlK7wCiIz-8823wZIwQL7vU22dQZ6/w640-h384/VotG-campsite-sunrise_1200w-SL1_23886.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another view of my campsite.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /></div><div>I was out my door at dawn with my camera. Took lots of photos, but mostly just admired the morning. I climbed a small hill across the road to get a new vantage.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV8xEdEFG2AXBTMlYqkzCYBksTD92gwajBWdMACvc4nCevhuGMfmJoTYvWCk_9-7ySzQUdlg8hOUdeRz6hzlJPRdUkBuKxL7pD8tnjOShiVdPKta-_2cADKGOYkrVQuqPT3420nDQCd1DCmmToRU7AstsWrI1pq7xyb_n9KW5IKzcFzGbWSa9qO3rp/s1200/VotG-buttes_1200w-SL1_23904.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="634" data-original-width="1200" height="338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV8xEdEFG2AXBTMlYqkzCYBksTD92gwajBWdMACvc4nCevhuGMfmJoTYvWCk_9-7ySzQUdlg8hOUdeRz6hzlJPRdUkBuKxL7pD8tnjOShiVdPKta-_2cADKGOYkrVQuqPT3420nDQCd1DCmmToRU7AstsWrI1pq7xyb_n9KW5IKzcFzGbWSa9qO3rp/w640-h338/VotG-buttes_1200w-SL1_23904.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of the head of the valley.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>After my neighbors decamped late morning. I moved up to their site where the view was better.</div><p>It was a beautiful clear day with a light breeze to moderate the warm sun. I flew my drone to get a few photos. The spherical panorama was not as good as any of my previous versions (<a href="https://kuula.co/post/7YhG5" target="_blank">here's my favorite</a>), so haven't posted it, but here is a stitched 3-image panorama.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkpjdTaGu0crqpajK3FkqIanCL24oj5wddXVB0T0AkJ43ZUEfbjoYjHdB_jGwuQvD4dLJIXxzIb3vV1jqfvtd3UBLS2GIdaRwd1Xdy0VlF-iiKzrekSke-Rdw_EhGfNEf0IttdafNuq-nocLn2lc6WwlSLVlVZ2xFWRj1F3Fvl8qxzGVs90KdEn61Y/s2400/VotG-aero3pano_2400w-DJI_0409-0411.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="758" data-original-width="2400" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkpjdTaGu0crqpajK3FkqIanCL24oj5wddXVB0T0AkJ43ZUEfbjoYjHdB_jGwuQvD4dLJIXxzIb3vV1jqfvtd3UBLS2GIdaRwd1Xdy0VlF-iiKzrekSke-Rdw_EhGfNEf0IttdafNuq-nocLn2lc6WwlSLVlVZ2xFWRj1F3Fvl8qxzGVs90KdEn61Y/w640-h202/VotG-aero3pano_2400w-DJI_0409-0411.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of the head of the valley from above my campsite. Click to enlarge.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>In the early evening I walked southwest cross country along the edge of the basin from my camp. I was able to photograph the pinnacles west of my site from a vantage opposite of the road.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2FyDkvkJw1UQ44ETjBC7RDFDzlt_CpR3oFY39Afvqxw9m_lQQ1rN7IH-k-7smfIeJUK1KKgEsm7o0GqY7E7fTD5VNa2m4We1hIeqyQ5rP1a9pyTv2V9LOrR4VhvZ-1YnBhiv8X6EP5yekPB7ep6rUEePf1AF6MTSejQIGuEOqAVDDuIZGFZvP3cWS/s1200/VotG-buttes-backside_1200w-SL1_23922.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="734" data-original-width="1200" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2FyDkvkJw1UQ44ETjBC7RDFDzlt_CpR3oFY39Afvqxw9m_lQQ1rN7IH-k-7smfIeJUK1KKgEsm7o0GqY7E7fTD5VNa2m4We1hIeqyQ5rP1a9pyTv2V9LOrR4VhvZ-1YnBhiv8X6EP5yekPB7ep6rUEePf1AF6MTSejQIGuEOqAVDDuIZGFZvP3cWS/w640-h392/VotG-buttes-backside_1200w-SL1_23922.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sandstone formations near my site, but seen from the side opposite the road.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_RUZ0fsniCa8uS6pcA8e5QEm4QjUfVFfxa_BnPAM64aOYrw7r5IGzC3Nlv45gxy4G8pUFzjPs-l5-w9tTN0Tz-yIYUHlADNa3KuD6JMQFwKYLQk-EJAXzqvNBcypHiQ_BCc9RB-hy_paMDfjeNWlJLgnI-yNVx7AmH6k6nLqY5ZMI0WhKQGAyqECK/s1200/VotG-lookback_1200w-SL1_23926.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="670" data-original-width="1200" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_RUZ0fsniCa8uS6pcA8e5QEm4QjUfVFfxa_BnPAM64aOYrw7r5IGzC3Nlv45gxy4G8pUFzjPs-l5-w9tTN0Tz-yIYUHlADNa3KuD6JMQFwKYLQk-EJAXzqvNBcypHiQ_BCc9RB-hy_paMDfjeNWlJLgnI-yNVx7AmH6k6nLqY5ZMI0WhKQGAyqECK/w640-h360/VotG-lookback_1200w-SL1_23926.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sunlit edge of the mesa across the valley with just the top of my camper showing.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>I walked up a informal trail to see if I could catch the setting sun reflecting off the pinnacles to the east, but the shadows were all wrong. When I turned around to go back to my campsite I was shown this sublime vista.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinej6jopwxFuZn4AwLsCNpQQyQ9C1ugBpBdre25U6hWKRkOe0KO3y7J4sYAloy0QraWDt_lQfa_Vqi8Duhac0IWl2OXnGbbj261uIkn-6GksSuTwCJQ9Ej0KHajQRKtXr5S_ikereDAHRUaO5L6KrWatuZsKWQ9ThWRg7MUxdVUPRbVvuZXrERm3Jx/s1200/VotG-campsite-sunset_1200w-SL1_23932.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="760" data-original-width="1200" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinej6jopwxFuZn4AwLsCNpQQyQ9C1ugBpBdre25U6hWKRkOe0KO3y7J4sYAloy0QraWDt_lQfa_Vqi8Duhac0IWl2OXnGbbj261uIkn-6GksSuTwCJQ9Ej0KHajQRKtXr5S_ikereDAHRUaO5L6KrWatuZsKWQ9ThWRg7MUxdVUPRbVvuZXrERm3Jx/w640-h406/VotG-campsite-sunset_1200w-SL1_23932.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking southerly down the valley at sunset.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">October 12</h3><h4 style="text-align: left;">Valley of the Gods (continued)</h4><p>Yesterday I missed the golden light on the sides of the pinacles up the road from where I'd camped, so today I made that a priority. The moon was still high enough above the horizon to capture it behind the sandstone formations. I took many photos, but they just didn't have as much magic as the actual scene. Here are a couple.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPfUv9yO6ivG8_DwreHUYXCULp-dBsIJiFUwKdKchD9mg9NpnuI9OjboeH10M3wLcw7OW0sDcKIsR8JXzJqF6VWs9f5G5fCr7ls57ap46_VE-i_sPCq-pVFMj5YgQwD3HLOHe-5oD0mPSliPeS8ydLcLsNPxOOA5ovsHsZNCpWGBWaihop0MhnLPMp/s1200/VotG-butte-sunrise_1200w-SL1_23958.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="718" data-original-width="1200" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPfUv9yO6ivG8_DwreHUYXCULp-dBsIJiFUwKdKchD9mg9NpnuI9OjboeH10M3wLcw7OW0sDcKIsR8JXzJqF6VWs9f5G5fCr7ls57ap46_VE-i_sPCq-pVFMj5YgQwD3HLOHe-5oD0mPSliPeS8ydLcLsNPxOOA5ovsHsZNCpWGBWaihop0MhnLPMp/w640-h384/VotG-butte-sunrise_1200w-SL1_23958.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First light at sunrise.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixnAxCuedOg6xBiQ2OYDfgT2K5WomXSliBwEt2WoTRmh3upTR_9d1vbmNayPTUayVe9QuJ-1OOzhemPmM-Ql77zH4v4d6ZtbttIkaAk1DVwKXlwgwBaXJUbCYvAiiTCg7QwwoKJCe2lISQ4Zt7LOfyevAMcj3kYVnTbB_ENaTyTKCJoAAwgLCIPfy6/s1200/VotG-butte-moon_1200w-SL1_23966.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1200" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixnAxCuedOg6xBiQ2OYDfgT2K5WomXSliBwEt2WoTRmh3upTR_9d1vbmNayPTUayVe9QuJ-1OOzhemPmM-Ql77zH4v4d6ZtbttIkaAk1DVwKXlwgwBaXJUbCYvAiiTCg7QwwoKJCe2lISQ4Zt7LOfyevAMcj3kYVnTbB_ENaTyTKCJoAAwgLCIPfy6/w640-h358/VotG-butte-moon_1200w-SL1_23966.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Golden hour as the moon sets behind the sandstone.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I packed up and headed out toward the western end of Valley of the Gods Road. This leg of the road is longer (and maybe a bit rougher with fewer pinacles), but still beautiful. See my earlier posts for photos.</p><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;"><i>End of Part 1; <a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2022/11/southeastern-utah-october-2022-part-2.html">go to Part 2</a></i></h4><div><br /></div>Bosque Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00001863270259847102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3983525105536347837.post-21338129697858053292022-09-28T16:42:00.002-06:002022-09-28T16:42:53.733-06:00Alta Lakes, Colorado - September 2022<p>
You can see a larger version of any photo by clicking on it. Then you may use
the arrows to move from one photo to another.
</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">September 14 - 20, 2022</h2>
<p>
<i>
After my wonderful Utah expedition in April of this year I was eager for my
next trip. Life, however, intervened. It was just one thing after another
and I'll spare you the gritty details. My schedule was clear to hit the
road after Labor Day and I began preparations for camping in the San Juan
Mountains of Colorado. Then I had to delay my departure by several days to let
rain storms clear out. OK, now let's go...
</i>
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Wednesday, September 14th</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Angel Peak Scenic Area</h4>
<p>
My goal for this trip was Alta Lakes, south of Telluride, Colorado. The forecast
indicated that one more day was needed for the rain to fully clear out, so I
took off late in the afternoon with Angel Peak in northern New Mexico as my
destination for the night. It's only about a 2-1/2 hour drive NW on US-550.
There were thunderstorms nearby my route and I got to see a double rainbow as
I was coming into Cuba. I arrived at Angel Peak near dark and set up at my
favorite spot. This is my fourth and shortest stay. Click "Angel Peak Scenic
Area" in the location column to the right if you want more story and many more
photos.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Thursday, September 15th</h3>
<p>
I didn't waste any time in the morning. I snapped my obligatory campsite photo
and hit the road.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg32kaUHoeNKFvVPe5NQsuQfXYlv1Xv-HnCe2-r9EUz1cT55BUUUW7IVhqbWqLnjlA4KvK8HrxO57siwtPNUiiSn432qeTeBLoMBtKyzR0sUGsrftdt4gBCnvRS5IrT6dw8hTOCHYKH_N8SfLsc93h0TqjNcky14gB-1gXthIRsktc-XR-0QNhsTpt7/s1200/AngelPeak-campsite_1200w-SL1_23352.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="775" data-original-width="1200" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg32kaUHoeNKFvVPe5NQsuQfXYlv1Xv-HnCe2-r9EUz1cT55BUUUW7IVhqbWqLnjlA4KvK8HrxO57siwtPNUiiSn432qeTeBLoMBtKyzR0sUGsrftdt4gBCnvRS5IrT6dw8hTOCHYKH_N8SfLsc93h0TqjNcky14gB-1gXthIRsktc-XR-0QNhsTpt7/w640-h414/AngelPeak-campsite_1200w-SL1_23352.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Angel Peak campsite
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><br /></p>
<p>
I took my usual shortcut across the Navajo agricultural lands to skip the
traffic in Bloomfield and Farmington. Email if you want the route details.
</p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Ship Rock</h4>
<p>
It was a sunny morning and the atmosphere was particularly clear due to
yesterday's rains. It was a good morning to photograph Ship Rock, so when I
came out on the highway formerly known as 666 I turned south instead of toward
Colorado. I took the side road that leads to the air strip, stopping a couple
of times on the narrow shoulder for photos. I think this one turned out particularly fine.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBu_-_rUHtbVbsS7F5t0V6irCzIz0H_VYfoH-NS9M114xUlTwxhwIV65UswGE2QbI5xAqqWFyUzqiiEGv3XizVGz6SJxXl1eAsckiKvaUWqEOoX3N1ojUopIYn1aLFpt56JkRctY2W42AtBtiVZZN9WV3k2he-NsIqrSxoeFIXgyR6KV8tUO4bc4N3/s1200/ShipRock-dikes_1200w-SL1_23373.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="646" data-original-width="1200" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBu_-_rUHtbVbsS7F5t0V6irCzIz0H_VYfoH-NS9M114xUlTwxhwIV65UswGE2QbI5xAqqWFyUzqiiEGv3XizVGz6SJxXl1eAsckiKvaUWqEOoX3N1ojUopIYn1aLFpt56JkRctY2W42AtBtiVZZN9WV3k2he-NsIqrSxoeFIXgyR6KV8tUO4bc4N3/w640-h346/ShipRock-dikes_1200w-SL1_23373.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Ship Rock on the Navajo Nation
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I turned around, headed to Shiprock and filled my gas tank. I drove north into
Colorado stopping for tacos in Cortez before heading to Dolores and the San
Juans. As I drove up the east fork of the Dolores River it was cloudy and
dark, but no rain. I didn't stop for photos as there are plenty from earlier
posts if you're interested.
</p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Alta Lakes</h4>
<p>
I turned off onto Alta Lakes Road (Closed winters). It's nowhere near the
worst road I've bumped over, and it's not technical at all, but it's a slow,
tiring 45 minute drive. Not suitable for trailers and high clearance is a good
idea, though a careful driver would be able to negotiate the road in a
passenger car.
</p>
<p>
At the campground I wasn't surprised my favorite site was already taken, as
was the site I considered #2. In looking around for an alternative I couldn't
help but notice that a number of the sites had a large mud puddle in the
middle of where you'd park your vehicle. Evidence of all the rain in the last
several days. I found a site with a dry, level spot for my camper. It was a
little closer to the chemical toilets than I'd have preferred, but otherwise
wasn't bad and not too awfully far from the lake.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju0cS8r_74L8vi3FN-k_x4X233-Ru1qZsMphtj0AQSfxO7L9yRmVKSruh6xjmm82yhcM1XOEiVJCfrZjaEhMbjaPghrNdNyqDpj8mudhYnshwoNfAWaGA6CrQ1Zqr7xBM9qnt_iZkQt1L8Kiauw2yF56e1CZav04jMOZHyI37YtEZXOd_F5eIcwI9_/s1200/AltaLakes-campsite%233_1200w-SL1_23377.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="809" data-original-width="1200" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju0cS8r_74L8vi3FN-k_x4X233-Ru1qZsMphtj0AQSfxO7L9yRmVKSruh6xjmm82yhcM1XOEiVJCfrZjaEhMbjaPghrNdNyqDpj8mudhYnshwoNfAWaGA6CrQ1Zqr7xBM9qnt_iZkQt1L8Kiauw2yF56e1CZav04jMOZHyI37YtEZXOd_F5eIcwI9_/w640-h432/AltaLakes-campsite%233_1200w-SL1_23377.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
My first night's campsite - you can just see the lake through the trees</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
After setting up I wandered a bit, took a few photos, then scurried for the
camper when a light shower came through. Later I walked through the campground
and stopped to talk to the two couples who were camped in my favorite spot.
Very nice folks. I asked how long they were staying, if they didn't mind my
asking. "We're leaving in the morning," they replied. I expressed a desire to
move to their site when they left, which they were fine with, and they told me
they'd probably leave around 9:30 in the morning. I asked if anyone else had
enquired and metaphorically called "dibs."
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA0W0pRhulfpZDutokYMTCM-1uFqaUndyJQNiz5omJ-Hdxn4gI7qh2gc12tH0Sk0eQKQAnSDr_XX2GGJKnr7Y35ttwEj1ruJPIdFvHf5tANDr-F4ci4FWO0GQhEi2PyYhW-wV6AA0PWJuSQuAMJiuOTFP5ODZApn5P49TRwZ3ktyMMdFC2Wa8oRopm/s1200/AltaLake-cloud-pano_1200w-SL1_23394-5.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="516" data-original-width="1200" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA0W0pRhulfpZDutokYMTCM-1uFqaUndyJQNiz5omJ-Hdxn4gI7qh2gc12tH0Sk0eQKQAnSDr_XX2GGJKnr7Y35ttwEj1ruJPIdFvHf5tANDr-F4ci4FWO0GQhEi2PyYhW-wV6AA0PWJuSQuAMJiuOTFP5ODZApn5P49TRwZ3ktyMMdFC2Wa8oRopm/w640-h278/AltaLake-cloud-pano_1200w-SL1_23394-5.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Lower Alta Lake with Palmyra Peak in the background
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>
There were wonderful sunset colors on Palmyra Peak and reflected in the lake.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjME27QqSXEkrPZpOkI4SesqdLM4crCXx-AXpmzYEqD7tXLfa2FFhTNmSFBL3pbEtcCDpxFMaFkeNqDMth1VPKnvZDD9Q5KUSaOOZLqT5V4kAFFR8Px4lxD1v0TK7xBZfhw59Pyc6USojuPgkuqZCCXos3JHGg9R8p91cq2UTp-gcL7NSOwNnpJKEyy/s1200/AltaLake-sunset_1200w-SL1_23416.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="748" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjME27QqSXEkrPZpOkI4SesqdLM4crCXx-AXpmzYEqD7tXLfa2FFhTNmSFBL3pbEtcCDpxFMaFkeNqDMth1VPKnvZDD9Q5KUSaOOZLqT5V4kAFFR8Px4lxD1v0TK7xBZfhw59Pyc6USojuPgkuqZCCXos3JHGg9R8p91cq2UTp-gcL7NSOwNnpJKEyy/w640-h400/AltaLake-sunset_1200w-SL1_23416.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Beautiful color near sundown
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
The campground was very busy on this Thursday night with lots of folks looking
for sites. I think a few people stretched the rules a bit on where it was
legit to camp. I certainly ended up with a lot of neighbors and some were not
exactly quiet. I learned many campers were here for the Telluride Blues & Brews festival. </p>
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Friday, September 16th.</h3>
<p>
<a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2021/10/san-juan-mountains-co-sept-2021-part-2.html" target="_blank">
In last year's Alta Lakes post</a>, I go into much more detail, so read that post, as well, if you are interested in coming to
this spectacular location.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPpL872X2Ulwjr08VoCRnO2oEBUoUp7OvKHw9ynbIrZ0YKDt9dQaRpDQ5aozme7VnPH8Wzpff0DJcqaQ5HrYejj_wntGdjOf2XMjeggzvSD1ae5Oc4dXbq-8FSvY5sga8ywVMkkvK_HohYbBf-Wyhbw1ansREtGxb5-XfptsIxVBYEcMqsWbTbvhzF/s1200/RedCrossbill_1200w-7D_23601.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="866" data-original-width="1200" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPpL872X2Ulwjr08VoCRnO2oEBUoUp7OvKHw9ynbIrZ0YKDt9dQaRpDQ5aozme7VnPH8Wzpff0DJcqaQ5HrYejj_wntGdjOf2XMjeggzvSD1ae5Oc4dXbq-8FSvY5sga8ywVMkkvK_HohYbBf-Wyhbw1ansREtGxb5-XfptsIxVBYEcMqsWbTbvhzF/w640-h464/RedCrossbill_1200w-7D_23601.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Male first year Red Crossbill molting into adult plumage - getting a drink in a puddle</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I was able to move my camp to my favorite spot. I love this campsite. It has a
commanding view of the lower lake, the surrounding forest, and the dramatic
surrounding mountains -- the best view of any of the sites. It is also fairly
level and I can park where the sun shines on my rooftop solar panels for much
of the day, yet there is shade around the site and trees to enjoy. Sitting in
my comfortable chair I can bask in the beautiful view for hours letting all
cares of civilization slip away.
</p>
<p>
The photo below is not from my campsite, but from one of my wanders along the
lake.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRsIZ2n_cjyFPnrhUNiFRgb-EDsCQQtliQoTI6VZYE1VO4tHbqFV0XKTn64et7heK8AbzViXZF2Dz-ozddg1AjW1UqXSVGFawT8KlSIUExb6mbe6kBqpm1x9k3PxyU7_Jv_WqeSB_DzJ8937dhWuYfnCBvDL9NlSTDV7p2Y173IM7e0yOW9I2KMoBC/s1200/AltaLake-leaves_1200w-SL1_23421.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRsIZ2n_cjyFPnrhUNiFRgb-EDsCQQtliQoTI6VZYE1VO4tHbqFV0XKTn64et7heK8AbzViXZF2Dz-ozddg1AjW1UqXSVGFawT8KlSIUExb6mbe6kBqpm1x9k3PxyU7_Jv_WqeSB_DzJ8937dhWuYfnCBvDL9NlSTDV7p2Y173IM7e0yOW9I2KMoBC/w640-h426/AltaLake-leaves_1200w-SL1_23421.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
I loved the tranquil beauty of the shoreline.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
That afternoon another FWC pop-up camper, a Hawk model, pulled into the site
just past mine. That evening I saw they were building a campfire so I brought
them the few pieces of wood that had been left at my site. K & J are from
Fresno, and although they have had their camper for a little while, they were
on their longest camping trip so far and were stopping at all their
bucket-list locations. We had a pleasant conversation about camping and our
campers as we enjoyed the campfire.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Saturday, September 17th</h3><div><br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOPJELWQxMp3ZF9Dz9WUwjWEQjTvzINeJzRgYQbRbB_2DkrAnhEpLj29wcaSoM4RInlPIdAb1pm0q6Q3ZelimqaFH0nSccaEuyO80K4dRqXOjmqISrj_DuKjCmjZ_pSpsvfJjUN9PF3GHf_F6avOt0FfOrS1pYHS0dCp44jnHA9cBiwHAeRJIT3EBB/s1200/AltaLake-sunrise_1200h-SL1_23438.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="925" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOPJELWQxMp3ZF9Dz9WUwjWEQjTvzINeJzRgYQbRbB_2DkrAnhEpLj29wcaSoM4RInlPIdAb1pm0q6Q3ZelimqaFH0nSccaEuyO80K4dRqXOjmqISrj_DuKjCmjZ_pSpsvfJjUN9PF3GHf_F6avOt0FfOrS1pYHS0dCp44jnHA9cBiwHAeRJIT3EBB/w494-h640/AltaLake-sunrise_1200h-SL1_23438.jpg" width="494" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Dawn clouds reflecting in the lake
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhpqscW1HJTE_9LA6m0x4ZvGEP5NAk8-BKdLsslabpG-tsg1RCyJs0xDiWLxLuGoQlswZ3SnZVgWSQomLol7YodmtLzTj4lbfyImuAh-UZAFTO-HASmo2u1AXHyw5EvY0I7ueErMXu4uBqIaMhEbdDNXbzVrby1DIUtbs4j5Gir4zILB9PopO9AC7T/s1200/AltaLakes-campsite_1200w-SL1_23456.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhpqscW1HJTE_9LA6m0x4ZvGEP5NAk8-BKdLsslabpG-tsg1RCyJs0xDiWLxLuGoQlswZ3SnZVgWSQomLol7YodmtLzTj4lbfyImuAh-UZAFTO-HASmo2u1AXHyw5EvY0I7ueErMXu4uBqIaMhEbdDNXbzVrby1DIUtbs4j5Gir4zILB9PopO9AC7T/w640-h426/AltaLakes-campsite_1200w-SL1_23456.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Looking up at my campsite from the lakeshore
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
Mostly cloudy again this morning, but no rain at least. I spent the morning
enjoying the view and jumping up, from time to time, to try (mostly
unsuccessfully) to photograph various of the wild birds that were flitting all
around.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmSheqHErQtGLeBAyqm1xgfTgb0JyEHfiRuY7xI_5Ug5JTiI-EaLBZfHvdW5O7TWqrFSdOH_Xzvd9_NYPZtaSfAFTAwgie4HFM0F1dzwvj3JyShHib4JDaM5kTQgSdKs7uVutYQ69sWKBhl9ivE3Y2l6ZIbjtD5536cAxtft7uMmYiR1gxf1yxHMCw/s1200/Chipmunk_1200w-7D_23663.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="917" data-original-width="1200" height="492" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmSheqHErQtGLeBAyqm1xgfTgb0JyEHfiRuY7xI_5Ug5JTiI-EaLBZfHvdW5O7TWqrFSdOH_Xzvd9_NYPZtaSfAFTAwgie4HFM0F1dzwvj3JyShHib4JDaM5kTQgSdKs7uVutYQ69sWKBhl9ivE3Y2l6ZIbjtD5536cAxtft7uMmYiR1gxf1yxHMCw/w640-h492/Chipmunk_1200w-7D_23663.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
This little chipmunk paused to allow a photograph
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYa_bgjNugg7jj9hcCwPlyfpI5LDD7C0JvXAtJ7S4FFVQVvd5xGt2kUGWb4X8JBfHFTWCAykOlMJ5C8WNEC21e7_irK9gEGYZUyPIMHy-Uq01i169GrSSEfYYRhVqa8aD7nvviN2cXNwU_GRqLBhQDScOquPgvLwDI3Osy2N92e8Hlhx78tjw3LbM5/s1200/Junco_1200w-7D_23718.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="913" data-original-width="1200" height="486" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYa_bgjNugg7jj9hcCwPlyfpI5LDD7C0JvXAtJ7S4FFVQVvd5xGt2kUGWb4X8JBfHFTWCAykOlMJ5C8WNEC21e7_irK9gEGYZUyPIMHy-Uq01i169GrSSEfYYRhVqa8aD7nvviN2cXNwU_GRqLBhQDScOquPgvLwDI3Osy2N92e8Hlhx78tjw3LbM5/w640-h486/Junco_1200w-7D_23718.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A ubiquitous Junco posed for a moment
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTJznXu_I9rjrVr_WWxlck_XaTqZGppOGGvvojm9pVTLJud58sHRI8VTNQBDDC-7Gf_MMgJijXjXnohiKF94BLYoVxxjisNAKGfasf8wMUoh-6fJNoedklzHITO83-dYKnMt5xfDw66hTRuh-EoT6daQjl7_XFkOknC-WEV19Lo5HRqhExw6vNSXKy/s1200/Bluet_1200w-7D_23737.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="843" data-original-width="1200" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTJznXu_I9rjrVr_WWxlck_XaTqZGppOGGvvojm9pVTLJud58sHRI8VTNQBDDC-7Gf_MMgJijXjXnohiKF94BLYoVxxjisNAKGfasf8wMUoh-6fJNoedklzHITO83-dYKnMt5xfDw66hTRuh-EoT6daQjl7_XFkOknC-WEV19Lo5HRqhExw6vNSXKy/w640-h452/Bluet_1200w-7D_23737.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Once it warmed up the damselflies came out to bask in the sun.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
In the afternoon I hiked up to and around what's called the upper lake, but is
really the middle lake. I didn't even realize it was there last year until I
saw the spherical panaroma taken by my drone. It was an easy hike, though if
you are unacclimated to higher elevations, you might want to take it easy.
Alta Lakes is at 11,300 feet elevation. The road to the upper lake is only for
residents of the few summer homes and The Observatory lodge (which was
apparently rented out to a wedding party this weekend).
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1_uxGTNP10hUQKWbH5QtoQJixdrDu4fHPEm2GmzjkLJBfEkRsa-_DIHvFejltkk6jjt4_8UDcyFEsnkdMSyexLm98VWwWjet2qdnIfgRE0QbMx7Z76kdBFRbijzjKj88dVhK273gWskJ-gKvLoOJtarFFxdiBfhBtTEIobH1-Cd63RjC5D1gxSa3N/s1200/UpperAltaLake_1200w-SL1_23468.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1200" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1_uxGTNP10hUQKWbH5QtoQJixdrDu4fHPEm2GmzjkLJBfEkRsa-_DIHvFejltkk6jjt4_8UDcyFEsnkdMSyexLm98VWwWjet2qdnIfgRE0QbMx7Z76kdBFRbijzjKj88dVhK273gWskJ-gKvLoOJtarFFxdiBfhBtTEIobH1-Cd63RjC5D1gxSa3N/w640-h364/UpperAltaLake_1200w-SL1_23468.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The upper (middle) lake
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNybE-HmK3yKVcq1Em3-ojTap3UhiJKyTlgeKTopbPUPn-4POsh9FcSk5f8SXTz87IF6eDjgOaZCpJNgImqObrzdrgBnR_06Z8TiYd7vVOp6xgrN7WnuHNJC3k_wddfPmE-7pwP2eZuIInAMwacX4Q__IXgEXV0rcnNLXowO9XzJIeK3wj-dM3heYe/s1200/AltaLake-campsite-70mm_1200w-SL1_23478.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNybE-HmK3yKVcq1Em3-ojTap3UhiJKyTlgeKTopbPUPn-4POsh9FcSk5f8SXTz87IF6eDjgOaZCpJNgImqObrzdrgBnR_06Z8TiYd7vVOp6xgrN7WnuHNJC3k_wddfPmE-7pwP2eZuIInAMwacX4Q__IXgEXV0rcnNLXowO9XzJIeK3wj-dM3heYe/w640-h426/AltaLake-campsite-70mm_1200w-SL1_23478.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A view of my campsite from across the lower lake (at 70mm)
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
That evening I met C & B, an interesting young couple from Denver, tent
camping from their Jeep in the next site. They'd moved from Maryland within
the last two years to be closer to all the wonderful outdoors opportunities we
enjoy in the west. We had a delightful conversation about camping sites and
scenic locations.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Sunday, September 18th</h3>
<p>There was a little color in the dawn sky today.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Uw52RvPR8311rrfvUq3Khb4Urf1ooZOl9q4xR9fF79sTf42bs3CT-tlKm9s_Ri6tOCpr2TqTPd5NkYCJPwagOcMAKaSsHu78PeLz2S7yXEgcBd4PCUEoH31v_hmLcifIEIdclFO8seKT6h3ApiKWzUwq5N1guyNmyGhDCfhK9pnZ2YfntNeiMRoQ/s1200/AltaLakes-sunrise_1200w-SL1_23487.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="754" data-original-width="1200" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Uw52RvPR8311rrfvUq3Khb4Urf1ooZOl9q4xR9fF79sTf42bs3CT-tlKm9s_Ri6tOCpr2TqTPd5NkYCJPwagOcMAKaSsHu78PeLz2S7yXEgcBd4PCUEoH31v_hmLcifIEIdclFO8seKT6h3ApiKWzUwq5N1guyNmyGhDCfhK9pnZ2YfntNeiMRoQ/w640-h402/AltaLakes-sunrise_1200w-SL1_23487.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Early morning light
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I tried my hand at more wildlife photography around the campsite with better
success than yesterday.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkkpJPIQuvBNPilCcECgbxTGwJo2BXNmAsUZXe8T0Fc5EoaAZ2PQnNzU_GApQ77HFEPQtweqKSWBnq-0NIANWC3-ukHa2otPlsoYN9pFYqJu_pny3geimRcQWwqNNKuz7UNKm9RGjfZF7u4C4sNmBHvPSI6M2okBnnEySN77FgejfoK2bsuUQJkqOk/s1200/NorthernFlicker_1200w-7D_23742.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="896" data-original-width="1200" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkkpJPIQuvBNPilCcECgbxTGwJo2BXNmAsUZXe8T0Fc5EoaAZ2PQnNzU_GApQ77HFEPQtweqKSWBnq-0NIANWC3-ukHa2otPlsoYN9pFYqJu_pny3geimRcQWwqNNKuz7UNKm9RGjfZF7u4C4sNmBHvPSI6M2okBnnEySN77FgejfoK2bsuUQJkqOk/w640-h480/NorthernFlicker_1200w-7D_23742.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Northern Flicker</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ybVAEriCRy58jzgD2x9zyVZXml8w_anIGDWrmFUdVHfknvzFPtC5l2UAfHSHlj4Rlel1ni5p7mMwqwfe_ovXkjR1lvSWBEcPfhgVrix89dC9zbWukPA5ohn8JiVBmVanIEjM0DXLVp_L2rUlENAJF-PUvZdpokzA7XRbA8YYYePrv8AMc37TkF3l/s1200/MountainChickadee_1200w-7D_23745.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="840" data-original-width="1200" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ybVAEriCRy58jzgD2x9zyVZXml8w_anIGDWrmFUdVHfknvzFPtC5l2UAfHSHlj4Rlel1ni5p7mMwqwfe_ovXkjR1lvSWBEcPfhgVrix89dC9zbWukPA5ohn8JiVBmVanIEjM0DXLVp_L2rUlENAJF-PUvZdpokzA7XRbA8YYYePrv8AMc37TkF3l/w640-h450/MountainChickadee_1200w-7D_23745.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mountain Chickadee</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2NwiBhiZH30VEUm8Xflq2NaWhL1z4wwyfohHu-aj2xWT6mLR2ciXUZwHowkFGbcI_bK_5UE2DlwtKI0tP2UEY9ybEcl78tXJBLrDk1QDa_4n8bNgqBWplLYYIARZAaeTWaRqFySUb9rLcm9ht8zJEBCwnM378RRsieEIHyett_UcR8XtRBTVq89x8/s1200/PineSiskin_1200w-7D_23762.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="896" data-original-width="1200" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2NwiBhiZH30VEUm8Xflq2NaWhL1z4wwyfohHu-aj2xWT6mLR2ciXUZwHowkFGbcI_bK_5UE2DlwtKI0tP2UEY9ybEcl78tXJBLrDk1QDa_4n8bNgqBWplLYYIARZAaeTWaRqFySUb9rLcm9ht8zJEBCwnM378RRsieEIHyett_UcR8XtRBTVq89x8/w640-h480/PineSiskin_1200w-7D_23762.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Pine Siskin - there was a whole flock flitting around a tree that had
fallen over into the lake
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj6aYQ_hh3qZd0-WABGQW_QTk5S0nbtUCg2eqbC3wJg4UV0URCgIpdojJyvuDSIyANntd8OAUSpbcvM2bUXYe581hS0WkEXMb4qQq5a2In6aTSGCTWKNeXOJ0uhaSZuAKFPAsFE7BDz-FKr1ZlZK9GKsguot8ByF7Y8TzyHQnVjz6vkhJAwn21XFe1/s1200/GrayJay_1200w-7D_23807.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="885" data-original-width="1200" height="472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj6aYQ_hh3qZd0-WABGQW_QTk5S0nbtUCg2eqbC3wJg4UV0URCgIpdojJyvuDSIyANntd8OAUSpbcvM2bUXYe581hS0WkEXMb4qQq5a2In6aTSGCTWKNeXOJ0uhaSZuAKFPAsFE7BDz-FKr1ZlZK9GKsguot8ByF7Y8TzyHQnVjz6vkhJAwn21XFe1/w640-h472/GrayJay_1200w-7D_23807.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Gray Jays (aka Whiskey Jack) are not shy, but difficult for me to
photograph
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDspHo5_MSch2vaV5y20qdiuaJzLg9w5wWe7-jBbOVQ-DfgEl6vEDiBkjjY8YM5O84fe3PHZ-hvCPeMw2a-CEFTDTqDvNsFkH7qsudxn9CgjZePg8RytqTAoy2i1GngmFgH8_1rf5JdIuTbgPVMVDGao1i9y-hBz7BfbfyfbV-dILSJ7cmnzl_qYcQ/s1200/Paddle-tailedDarner_1200w-7D_23816.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="973" data-original-width="1200" height="520" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDspHo5_MSch2vaV5y20qdiuaJzLg9w5wWe7-jBbOVQ-DfgEl6vEDiBkjjY8YM5O84fe3PHZ-hvCPeMw2a-CEFTDTqDvNsFkH7qsudxn9CgjZePg8RytqTAoy2i1GngmFgH8_1rf5JdIuTbgPVMVDGao1i9y-hBz7BfbfyfbV-dILSJ7cmnzl_qYcQ/w640-h520/Paddle-tailedDarner_1200w-7D_23816.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A Paddle-tailed Darner in an extremely rare moment of repose
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I took my M2P up for a short aerial photography session. I took a spherical
panorama, but the one I took last year is a bit better, so I'll link it here
instead of the new one.
</p>
<div>
<iframe allow="xr-spatial-tracking; gyroscope; accelerometer" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="600" scrolling="no" src="https://kuula.co/share/N0ZMH?logo=1&info=1&fs=1&vr=0&sd=1&thumbs=1" width="100%"></iframe>
</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div>
<div><br /></div>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Alta Townsite</h4>
<div><br /></div>
<div>
In the afternoon I hiked down to the Alta Townsite. (The road to the lake
goes right through the townsite, but a hike is much more pleasant endeavor.)
I'd seen on my map there is an official trail from the campground to the
townsite. I'd also noticed small trails leading off the ridge behind my
campsite that I thought might meet up with the actual trail. I walked down
one of those and thought I was doing good as it turned in the right
direction once off the slope, but then it disappeared. I kept going in the
same direction, overland, and after a bit came to the real trail. I
recommend you take the official trail all the way.
</div>
<div><br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisAC1-mKPYOWkxjMPRdDW6HhDiNvWNaprL1oCf-kMWlIi-_-Dvjmn3Xbxz7cJrIHtsvfbD1TrvP6PaE7Qm8194b5nI3emqUUyDcYXJy-_xLy9VNQTd9hqc6z0AHdHElHtd9Csnkgfcqta9_h5h-Q7kN1ZTK4ZuWiLGsNEP35gb8CCebtAeIdJ_yUcC/s1200/Alta-first_1200w-SL1_23493.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="706" data-original-width="1200" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisAC1-mKPYOWkxjMPRdDW6HhDiNvWNaprL1oCf-kMWlIi-_-Dvjmn3Xbxz7cJrIHtsvfbD1TrvP6PaE7Qm8194b5nI3emqUUyDcYXJy-_xLy9VNQTd9hqc6z0AHdHElHtd9Csnkgfcqta9_h5h-Q7kN1ZTK4ZuWiLGsNEP35gb8CCebtAeIdJ_yUcC/w640-h376/Alta-first_1200w-SL1_23493.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
First glimpse of the townsite from the trail
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<div>
It is a lovely trail alongside a bit of a running brook. It comes out on the
old Boomerang Road (now closed to motor vehicles) just north of the
township. I wandered around the ghost town taking photos and admiring the
view. Apparently there was not mine here, rather this was where the workers
at the Gold King Mine lived. More info just below.
</div>
<div><br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2qtxvMGkMpuub02fV8cEG2jE2kpOwAGg51-cRtwmjuo8WaghUde8ZuyWu6dvT0QyPYFKCR7diXHZhjszOoLdm0xg5fMMrZIaFCExeqWQyJ73J-X1m8cA9__8OEZn-lmX3NpyvfPhFIrzlQaFyQKMx4q7Bd_yDrXjM_4eEby6xZN4aeCD6QdWkrkCr/s2400/SunshineMtn-AltaPano_2400w-SL1_23510-2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="842" data-original-width="2400" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2qtxvMGkMpuub02fV8cEG2jE2kpOwAGg51-cRtwmjuo8WaghUde8ZuyWu6dvT0QyPYFKCR7diXHZhjszOoLdm0xg5fMMrZIaFCExeqWQyJ73J-X1m8cA9__8OEZn-lmX3NpyvfPhFIrzlQaFyQKMx4q7Bd_yDrXjM_4eEby6xZN4aeCD6QdWkrkCr/w640-h226/SunshineMtn-AltaPano_2400w-SL1_23510-2.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The magnificent view of Sunshine Mountain from Alta Townsite<br />Lizard
Head is on the left; Wilson Peak on the right
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqMv2OqkDD1pE6rLbELh0DzBu5f0zJyAnj3ELOH0oHN-TYiVbTPm1-fkFa2_EYguYpZiapnEqOe0EPoDNNfkkiahD9COzUQmN7SG3mdyQN3h614Gpky5nqN8-43iitBOhhNH_PXYGFB1kIoGddmC0prOwbuK8HgYhMeaCcgMtKDMk8Z4E6kRZbsSsY/s1200/Alta-second_1200w-SL1_23524.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="847" data-original-width="1200" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqMv2OqkDD1pE6rLbELh0DzBu5f0zJyAnj3ELOH0oHN-TYiVbTPm1-fkFa2_EYguYpZiapnEqOe0EPoDNNfkkiahD9COzUQmN7SG3mdyQN3h614Gpky5nqN8-43iitBOhhNH_PXYGFB1kIoGddmC0prOwbuK8HgYhMeaCcgMtKDMk8Z4E6kRZbsSsY/w640-h452/Alta-second_1200w-SL1_23524.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alta Townsite</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<div>
The hike back up the trail to the campground was again beautiful and I
confess to stopping a number of times to catch my breath. The terminus of
the trail is just before where the road turns off into the campground. There
are a few other trails in the area; the Boomerang trail is suitable for
hiking or biking and leads to trails in the Telluride Ski Area.
</div>
<div><br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDw022NF-TjgLPMo5xQaanzCbOhXRb4eL86UhwYgQPztLN7aCAbDh4TBXWjNBT3TV80X7KZYfP_2r4io2kM2KZgFYGauBdq1WJcwKxGh_Fet17Rhd_eJMSiVfforDS_XZFPmaxbMTL1YEsd7g-uJQqGMwwhjupJ0kTSUi4uOdZySCmRG4Wl3svBjZk/s1200/AltaTrail-first_1200h-SL1_23531.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="853" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDw022NF-TjgLPMo5xQaanzCbOhXRb4eL86UhwYgQPztLN7aCAbDh4TBXWjNBT3TV80X7KZYfP_2r4io2kM2KZgFYGauBdq1WJcwKxGh_Fet17Rhd_eJMSiVfforDS_XZFPmaxbMTL1YEsd7g-uJQqGMwwhjupJ0kTSUi4uOdZySCmRG4Wl3svBjZk/w454-h640/AltaTrail-first_1200h-SL1_23531.jpg" width="454" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The trail from the townsite back to the campground
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjGdW_TcoAjtoRGZHPJxERa3N2yqykTg1oG3Ie8V1WREkDSgU_1isIpqhqnQQ5t4upBBmvsHqOlDRLOmVHEqkXZWcvsevIvnYcMFeFPI01UGoDrB3CRWd7KnRdXYYLZDkHZd3fxNrEfgxjjC2l2yBQEGUKvHGFpZsgwQ3_Z1t6wfuDVwl4IqX20Tmg/s1200/AltaTrail-second_1200w-SL1_23539.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="865" data-original-width="1200" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjGdW_TcoAjtoRGZHPJxERa3N2yqykTg1oG3Ie8V1WREkDSgU_1isIpqhqnQQ5t4upBBmvsHqOlDRLOmVHEqkXZWcvsevIvnYcMFeFPI01UGoDrB3CRWd7KnRdXYYLZDkHZd3fxNrEfgxjjC2l2yBQEGUKvHGFpZsgwQ3_Z1t6wfuDVwl4IqX20Tmg/w640-h464/AltaTrail-second_1200w-SL1_23539.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Farther up the trail almost to the campground
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<div>Alta Lakes</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div>There were nice colors on the surrounding peaks this evening.</div>
<div><br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqObpCRKkGYkH3h3O4n4YjNLj_MdXI6uTh-eOuhToKTaNCZiO4wI7x6N5Yj--zlKBvehnxTM71w1zLOMGxGofxxos7112MLquxC7cXhilY5s34SXuAMzsWTtA19zGJ4kyiJ4IQKaRRNi0Ii7BBoIRRXyzdHQEryJD_BN6_9TWfOZCajtuKmhv_wcDq/s1200/AltaLakes-sunset-pano_1200w-EOS-REBEL-SL1_23550-1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="617" data-original-width="1200" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqObpCRKkGYkH3h3O4n4YjNLj_MdXI6uTh-eOuhToKTaNCZiO4wI7x6N5Yj--zlKBvehnxTM71w1zLOMGxGofxxos7112MLquxC7cXhilY5s34SXuAMzsWTtA19zGJ4kyiJ4IQKaRRNi0Ii7BBoIRRXyzdHQEryJD_BN6_9TWfOZCajtuKmhv_wcDq/w640-h332/AltaLakes-sunset-pano_1200w-EOS-REBEL-SL1_23550-1.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Sunset colors - a two photo composite to give you an extra-wide view
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<div><br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Monday, Sept 19th</h3>
<div><br /></div>
<div>
I wish I could say I didn't take a bunch of photos of the lake this morning,
but I'll spare you all but one of those. I attempted more bird photos, but
none of those are worth sharing, either.
</div>
<div><br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYErWQDDc_mhIm300D0HpQDUbOFwXqirQpp0aIbKQ818rVyGA4Dhb_6aOKefI1hQA9RwIYomIzPkgOJMgdyfROM3yB3MLfTmxzuL1xQjL6xEpqADEtI6fZWSeUSXbfPdJpgZ_jFr1gahPX5ki3M-Z0WAoW9Dz0l-A-r0t0H81KxwTKIchi85DDvCe5/s1200/AltaLake-boardwalk_1200w-SL1_23570.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="787" data-original-width="1200" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYErWQDDc_mhIm300D0HpQDUbOFwXqirQpp0aIbKQ818rVyGA4Dhb_6aOKefI1hQA9RwIYomIzPkgOJMgdyfROM3yB3MLfTmxzuL1xQjL6xEpqADEtI6fZWSeUSXbfPdJpgZ_jFr1gahPX5ki3M-Z0WAoW9Dz0l-A-r0t0H81KxwTKIchi85DDvCe5/w640-h422/AltaLake-boardwalk_1200w-SL1_23570.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A view of the lower lake looking toward the dam
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<div>
I was in no rush to pack up, even though I was leaving today. Yesterday I'd
requested a weather forecast via my inReach satellite communicator, and it
indicated that rain was going to move into the mountains, maybe tonight, but
certainly by tomorrow. I thought I'd move to one of the sites I'd planned as
an alternate for the trip. Either up on the ridge between the two forks of
the Dolores River, or down in the valley of the west fork.
</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div>
On the drive down I noticed a spur road I had neither seen last time nor on
my drive up this time. The acute angle of the junction is such that it is
difficult to see while driving up the road. It looked like it was open and
not marked private. In looking at Google Maps satellite view at home I can
see a pond labelled Wild Boy Lake. There is evidence of vehicle wear and
likely dispersed camping. In searching if there was camping allowed there I
came across this
<a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd605766.pdf" target="_blank">NFS Alta Lakes Recreation Area Master Plan</a>
document.
</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div>
Published in December 2018, some of the suggested changes have been
implemented, such as the Phase I modifications to Lower Alta Lakes camping
area, but I'm unsure about the progress of the other changes. I suspect many
will not see implementation any time soon. It does imply that dispersed
camping is available around Wild Boy Lake. It may be restricted in future,
though not eliminated.
</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div>
It also confirmed my observation of last year that there are a few dispersed
camping spots in Gold King Basin. Those are accessible via a side road that takes off
Alta Lakes Road less that a thousand feet before the entrance to the
campground. My impression from the Master Plan is that they may formalize
the campsites in Gold King Basin at some point. If you are interested in
visiting the area the document is informative.
</div>
<div><br /></div>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Dunton Road</h4>
<div><br /></div>
<div>
I turned south on CO-145, then took the switchbacks up Dunton Road, about 5
miles south of Lizard Head Pass. I turned south on Eagle Creek Road that
runs along the top of the ridge. I checked the dispersed campsites along
there, most were taken by hunting camps, though one was open. I thought I'd
check the sites lower, closer to the river, before making a decision on
where to camp.
</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div>
I stopped at the Calico Trailhead parking area to use the vault toilet. I
also flew my M2P up a few hundred feet to take photos and a panorama. What
with the clouds the lighting was not good for photos. The panorama is mildly
interesting and does give a good sense of the geography. That's Mount Wilson
and you can just see Lizard Head to the right.
</div>
</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div>
<iframe allow="xr-spatial-tracking; gyroscope; accelerometer" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="600" scrolling="no" src="https://kuula.co/share/NVbyH?logo=1&info=1&fs=1&vr=0&sd=1&thumbs=1" width="100%"></iframe>
</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div>
<div><br /></div>
<div>
I returned to Dunton Road and continued west. I paused to briefly chat with
a couple hunters camped right by the road. It is elk season, but they were
unsuccessful so far.
</div>
<div><br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpyDKnQtKp5IU3Cb6S6xPDOtpSCBXpOdUvwiW6Y0vRVgeMo2xN8gXf-0topFTF6ynG8uGXTUjG-wLvZTSi6OAGRj4W_P38xb4V2QNzBPeHZfzdaUC6eeY27nBE4rYKHZflO8k9ZDFPyTI-k_JWopgxHJZJ4A7atx2zv2yB0nhdiNIIvesimpX_EJSl/s1200/MountWilson_1200w-SL1_23575.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="676" data-original-width="1200" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpyDKnQtKp5IU3Cb6S6xPDOtpSCBXpOdUvwiW6Y0vRVgeMo2xN8gXf-0topFTF6ynG8uGXTUjG-wLvZTSi6OAGRj4W_P38xb4V2QNzBPeHZfzdaUC6eeY27nBE4rYKHZflO8k9ZDFPyTI-k_JWopgxHJZJ4A7atx2zv2yB0nhdiNIIvesimpX_EJSl/w640-h360/MountWilson_1200w-SL1_23575.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Mount Wilson north of Dunton Road
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<div>
The short stretch of road between the Navajo Lake trailhead and the bridge
across the West Dolores River is where I'd seen potential campsites during
previous trips along the road. One site was definitely taken by hunters. The
other good location had a car parked there, but no evidence of tents or
camping gear.
</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div>
I continued down to the the NFS Burro Bridge Campground. It is a clean,
pleasant developed campground well above the river (no river access). Vault
toilets and water are available. There are many corrals, as well. I saw
three trucks with large camping trailers pull out as I pulled in. No one
else was in the campground. Fee is $22 (half off with annual or senior
pass.)
</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div>
I decided instead to drive back up to look at the site where there had been
a car parked. Luckily enough it was now gone. I drove off the road and up
onto the meadow. I saw double-tracks that led farther up and around a corner
where I discovered a very nice little site amidst the aspens. It looked like
it would work out best if I backed in and stopped where I'd get some late
afternoon sun on my solar panels, so I turned around and did exactly
that.
</div>
<div><br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw_vsn8Tsg7Q-4qXzr9Q4XB7uPkHl5GQwgfapiUASupK9rWPtxgzk_6y-CRjRo2YTjovYKcLtmThR3TiFBWODIuUkSm1Ul9w6QNzDwZyGC8supHLN79eXoIgCnmnPI-bgGkDCsI5yvEgCZQZj4HEjV2GrK0DcSY8xS0F2nGMhbPFljBy2dKK7vC4sJ/s1200/DuntonRd-campsite_1200w-SL1_23580.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="857" data-original-width="1200" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw_vsn8Tsg7Q-4qXzr9Q4XB7uPkHl5GQwgfapiUASupK9rWPtxgzk_6y-CRjRo2YTjovYKcLtmThR3TiFBWODIuUkSm1Ul9w6QNzDwZyGC8supHLN79eXoIgCnmnPI-bgGkDCsI5yvEgCZQZj4HEjV2GrK0DcSY8xS0F2nGMhbPFljBy2dKK7vC4sJ/w640-h458/DuntonRd-campsite_1200w-SL1_23580.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A pleasant afternoon in my campsite off Dunton Road.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<div>
I was now at around 9000' and the temperatures were in the mid 70s. I sat my
chair under the trees and enjoyed the scenery while reading my book. The
view was not spectacular like at Alta Lakes, but very verdant and easy on
the eyes. Later I walked around and explored a bit. I was close enough to
hear the road, but far enough back not to be able to see it. Very few
vehicles drove by.
</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div><br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Tuesday, September 20th</h3>
<div><br /></div>
<div>
I fully expected to wake up to clouds or even rain, but was greeted to clear
blue sky and sun. After breakfast I packed up and headed south, down Dunton
Road, stopping once or twice for photos. I quickly realized that the slopes
of this entire upper valley were carpeted with aspen and made a note to
myself to return here for a future autumn foliage trip. Nearly all the aspen
were thick with green leaves, but a few gave a hint they were at least
thinking of changing sometime soon.
</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div>
There is another dispersed camping area off Dunton Road next to the river,
just before you get to the Cold Creek Road junction north of Dunton. I
hadn't checked it yesterday as I fully expected it to be full of hunters,
but no one was there when I drove by.
</div>
<div><br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfpYD5EFoPAr5i_cNcQWBO1QzH2Hkzy7zWT8gYXYQPAcOZWWHSyXvMg3R9XNZ0AIYMcDwGAdoyshACP2KGp6HrCYTSmXRreiMQmljwmrVsoLhMDH9PAr-nhhJZOy201mhBc1pYuzi8NRnbPRzKG0i7PFJJzq_gbgxZkbtIaSN35FQ6uo0qBr7T5lA4/s1200/DuntonRd-valley_1200w-SL1_23596.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="764" data-original-width="1200" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfpYD5EFoPAr5i_cNcQWBO1QzH2Hkzy7zWT8gYXYQPAcOZWWHSyXvMg3R9XNZ0AIYMcDwGAdoyshACP2KGp6HrCYTSmXRreiMQmljwmrVsoLhMDH9PAr-nhhJZOy201mhBc1pYuzi8NRnbPRzKG0i7PFJJzq_gbgxZkbtIaSN35FQ6uo0qBr7T5lA4/w640-h410/DuntonRd-valley_1200w-SL1_23596.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Dunton Road - you can just see the road to the camping area described
above
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_KYL4UObqsL-SUYVq9GLpU-J9ieNa44NrzVc7qKahbtlm-yXxJ3pURrwvOag-8i7ZI_T1W3FUYPhWl9rM4vcIdxWUqAT1UzmyOYEX19KsV3Eyx3GaualqOOwQnsM1KVRdthDstEqbe0xmxhnCdGohhVoTk3HVGVPyd5kT_REuAabiaMocwBm9afrc/s1200/GeyserSpringTH_1200w-SL1_23600.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="671" data-original-width="1200" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_KYL4UObqsL-SUYVq9GLpU-J9ieNa44NrzVc7qKahbtlm-yXxJ3pURrwvOag-8i7ZI_T1W3FUYPhWl9rM4vcIdxWUqAT1UzmyOYEX19KsV3Eyx3GaualqOOwQnsM1KVRdthDstEqbe0xmxhnCdGohhVoTk3HVGVPyd5kT_REuAabiaMocwBm9afrc/w640-h360/GeyserSpringTH_1200w-SL1_23600.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Just down the road is the trailhead to Geyser Spring<br /><a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2015/07/san-juan-mountains-co-june-2015-part-1.html" target="_blank">Photos and a short video from my 2015 trip</a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<div>
By the time I reached the lower valley and the pavement, high clouds were
moving in. When I climbed out of Dolores and looked to the west I could see
rain moving in. I was doing well to get out of the mountains when I did.
</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div>
The rest of the trip was thankfully uneventful as I returned home via the
same route as I had driven out on. I was most of the way home when a
thunderstorm gave me a free car wash. And of course it was hot and dry once
I pulled in my driveway.
</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div><br /></div>
<div>
<i>Thanks for reading my blog and as a public service I'd like to remind
everyone not to believe every datum you see in every map. Sometimes the
map makers introduce "errors" to catch copyright thieves, sometimes they
get it wrong, and probably more often the road has been closed or the
campground has moved. Always check a local source if your route or
destination is critical.</i>
</div>
</div>
<div><br /></div>
Bosque Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00001863270259847102noreply@blogger.com2Alta Lakes, Colorado 81435, USA37.8883932 -107.84320749.5781593638211575 -142.99945739999998 66.198627036178848 -72.6869574tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3983525105536347837.post-68531254169345474932022-05-24T15:49:00.003-06:002022-05-25T13:36:25.019-06:00Spring Fling, UT - April 2022: Part 2<h2 style="text-align: left;">Bears Ears National Monument in Two Parts</h2><h4 style="text-align: left;">Part 2 of 2 — <a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2022/05/spring-fling-ut-april-2022-part-1.html">Begin with Part One</a><br /><br /></h4><h3 style="text-align: left;">Friday, April 29th (continued)</h3><h4 style="text-align: left;"><br />UT-95 and not quite the Blue Notch</h4><p>Leaving White Canyon North Road I turned left, southeast, when I reached the pavement of the highway. Some maps show White Canyon South Road continuing on and it looks like it once reached Lake Powell. From the satellite images it seems to slowly deteriorate, though it does pass along some interesting looking canyon scenery. I may check that out another time.</p><p>In that same "another time" spirit, a friend mentioned Blue Notch Road. She had driven it years ago all the way to Lake Powell. I actually found the unmarked road. I wound myself up the first set of switchbacks which were narrow and steep, but not particularly difficult. Not particularly photogenic either, so no photo. At the top I got my first look at the Blue Notch. Wow, that is one gigantic blue hill. I knew the road twisted and turned for miles beyond the pass and I was eager to continue to my planned destination, so I told myself, "another time."<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8HMnwfQ0hCLM66_QXq7COJdktBwdBODqmn7CGqmWalTNe5SetxMbF-P-NzOWcuujy0CDVV3qRYkEEyXYbyc9DidQbtwev_X3Ir4Apkpx0PfOHqR1XHZ3TFkJGgzP2kQbsAQnaMw57Jhch3g8_OcmakCX9vT2QVYxirjBOeqb7DzWowEdFqAkyzJ8m/s1200/BlueNotchRd-window_1200w-SL1_23036.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="764" data-original-width="1200" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8HMnwfQ0hCLM66_QXq7COJdktBwdBODqmn7CGqmWalTNe5SetxMbF-P-NzOWcuujy0CDVV3qRYkEEyXYbyc9DidQbtwev_X3Ir4Apkpx0PfOHqR1XHZ3TFkJGgzP2kQbsAQnaMw57Jhch3g8_OcmakCX9vT2QVYxirjBOeqb7DzWowEdFqAkyzJ8m/w640-h408/BlueNotchRd-window_1200w-SL1_23036.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sandstone window on Blue Notch Road</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>There was a place to turn off the road where I could reverse direction. I was going to walk back to the high point for a photo of the Blue Notch. Just then I was amazed to see a white pickup pulling a bass boat come up the switchbacks and pass me. Either the road does still reach the lake or there was going to be one disappointed fisherman. At that moment I forgot to get a photo of the pass—-sorry no photo of the Blue Notch. On my way back to the highway there came another pickup and bass boat headed for the lake. Hmmm.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8gNlA0DsUl8Nb0Qx2I6t1FF6bCpnyVeSBbjvhat9XcMYx6eC_qI_Jv6x6cz0Bkw8dLapZcgavBju8GH_51Utck1KBs1aJwkccBXpfoAfBB5cbkE87s502APLRuCmGaPS4kxMs_BWbyWD8UL2oOStWW1yRxj3x56qOWVb7q8fjEWRv65gUJ6hqie7D/s1200/JacobsChairButte_1200w-SL1_23037.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="813" data-original-width="1200" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8gNlA0DsUl8Nb0Qx2I6t1FF6bCpnyVeSBbjvhat9XcMYx6eC_qI_Jv6x6cz0Bkw8dLapZcgavBju8GH_51Utck1KBs1aJwkccBXpfoAfBB5cbkE87s502APLRuCmGaPS4kxMs_BWbyWD8UL2oOStWW1yRxj3x56qOWVb7q8fjEWRv65gUJ6hqie7D/w640-h434/JacobsChairButte_1200w-SL1_23037.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jacob's Chair Butte as seen from UT-95</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Fry Canyon</h4><p>Back at the highway I turned south. Now, shortly before (or after depending upon your travel direction) there is a small dirt road off the north side of the highway (actually east) with a small sign, Fry Canyon Road. I blew past as I was on my way to what I used to call Fry Canyon Road which I now know is actually Radium King Road. But became curious later. I looked it up at home and Google Maps has labelled it Fry Canyon Ruins Road. Turns out there are Cedar Mesa style ruins in the canyon at the end of that short dirt road. A brief internet search shows they are under an overhang and can just be seen from the rim. Looks like there may be a way down into the canyon, but I don't know how difficult that is. If anyone checks it out, please let me know.</p><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Radium King Road</h4><p>As you might imagine with the name Radium King, the area the road passes through contained many uranium mines, as do many areas in UT and Navajo lands. From what I've read, peak production here was during the late 1950s though some continued to operate into the '60s and a few into the '70s. </p><p>The turn off for Radium King Road is easy to find if you look for the (now closed) Fry Canyon Store & RV Park. There is a brown road sign with an arrow pointing to Fry Canyon. As you drive down the gravel road you can see the top of Moss Back Butte ahead, but the Tables of the Sun Buttes, which will dominate the sky soon, are as yet not visible. The gravel gives way to dirt, but the surface is smooth.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzimmPfCNOlxcUq-C8VSEeu9TKYR0fKX5VHS2YCqTH9RNiq00UJFf4nJq5Rk8h0iZWq0On7FdaMXgGOMPlxMvezWQgTfXiF4LukBvS45v72fS-ylJSkBb_3ndvmuHKXCbho8juIaWfhAt7Kyfd3DEDX5h-LabFzQbRKs4FtaPG110KcRk3Kjz1tVxs/s1200/MossBackButte_1200w-SL1_23038.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="617" data-original-width="1200" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzimmPfCNOlxcUq-C8VSEeu9TKYR0fKX5VHS2YCqTH9RNiq00UJFf4nJq5Rk8h0iZWq0On7FdaMXgGOMPlxMvezWQgTfXiF4LukBvS45v72fS-ylJSkBb_3ndvmuHKXCbho8juIaWfhAt7Kyfd3DEDX5h-LabFzQbRKs4FtaPG110KcRk3Kjz1tVxs/w640-h330/MossBackButte_1200w-SL1_23038.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Driving southeast into Fry Canyon with a view of Moss Back Butte.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>At the head of the canyon the road climbs with mild switchbacks. I took a couple of photos looking back down the canyon. I apparently wasn't paying enough attention as I had a difficult time determining exactly which butte is centered in the image (and you know me, I am compelled to identify landmarks or species.) Looking at maps from home, by process of elimination, it has to be Jacob's Chair Butte from an unexpected angle. Right?<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipmraNldf0Hto9HIsXWHeL55sGv6I-YJOvbHp7Z122d-V40AXYP5PV0jdAGgn7n7qdgDrLdTyv6lbF3ZkC7QP5LiiOj2MFuSfsMAhLPmpEDdsNMLvZRXyQpov0VXBNis0n0nEGhDsibjmer9wOR1T8Vfi4QfAVNrLz-EKh8aZNsSOHp_7WPwKD4PU_/s1200/JacobsChair-FryCyn_1200w-SL1_23040.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="770" data-original-width="1200" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipmraNldf0Hto9HIsXWHeL55sGv6I-YJOvbHp7Z122d-V40AXYP5PV0jdAGgn7n7qdgDrLdTyv6lbF3ZkC7QP5LiiOj2MFuSfsMAhLPmpEDdsNMLvZRXyQpov0VXBNis0n0nEGhDsibjmer9wOR1T8Vfi4QfAVNrLz-EKh8aZNsSOHp_7WPwKD4PU_/w640-h410/JacobsChair-FryCyn_1200w-SL1_23040.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking back down Fry Canyon to Jacob's Chair Butte (?)</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>One of the maps I consulted before my trip showed the legend "arch" near the top of the road. I asked John about that and he replied "you can't miss it." When I hear that, it usually means "I'll never find it." In this case, however, you really can't miss it as it's right before your eyes as the road climbs. (If you were driving down, you might miss it.) It is a <i>window</i>, not an <i>arch</i>, and is in white sandstone, so not your typical Utah arch in red. <br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGedntZPCaBMKwDsZmFK3fJX2zAOExIdFlWsCv3txu7pHHnzTOsfJ_HGQmFfU5wGfQHrrCzl_f4OdoIA-jI2TzzXitc--QHg6WV6JJs1ZUj6TwHPplLwt8mjsUWPJjQ7uCukXagabwTJ0P4E-MBMIoupYa6DCEEimg941y_RBfheWyTmJhXLOlewCG/s1200/Window_1200w-SL1_23050.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="778" data-original-width="1200" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGedntZPCaBMKwDsZmFK3fJX2zAOExIdFlWsCv3txu7pHHnzTOsfJ_HGQmFfU5wGfQHrrCzl_f4OdoIA-jI2TzzXitc--QHg6WV6JJs1ZUj6TwHPplLwt8mjsUWPJjQ7uCukXagabwTJ0P4E-MBMIoupYa6DCEEimg941y_RBfheWyTmJhXLOlewCG/w640-h414/Window_1200w-SL1_23050.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Window near the top of the road.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5yflje3xUJY9JswOVk5RkoVQbYM__BPO1jdRCYKnok1oRnq8ZDcr9M11s1ncdEjdlEi3sti3MsNS3dSGV7ccAbWcSEJwZyKhj5E6fVX3fZipUwR5yxsmm24aPnPrftnfVpSK0Whlb3mEGAbfP7JivowMRyxcR78QHzwYJMZ17QYhMhqZOwsGUnDC6/s1200/Boulder_1200w-SL1_23049.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5yflje3xUJY9JswOVk5RkoVQbYM__BPO1jdRCYKnok1oRnq8ZDcr9M11s1ncdEjdlEi3sti3MsNS3dSGV7ccAbWcSEJwZyKhj5E6fVX3fZipUwR5yxsmm24aPnPrftnfVpSK0Whlb3mEGAbfP7JivowMRyxcR78QHzwYJMZ17QYhMhqZOwsGUnDC6/w640-h426/Boulder_1200w-SL1_23049.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boulder with feet across the road from the window.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlSsBRcY3-RpKPMVZCCX8N50tbl0uTGMivphQurLYIa3ZcLDyKoQRQcgdQFkEiwRIrRrtQGKqXTqmswvqLBsykW7Pxq_cdSSyJn6HL8pnHzMKuWDDQ8ytUbXqtvAQWNP-yAD6Imuetn7KoD-XqxgOqIginPBuqXvvwJyUQ7FBTAXoP-YRqROkneJht/s1200/BoulderField_1200w-SL1_23055.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="502" data-original-width="1200" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlSsBRcY3-RpKPMVZCCX8N50tbl0uTGMivphQurLYIa3ZcLDyKoQRQcgdQFkEiwRIrRrtQGKqXTqmswvqLBsykW7Pxq_cdSSyJn6HL8pnHzMKuWDDQ8ytUbXqtvAQWNP-yAD6Imuetn7KoD-XqxgOqIginPBuqXvvwJyUQ7FBTAXoP-YRqROkneJht/w640-h268/BoulderField_1200w-SL1_23055.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tacoma with camper for scale.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<p>There are a few, limited sites to disperse camp on the Fry Canyon side of Tables of the Sun Buttes, if needed, but you will miss the amazing views available from the SW side. </p><p>Also note, the restored Bears Ears National Monument border follows the ridgeline SW of UT-95 all the way down to UT-276 where it follows the ridgeline north of that highway until roughly Glen Canyon NRA. Mancos Mesa is an "island" of Bears Ears to the west. For more info on Bears Ears NM visit the <a href="https://bearsearsmonument.org" target="_blank">Bears Ears Education Center</a>, a service of the Friends of Cedar Mesa. This means all lands that drain into Red Canyon are not in Bears Ears; most of it is BLM, however. There are private in-holdings throughout the area.</p><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Moss Back Road</h4><p>After driving across the pass (and exiting Bears Ears NM) I was on the lookout for Moss Back Road, my objective, on the left. The road was named for the Moss Back member of the Chinle Geological Formation. John cautioned me that Radium King, Moss Back, and Red Canyon South Roads were the only ones maintained by the county and considered passible (in dry weather only) by standard vehicles. It was a happy discovery that, where exposed, the sandstone surface of Moss Back Road had been smoothed by carbide tipped drum-mill or other machinery.</p><p>Within a quarter mile after turning onto Moss Back Road I was treated to an extraordinary view off across the broad Red Canyon valley with the red cliffs, buttes, canyons, and hills of colorful bentonite all around. The road travels over a bench supported by white sandstone. Not only that, but the Tables of the Sun North towered on the west more than 1000' above the road; the drop off the bench varied between 100' and 200'; then the low point east across the valley was nearly 1000' feet below the road. Wow! <br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3rzeQ56qHr-BN-ZPhjWJQPtZDAVw7L915OQkEnuIgrh3hTadBVsW5Tch8v8uK3HathWxzMbz1PuM2YWJGbSn2-O3CUifHiQm-Dh6ekfMDpYTXM90vnJICvB_SL_mmcPQW3I_1hfm54PUO4S2r18WKA2x2k-JaGbY6DRQinisgf9AoylqeT8A4-4Wu/s2400/RedCanyon_Mesas-Pano_2400w-DJI.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="854" data-original-width="2400" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3rzeQ56qHr-BN-ZPhjWJQPtZDAVw7L915OQkEnuIgrh3hTadBVsW5Tch8v8uK3HathWxzMbz1PuM2YWJGbSn2-O3CUifHiQm-Dh6ekfMDpYTXM90vnJICvB_SL_mmcPQW3I_1hfm54PUO4S2r18WKA2x2k-JaGbY6DRQinisgf9AoylqeT8A4-4Wu/w640-h228/RedCanyon_Mesas-Pano_2400w-DJI.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aerial photo taken the next day, but appropriate to the narrative to put it here.<br />You will want to view this panorama as wide as possible.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<p>I very soon saw a great campsite on a flat slab of sandstone with a superb view. I marked it in my mind, but I wanted to drive the length of the bench to look around before setting up camp. Who knows, there might be even better campsites ahead.</p><p>Turns out there are many dispersed sites with amazing views for camping on Moss Back Road. There were interesting rock formations and rocks, boulders, and soils of various compositions, textures, & colors. Wow. I probably drove a little too far. Once you see a good size hill of bentonite on the left, it's best to turn around unless you're in a jeep or ATV. The road farther on wasn't bad, exactly, but narrow, twisty, & steep and there were no more campsites that I could see. I had a dickens of a time finding a place where I could turn around.</p><p>As I drove back on Moss Back Road, I gave consideration to possible campsites. Not unexpectedly with this exposure, the wind was a major factor. As I sampled wind speed at each location (by opening both cab windows) I discovered the site I'd originally spotted had significantly less wind than the others. So I backed in and set up.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3iPgimJ-8XWHy8HV6zZ6eTcDWM3CFSntmfddRd-7Kjkjw0rWS4aAZethZU50hjAHmQcgu03JmNurvJD2BWwPabxzI5IZbFch3q_X1FfJIPmf511-01Y3LKBQdUM5gXCox01MVQJwbqC0uMzqaKE57uKdLEdeVAkDsKwYDHACCmCamQ6siyUN2X3sz/s1200/MossBackRd-tables_1200w-SL1_23066.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="747" data-original-width="1200" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3iPgimJ-8XWHy8HV6zZ6eTcDWM3CFSntmfddRd-7Kjkjw0rWS4aAZethZU50hjAHmQcgu03JmNurvJD2BWwPabxzI5IZbFch3q_X1FfJIPmf511-01Y3LKBQdUM5gXCox01MVQJwbqC0uMzqaKE57uKdLEdeVAkDsKwYDHACCmCamQ6siyUN2X3sz/w640-h398/MossBackRd-tables_1200w-SL1_23066.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tables of the Sun North Butte as seen from my campsite.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<p>There were a number hours of sunlight left in the day. I sat in my camp chair and enjoyed the view for a while. The wind dropped and I was able to get my camera drone in the air for a few photos and video. <br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcAc_4f847rqnlydvfzVAeGT3XdG0h2yiIXoyxxOsHxhfTW1qGgjNpWBLGl3rgospWvlaSXhAr2cY7UssDXlZHG_5mfM8_qhq63B3S26sAT2gG7H6tIBWl0Qv3PR00M-IqwZRfZg57_t2AuEjikohOORD-XwsrsiVqO_-2gU0oRA-G3d5807rcDCXa/s1200/MossBackRd-TablesButte_1200w-DJI_0374.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcAc_4f847rqnlydvfzVAeGT3XdG0h2yiIXoyxxOsHxhfTW1qGgjNpWBLGl3rgospWvlaSXhAr2cY7UssDXlZHG_5mfM8_qhq63B3S26sAT2gG7H6tIBWl0Qv3PR00M-IqwZRfZg57_t2AuEjikohOORD-XwsrsiVqO_-2gU0oRA-G3d5807rcDCXa/w640-h426/MossBackRd-TablesButte_1200w-DJI_0374.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aerial view from out over the canyon back toward the bench and butte.<br />Can you see the little white dot that is my camper just above the rim?</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFLiJg34ubsyObsNDooskkakd1TbkIH8SuNrCXAdtfPLQ13oJRswSorRq08tHkbAVbs8-wQdCOpKfHGu2wR1AmJgIKj25og6mP84jRlk0VdGYwmpLZNtVk0H5I9fZ4rOyoSvUCii8fj8iiGh3e54GRy_uuEgX8w_OFClpQR2x_pLRTc4xqyg6jUok3/s1200/Campsite-rim_1200w-DJI_0378.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="799" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFLiJg34ubsyObsNDooskkakd1TbkIH8SuNrCXAdtfPLQ13oJRswSorRq08tHkbAVbs8-wQdCOpKfHGu2wR1AmJgIKj25og6mP84jRlk0VdGYwmpLZNtVk0H5I9fZ4rOyoSvUCii8fj8iiGh3e54GRy_uuEgX8w_OFClpQR2x_pLRTc4xqyg6jUok3/w640-h426/Campsite-rim_1200w-DJI_0378.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My campsite along Moss Back Road with Wingate Mesa in the background.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>As the sun moved low in the sky I took a walk back toward Radium King Road with my camera. The golden hour was beautiful on the cliffs to the east. <br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3dz4dJQJwfXMisgtI7qyzLUrlRQQFHfjxaORcwmHftQE6ze_ox-1qrkvQF0Trq5vFjALxHFGzhx6E6qVp2xZyadu4LxdL1clNO0if_DEz-FJID0jLqhidkzvMt-RdYDvfyVI6wEqXA-yeDMHuoR_BezgwRyXP4CA2vc_WJ1jVZ_jNPd8pG8wdPQEW/s1200/MossBackRd-spire_1200w-SL1_23069.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="869" data-original-width="1200" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3dz4dJQJwfXMisgtI7qyzLUrlRQQFHfjxaORcwmHftQE6ze_ox-1qrkvQF0Trq5vFjALxHFGzhx6E6qVp2xZyadu4LxdL1clNO0if_DEz-FJID0jLqhidkzvMt-RdYDvfyVI6wEqXA-yeDMHuoR_BezgwRyXP4CA2vc_WJ1jVZ_jNPd8pG8wdPQEW/w640-h464/MossBackRd-spire_1200w-SL1_23069.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A small spire up the slope from my campsite.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivOL12qVgUOGbmAla1FX2DtwvOG5SYXNqALd0exl_31sa_V9DC-4RZfSLXk_dXzNMSoxlkHmRnLz0xy9fB_ynOPq69g3BcC5OT5rpUTGMUx-n7QpIdq_iIXmzdOT1TXCcW0ireec8AFHgadclIDqSkrgz_rZ5U419aKsy6A-QCFrxCky1ZOBSDfTNL/s1200/Yucca-comet_1200w-SL1_23079.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="744" data-original-width="1200" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivOL12qVgUOGbmAla1FX2DtwvOG5SYXNqALd0exl_31sa_V9DC-4RZfSLXk_dXzNMSoxlkHmRnLz0xy9fB_ynOPq69g3BcC5OT5rpUTGMUx-n7QpIdq_iIXmzdOT1TXCcW0ireec8AFHgadclIDqSkrgz_rZ5U419aKsy6A-QCFrxCky1ZOBSDfTNL/w640-h396/Yucca-comet_1200w-SL1_23079.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The low sun angle reveals a yucca "comet."</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi87iXdHmolRj8AqqnUM5_pI7lqirMRNkwnRuy19Ft74EW2JI4jq7GkJ_lCtHMunZmUi2iluCVU99UzRP0lkHtNXyr3e1c4mOmNjRJloUnIqhfNAYbLAGv006mOYL0aA6Fdj_-w_8dqYqR0iSpWSlh2gz1VLtnWt1NlJhhYL8kAHFt4YNoAF58ugqrU/s1200/MossBackRd-Neopolitan_1200w-SL1_23092.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="592" data-original-width="1200" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi87iXdHmolRj8AqqnUM5_pI7lqirMRNkwnRuy19Ft74EW2JI4jq7GkJ_lCtHMunZmUi2iluCVU99UzRP0lkHtNXyr3e1c4mOmNjRJloUnIqhfNAYbLAGv006mOYL0aA6Fdj_-w_8dqYqR0iSpWSlh2gz1VLtnWt1NlJhhYL8kAHFt4YNoAF58ugqrU/w640-h316/MossBackRd-Neopolitan_1200w-SL1_23092.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Colorful clay hills.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<p>There was a bit of a sunset, but I had to tweak it in photoshop to get something to show.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2j5Y2nO4x40UoqpmsP7lkWl-GybukLbAUiU0eU4np52jeQDP3mjbAtngT1VxwhjwQf-4WomRQcjVfHsSFiae9GVS6mzh8h-BgO_FoUm2KsoelH72UTFpidFYXgssYkbU--nCP5By4QPrtEU14V0EWsjiuvBlXtUN8IAyGhZ2ycFrPn1y5zy_DJ83p/s1200/Sunset_1200w-SL1_23111.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="630" data-original-width="1200" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2j5Y2nO4x40UoqpmsP7lkWl-GybukLbAUiU0eU4np52jeQDP3mjbAtngT1VxwhjwQf-4WomRQcjVfHsSFiae9GVS6mzh8h-BgO_FoUm2KsoelH72UTFpidFYXgssYkbU--nCP5By4QPrtEU14V0EWsjiuvBlXtUN8IAyGhZ2ycFrPn1y5zy_DJ83p/w640-h336/Sunset_1200w-SL1_23111.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I was just about drifting off to sleep when the wind kicked up...</p><p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Saturday, April 30th</h3><h4 style="text-align: left;">Moss Back Road (continued)</h4><p>...OMG, the wind, comparable to that I experienced the one time I camped near Muley Point. It slammed into my camper, tin-canning the roof for hours. It finally waned about 2:30am and I was finally able to fall asleep. I had originally intended to camp here another night, but decided my nerves couldn't take another night like that one.</p>
<p>If I wasn't going to camp here tonight, I'd make the best of the day before moving on to tackle the rest of Radium King Road and perhaps I'd find a new site out of the wind down along Red Canyon Road.<br /><br /></p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLOJO6ODcbbswEQDB7tBIIa_ugvyJoSRZ1ulR-6fu_LXxuyIBvlCmTXLulmEoqkapnq5v8Q-f8Hq7yIdLESAje45MnVY8o_v5N7BVyNDEZ7DeT9T_j0_M71hl3EceAp5lLPGP8dW-dfIwrQsP6A9oC6ieZpOyS260klEQGAgQNreBvQJRo9JM10xuA/s1200/Cactus_1200w-SL1_23144.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1022" data-original-width="1200" height="546" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLOJO6ODcbbswEQDB7tBIIa_ugvyJoSRZ1ulR-6fu_LXxuyIBvlCmTXLulmEoqkapnq5v8Q-f8Hq7yIdLESAje45MnVY8o_v5N7BVyNDEZ7DeT9T_j0_M71hl3EceAp5lLPGP8dW-dfIwrQsP6A9oC6ieZpOyS260klEQGAgQNreBvQJRo9JM10xuA/w640-h546/Cactus_1200w-SL1_23144.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claret Cub Cactus in bloom.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p><br />I took a three hour walk/hike south along the road and canyon rim. As I ambled along I took photos of all the interesting rocks, plants, and vistas. Looking at them now, most do not come even close to conveying the experience of seeing these spectacular vistas in person. I did get a few beautiful photos and one extraordinary panorama, though. I recommend you view this full screen. If your browser has a problem displaying the panorama, such as the Full-Screen icon not working, <a href="https://kuula.co/post/NDBYS" target="_blank">click this link</a> to view on the Kuula site.</p><br />
<iframe allow="xr-spatial-tracking; gyroscope; accelerometer" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="640" scrolling="no" src="https://kuula.co/share/NDBYS?logo=1&info=1&fs=1&vr=0&sd=1&thumbs=1" style="border: none; height: 640px; max-width: 100%; width: 100%;" width="100%"></iframe><br />
<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWIpdSuA2AzPruZuj4fSFnyPbbNAnzCHh8lFcH0QlW0Iam74-uVeJKGEuWqGkJrtzjsmNnK3O-dshsBRViskNdv8Ul3S3GMPMgUF4-8E-U8bDwsOY9qm_L5M0gBlmvPaeprAAzZdjEpXGJpo3Uti5aLZO3bjSQbkCjLvQnXcuucnlgNOVi2J4iU-Xy/s1200/MossBackRd-WSWview_1200w-SL1_23149.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="710" data-original-width="1200" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWIpdSuA2AzPruZuj4fSFnyPbbNAnzCHh8lFcH0QlW0Iam74-uVeJKGEuWqGkJrtzjsmNnK3O-dshsBRViskNdv8Ul3S3GMPMgUF4-8E-U8bDwsOY9qm_L5M0gBlmvPaeprAAzZdjEpXGJpo3Uti5aLZO3bjSQbkCjLvQnXcuucnlgNOVi2J4iU-Xy/w640-h378/MossBackRd-WSWview_1200w-SL1_23149.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A view of the mesas across the northern branch of Red Canyon.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxfRGPbO6JGle9ixYcEeScSxNIxxCYIv--Q3SEhcyj2CxyIHToR-KOiF6wMRLQy-pt-ZjXbTqwvxSy7kPvvjUiQTC0_Fh4-ojgRVkKtHE2FU2q6jxttsRyAajaEDUILnv2yUsCsu2OlcF2wT43DziOOFXejFcz65-qn5F86ZGHwgL40Owtuu-wAvml/s1200/MossBackRd-WingateMesa_1200w-SL1_23151.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1200" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxfRGPbO6JGle9ixYcEeScSxNIxxCYIv--Q3SEhcyj2CxyIHToR-KOiF6wMRLQy-pt-ZjXbTqwvxSy7kPvvjUiQTC0_Fh4-ojgRVkKtHE2FU2q6jxttsRyAajaEDUILnv2yUsCsu2OlcF2wT43DziOOFXejFcz65-qn5F86ZGHwgL40Owtuu-wAvml/w640-h364/MossBackRd-WingateMesa_1200w-SL1_23151.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Colorful clays and sandstones with Wingate Mesa in the background.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMYByalI4TZzn66HNtanGgUwHZ3CP2pb1mkGdj13SvUZ29hBWRnkAZeoyP6B9PFCkKbUKSK-nboeZRfPkLlkWfe5NgLTqi9DEn_VwiWFquCroqMR8G-Td0uTsFqYMRyUneTmp7-FpXN1iHoJprsyWeND4FY8uOyLuSi8piunS3vJkVkcwx132z-4K7/s1200/MossBackRd-WSWrim_1200w-SL1_23190.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="625" data-original-width="1200" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMYByalI4TZzn66HNtanGgUwHZ3CP2pb1mkGdj13SvUZ29hBWRnkAZeoyP6B9PFCkKbUKSK-nboeZRfPkLlkWfe5NgLTqi9DEn_VwiWFquCroqMR8G-Td0uTsFqYMRyUneTmp7-FpXN1iHoJprsyWeND4FY8uOyLuSi8piunS3vJkVkcwx132z-4K7/w640-h334/MossBackRd-WSWrim_1200w-SL1_23190.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another view across the canyon with an emphasis on the canyon rim.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL0QIhyH3SHudGpPS4Bw9DN0iUs5ALiTJbmXmkAO7pisnGTSNYtiJBe3BHuqUQBu_WzcKD6FJ3U9optIJSdeh0HxJGkVHSIaTWJhr2QcP1IWkl3eE4uRlfQ-OknSnQggqlw5QMT6PzC7X7NAYsSUuFn7sHSw65Qa6GWzrLPYL3poPogPrH0L3hmbBU/s1200/Paintbrush_1200w-SL1_23191.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="816" data-original-width="1200" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL0QIhyH3SHudGpPS4Bw9DN0iUs5ALiTJbmXmkAO7pisnGTSNYtiJBe3BHuqUQBu_WzcKD6FJ3U9optIJSdeh0HxJGkVHSIaTWJhr2QcP1IWkl3eE4uRlfQ-OknSnQggqlw5QMT6PzC7X7NAYsSUuFn7sHSw65Qa6GWzrLPYL3poPogPrH0L3hmbBU/w640-h436/Paintbrush_1200w-SL1_23191.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Desert Paintbrush</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<p>Around noon the wind had let up enough for me to get my drone in the air. This spherical panorama provides a bit of the feel of this amazing scenery. I strongly recommend you click the full-screen icon. If your browser has a problem displaying the panorama, such as the Full-Screen icon not working, <a href="https://kuula.co/post/NDLDY" target="_blank">click this link</a> to view on the Kuula site.</p>
<br />
<iframe allow="xr-spatial-tracking; gyroscope; accelerometer" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="600" scrolling="no" src="https://kuula.co/share/NDLDY?logo=1&info=1&fs=1&vr=0&sd=1&thumbs=1" style="border: none; height: 640px; max-width: 100%; width: 100%;" width="100%"></iframe>
<br />
<p><br />If you were to look at a USGS map, you would see my campsite is at the junction of two roads. Let this be a caution to those who use those maps. Here's a photo of my camper sitting at the top of the old mining road which led to the Maybe Uranium Mine. As you can see the road has been derelict for 50 years, but looks just as viable as Moss Back road does on the map.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFJQ4f1MWoiCZrcQrlLPg8TH2uRMVS3Gx8P8fxFxwqMYf9Zw8DUa21PNyF_fWBAJ1bL6opaOCWyfkPWVd1VYxjjM4TobtgKBxbb20t2_rJgzMuYugz8tKaDP2F0BNLzDjwyQdOqtlAumVk9xa4X6b-bFPTUxYO-toX6Vk6E5A2O_KXEmpPoGjj1Jhx/s1200/MossBackRd-MaybeRoad_1200w-SL1_23148.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFJQ4f1MWoiCZrcQrlLPg8TH2uRMVS3Gx8P8fxFxwqMYf9Zw8DUa21PNyF_fWBAJ1bL6opaOCWyfkPWVd1VYxjjM4TobtgKBxbb20t2_rJgzMuYugz8tKaDP2F0BNLzDjwyQdOqtlAumVk9xa4X6b-bFPTUxYO-toX6Vk6E5A2O_KXEmpPoGjj1Jhx/w640-h426/MossBackRd-MaybeRoad_1200w-SL1_23148.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The derelict road leading to the Maybe Uranium Mine.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>When I returned to my campsite I enjoyed the view with my lunch. I then broke camp in preparation to continue my journey.</p><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Radium King Road</h4><p>I turned left, westerly, on the road I drove up on. It continues at the same elevation for about a half a mile then dives down below the bench. Here is a photo looking back at the canyon rim near where my campsite was located.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8H0dR91VDiQyUSi8LZ2WxVtAaezbdkCQZy5cWC88IQm9vpiQlU6yaDr8fRhvL8MKHI0vPe5V07y5GgfZ3Va69OPZoppW3rfl4KC9RtEWLqVrgl3abtQC4zXmWJgPEFQdx8ty2NHr99y4goIqo-i4sfiHzXdEpEFUeKMmh72XbCUoqM2qma-5x47RR/s1200/RadiumKingRd-butte-bench_1200w-SL1_23199.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="682" data-original-width="1200" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8H0dR91VDiQyUSi8LZ2WxVtAaezbdkCQZy5cWC88IQm9vpiQlU6yaDr8fRhvL8MKHI0vPe5V07y5GgfZ3Va69OPZoppW3rfl4KC9RtEWLqVrgl3abtQC4zXmWJgPEFQdx8ty2NHr99y4goIqo-i4sfiHzXdEpEFUeKMmh72XbCUoqM2qma-5x47RR/w640-h364/RadiumKingRd-butte-bench_1200w-SL1_23199.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking back toward Tables of the Sun North Butte.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYkR_VcxNshhMMjJVihYh_DGmE-Qq-H7d15tLzYA8tJLTnqFKa7KQ-adycRm4uYm-MWyIAzxdlFB2EPsAE3hid33Wf5o9b8j1knFG6fNGD5JPEt93Qxj6-dgzacHoTjWAiW2EfYV5K3atxeYm2FJEey6EBdTih1vq7gIO51SeJdMhJKNBWRdBKtnZM/s1200/RadiumKingRd-WingateMesa_1200w-SL1_23205.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="696" data-original-width="1200" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYkR_VcxNshhMMjJVihYh_DGmE-Qq-H7d15tLzYA8tJLTnqFKa7KQ-adycRm4uYm-MWyIAzxdlFB2EPsAE3hid33Wf5o9b8j1knFG6fNGD5JPEt93Qxj6-dgzacHoTjWAiW2EfYV5K3atxeYm2FJEey6EBdTih1vq7gIO51SeJdMhJKNBWRdBKtnZM/w640-h372/RadiumKingRd-WingateMesa_1200w-SL1_23205.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The road runs parallel with Wingate Mesa for a few miles.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Radium King Road was in very good condition, especially considering how remote it is. There were plenty of tracks in the road, presumably from ATVs, but I saw none. The road would periodically pass through areas of bentonite, then a long stretch of relatively mild grades. There is a junction at the first gully the road crosses. My understanding is that the spur leads to the last working mine in the area. This crossing and two more were the only places where high clearance was useful.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipelWWju6lkz97CQwaGdvQBTO1oGdGJ2IWi8XfMEYYcJ6OC7BYwECgIbLNSlnrL4GJoo0tW6q3_Ku22YVPXzKhi8xaNJ6UheQclkH9uYjOnpVzvNUCm8GUtTxLemJznyrbv2nyuXxDms3NruFOTGs5TNlZ-WbKfg771LbUKjX6vzcWX4PY9RZ-iJpa/s1200/RadiumKingRd-butte-bentonite_1200w-SL1_23206.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="645" data-original-width="1200" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipelWWju6lkz97CQwaGdvQBTO1oGdGJ2IWi8XfMEYYcJ6OC7BYwECgIbLNSlnrL4GJoo0tW6q3_Ku22YVPXzKhi8xaNJ6UheQclkH9uYjOnpVzvNUCm8GUtTxLemJznyrbv2nyuXxDms3NruFOTGs5TNlZ-WbKfg771LbUKjX6vzcWX4PY9RZ-iJpa/w640-h344/RadiumKingRd-butte-bentonite_1200w-SL1_23206.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Radium King Road</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>This is some of the most rugged and most beautiful southwestern country I've ever passed through. I took lots of photos, but looking at them now they just don't convey the magnitude of the features, the colors & textures, the feelings of traveling through miles and miles of spectacular, raw terrain. There is no camera lens that can capture the experience of being one small human in the midst of this gigantic, geologic treasure house. Nonetheless, I will post a few attempts.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjWN-wJC8am9mjhic-se_z2vKNA0TK7CfNMBlCU8J-7pCKIzBUMF3UlmmP7aFz-Kb_f-CaZYrhW-kCL-fXpiE1reKvYVs-_dX_CeIisiR9Ilh10Kj3LIIyQi4dWNV2l6g28muQb1cmwm_aUeqfcxKKLGeid_0Y9GiwAKYE0FYEcj-m2j5ZV3CZXRJm/s1200/RadiumKingRd-branch_1200w-SL1_23207.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="735" data-original-width="1200" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjWN-wJC8am9mjhic-se_z2vKNA0TK7CfNMBlCU8J-7pCKIzBUMF3UlmmP7aFz-Kb_f-CaZYrhW-kCL-fXpiE1reKvYVs-_dX_CeIisiR9Ilh10Kj3LIIyQi4dWNV2l6g28muQb1cmwm_aUeqfcxKKLGeid_0Y9GiwAKYE0FYEcj-m2j5ZV3CZXRJm/w640-h392/RadiumKingRd-branch_1200w-SL1_23207.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View off the side of the road.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>The road continued in very good condition and smooth for the most part. There were a few short stretches that were very narrow and steep toward the western end. 4WD was not needed, though I engaged it a couple times just for more secure traction on the steepest climbs.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUxqpgD-p76WJY9GOXmKT2ujo1zurVCbp4e5PJbQ89XyM6_DrL-mp2GXV_1MTA32TaDowPqxcfWrzh264GXxfHryQjMFpynH1a9-BEsXdby3V-1wSZtWDNON7G-AtC3MouEeR00Oc5Cnbrr3VMjK2aclAtvrb1SESL2Ut5lsx3FL8ebVJ6KYUZsGzV/s1200/RadiumKingRd-rock_1200w-SL1_23212.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUxqpgD-p76WJY9GOXmKT2ujo1zurVCbp4e5PJbQ89XyM6_DrL-mp2GXV_1MTA32TaDowPqxcfWrzh264GXxfHryQjMFpynH1a9-BEsXdby3V-1wSZtWDNON7G-AtC3MouEeR00Oc5Cnbrr3VMjK2aclAtvrb1SESL2Ut5lsx3FL8ebVJ6KYUZsGzV/w640-h426/RadiumKingRd-rock_1200w-SL1_23212.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looks like it wouldn't take much to topple this rock onto the road—just sayin'.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>It had been well over 24 hours since I'd seen a single person or vehicle. I stopped at a saddle in the road for photos and spied a white rectangle that must surely be a parked vehicle far in the distance and about 500' lower in elevation. Some time later after a winding descent I saw a large white pickup with Utah plates and camper shell parked in the middle of the road. There was a man wearing a sun hood with a backpack wandering along the base of some bentonite hills. Looked like he was searching the ground for something that washed down; perhaps pieces of petrified wood that is found throughout the area.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKLCuV-zkt_cuG0K-LVXXBRwoLjJuWQ-YFq7sMULhX5SDhcelYZDzL5yRq-gHxYb7ro_rzbD0BO2NzPeuuIUjPwVY1IV_9Hk3AFYUzyPLK-hmLt0qT3vVIC7oJXxfLhPU9ZtWrGQmkkJn1gQevUoVofca0dvPedy8qeuE0wBXR8iszgVCi3lMc61gL/s2400/RadiumKingRd-2pano_2400w.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="967" data-original-width="2400" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKLCuV-zkt_cuG0K-LVXXBRwoLjJuWQ-YFq7sMULhX5SDhcelYZDzL5yRq-gHxYb7ro_rzbD0BO2NzPeuuIUjPwVY1IV_9Hk3AFYUzyPLK-hmLt0qT3vVIC7oJXxfLhPU9ZtWrGQmkkJn1gQevUoVofca0dvPedy8qeuE0wBXR8iszgVCi3lMc61gL/w640-h258/RadiumKingRd-2pano_2400w.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Multi-image panorama. View as large as possible.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>In any case I was very lucky. Just after I passed his truck there was a gate in a barbed-wire fence—-the type where the strands of wire are attached to a pole and the pole fits into a wire loop at the bottom of the fence post, and you drop another loop over the top of the pole to close the gate. I could no more lift the top loop off the pole due to the tension in the wire than I could sprout wings and fly. The man saw me walking back toward him and came to meet me with words acknowledging how difficult that gate was to open. I asked for his help and this much younger man was able to open the gate and closed it after I drove through. I thanked him, but neglected to ask what he was searching for along the ground.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO9JaCsS1D19ON_02ikqTrXVWoVqcIy06JmyXRGthz2-xQu-fpKBQ1SEv9jqgx6fmOMVVN0KvBuNgwJlVXDwR47L8zwiZZiiYpThI2hhAYIm6MahWbgX_gDDhn0MXHtqqM5n_G6s260QxoIP0jWiAXSx4K5ciUxTgS0Xry1ACsYv2094vIQTf6RITN/s2400/RadiumKingRd-shelf-2pano_2400w.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1028" data-original-width="2400" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO9JaCsS1D19ON_02ikqTrXVWoVqcIy06JmyXRGthz2-xQu-fpKBQ1SEv9jqgx6fmOMVVN0KvBuNgwJlVXDwR47L8zwiZZiiYpThI2hhAYIm6MahWbgX_gDDhn0MXHtqqM5n_G6s260QxoIP0jWiAXSx4K5ciUxTgS0Xry1ACsYv2094vIQTf6RITN/w640-h274/RadiumKingRd-shelf-2pano_2400w.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Multi-image panorama. View as large as possible.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>A few miles farther along I can across this monument to broken dreams. From there it was only half a mile to where the road crosses the main drainage of Red Canyon. Should there be enough rain to produce flow, it would drain NNW toward Lake Powell, supplemented by the many canyons south of UT-95. </p><p>Note: for some reason many maps do not show Radium King Road connecting to Red Canyon Road. Let me assure you that they not only connect, but the road is easily passible (in dry weather.) <br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqno5gKzCi7fAzN9GcdcwLfYztou1O1Fb94ZnHtyOtQmmBHt-6yEU_7mJFa-egNV1iKGrfU8mtjIY3TD_0w9nwdj5WNbG2mjf_OSBR0n0IOyopuq13MRv0EtkgLPc7syAeySKwOmXorR_QHh7YV9bcehmT38u2M_PQIapjDkG9F9hNLxdTBwHJsixf/s1200/RadiumKingRd-dreams_1200w-SL1_23231.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1200" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqno5gKzCi7fAzN9GcdcwLfYztou1O1Fb94ZnHtyOtQmmBHt-6yEU_7mJFa-egNV1iKGrfU8mtjIY3TD_0w9nwdj5WNbG2mjf_OSBR0n0IOyopuq13MRv0EtkgLPc7syAeySKwOmXorR_QHh7YV9bcehmT38u2M_PQIapjDkG9F9hNLxdTBwHJsixf/w640-h384/RadiumKingRd-dreams_1200w-SL1_23231.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This modern ruin is near the end of Radium King Road.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Red Canyon Road</h4><p>Once up the other side the road 'T's into Red Canyon Road. John advised that although the route northwest looks like a good road it quickly deteriorates. I turned southeast toward UT-276.</p><p>FYI, it took approximately a half hour to drive Radium King Road from UT-95 to Moss Back Road; by rough estimate it took 2 hours plus to drive from Moss Back Road to Red Canyon Road.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieZO9pyAJeTFqc8BBirSw0180hTUoAKI1MB2nWPhuEDl7DxAKOW9q27WnuixTNDERu2_S0kYHR3AyxKIpfcJnh4l_EdIVMLBB_A5Z85gX3mNLJbTCf4megHOpQrxEhFSluByoqO-k-5tzkTaXHWCxIfET-2mWtSV2JRuxGi4qgYrqE8Q9068L10Ko8/s1200/RedCanyonRd-butte_1200wSL1_23232.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="758" data-original-width="1200" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieZO9pyAJeTFqc8BBirSw0180hTUoAKI1MB2nWPhuEDl7DxAKOW9q27WnuixTNDERu2_S0kYHR3AyxKIpfcJnh4l_EdIVMLBB_A5Z85gX3mNLJbTCf4megHOpQrxEhFSluByoqO-k-5tzkTaXHWCxIfET-2mWtSV2JRuxGi4qgYrqE8Q9068L10Ko8/w640-h404/RedCanyonRd-butte_1200wSL1_23232.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Southern branch of Red Canyon.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Red Canyon Road was in good condition, though there were a few very sandy areas where you should keep your momentum. I'm going to guess it would take an hour to reach the highway, but I tried a couple side roads looking for potential campsites, so don't have a reliable estimate.</p><p>The road basically parallels the southern branch of Red Canyon. It rides on deposits that have washed down or slumped from the red sandstone cliffs to the south. The scenery is not as dramatic as along Radium King Road, but there are wonderful vistas of the buttes and mesas off to the north. The terrain becomes less interesting as you approach the highway.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz7oewzKmyhRfKm4uivnBbDhC-W9W0xVxWQxApOs59H1ES_xLaZXEQyu1CDIqZW4H94FZvAzcR7pKn94hoc2yYlnQakTUQ8RcHGk5c4M-4QQHVdgXBw6hRtS7giBxiSqFfLKqeNKgsZcMBVYznYCrKLptixwUOUxtN9rGHbmBQXoHdOyanhWaZ27iU/s1200/RedCanyonRd-mesas_1200w-SL1_23233.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="679" data-original-width="1200" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz7oewzKmyhRfKm4uivnBbDhC-W9W0xVxWQxApOs59H1ES_xLaZXEQyu1CDIqZW4H94FZvAzcR7pKn94hoc2yYlnQakTUQ8RcHGk5c4M-4QQHVdgXBw6hRtS7giBxiSqFfLKqeNKgsZcMBVYznYCrKLptixwUOUxtN9rGHbmBQXoHdOyanhWaZ27iU/w640-h362/RedCanyonRd-mesas_1200w-SL1_23233.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Southern branch of Red Canyon.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I had hoped to find a dispersed campsite along here somewhere that would be out of the worst of the wind. Although there were several sites with attractive views, I found none that were sufficiently out of the wind. It became clear I'd have to try somewhere else, but where? I hatched the idea to head back to Burch Canyon Road where there were many dispersed campsites and many are within piñon/juniper woodlands that might afford shelter from the wind.</p><p>I turned left, northeast, on UT-276 which lead back to the "main" highway, UT-95. From there it was only a few miles east to the turn-off to Natural Bridges, then Burch Canyon Road.</p><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Burch Canyon Road Redux</h4><p>When I drove up lower Burch Canyon Road earlier in the week around mid-day, there were very few campsites open. Surprisingly, on Saturday evening there were many sites available. I'd seen a couple of interesting sites a few miles along that I wanted to check out. When I was nearly there I stopped to chat with a gentleman who was out walking along the road.</p><p>It turns out we had more in common than our ages. We both had pop-up campers, both from the outskirts of Albuquerque, both an interest in photography, and I later learned we were both retired engineers. I said I was going to look at sites a bit farther along the road. The gentleman said if they were taken there was a spur just this side of his camp I should check. If I camped there he invited me to walk over to his site and visit. Turns out the sites I'd seen earlier were taken, so I returned to where my new friend had suggested. <br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_W_Heb6MzTugeoJsAvoBRm6a2Q-c63gnQXRRE_GcNfSkxOELNBvpL5UBDG6LPXKunifPqd6Kfe8J3CVM674bUcEEXmMawE4QVTVkPIqkdMq1Kz3aLb31RGgUTvtSyJJrl5bETBJzaprikq8J5mv2fUH8yvUXllS76NDN1gQtzpTTffnH7IZ67ss8c/s1200/LowerBurchCynRd-campsite_1200w-SL1_23236.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="741" data-original-width="1200" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_W_Heb6MzTugeoJsAvoBRm6a2Q-c63gnQXRRE_GcNfSkxOELNBvpL5UBDG6LPXKunifPqd6Kfe8J3CVM674bUcEEXmMawE4QVTVkPIqkdMq1Kz3aLb31RGgUTvtSyJJrl5bETBJzaprikq8J5mv2fUH8yvUXllS76NDN1gQtzpTTffnH7IZ67ss8c/w640-h396/LowerBurchCynRd-campsite_1200w-SL1_23236.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My campsite out of the wind.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2M5nZwzQi5QbzTJRNO0aoFzk54j2nHfaC28xRLz0lX0jv8lZ6ohWHTjspCfAvv_CnA5atpNKJrGcAtZ3-DbnUSZ7JHAg5AOHzmlzGACNGEWTncJGFh6-DIl0PIZwXJAd-l3qYNtIcYfPF3wpwSKSnTt_4GQLjtbO6ode1G7EDfKsQFfmPLRDLYo75/s1200/LowerBurchCanyonRd-campaccess_1200-SL1_23237.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="733" data-original-width="1200" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2M5nZwzQi5QbzTJRNO0aoFzk54j2nHfaC28xRLz0lX0jv8lZ6ohWHTjspCfAvv_CnA5atpNKJrGcAtZ3-DbnUSZ7JHAg5AOHzmlzGACNGEWTncJGFh6-DIl0PIZwXJAd-l3qYNtIcYfPF3wpwSKSnTt_4GQLjtbO6ode1G7EDfKsQFfmPLRDLYo75/w640-h390/LowerBurchCanyonRd-campaccess_1200-SL1_23237.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The spur off the road that lead to my campsite.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>After setting up I took my camp chair and walked over to visit. Ralph and I had a very enjoyable evening sitting next to the (non-burning) campfire and swapping stories about travel destinations, camping, and photography.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ9qIJ1FoQ3eKgNFgrh07dD5qkjAz6Jww5cePQxPPmsHtbZ87lTmsqENqzjbvctAIIwiHAlvj-sBacVPZXTddSu50wLiHQUnE67BQ_I_gb45SRFmIEvAoroa9aIXOdxTxib3_ax5c3CIFr8nnj6tIs3I8-Nj7zS1E6LBHtNuGPYP-obcZAPSx3BKwo/s1200/Milkvetch_1200w-SL1_23238.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="993" data-original-width="1200" height="530" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ9qIJ1FoQ3eKgNFgrh07dD5qkjAz6Jww5cePQxPPmsHtbZ87lTmsqENqzjbvctAIIwiHAlvj-sBacVPZXTddSu50wLiHQUnE67BQ_I_gb45SRFmIEvAoroa9aIXOdxTxib3_ax5c3CIFr8nnj6tIs3I8-Nj7zS1E6LBHtNuGPYP-obcZAPSx3BKwo/w640-h530/Milkvetch_1200w-SL1_23238.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Colton's Milkvetch looks very similar to Locoweed.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Sunday, May 1st</h3><h4 style="text-align: left;">Burch Canyon Road (continued)<br /><br /></h4><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0kxWCoGkl3ZzKzq6XttV13E3eYyf59FSQPcqqb_LDbl-uupMEkzdN-WJU_kDOPUrshY1RCAa05hueobacJTLoHwZCYQFqagkH66cjorkwyZkEf9nAo6CVCpuiIPNv9OKJmgkyf99VWonZHUQNjvAeK0tAL4sQnbVqquq2Z8cZrpBG_Vr1iPEvm-c0/s1200/LowerBurchCynRd-campsite_1200w-SL1_23239.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="714" data-original-width="1200" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0kxWCoGkl3ZzKzq6XttV13E3eYyf59FSQPcqqb_LDbl-uupMEkzdN-WJU_kDOPUrshY1RCAa05hueobacJTLoHwZCYQFqagkH66cjorkwyZkEf9nAo6CVCpuiIPNv9OKJmgkyf99VWonZHUQNjvAeK0tAL4sQnbVqquq2Z8cZrpBG_Vr1iPEvm-c0/w640-h380/LowerBurchCynRd-campsite_1200w-SL1_23239.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My campsite in the morning sun.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKArrpGFE6WylNj8TfCzyFLSBnAPYNVta0ovCL7vrk727n3dguIdUc-AJPF-GMvUKg2-vJkt9XvXmYkTn0kn2QqXVf1eg0T51259j-BQLdfM-sSNFOjGdjfUlu3NHlgTd1rMiRzDt-lWcci8CptIS0nunccHSbpzgugZNV0BqR7Ry-xtO9XcIthlUz/s1200/Wallflower_1200h-SL1_23244.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1118" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKArrpGFE6WylNj8TfCzyFLSBnAPYNVta0ovCL7vrk727n3dguIdUc-AJPF-GMvUKg2-vJkt9XvXmYkTn0kn2QqXVf1eg0T51259j-BQLdfM-sSNFOjGdjfUlu3NHlgTd1rMiRzDt-lWcci8CptIS0nunccHSbpzgugZNV0BqR7Ry-xtO9XcIthlUz/w596-h640/Wallflower_1200h-SL1_23244.jpg" width="596" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Western Wallflower beneath the junipers.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I slept well as the campsite was indeed sheltered from the wind. I debated my options as I was not quite ready to return to civilization, but I needed to keep in mind that my gasoline was limited. Driving the relatively short distance across the top of Cedar Mesa to Arch Canyon Road seemed like a good option, especially as most of that distance was toward the gas stations on US-191.</p><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Dog Tanks Springs</h4><p>My favorite site at North Mule Canyon was occupied so I drove a couple miles farther up the road to the site I stayed at once before, Dog Tanks Springs. This was probably a better site under the conditions. It is located down in a small dell and thus sheltered from the wind. The view is not quite as scenic as North Mule Canyon, but very pleasant. There are a few mature cottonwood trees next to the spring, though only one was showing spring leaves and the scrub oaks had not begun to bud.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4vCOkfWzvL29OVKvWwnA_Bh4IdzWNBIEsIprkDSNTfO5dgORvvfOIJJbm9IKcnQyraU1jpcsQ6fcXiY7kplsRUjGuGvPse9_vgJrm5TqTnFghk9NFh8bTe3_y3JnG2jU_Gxp22coynkEpIktBOmsKO1qBtwdOupfPJxbvWKIJkp5hxkyiScq__8TV/s1200/DogTanksSprings-campsite_1200w-SL1_23247.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="1200" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4vCOkfWzvL29OVKvWwnA_Bh4IdzWNBIEsIprkDSNTfO5dgORvvfOIJJbm9IKcnQyraU1jpcsQ6fcXiY7kplsRUjGuGvPse9_vgJrm5TqTnFghk9NFh8bTe3_y3JnG2jU_Gxp22coynkEpIktBOmsKO1qBtwdOupfPJxbvWKIJkp5hxkyiScq__8TV/w640-h374/DogTanksSprings-campsite_1200w-SL1_23247.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My campsite along Dog Tank Springs.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I sat under the trees and read, listened to the birds and tried to get photos of those feathered friends who stopped by. I got a good one of an Ash-throated Flycatcher, which I will share here. I got a poor one of a Plumbeous Vireo which I will not share, but allowed me to ID the song I'd heard also at Lost Canyon.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBep5AggZENGE0PXjVGnMkQ5H6oCODv2a4FEsYbvvOmy2EI7envw4raJooXVqM4LYdvyLuN0_SWMAMh8OBpcLgu18RStiWynM7yK4fxLfCByI1MqPNDk-T0iz1Uj9uUX5hS3890cdh_PshZlKAJzyeC-nLjH6GjjQ59qcynudKZbHCf4dfuK160Ri8/s1200/DogTanksSprings-chair_1200w-SL1_23249.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBep5AggZENGE0PXjVGnMkQ5H6oCODv2a4FEsYbvvOmy2EI7envw4raJooXVqM4LYdvyLuN0_SWMAMh8OBpcLgu18RStiWynM7yK4fxLfCByI1MqPNDk-T0iz1Uj9uUX5hS3890cdh_PshZlKAJzyeC-nLjH6GjjQ59qcynudKZbHCf4dfuK160Ri8/w640-h426/DogTanksSprings-chair_1200w-SL1_23249.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lounge chair near the spring.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3-KXYV2qGp3bGRLvq79Asbz7fXtJ-Gs1pqog5dBYpUcFQ4eSG-UjP4IaUIcmJKyP_IPCQkk7LH8iE3EnvJogb4OhasbQz1KngHXdpfElvjmyXAAurgi5RgBN96avqgtPMau6pnRJa-e1jxZoEElDoj5TOuh_ucfkIobGRQ1wiZpvnM71LYikzjTXF/s1200/Ash-throatedFlycatcher_1200w-7D_23312.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="909" data-original-width="1200" height="484" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3-KXYV2qGp3bGRLvq79Asbz7fXtJ-Gs1pqog5dBYpUcFQ4eSG-UjP4IaUIcmJKyP_IPCQkk7LH8iE3EnvJogb4OhasbQz1KngHXdpfElvjmyXAAurgi5RgBN96avqgtPMau6pnRJa-e1jxZoEElDoj5TOuh_ucfkIobGRQ1wiZpvnM71LYikzjTXF/w640-h484/Ash-throatedFlycatcher_1200w-7D_23312.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ash-throated Flycatcher.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I'd camped here once before, while waiting for the campsite at the Arch Canyon Overlook to be passed along to me. At that time I sent my drone up to look around. When I got home and viewed the video on my desktop I realized that Arch Canyon was really close to this campsite. When I looked on a topo map, the canyon was only about a quarter mile away, as the flycatcher flies.<br /><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Arch Canyon</h4><p>I couldn't find a trail from the campsite so bushwhacked my way over. I hiked just under half a mile to get to the canyon rim. By that time in the afternoon clouds had moved in unfortunately, so the light wasn't the best for photography. If you missed my Arch Canyon photos from previous posts, <a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/search/label/Arch%20Canyon" target="_blank">check them out</a>. I enjoyed the spectacular views, nonetheless. I apparently wasn't paying enough attention earlier, so wandered a bit on my way back to camp, but with the help of my inReach device I did find a slightly longer route. I think that longer route was much easier and I'll share below the photos.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKO4_lAvIMPkXgWQ6g-GQV204q13HCCkXhJ39xA0Kg3hEINT-UOCsbSDMgnHxrgWhfKrIPbWi8RtV2iHOCwWUEjXoMbV7_rXLr_R6oWnP4e8cBqThGUI6vPHGeOnoeo_k3TJPQKBEiKsv6kPBkhm3YlUJaOUxgwz_S-UoacksZZvtPhErgjKhjYRhV/s1200/ArchCanyon-rock_1200w-SL1_23251.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="792" data-original-width="1200" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKO4_lAvIMPkXgWQ6g-GQV204q13HCCkXhJ39xA0Kg3hEINT-UOCsbSDMgnHxrgWhfKrIPbWi8RtV2iHOCwWUEjXoMbV7_rXLr_R6oWnP4e8cBqThGUI6vPHGeOnoeo_k3TJPQKBEiKsv6kPBkhm3YlUJaOUxgwz_S-UoacksZZvtPhErgjKhjYRhV/w640-h422/ArchCanyon-rock_1200w-SL1_23251.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking NW up Arch Canyon.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoQUD83e6Yh9v0EptC-iz1o4TU1bp4kdgThhVgeHgbk0w7qFHZPs3xRem3C8Ff8_Gyhtur_s5hLZugNVaYJ9olCMh_PDJITBi1aqWwSKkyBOe60rCmPtK6YgZBciur1rQBxedxK2_k9YkvEErYi7yRdTxf4gVaBcoFGEOvkK-ML1npEdfmfTsMpV2K/s1200/ArchCanyon-bottom_1200w-SL1_23264.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="738" data-original-width="1200" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoQUD83e6Yh9v0EptC-iz1o4TU1bp4kdgThhVgeHgbk0w7qFHZPs3xRem3C8Ff8_Gyhtur_s5hLZugNVaYJ9olCMh_PDJITBi1aqWwSKkyBOe60rCmPtK6YgZBciur1rQBxedxK2_k9YkvEErYi7yRdTxf4gVaBcoFGEOvkK-ML1npEdfmfTsMpV2K/w640-h394/ArchCanyon-bottom_1200w-SL1_23264.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A slightly different and wider perspective.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>In case you ever camp here and want to walk to the canyon, I suggest: walk almost 400' back down the road (SE) until you come to a wash with a sandstone bottom; walk east along the wash bottom; just past another large section of sandstone look for a little wash that heads NNE (about 700' from the road); the wash doesn't go very far, but keep heading NNE and you will get to the canyon in about another 600'. That's an easy walk.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHe3F5GZ3zBOp-k7X4oPS0dRqibmjHmclpTu02U0PLkr-purZX8_yeaIkZqAC4p98lYLslt0T2ftziEa5GSjH8UJkOPtIsCs2xpGBq47XqnM_km9ZFg019B6SfMtcigQEh0JnC2tS2AqpWVJyi3THPAyUdOiSNrAs75TnyNowczINp0WWrit1hnh_E/s1200/Rubberplant_1200w-SL1_23284.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1176" data-original-width="1200" height="628" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHe3F5GZ3zBOp-k7X4oPS0dRqibmjHmclpTu02U0PLkr-purZX8_yeaIkZqAC4p98lYLslt0T2ftziEa5GSjH8UJkOPtIsCs2xpGBq47XqnM_km9ZFg019B6SfMtcigQEh0JnC2tS2AqpWVJyi3THPAyUdOiSNrAs75TnyNowczINp0WWrit1hnh_E/w640-h628/Rubberplant_1200w-SL1_23284.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Colorado Rubberplant</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Monday, May 2nd</h3><h4 style="text-align: left;">Dog Tank Springs (continued)</h4><p>After a pleasant night, shielded from the wind, I packed up and started out for home. No photos from camp or from the road as it was hazy and/or smokey this morning. I made it to White Mesa with gas to spare, then aimed the truck at New Mexico. <br /><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">On the way home</h4><p>I stopped at my favorite place in Shiprock to grab a bite to eat, the locally owned "That's A Burger" just north of the junction of US-64. In addition to all the burgers and things you'd expect, they have a Navajo menu, too. I decided to try their green chile stew. It surprised me as I'm used to the green chile stew in Albuquerque being made with diced potatoes, but this Navajo style was made with posolé... it was so delicious! They served a generous portion, too. I ate half at an outside table, then put the rest in my fridge to enjoy at home.</p><p>The drive home was uneventful, which is good. It was warm, but not too bad.</p><p><br /></p><p><i>Summing up: this was a wonderful trip—-one of my favorites (but as was pointed out to me, I say that frequently.) It was especially sweet as I spent most of my journey exploring new places, and those new places were so beautiful and even spectacular!</i></p><p><br /></p>Bosque Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00001863270259847102noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3983525105536347837.post-22414525975120448062022-05-24T15:47:00.004-06:002022-05-25T13:31:16.561-06:00Spring Fling, UT - April 2022: Part 1<h2 style="text-align: left;">Bears Ears National Monument in Two Parts</h2><h3 style="text-align: left;">April 26 - May 2, 2022</h3><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Preface</h4><p><i>A year ago I asked my readers if anyone knew what was down Fry Canyon off UT-95, between Natural Bridges and the Colorado River. The road is about 12 miles west of the junction with UT-276. John from Arizona kindly replied that is was a very interesting place which he'd visited a number of times. We exchanged several emails. He described Radium King & Moss Back Roads and the interesting terrain & geology. I navigated to the area in Google Earth, looked around at ground level, and got quite excited by the potential. </i></p><p><i>I wanted to go last fall, but John warned all the bentonite clay soils made the roads impassible when wet, and the forecast was chancy. I hoped this spring would be my opportunity as the forecast was dry, dry, dry. I shouldn't need to remind regular blog visitors that there is very little shade in these mid-elevation Utah landscapes. The piñon and juniper trees are just not tall enough as you can see from my photos. Spring and Fall are the times to visit and camp. Winter is chancy as at 6000 to 7000 feet elevation it will be cold indeed during the night, and snow is not unheard of.</i></p><p><i>He had also mentioned Burch Canyon Road as interesting. I saw that there were backroads beyond Burch Canyon that ran northwest roughly parallel to UT-95 though BLM lands along ridges and canyons that looked worth exploring. I knew no one who had been that way, but the roads looked OK in the satellite images, so I was determined find out. I'd do that loop first as it was higher in elevation and the weather forecast had the warmer temperatures early in the week. When it cooled off I'd explore lower down.</i></p><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Part 1 of 2</h3><p><b>Click photos to view larger versions in a view screen where you may use the arrow keys to move.</b><br /><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Tuesday, April 26th</h3><h4 style="text-align: left;">Angel Peak Scenic Area</h4><p>I again chose to only drive as far as BLM's <a href="https://www.blm.gov/visit/angel-peak-scenic-area" target="_blank">Angel Peak Recreation Area</a> in northern New Mexico the first day. This spot is a few miles off US-550, south of Bloomfield. It is situated on the edge of a plateau and overlooks the eponymous Angel Peak and the banded colors of the badlands below. My previous <a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/search/label/Angel%20Peak%20Scenic%20Area" target="_blank">blog posts on Angel Peak</a> contain more details and more photos. I also have a <a href="https://kuula.co/post/7BCvC" target="_blank">spherical panorama</a> that gives a sense of the location. </p><p>A short first day also allows me to finishing my packing in the morning without trying to rush. I left the house about 3:30pm and arrived about 6pm. I drove through the official campground and, as usual, the sites with a view of the peak and badlands were taken. I drove back to the excellent site where I camped last time along the road to "The Cliffs Picnic Area".</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSzoUtQ6ggv2Zdk5JP39OWUX0cHymUNWVLTvIt6rrguSlfG3d7_h_NVnzSZOuNYd3Xq5P_r3JUileXNQ1znaTq47rMTsmyC4ykUYr401hO9_6mEZGVC3csHg6h2TonPO3RLzozfgzTIASoBDBVi4hz0TCxj82xXzjRw8JEPxh9lYMRBn4Ai7n4aBn6/s1200/AngelPeak-camper_1200w-SL1_22858.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="773" data-original-width="1200" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSzoUtQ6ggv2Zdk5JP39OWUX0cHymUNWVLTvIt6rrguSlfG3d7_h_NVnzSZOuNYd3Xq5P_r3JUileXNQ1znaTq47rMTsmyC4ykUYr401hO9_6mEZGVC3csHg6h2TonPO3RLzozfgzTIASoBDBVi4hz0TCxj82xXzjRw8JEPxh9lYMRBn4Ai7n4aBn6/w640-h412/AngelPeak-camper_1200w-SL1_22858.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My campsite at The Cliffs</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Before setting up I walked the short distance to the picnic area where there are tables under ramadas and a vault toilet. I saw a pickup truck and "baby" Airstream camped at one of the tables. As I was admiring the view an older couple (though probably younger than me) and their very enthusiastically friendly dog said hello. This was Dane and his wife (whose name went in one ear and out the other, sorry) are from Wyoming, near the north entrance to Yellowstone. They love the southwest and make a trek down every year. They were camped here as the campground at Chaco Canyon was full, which is par for the course (reservations are recommended.) We enjoyed swapping stories for a little while before I returned to my camper and set up. It was a cloudy evening, so I didn't take many photos, but the wind was mild.</p><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Wednesday, April 27th</h3><h4 style="text-align: left;">Angel Peak (continued)</h4><p>The light wasn't that great for photos this morning, so I only took a few and am only posting this one. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjZBbhiv0lyh7Ehwg32wJhRl40BPFLqLKzHeqPe8EEC2NZS6ZqeoX42G9wfsmceQVJbCvYrOBcKkeHEgyxFMhSoc6ix-KZl6qmf4eBRHEFgqzCzi0LnJuObSIKEdk3d17GMCp0qYVgPWAbfMhwwYOgmvpRdp0wbzMmAS96AS-SnGxJmnZbZQmuVrG2/s1200/AngelPeak-view_1200w-SL1_22873.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjZBbhiv0lyh7Ehwg32wJhRl40BPFLqLKzHeqPe8EEC2NZS6ZqeoX42G9wfsmceQVJbCvYrOBcKkeHEgyxFMhSoc6ix-KZl6qmf4eBRHEFgqzCzi0LnJuObSIKEdk3d17GMCp0qYVgPWAbfMhwwYOgmvpRdp0wbzMmAS96AS-SnGxJmnZbZQmuVrG2/w640-h426/AngelPeak-view_1200w-SL1_22873.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View north from my campsite showing the badlands and the oil rigs & roadways</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I packed up and hit the road just after 9am, headed north on US-550. I took my usual Bloomfield/Farmington bypass route (drop me a line if you want details,) US-64 west into Arizona, then north from Red Mesa to Montezuma Creek. I topped off my tank at White Mesa on US-191 before heading west on UT-95.</p><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Burch Canyon Road<br /><br /></h4><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ9AOwXDt3dEs-GSVdpzrLmugUpP6Mw9HKoT3qisxcU-ufxsjMQdDfuX5UxtpL8KUv5GECgYE7Qi0Yn8Fu98Q-9pRqiVF2oSw2ew-6bFC47BkhBuF0FWEW2_KfNnZtYPv2eqxupZjkbwyqzdkbYAy2YbX8Dpt4Tll8aNMKTUA3voDMmY936bmsyBFI/s1200/BurchCynRd-jeep_1200w-SL1_22877.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="703" data-original-width="1200" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ9AOwXDt3dEs-GSVdpzrLmugUpP6Mw9HKoT3qisxcU-ufxsjMQdDfuX5UxtpL8KUv5GECgYE7Qi0Yn8Fu98Q-9pRqiVF2oSw2ew-6bFC47BkhBuF0FWEW2_KfNnZtYPv2eqxupZjkbwyqzdkbYAy2YbX8Dpt4Tll8aNMKTUA3voDMmY936bmsyBFI/w640-h374/BurchCynRd-jeep_1200w-SL1_22877.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lower Burch Canyon Road. The gentleman driving the Jeep apologized for ruining my photo; "Not at all I," replied. "I'll just add to the caption: <i>Jeep for scale</i>."</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I took the turn-off toward Natural Bridges after crossing Cedar Mesa. The first dirt road one comes to leads up to Elk Ridge. The second dirt road to the right has a sign for Deer Flat; this is Burch Canyon Road. Burch Canyon is the larger of the two canyons which comprise Natural Bridges NM, the second is Deer Canyon. The first few miles has many dispersed campsites. Many of these sites fill up with Natural Bridges campground overflow, but as you drive farther the sites become nicer and slightly less likely to be taken. However, once you make a sharp turn around the end of the first white sandstone canyon there are no more sites. <br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeZ-xiOP7R_u3NsWp6b_Fix5qC6EV-A8p7VNdW5svUF3lv3hOtwjFetBXWQPaeK4Uhu6MyuviXM4kFU-PfBP9wTdI-ndvl1uOX9j6EjzAkk0kv9_8PZkFVM2qvsOGDPFwgSecg2DRIHImI-CGBN6lnvaCA0mSiZ2R4y6rUGMxp_NhPpkYFG_hGybLO/s1200/BurchCynRd-ears_1200w-SL1_22878.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="770" data-original-width="1200" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeZ-xiOP7R_u3NsWp6b_Fix5qC6EV-A8p7VNdW5svUF3lv3hOtwjFetBXWQPaeK4Uhu6MyuviXM4kFU-PfBP9wTdI-ndvl1uOX9j6EjzAkk0kv9_8PZkFVM2qvsOGDPFwgSecg2DRIHImI-CGBN6lnvaCA0mSiZ2R4y6rUGMxp_NhPpkYFG_hGybLO/w640-h410/BurchCynRd-ears_1200w-SL1_22878.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A partial view of the Bears Ears behind the bluff.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWKX2VRbkS8ge6c7HbqslJQpdmQHMZ_FD1-Yjawby_n9HkVFSm7c8s0yD8tP28BoUFIcYdHtyhbWft-EJI3uU9pOd-DVG_-Ezj7aqyoDA118q-rkYDBxndKTiXy9lRIcBM_-Y0ZPklKFeN4vXLDXGletI8iaN4p8d3ysARuR79cDeYuQLRHIh06l1M/s1200/FringedPuccoon_1200w-SL1_22882.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="879" data-original-width="1200" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWKX2VRbkS8ge6c7HbqslJQpdmQHMZ_FD1-Yjawby_n9HkVFSm7c8s0yD8tP28BoUFIcYdHtyhbWft-EJI3uU9pOd-DVG_-Ezj7aqyoDA118q-rkYDBxndKTiXy9lRIcBM_-Y0ZPklKFeN4vXLDXGletI8iaN4p8d3ysARuR79cDeYuQLRHIh06l1M/w640-h468/FringedPuccoon_1200w-SL1_22882.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fringed Puccoon blooming along the road.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>The road is generally in good shape and easy. The final climb affords the best view of the canyon complex and is quite scenic. The last section has very steep climbs, is narrow, and with a drop off right there. <br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnPtXLlGitnqX1HfuSbO6VtUYJShvLXni4V-zvHdxfWggxZuJESH_prmMWRyDE8n_4RyMcR7OrTyWFgvyL0cWPDnqT9KPkjxSbBxTCaz7uXq_3eClXc_jepm4wapKEucHMgNS8_sg6xl8G6VziF_EJRYX2C7HZasrWcFRi6D0BEYQnu7JxVpDtrkoQ/s2250/BurchCanyon-3pano_2250w.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="798" data-original-width="2250" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnPtXLlGitnqX1HfuSbO6VtUYJShvLXni4V-zvHdxfWggxZuJESH_prmMWRyDE8n_4RyMcR7OrTyWFgvyL0cWPDnqT9KPkjxSbBxTCaz7uXq_3eClXc_jepm4wapKEucHMgNS8_sg6xl8G6VziF_EJRYX2C7HZasrWcFRi6D0BEYQnu7JxVpDtrkoQ/w640-h226/BurchCanyon-3pano_2250w.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deer Canyon in the foreground; Burch Canyon beyond. Both feed into Natural Bridges NM.<br />This is a very wide, 3-image panorama, so click then widen your browser window.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><h4 style="text-align: left;"><br />Deer Flat</h4><p>Once on top the terrain opens up. You are now headed NE on Deer Flat Road. The flat is mostly sagebrush and clump grasses. There were a few spring wildflowers. The road then reenters piñon/juniper woodlands.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtWLKNspxD-3hkix7QOm1JxLWnzsZxW8SduyWosIn155gfhnDt7nnXNDoPc7vQ0xv_lwepzcCcCnYT7nlOV83z-2tDWD8RqUYcEDivOYr0ROMp7NGSCtb6dUz-Bth8kH-cEzGRHydoULc8JFbRQn943utuDxTQQbhdPGZLyj9XAVSt01BeJmHgkDoP/s1200/DeerFlat_1200w-SL1_22899.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="707" data-original-width="1200" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtWLKNspxD-3hkix7QOm1JxLWnzsZxW8SduyWosIn155gfhnDt7nnXNDoPc7vQ0xv_lwepzcCcCnYT7nlOV83z-2tDWD8RqUYcEDivOYr0ROMp7NGSCtb6dUz-Bth8kH-cEzGRHydoULc8JFbRQn943utuDxTQQbhdPGZLyj9XAVSt01BeJmHgkDoP/w640-h378/DeerFlat_1200w-SL1_22899.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deer Flat with Wooden Shoe Buttes in the background.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2BqMLD0I3eGJrpgKMuUp8Yk5Ylt2t8qIx_GVqC_Q_8xdTi3TVjnbZ4S8SNQ0AkYG1CSZQqUobSuCJn_EI33NcRcT9lD3swSx3EwfAHglhj7Q8eOINkdL2dXQCrPDZbZBPjl2YgZAh5Iky9g_OuemiqWBWq9DMUtmTXsV69HI_a4EkGgHQgVL0Wr6W/s1200/ArrowleafBalsamroot_1200w-SL1_22898.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="894" data-original-width="1200" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2BqMLD0I3eGJrpgKMuUp8Yk5Ylt2t8qIx_GVqC_Q_8xdTi3TVjnbZ4S8SNQ0AkYG1CSZQqUobSuCJn_EI33NcRcT9lD3swSx3EwfAHglhj7Q8eOINkdL2dXQCrPDZbZBPjl2YgZAh5Iky9g_OuemiqWBWq9DMUtmTXsV69HI_a4EkGgHQgVL0Wr6W/w640-h476/ArrowleafBalsamroot_1200w-SL1_22898.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arrowleaf Balsamroot.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzddkWYxlJC_h5-MiKmxlgTRPuzD4zHpoNsm39WmQxrqIhkmL7W5XTfdp321c7mJPsuJcIdvKlKXBrmZxnxrYc_q4bGQXS3NoGKDQM1GHUm868cN5cUuHrhk6-0vXWxodOjQW_YMcYHDKY0hl_pB3hCKC7htMnRXPZJzDoKxqCy9mzFphEyAAN4iPj/s1200/SpinyPhlox_1200w-SL1_22897.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="923" data-original-width="1200" height="492" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzddkWYxlJC_h5-MiKmxlgTRPuzD4zHpoNsm39WmQxrqIhkmL7W5XTfdp321c7mJPsuJcIdvKlKXBrmZxnxrYc_q4bGQXS3NoGKDQM1GHUm868cN5cUuHrhk6-0vXWxodOjQW_YMcYHDKY0hl_pB3hCKC7htMnRXPZJzDoKxqCy9mzFphEyAAN4iPj/w640-h492/SpinyPhlox_1200w-SL1_22897.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tiny flowers on Spiny Phlox.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><h4 style="text-align: left;"><br />Wooden Shoe Road</h4><p>I passed the left turn labeled as Wooden Shoe Road, which was my ultimate travel direction, but first I wanted to look for a campsite in the lee of Wooden Shoe Buttes as the wind was picking up. I went straight, which is the eastern section of Wooden Shoe Road, CR-256. However, my maps didn't seem to match where I was traveling, they didn't match each other either. In retrospect I should have been using one of my GPS enabled maps on my phone, but the way seemed straight-forward. I thought I was going around The Heel Butte, but was actually going around The Toe. I was on Wooden Shoe Road, so I wasn't lost. I came out where I expected, so no problem. If you look at Google Maps it shows lots of roads that are not really there or are not suitable for highway vehicles.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaCUnynj0iiY2icCFuEcQcIDQakm1NjRha1K9Hqaiucte0JqAHvkSP8o86bIS22j9JVaaxLEhRlOYHOsi4bdRKwMJ4-eXjpwUuvsad90JB5gZ9L7Vbf4YWGyDGzuOhMXIR-SK8tMgCtOkWMEPvmHYareBqlpCwbS5qYDAyURhwA10Ats3k4y2eti5F/s1200/BearsEars_1200w-SL1_22901.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="614" data-original-width="1200" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaCUnynj0iiY2icCFuEcQcIDQakm1NjRha1K9Hqaiucte0JqAHvkSP8o86bIS22j9JVaaxLEhRlOYHOsi4bdRKwMJ4-eXjpwUuvsad90JB5gZ9L7Vbf4YWGyDGzuOhMXIR-SK8tMgCtOkWMEPvmHYareBqlpCwbS5qYDAyURhwA10Ats3k4y2eti5F/w640-h328/BearsEars_1200w-SL1_22901.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Bears Ears seen from Wooden Shoe Road.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>The road curved toward the southeast. The slopes leading toward Dark Canyon were thick with scrub oak that had not put out leaves for the season. There were no campsites, zero. I finally found one, just before the national forest boundary. It was a lovely green meadow beneath mature pine trees and a view of a butte. Unfortunately, due to the terrain it was too much of a wind tunnel than I would wish to subject myself to. <br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7zG2sbnR_MxeSlGwbYXHqfzYqnVZ230ezNz9gn6OiuFMXgjDNUVHdw71xB9IEF3h-TvTHovNA2UM7xJ7iAcv8O8Y3k_PDyySw3cZ7B8QycC2LZuHx-p99Nmd05hlsXf-lrdqFiVouKq2GCdRvU4dVoCtl1dZA5OJAdoz9aCq6Wrbxa2SaL1vvpjR8/s1200/WoodenShoe-pines_1200w-SL1_22902.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7zG2sbnR_MxeSlGwbYXHqfzYqnVZ230ezNz9gn6OiuFMXgjDNUVHdw71xB9IEF3h-TvTHovNA2UM7xJ7iAcv8O8Y3k_PDyySw3cZ7B8QycC2LZuHx-p99Nmd05hlsXf-lrdqFiVouKq2GCdRvU4dVoCtl1dZA5OJAdoz9aCq6Wrbxa2SaL1vvpjR8/w640-h426/WoodenShoe-pines_1200w-SL1_22902.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mature pines shading a lovely campsite.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl4KgLjY1E_obG8PBhD4jgI_cxY8QTpsEGUYLyCJHkSLnBguFsoTekuparqxe5Iex1VqtttBcRocvsart4ahrWx1ZmpfEy6M9S-T8oYt7250h62DPhlLWUQEW_6T0UXyLnj0JHWYBMDFoZ9uJn9WRKvxX1p2UmSvl5nmkjrjDEfSWWXnKCIVCGxuvE/s1200/WoodenShoe-campview_1200w-SL1_22903.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="868" data-original-width="1200" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl4KgLjY1E_obG8PBhD4jgI_cxY8QTpsEGUYLyCJHkSLnBguFsoTekuparqxe5Iex1VqtttBcRocvsart4ahrWx1ZmpfEy6M9S-T8oYt7250h62DPhlLWUQEW_6T0UXyLnj0JHWYBMDFoZ9uJn9WRKvxX1p2UmSvl5nmkjrjDEfSWWXnKCIVCGxuvE/w640-h462/WoodenShoe-campview_1200w-SL1_22903.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tiny flowers cover the ground.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I continued on into the forest and down the side road to Wooden Shoe trailhead, but there were no suitable campsites. In a pinch I suppose you could camp at the trailhead, but as it was only 3pm I turned around and headed back the way I'd come.</p><p>I made the turn onto west Wooden Shoe Road, CR-256, which I would follow the rest of the day. The road was interesting in parts with views off the ridge and at other times just a road though the pine/piñon forest. The road was in good condition overall, though there were a few bumpy spots. There were no campsites. There were cattle ponds. I kept following the most traveled path at junctions. The side roads, some of which I peeked down, were in poor condition and gave no indication of possibly having good campsites. The road began to take on a straighter NW orientation and dropping in altitude. At close to it's northern most point there is a spur to a landing strip, which I also didn't take.</p><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Lost Canyon</h4><p>The road turned southerly with red cliffs and ridges on the left and open canyons bordered with Cedar Mesa sandstone on the right. There were wide vistas far to the west. I spotted a large flock of Piñon Jays moving though the trees, calling out to one another. The road was now well out of the pines and into the junipers. Approximately 5 miles after turning south, right where the road makes a sharp curve west was a slab of sandstone reaching out to the road on the inside of the curve. There was evidence of previous campers in the form of rock fire rings.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi88i37XJOB820UHfhPAmZtFSRrOTsbo7yQONKwWDSZSdmWLBuWLIDnWYP4mp3CGEHliK5jdcsMj97BRi0OorRWxmyGR6gedAOte8Gu46B1ntgAL_MH-ad-vSnGdliIhAVK1hc0zjKke9a_MNcF-gkF9TCmARZJ-4ribmGuHi6-sx2D_QyzgN3gaTp/s1200/LostCanyon-campsite_1200w-SL1_22904.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="760" data-original-width="1200" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi88i37XJOB820UHfhPAmZtFSRrOTsbo7yQONKwWDSZSdmWLBuWLIDnWYP4mp3CGEHliK5jdcsMj97BRi0OorRWxmyGR6gedAOte8Gu46B1ntgAL_MH-ad-vSnGdliIhAVK1hc0zjKke9a_MNcF-gkF9TCmARZJ-4ribmGuHi6-sx2D_QyzgN3gaTp/w640-h406/LostCanyon-campsite_1200w-SL1_22904.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lost Canyon campsite with my chair set up on the "patio."</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I pulled off there and surveyed the site. It was beautiful. It was near the head of a white sandstone canyon surrounded on three sides by high cliffs of layered, red sandstone a thousand or so feet away affording an effective wind break. The sandstone on which I parked was enclosed by vibrant piñons and junipers, though there were also the inevitable dead trees one now sees everywhere in the drought stricken west. Far off on the horizon, mountains could just be seen through the thick haze. These were the Henry Mountains and the nearby Little Rockies. Through a gap in the distant cliffs I later discovered a glimpse of Jacob's Chair Butte.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnRZea16GcTY8vmDxnbWfim2UXfjD6AyMv9WjALKuuGEIl9GOCgMZeXGHEVtz7WFw-2EVSnfDkHd0S9TK00es4HAgL5Mc6imRU9bY_F0e0xxdDvfwdH8RdtJwORcJjH-wPJve4LEleF7QcGJmozGuNC2jTkr-fTnYzLWmR9ZZEAzuZt9TxUXQdkoug/s1200/OrangeLichen_1200w-SL1_22909.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="822" data-original-width="1200" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnRZea16GcTY8vmDxnbWfim2UXfjD6AyMv9WjALKuuGEIl9GOCgMZeXGHEVtz7WFw-2EVSnfDkHd0S9TK00es4HAgL5Mc6imRU9bY_F0e0xxdDvfwdH8RdtJwORcJjH-wPJve4LEleF7QcGJmozGuNC2jTkr-fTnYzLWmR9ZZEAzuZt9TxUXQdkoug/w640-h438/OrangeLichen_1200w-SL1_22909.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Orange Sunburst Lichen—about 6 inches across—growing on the sandstone.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>It was 6pm. It was a very long day of driving, but I was rewarded with nature's beauty. I got set up by 7 and wandered around the immediate area looking down into the canyon and generally admiring the scenery. I set out my chair and enjoyed a little bit of a sunset over the Henry Mountains at 8pm.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb0fNQXmei_m0iN8dn-XLxVRKSILUbH1enivLm41GaXKUZYnlsrI44B_WeYvNYooZ8sg1ZtXiy-BK50MzQVwtbB2PVC-0PMBwEGzyBxeO67V8sdkfTZwYqrAns_FY9-ORd9IJdmCRoN0Oer2UGddWlmjzW41qiekxBHahTYY76qCKV0xM92Gew_hn-/s1200/Sunset_1200w-SL1_22912.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="736" data-original-width="1200" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb0fNQXmei_m0iN8dn-XLxVRKSILUbH1enivLm41GaXKUZYnlsrI44B_WeYvNYooZ8sg1ZtXiy-BK50MzQVwtbB2PVC-0PMBwEGzyBxeO67V8sdkfTZwYqrAns_FY9-ORd9IJdmCRoN0Oer2UGddWlmjzW41qiekxBHahTYY76qCKV0xM92Gew_hn-/w640-h392/Sunset_1200w-SL1_22912.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset over the Henry Mountains.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p> </p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Thursday, April 28th</h3><h4 style="text-align: left;">Lost Canyon (continued)</h4><p>My Benchmark road atlas called this Long Canyon, but several sources I've checked from home confirm it is named Lost Canyon.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtccIpETM4TMqUBpsPEif9XxnRAs4U09TFGmpeYfXa1KFE6vsdWLGiJd4TSax0kwucoVxJAddGwFTy1-CPDY2EGFJgh5059LC_W4VmBbhB8aM4i0bXEl5nrgDrpghslg_TzZ3Fe9OYDxoLV6_cn4KZhjVRQyOZI8v3hrogcB41T2tKdxem-u2_8t_5/s1200/MorningView-campsite_1200w-SL1_22919.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="642" data-original-width="1200" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtccIpETM4TMqUBpsPEif9XxnRAs4U09TFGmpeYfXa1KFE6vsdWLGiJd4TSax0kwucoVxJAddGwFTy1-CPDY2EGFJgh5059LC_W4VmBbhB8aM4i0bXEl5nrgDrpghslg_TzZ3Fe9OYDxoLV6_cn4KZhjVRQyOZI8v3hrogcB41T2tKdxem-u2_8t_5/w640-h342/MorningView-campsite_1200w-SL1_22919.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Westerly morning view from my campsite across to the Henry Mountains.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY7_OnKp31YZVhDuXJz_8kGjbqzSTjFaNxnB_TIgYZbncuFoaR813WzoNTudrLv2VFER6sLxds6J8Y1SRLPEFF3ZyqL5H1DXFAADHRdgruNJZDhoWbEBpMshy40lkbiOAOXoSh8X464WznCagpcUYSFv2Mx3G0UDaUIjd_M9erNgkgXhoBM_uuzzEK/s1200/Pinon-bonsai_1200w-SL1_22923.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="772" data-original-width="1200" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY7_OnKp31YZVhDuXJz_8kGjbqzSTjFaNxnB_TIgYZbncuFoaR813WzoNTudrLv2VFER6sLxds6J8Y1SRLPEFF3ZyqL5H1DXFAADHRdgruNJZDhoWbEBpMshy40lkbiOAOXoSh8X464WznCagpcUYSFv2Mx3G0UDaUIjd_M9erNgkgXhoBM_uuzzEK/w640-h412/Pinon-bonsai_1200w-SL1_22923.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nature's bonsai, a piñon growing from a small pocket in the sandstone.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>It was a beautiful morning with a few clouds, though the haze was still pronounced along the horizon. It was chilly enough I set my camp chair in the sun to relax and enjoy my morning coffee. Ah, it felt good. I took a few photos around camp, including two with my telephoto lens. In retrospect, I should have taken the extension tube off for the Henry Mountains photo, or at lest framed it a bit better. Oh, well.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTpRp-9tykt3Cw6hSNJV26HVvcgyL3eBWecFEli_bTCX2RDDdep977cDjBrNsHwQtA1S6lfh2xvwZ46cokfByBOZUUV7y1AUsL2Ojx2WI-727KDAL3Im_HSy2nt3tR2vre_e3s2c0HgFSz6zEiZgcKUhzH0rni5J5RHuoL5TSt6VLkTN8NzsaKU39p/s1200/JacobsChair_1200w-7D_23289.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTpRp-9tykt3Cw6hSNJV26HVvcgyL3eBWecFEli_bTCX2RDDdep977cDjBrNsHwQtA1S6lfh2xvwZ46cokfByBOZUUV7y1AUsL2Ojx2WI-727KDAL3Im_HSy2nt3tR2vre_e3s2c0HgFSz6zEiZgcKUhzH0rni5J5RHuoL5TSt6VLkTN8NzsaKU39p/w640-h426/JacobsChair_1200w-7D_23289.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The back of Jacob's Chair Butte from my campsite using a telephoto lens.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjTCuukm4rl0E2TKQEhqL9NOWOUDwianNZ9UlCOX57b776pi4RVaanwzZZX6DezCu11orYJpwbHmzh8piBtUIlz8FtRWdfocspD2f774EBHZDcQzGmG-OPpqI18LzP0JSR035KdpeJT73JRW7AKlEk3eNhhaFnl1DYQmmpORH4w9PkMuczegtpyxu6/s1200/HenryMountains_1200w-7D_23290.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjTCuukm4rl0E2TKQEhqL9NOWOUDwianNZ9UlCOX57b776pi4RVaanwzZZX6DezCu11orYJpwbHmzh8piBtUIlz8FtRWdfocspD2f774EBHZDcQzGmG-OPpqI18LzP0JSR035KdpeJT73JRW7AKlEk3eNhhaFnl1DYQmmpORH4w9PkMuczegtpyxu6/w640-h426/HenryMountains_1200w-7D_23290.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mt. Hillers of the Henry Mountains seen from my campsite.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>There was no doubt in my mind I would stay the day here to recover from my drive and the several days effort to mount my camper and prepare for the season. Seems preparations took a bit more out of me this year. It can't be because I'm getting old, no, perhaps I just sat on my butt too much last winter. I'll do better next year.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFooySxuTQDKm7idDwh7CjOfAtHJCP70SpiK56_ayEUjVxTSqGYHd1Uziz5cXo7rekIVkthyhqZ3TECF-NhbUeNMI7dBW8dlPhkf-HzvbzGhl8fVady08xLYkAN0ZrC7VIpxlk40ed1aq2HsyQd14DO7x_WMcqtLCxR9ti4Q3Vogwit-mV1N28IlWj/s1200/RubberPlant-composite_1200h-.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="788" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFooySxuTQDKm7idDwh7CjOfAtHJCP70SpiK56_ayEUjVxTSqGYHd1Uziz5cXo7rekIVkthyhqZ3TECF-NhbUeNMI7dBW8dlPhkf-HzvbzGhl8fVady08xLYkAN0ZrC7VIpxlk40ed1aq2HsyQd14DO7x_WMcqtLCxR9ti4Q3Vogwit-mV1N28IlWj/w420-h640/RubberPlant-composite_1200h-.jpg" width="420" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Colorado Rubberplant growing from a crack in the rock.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Around 9am I took my drone up lest the winds pick back up in the afternoon. I took some photos and video. Here is a photo showing the beauty of my campsite, Jacob's Chair, Lost Canyon, and the far off mountains. The canyon looks more shallow than it is due to the angle of the photo. Not that it is that deep here near its head. I'm guessing it is about 20' deep at my campsite, then it drops off a ledge and is maybe 30' deep. Looked like there were places someone younger and more agile would have little trouble getting in and out. I figured I could get down, but might never get back out!
<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3h4YiVJhcS7lLcxA7KdfDioVrw93DaOJval_zujI3BdZ0vx2H6HJ1TeC3tCBLAkbsHtrdHeRVJq_z-y71SMQdVMq7-ryUwp2vQJLJFZxrC3UBS94YnhvccSPF_3VMuSADvJXQ7cUhYjNg3zS9ijram0h5OVQasAD4UHlh2hVfnXXbKBszG0AFBGlL/s1200/LostCanyon-camper_1200w-DJI_0369.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="738" data-original-width="1200" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3h4YiVJhcS7lLcxA7KdfDioVrw93DaOJval_zujI3BdZ0vx2H6HJ1TeC3tCBLAkbsHtrdHeRVJq_z-y71SMQdVMq7-ryUwp2vQJLJFZxrC3UBS94YnhvccSPF_3VMuSADvJXQ7cUhYjNg3zS9ijram0h5OVQasAD4UHlh2hVfnXXbKBszG0AFBGlL/w640-h394/LostCanyon-camper_1200w-DJI_0369.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aerial view of my campsite, Lost Canyon, Jacob's Chair, and the Henry Mountains.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />A good sense of the entire area is provided by this spherical panorama. The light was challenging, especially toward the sun, so please ignore the seam in the sky. If your browser has a problem displaying the panorama, such as the Full-Screen icon not working, <a href="https://kuula.co/post/NHJmJ" target="_blank">click this link</a> to view on the Kuula site.<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="xr-spatial-tracking; gyroscope; accelerometer" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="600" scrolling="no" src="https://kuula.co/share/NHJmJ?logo=1&info=1&fs=1&vr=0&sd=1&thumbs=1" style="border: none; height: 640px; max-width: 100%; width: 100%;" width="100%"></iframe>
<br />
<p><br />After lunch I took a modest hike up a dry wash to get a closer look at the cliffs to the east. I was able to walk around a few of the obstacles, but finally had to give up as my agility was not up to the terrain. I returned to camp for more relaxing!<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0lZW2RrLD4qVRAbQ77Sy25se8Inm_WFAMID9ixuou5wK6dfLbtrqcMtKmQ6dXCAqCWtUl5na5o_tttoNVaB5vwcRLsylnaTxUu9TXTxqJ24q25gaT2dWeA4RnhOBOayn2Srl8zQ5F5Sv59KnHFxpoQQ_jr5vlgJW1cuREoxFv1YT75mp9W3QBGq8Z/s1200/DryWash_1200h-SL1_22930.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="849" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0lZW2RrLD4qVRAbQ77Sy25se8Inm_WFAMID9ixuou5wK6dfLbtrqcMtKmQ6dXCAqCWtUl5na5o_tttoNVaB5vwcRLsylnaTxUu9TXTxqJ24q25gaT2dWeA4RnhOBOayn2Srl8zQ5F5Sv59KnHFxpoQQ_jr5vlgJW1cuREoxFv1YT75mp9W3QBGq8Z/w452-h640/DryWash_1200h-SL1_22930.jpg" width="452" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View looking up the dry wash toward the cliffs.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ5iRG-lzE83hrO0Jw-KJDgsGL0i84Ek5BvhY49RVHolwOZFtVVUhc_Kmqv9yjIwnftzm0OCRIXWge2U9P2gJrEDoEnS43tCFUsrnl6nQWRCwnW9KaRKm6Dg141XmR2midLYwX17TpqdGIp0jmKKkjYuH8OY14qe9gLyCugcA2ihsD_Jyp69i0ihml/s1200/Bladderpod_1200w-SL1_22927.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="887" data-original-width="1200" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ5iRG-lzE83hrO0Jw-KJDgsGL0i84Ek5BvhY49RVHolwOZFtVVUhc_Kmqv9yjIwnftzm0OCRIXWge2U9P2gJrEDoEnS43tCFUsrnl6nQWRCwnW9KaRKm6Dg141XmR2midLYwX17TpqdGIp0jmKKkjYuH8OY14qe9gLyCugcA2ihsD_Jyp69i0ihml/w640-h474/Bladderpod_1200w-SL1_22927.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A blooming Double Bladderpod plant seen on my hike up the wash.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>There were several birds vocalizing around camp. One was singing often across the canyon, but never came close for a look. There was a flycatcher that came through. His call was much like an Ash-throated specie. I did get a good photo which had me scratching my head as his chest and belly was so white, but studying the books there really is no alternative ID.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizqGMEmNvubRAUECIuyf1cd7kFn2fCmkneatktF33yzpmEMTdPRS1JSKvmWBF2tUCt3FBdDqOYVYEi0gpPdNhCg_R1gG3Pb0oWXsqVfYfYxfytCesDsvffsBLkK9IPx_-FACqFtiODcFyw7WB4hD5gdRXvujMDzrInHSFy7lCUedh_ahoGuHndPHOx/s1200/Ash-throatedFlycatcher_1200h-7D_23301.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="888" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizqGMEmNvubRAUECIuyf1cd7kFn2fCmkneatktF33yzpmEMTdPRS1JSKvmWBF2tUCt3FBdDqOYVYEi0gpPdNhCg_R1gG3Pb0oWXsqVfYfYxfytCesDsvffsBLkK9IPx_-FACqFtiODcFyw7WB4hD5gdRXvujMDzrInHSFy7lCUedh_ahoGuHndPHOx/w474-h640/Ash-throatedFlycatcher_1200h-7D_23301.jpg" width="474" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ash-throated Flycatcher</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>At some point in the afternoon, a few desultory cattle came walking up the road. They seemed shocked to see my camper and stopped dead in their tracks. It took them a quite a while to decide I was no threat and resume their trek. It appears to be a harsh land for cattle with little forage. I took no photos of the sun-baked beasts.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6puYcSl6_7S33oBLSEUeBLuQniWnE78fUT_v4_s9A_QdVQ3UfLe36Gk0COErkILAGpCP2cMB0DsEnNv3qMpNaapUSBqwUD_UAIgqSjSco-1AyeMx_y_k5XahZaq2NmZ60NbES1To5Pn72jZQ9tZGEThmVCQDtqsOa4Q5rnI1zTUBpLqNDy_dmDawg/s1200/LostCanyonCamp-rocks-cliff-camper_1200w-SL1_22946.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6puYcSl6_7S33oBLSEUeBLuQniWnE78fUT_v4_s9A_QdVQ3UfLe36Gk0COErkILAGpCP2cMB0DsEnNv3qMpNaapUSBqwUD_UAIgqSjSco-1AyeMx_y_k5XahZaq2NmZ60NbES1To5Pn72jZQ9tZGEThmVCQDtqsOa4Q5rnI1zTUBpLqNDy_dmDawg/w640-h426/LostCanyonCamp-rocks-cliff-camper_1200w-SL1_22946.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking back at my campsite from the canyon rim.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>A pretty sunset to bring a close to a lovely day.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihnvBVI5pEAdT4LHoOWM-D5Lz9k4qf0fjJO_Ym04615gYJX2DFubBloPETjDvYkpwP-JXeSAt0N8K82C9TgYjc3BoLYzqMlOlzD-g6UNRC0NOk1wkn-uZPMkjEZ-R9qjFMo285KBmT0glffWo453jkRDLJ9owNgzmKHtQrSQx_k7_wrjYC6NZLG_J5/s1200/Sunset2_1200w-SL1_22962.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihnvBVI5pEAdT4LHoOWM-D5Lz9k4qf0fjJO_Ym04615gYJX2DFubBloPETjDvYkpwP-JXeSAt0N8K82C9TgYjc3BoLYzqMlOlzD-g6UNRC0NOk1wkn-uZPMkjEZ-R9qjFMo285KBmT0glffWo453jkRDLJ9owNgzmKHtQrSQx_k7_wrjYC6NZLG_J5/w640-h426/Sunset2_1200w-SL1_22962.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset as seen from my campsite.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Friday, April 29th</h3><h4 style="text-align: left;">Lost Canyon and Wooden Shoe Road (continued)</h4><p>I enjoyed a leisurely morning soaking up the beauty of the area. I broke camp and got on the road about 10:30am. From here Wooden Shoe Road runs NW along the area between a ridge on the west and Lost Canyon on the east. The vegetation went from desert woodlands to bushes to scrub to low plants and native grasses. There were a few flowers beginning to bloom, too. There were a couple of Fremont's Barberry next to the road that were more heavily laden with blossoms than I'd ever seen. <br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia93wfEaFuGEfxLFgSkodyi4mhLMGI7di7NgC7bu5zTaS9uGkntz-8eJA_wPXlQN2OKqGeLYtCqN-0ctYesNqcBEnjkJcN6S3USUGEocPTXlYCOVZ3EpJDRHTftju6vAfdQnY1YbYJ39gKXGY2FNWSfbvJaCZzpusofv-7XRvjw59yGla37la4fabZ/s1200/Barberry-cliff_1200w-SL1_22966.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="912" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia93wfEaFuGEfxLFgSkodyi4mhLMGI7di7NgC7bu5zTaS9uGkntz-8eJA_wPXlQN2OKqGeLYtCqN-0ctYesNqcBEnjkJcN6S3USUGEocPTXlYCOVZ3EpJDRHTftju6vAfdQnY1YbYJ39gKXGY2FNWSfbvJaCZzpusofv-7XRvjw59yGla37la4fabZ/w486-h640/Barberry-cliff_1200w-SL1_22966.jpg" width="486" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fremont's Barberry blooming alongside the road.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzZeZTVwM_IzOZrkWQDAg3nVV_Zxapdo_NlPEa6CdQHpqfs3t5Zmc5pCKIW4bkvTY0rIZug0Vm1SiYDMd0EGd8DkcqocKvjoULAPCAIHcTU-09A7THLPlAk880pE_6524Ri3i-Nr9GjeiUJ0yC4cLHpNagY364onPp7Xmmb0cC76zYMfSYSdrS7Cvt/s1200/Barberry-crop_1200w-SL1_22970.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="922" data-original-width="1200" height="492" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzZeZTVwM_IzOZrkWQDAg3nVV_Zxapdo_NlPEa6CdQHpqfs3t5Zmc5pCKIW4bkvTY0rIZug0Vm1SiYDMd0EGd8DkcqocKvjoULAPCAIHcTU-09A7THLPlAk880pE_6524Ri3i-Nr9GjeiUJ0yC4cLHpNagY364onPp7Xmmb0cC76zYMfSYSdrS7Cvt/w640-h492/Barberry-crop_1200w-SL1_22970.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A closer view of the profusion of blossoms.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Here is where I stopped to photograph the Barberry. Note the smooth road surface--this is typical for this entire stretch. There seemed to be a few dispersed campsites long this stretch of the road, but I didn't stop to check them out.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9SORmLvgelVLqODLmUSftrxry8KthB2H3WJdCNCzI00zLWLxt3QgO524KDTLFTytSozmnh1GvBqRAKgLpX46PzvLD7IuDuzT8cDUbC5WN0dJBktzE8mpGDmvQnoTYsIztWOutOyEk5gqzJ6ajJHPY-19S9w7zSmfmjmyzOBAa3Ad40E75JTizDfvb/s1200/WoodenShoeRdW-photostop_1200w-SL1_22969.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="1200" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9SORmLvgelVLqODLmUSftrxry8KthB2H3WJdCNCzI00zLWLxt3QgO524KDTLFTytSozmnh1GvBqRAKgLpX46PzvLD7IuDuzT8cDUbC5WN0dJBktzE8mpGDmvQnoTYsIztWOutOyEk5gqzJ6ajJHPY-19S9w7zSmfmjmyzOBAa3Ad40E75JTizDfvb/w640-h374/WoodenShoeRdW-photostop_1200w-SL1_22969.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stopped to photograph the barberry plants.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtw-PVgnCs66u_DvrmiKjHgtyVMrLqPKOpgl_GapyIejfz0ghVLrUbYUV2HEt5O0zqAh7AqNkDcM9wsdjZogdouO6HPAnZOXfbBXmCvDE00ov2fA4CYAN4PlKBx1mfNLg3WZ5aup6Z7wQ58QGrV8ZBBnmiGmftgIul2pQT87ZCeuK0Jw_Q7n8lu7pk/s1200/Primerose-cliffs_1200w-SL1_22973.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="815" data-original-width="1200" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtw-PVgnCs66u_DvrmiKjHgtyVMrLqPKOpgl_GapyIejfz0ghVLrUbYUV2HEt5O0zqAh7AqNkDcM9wsdjZogdouO6HPAnZOXfbBXmCvDE00ov2fA4CYAN4PlKBx1mfNLg3WZ5aup6Z7wQ58QGrV8ZBBnmiGmftgIul2pQT87ZCeuK0Jw_Q7n8lu7pk/w640-h434/Primerose-cliffs_1200w-SL1_22973.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stopped again here to photograph the flowers and the sandstone cliffs.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZvMOjvl_sFYOHxp6zwwuZb4ExU0rSRbOboDPZ-zlDRPAt78y99lNnE8yphqq8jMixAgV_fGmOjbVIA_4RI4zRauAmQFEOGtUSX6t0LdOq6T_lG_fsIYI0IUf-paE5R5SMVPO_C-xWjebinDu-7A9LjJW63qfRIGzu96_oY9nsqs5c0tMv9OIrsdYk/s1200/Primrose_1200sq-SL1_22975.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZvMOjvl_sFYOHxp6zwwuZb4ExU0rSRbOboDPZ-zlDRPAt78y99lNnE8yphqq8jMixAgV_fGmOjbVIA_4RI4zRauAmQFEOGtUSX6t0LdOq6T_lG_fsIYI0IUf-paE5R5SMVPO_C-xWjebinDu-7A9LjJW63qfRIGzu96_oY9nsqs5c0tMv9OIrsdYk/w640-h640/Primrose_1200sq-SL1_22975.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White-stemmed Evening Primrose blooming in the morning light.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>For what it's worth, the entire time I was driving on Burch Canyon and Wooden Shoe Roads I saw not one single person. The entire time I was camped at Lost Canyon only two ATVs, traveling together, passed my campsite. When I reached Sun Dance trailhead there was one SUV driving out and several vehicles parked. I didn't see another vehicle or person until I came out on UT-95.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuYauvAGdCpfc91FFmYVo_CbLiOMdK_lCZQXszg0_pCMR6ZiPaXa-0wsMegiMMbAMyseqostZoSwA92wt5onf31aemnl1umNVygsmaX8qc8Lv7m5ndrL7tzhNX9dO2aT9RrNkx-saHja_LHX4DDL9Tvbz5HLkyol_VDtdtbAf5Pfn0J_4TSy1BsG4v/s1200/ButteOrMesa_1200w-SL1_22980.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="721" data-original-width="1200" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuYauvAGdCpfc91FFmYVo_CbLiOMdK_lCZQXszg0_pCMR6ZiPaXa-0wsMegiMMbAMyseqostZoSwA92wt5onf31aemnl1umNVygsmaX8qc8Lv7m5ndrL7tzhNX9dO2aT9RrNkx-saHja_LHX4DDL9Tvbz5HLkyol_VDtdtbAf5Pfn0J_4TSy1BsG4v/w640-h384/ButteOrMesa_1200w-SL1_22980.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking back toward this butte along the road.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Sun Dance Trailhead<br /><br /></h4><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZgxvkDL3sxU9FlycgfGdx62nA9SB8mFQhGWK3XUPB6dWsgHh-J55xe-O4RZRifOWiU5kow6CHVd0WvI9sh6SOqbOUDDMrD8fS4A0cYbK9jWQKnE0Ro59F17xenqIxCQmqSkLVX0w4nv7nwyj6n5ImHH_uqUwqHty1w9jU-UCQnXVzJ5oAudu2O3dd/s1200/SunDance-Walflower_1200h-SL1_22982.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="953" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZgxvkDL3sxU9FlycgfGdx62nA9SB8mFQhGWK3XUPB6dWsgHh-J55xe-O4RZRifOWiU5kow6CHVd0WvI9sh6SOqbOUDDMrD8fS4A0cYbK9jWQKnE0Ro59F17xenqIxCQmqSkLVX0w4nv7nwyj6n5ImHH_uqUwqHty1w9jU-UCQnXVzJ5oAudu2O3dd/w508-h640/SunDance-Walflower_1200h-SL1_22982.jpg" width="508" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Western Wallflower posed alongside the road to the trailhead.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>About an hour after starting out I saw a sign pointing down a side road for the Sun Dance trailhead, 1 mile. I decided to explore. There is quite a bit of exposed sandstone in the roadbed leading to the trailhead, so the going was very slow. High clearance is recommended, though I saw compact SUVs parked at the trailhead. <br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRMunsC5a3J_sJsYzoExSRw4aUB42YIC6uhyORqCn5gjxkXdbYEtOn1nMgDib10YdlhRFHcZR-ZGSoPcB4njmT08sre31xHznQSULal8O56S6iAcJ5MH7w9F0CMrSNPRsFGvCqaDL_DEJqAH8Oa2HEAAsH7S3YWKBp5EV3S1ney3f2OKqIODZR7Gxh/s1200/SunDance-view_1200w-SL1_22985.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="740" data-original-width="1200" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRMunsC5a3J_sJsYzoExSRw4aUB42YIC6uhyORqCn5gjxkXdbYEtOn1nMgDib10YdlhRFHcZR-ZGSoPcB4njmT08sre31xHznQSULal8O56S6iAcJ5MH7w9F0CMrSNPRsFGvCqaDL_DEJqAH8Oa2HEAAsH7S3YWKBp5EV3S1ney3f2OKqIODZR7Gxh/w640-h394/SunDance-view_1200w-SL1_22985.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View northwest from San Dance Trailhead.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>If you chose to visit, be aware that Google Maps and other sources show the road going much, much farther than a street legal vehicle can go. In fact, while I was there looking around I didn't even see tracks going farther. And I cannot see any sign of a road in the photos I took. There were about a half dozen vehicles parked at the trailhead on a large sandstone bench.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI2nicrpXOgd3N2f10YjGK-xltyKObmTYHMIKOVIh39cpK848C4EIXbqiNp6iReRjUFVQdOYcdpqEjvjxueY4Og6HcA03AYLJM4TCnQGO91WYLgFcxi6SSnR-tZmgNjO3NjdTqQlBWMc9LI6eYpPPZICQfmrUFLs3CoHOfWFXh0uRFpnQ9Jp2GhPFl/s1200/SunDanceTrail-vehicles_1200w-SL1_22998.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="706" data-original-width="1200" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI2nicrpXOgd3N2f10YjGK-xltyKObmTYHMIKOVIh39cpK848C4EIXbqiNp6iReRjUFVQdOYcdpqEjvjxueY4Og6HcA03AYLJM4TCnQGO91WYLgFcxi6SSnR-tZmgNjO3NjdTqQlBWMc9LI6eYpPPZICQfmrUFLs3CoHOfWFXh0uRFpnQ9Jp2GhPFl/w640-h376/SunDanceTrail-vehicles_1200w-SL1_22998.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vehicles parked at Sun Dance Trailhead</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKmpaZsgjxlZMiyQxTZvywkfA22x6g2vw6Fgi-92BceWThTbbj8d-gi04Xd-O8xrSvFIr1swjNmtreyWHoa7T7hVzRJ2JccDzlkhnfhs8Qc9Rl0_NJB-c-J2OL9ApI2Z1xR0vUj-9QXr7bAKmRAwpnq2vq5lmxqNC0MfF78nR_r0AySMkjfPZz9COJ/s1200/SunDance-tree-flowers_1200h-SL1_22994.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKmpaZsgjxlZMiyQxTZvywkfA22x6g2vw6Fgi-92BceWThTbbj8d-gi04Xd-O8xrSvFIr1swjNmtreyWHoa7T7hVzRJ2JccDzlkhnfhs8Qc9Rl0_NJB-c-J2OL9ApI2Z1xR0vUj-9QXr7bAKmRAwpnq2vq5lmxqNC0MfF78nR_r0AySMkjfPZz9COJ/w426-h640/SunDance-tree-flowers_1200h-SL1_22994.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Piñon and Paintbrush</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>The views toward Dark Canyon and the Colorado River were dramatic. You could, if you wished, proceed (very slowly) about 50' farther along the sandstone where there was evidence of previous campsites. The views would be great as long as you didn't mind the parked cars and trucks in the foreground. There was also evidence of poor human hygiene practices, there being no toilet at the trailhead, so keep that in mind, too.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbTAEQijHDFMQ1dYBDB2pdhDVHuvIIX9K3UgwQaU9k2s7lFVzHA5ekBfQNUE0uyBXvfrJ3k8njtqz2grWJhaMzQ2nYRbQ_EJKwKYInLQB104eG1seKT0kiRXn6gw_Neqn0jHfG51zcXS38dg7tN68eSKzzt-btNefDzeIHLvn3iBXNAI3tGUuoVtdP/s1200/SunDance-view3_1200w-SL1_23000.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="701" data-original-width="1200" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbTAEQijHDFMQ1dYBDB2pdhDVHuvIIX9K3UgwQaU9k2s7lFVzHA5ekBfQNUE0uyBXvfrJ3k8njtqz2grWJhaMzQ2nYRbQ_EJKwKYInLQB104eG1seKT0kiRXn6gw_Neqn0jHfG51zcXS38dg7tN68eSKzzt-btNefDzeIHLvn3iBXNAI3tGUuoVtdP/w640-h374/SunDance-view3_1200w-SL1_23000.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Canyon view from near the trailhead.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHsKBQlbTVxv_YCLxLUc6DCtV9z8O2yxM99hlyMfRB-uSShKP0AFjQwDeeiUYkjNs_LgLMDOR2YfTU7lr-DoqI6G0yJbK71L4tYcGRHXfYE0NCefOSNClWQb_EuYSKTuYpxYcb4tYbKRIVuh0Y2F85rM7gIyC3GDQYN-TXy2WYWsFvTGAGhX0_PaNU/s1200/SunDance-view-flowers_1200w-SL1_22995.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="776" data-original-width="1200" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHsKBQlbTVxv_YCLxLUc6DCtV9z8O2yxM99hlyMfRB-uSShKP0AFjQwDeeiUYkjNs_LgLMDOR2YfTU7lr-DoqI6G0yJbK71L4tYcGRHXfYE0NCefOSNClWQb_EuYSKTuYpxYcb4tYbKRIVuh0Y2F85rM7gIyC3GDQYN-TXy2WYWsFvTGAGhX0_PaNU/w640-h414/SunDance-view-flowers_1200w-SL1_22995.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The same view, but farther back from the sandstone rim.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTTRDcPjoH1ntmzM0BGkQgLYZ54Lr387NR0-uzcIffwOSrFDpY7ydA1yWWLRBlyTUkPOg5DgaGRAis-eaUK_cJqRM7zgm6JLuecS3dx5hdu1ti8-DQtMF5xUG8bpo7Nf9QpkGvWYtMm40eb4Vwv8eszpNhIfQIcsSl5ic7X1AhW9GED-fT2OIy-BVG/s1200/Sundrops_1200w-SL1_22997.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="973" data-original-width="1200" height="518" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTTRDcPjoH1ntmzM0BGkQgLYZ54Lr387NR0-uzcIffwOSrFDpY7ydA1yWWLRBlyTUkPOg5DgaGRAis-eaUK_cJqRM7zgm6JLuecS3dx5hdu1ti8-DQtMF5xUG8bpo7Nf9QpkGvWYtMm40eb4Vwv8eszpNhIfQIcsSl5ic7X1AhW9GED-fT2OIy-BVG/w640-h518/Sundrops_1200w-SL1_22997.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sundrops, not primrose.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I enjoyed the view while having lunch, then drove slowly back to Wooden Shoe Road and proceeded westerly. There are number of intersecting and branching unmarked roads, but the "main" route was easily determined as it was the only one showing signs of traffic. The main road merges with Fortknocker Canyon Road and takes that name.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ3sHmK8LG-EIs-CQCSCLuCzMpHI8_0PjVCWKnsx6FEuXVfKH8N5TeA3ytjRR95SkfnsMcap82laqRsQyGgvpzexivt-DVTX80VI14nSNfhQ8KyNfHvDfGJdQllxf1kFG4VwEyy4sEc38k21BIIh91m68GKTWLh8FiRMQsyapxcUjTe2qIzB-YVH2i/s1200/WoodenShoeRdW-curve_1200w-SL1_23004.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="862" data-original-width="1200" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ3sHmK8LG-EIs-CQCSCLuCzMpHI8_0PjVCWKnsx6FEuXVfKH8N5TeA3ytjRR95SkfnsMcap82laqRsQyGgvpzexivt-DVTX80VI14nSNfhQ8KyNfHvDfGJdQllxf1kFG4VwEyy4sEc38k21BIIh91m68GKTWLh8FiRMQsyapxcUjTe2qIzB-YVH2i/w640-h460/WoodenShoeRdW-curve_1200w-SL1_23004.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View along Wooden Shoe Road.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgod7QthVDRHU4_rM-PQruFBhwlOXpUEYsFeKix0zNJiDn6xbO2R4Y5xUIWb3FIK29i61IrmsH2frIRD68tf5ydf0RJ9UpzwTXxGIuVnOVyziUNWUtCciCcY3n0ykzkWNDgIvpK1DSQmfPM6NTYmVgRn_vmdINRTvoj0znrVqS-_1xIVmNNNRAqP-XK/s1200/WoodenShoeRdW-mesas_1200w-SL1_23008.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgod7QthVDRHU4_rM-PQruFBhwlOXpUEYsFeKix0zNJiDn6xbO2R4Y5xUIWb3FIK29i61IrmsH2frIRD68tf5ydf0RJ9UpzwTXxGIuVnOVyziUNWUtCciCcY3n0ykzkWNDgIvpK1DSQmfPM6NTYmVgRn_vmdINRTvoj0znrVqS-_1xIVmNNNRAqP-XK/w640-h426/WoodenShoeRdW-mesas_1200w-SL1_23008.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking northerly from Wooden Shoe Road</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvsho3SEOPVvkNM7d3qDm0BEQhTvJluIh-R8jQHeYn7zvRRnIDMhKnzcspFcURZA1DmDzpYh0jujQmMZDyuDYsJ1xv0LruzExyvxMR5rPoHIw3XSub9jx0R1DzqahPMwIrGFtfb81h9NnkPvvEOKMDVheylS802OqKJE_gvvix63Lalvi5MJHIiKnX/s1200/WoodenShoeRdW-junction_1200w-SL1_23012.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="657" data-original-width="1200" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvsho3SEOPVvkNM7d3qDm0BEQhTvJluIh-R8jQHeYn7zvRRnIDMhKnzcspFcURZA1DmDzpYh0jujQmMZDyuDYsJ1xv0LruzExyvxMR5rPoHIw3XSub9jx0R1DzqahPMwIrGFtfb81h9NnkPvvEOKMDVheylS802OqKJE_gvvix63Lalvi5MJHIiKnX/w640-h350/WoodenShoeRdW-junction_1200w-SL1_23012.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Junction just over the rise. Don't know if this is Fortknocker Canyon Road, or not.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<h4 style="text-align: left;"><br />White Canyon North Road</h4><p>I finally came to a junction where both directions looked equally well traveled. The map showed both reaching UT-95. The northwest route enters Glen Canyon NRA. It may be slightly shorter before it gets to pavement, but the southeast route both looked more interesting and came out farther south on 95, which was my intended travel direction. So I turned southerly on White Canyon North Road (not that any of these backroads are marked or signed.)<br /><br /></p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWPyVfeuYh3vUtzoyQahDd5pEsLGAxbz6O12jCxagQ1wmK65MGMYe0KpWqMXvBpb9zS-nhaNlaekxMPJN22ESfoJQDhDMsLcp1ZO6YmCZD95kgp_3YkDAjwQsBDEty_wu0R703hMiCQJ2o7cCwSxZ_CMdxZacaYurDKlTKD_Hf8Z_ChkMSOJsuL28o/s1200/WhiteCynNRd-leaves_-1200h-SL1_23015.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="976" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWPyVfeuYh3vUtzoyQahDd5pEsLGAxbz6O12jCxagQ1wmK65MGMYe0KpWqMXvBpb9zS-nhaNlaekxMPJN22ESfoJQDhDMsLcp1ZO6YmCZD95kgp_3YkDAjwQsBDEty_wu0R703hMiCQJ2o7cCwSxZ_CMdxZacaYurDKlTKD_Hf8Z_ChkMSOJsuL28o/w520-h640/WhiteCynNRd-leaves_-1200h-SL1_23015.jpg" width="520" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Along White Canyon North Road.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVopUC0N8pGf2inZIof2-SRQgBaUHwYO1Hg0QPdjkvyaqF8HYRTWv2nOk2pjeouCnvePvUnQM84TD5gusCqA9sKKmMBdVIq499k1XXRVdgSMRqMBkt4lpsq3TMRXfSdMeLS8Iu-HW_wH43GYvf6x-miPwZoNa3Seb7T5UuRTKCwogkQNDluyx4lcxn/s1200/WhiteCynNRd-stairway_1200h-SL1_23018.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1099" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVopUC0N8pGf2inZIof2-SRQgBaUHwYO1Hg0QPdjkvyaqF8HYRTWv2nOk2pjeouCnvePvUnQM84TD5gusCqA9sKKmMBdVIq499k1XXRVdgSMRqMBkt4lpsq3TMRXfSdMeLS8Iu-HW_wH43GYvf6x-miPwZoNa3Seb7T5UuRTKCwogkQNDluyx4lcxn/w586-h640/WhiteCynNRd-stairway_1200h-SL1_23018.jpg" width="586" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These white flagstones had naturally washed down to form this "path."</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgteBYa5ZQ-ErsexVXNJ9xsc0lmc_0YprexyHi2Aq-YVB-6492q9Z48YmjPpdf4NKejo0u6oHDtc10LrqkV9AIH2_QVXFlmC089F1iK1IK2C2zxmT0Ep6u0xDzc1mUjkdswhRWDWY2pKgS-TXFUPIfW4Z7XDJsTfj_LnWfExffqNMM6dW7TXDH-GR1T/s1200/WhiteCynNRd-95view_1200w-SL1_23019.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="761" data-original-width="1200" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgteBYa5ZQ-ErsexVXNJ9xsc0lmc_0YprexyHi2Aq-YVB-6492q9Z48YmjPpdf4NKejo0u6oHDtc10LrqkV9AIH2_QVXFlmC089F1iK1IK2C2zxmT0Ep6u0xDzc1mUjkdswhRWDWY2pKgS-TXFUPIfW4Z7XDJsTfj_LnWfExffqNMM6dW7TXDH-GR1T/w640-h406/WhiteCynNRd-95view_1200w-SL1_23019.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking southerly toward UT-95.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<p>White Canyon, Red Canyon, not the most original names and White Canyon looked pretty red to me. There were some interesting rock formations and views. The road was in good condition, as were all the roads I drove on this loop. I took a few photos before reaching the highway.<br /><br /></p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIlOKMZoih1Is7LyiPGUFvOJFY5rfqTpY7bFQFVBJttEgMtTFD91cfbu34jlRMs7b0jT9DZfXEXnqgqz7Ockzgp_67kMHh-O_3RYa9AiA-Qg569Rkc-soMKu8ZjSbFj0kN0DdpUfUpOJ_pctxKGn-1VtaEKfUYTYM42U4XubR0yuH50ez33NiR2keD/s1200/WhiteCynNRd-cliffs_1200w-SL1_23025.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIlOKMZoih1Is7LyiPGUFvOJFY5rfqTpY7bFQFVBJttEgMtTFD91cfbu34jlRMs7b0jT9DZfXEXnqgqz7Ockzgp_67kMHh-O_3RYa9AiA-Qg569Rkc-soMKu8ZjSbFj0kN0DdpUfUpOJ_pctxKGn-1VtaEKfUYTYM42U4XubR0yuH50ez33NiR2keD/w640-h426/WhiteCynNRd-cliffs_1200w-SL1_23025.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Interesting cliffs along White Canyon North Road.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2022/05/spring-fling-ut-april-2022-part-2.html">Trip Continues in Part Two</a></h3><div><br /></div>
Bosque Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00001863270259847102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3983525105536347837.post-29248982839145058502021-11-08T09:25:00.001-07:002021-11-15T07:48:26.679-07:00 Season Finale, NM & AZ - October 2021: Part 3<h2 style="text-align: left;">Part 3 of 3 - Driving out of NM into AZ</h2>
<h4 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2021/11/season-finale-nm-az-october-2021-part-1.html">Begin this trip from Part 1</a></h4><h4 style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2021/11/season-finale-nm-az-october-2021-part-2.html">Continued from Part 2</a>
</h4>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">October 22nd (continued)</h3>
<div><br /></div>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Highway 180</h4>
<p>
When I got off the mountain and drove through the village of Gila, I pulled
off the highway before entering US-180. I had to decide if I was going to turn
right (north) or left toward Silver City and maybe the City of Rocks
Campground. I'll spare you my internal debate of all the options.
</p>
<p>
I decided to go north, then take NM-78 west to US-191 in Arizona where I'd go
north up through the Apache National Forest. I have been wanting to camp at a
cute, little campground I'd found on an earlier trip along the Blue River.
Maybe this was a good time.
</p>
<p>
As I got close to the junction I realized I'd be driving west and south across
more dry hills and plateaus with sparse piñon and juniper, much like the last
several days. At the last minute I changed my mind and kept going north. This
would take me up into the mountains, then I would cut west on Pueblo Park Rd,
FS-232, though the San Francisco Mountains to Blue, AZ.
</p>
<p>
I stopped again at the Leopold Picnic area for... a picnic (and to use the
toilet.) I proceeded on after lunch, stopping again in Glenwood to top off my
tank. A ways north of there the highway begins to climb up into the mountains.
About 5 miles before the junction with NM-12 was the sign for the Pueblo Park
Campground where I turned toward the west.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Pueblo Park Road</h4>
<p>
This was County Route CO-13 or FS-232. The dirt road had been very recently
graded and was as smooth with no washboard. You could still see the tread
marks from the grader in the soft dirt. The road snaked though a ponderosa forest. Once again,
in retrospect, I should have taken a photo.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Pueblo Park Campground</h4>
<p>
In six miles I came to the
<a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/gila/recreation/camping-cabins/recarea/?recid=1967&actid=29" target="_blank">campground</a>. It was pleasant enough, though not
remarkable. It is situated in old growth ponderosa. If you were traveling on US-180 and needed a place to spend the
night, even dragging a medium to small trailer, you would find it convenient.
There is a corral if you have horses with you and want to ride.</p>
<p>
After my reconnaissance I turned toward Blue, AZ. The road continued
smooth only about a mile farther. It begins climbing though rocky terrain.
Then becomes very rough as it skirts around Saddle Mountain. The view off to
the south would have been amazing except for the haze that day, made worse by the sun being in
the southern sky.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfGSxvvALX8ZtBNYchqQy7F4IlQdIYIeBVz-EFE_TTR4pTGuppXgsspzvJsbdOkOuAjIoubQm9ARpLjB5fEhOsUeMU6isKS8ra0fMkxW2zCYtXxUffFTEKwCoDXdltyAdApvrbNFIOUGE/s1200/SaddleMountain_1200w-SL1_22708.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfGSxvvALX8ZtBNYchqQy7F4IlQdIYIeBVz-EFE_TTR4pTGuppXgsspzvJsbdOkOuAjIoubQm9ARpLjB5fEhOsUeMU6isKS8ra0fMkxW2zCYtXxUffFTEKwCoDXdltyAdApvrbNFIOUGE/w640-h426/SaddleMountain_1200w-SL1_22708.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saddle Mountain</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p></p>
<p>
Progress was very slow and this is even after having a road crew pass though.
I could see where they'd filled in a couple of wash-outs, but I also found one
or two that they had missed. My recommendation is to NOT access Pueblo Park
Campground from the west. It took quite a while to get past this rocky
section.
</p>
<p>
Just before the state line is the junction with FS-209 that winds north and
eventually comes out at US-180. I have no idea about the condition of the
road. The USFS map shows it as gravel suitable for passenger cars, but they
have also marked the rough road I barely made it through the same. The usual
rules apply.
</p>
<p>
Once I crossed into Arizona the road was no longer freshly graded, but it was
also in good condition. There was evidence of previous low-intensity wildfires in places, perhaps prescription burns.
The dirt road descends for several miles down to the community of Blue on the
Blue River. I turned north on the Blue River Road and soon came to the
junction with Red Hill Road. I turned left onto Red Hill, drove through a shallow water crossing of the small river. Immediately thereafter is the access road
to the campground on the north side.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Blue Crossing Campground</h4>
<p>
I first found
<a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/asnf/specialplaces/recarea/?recid=44717&actid=64" target="_blank">Blue Crossing Campground</a>
on my
<a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2015/06/spring-shakedown-2015-part-2.html" target="_blank">2015 spring shakedown</a>. It is named Blue Crossing I believe as the road crosses the Blue River at
this location.
</p>
<p>I wrote:</p>
<blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;">
<p style="text-align: left;">
<i>As the road reached the bottom there was the Blue River and a green,
riparian area.... There is a tiny campground there called Blue Crossing -
a gem hidden in a thick grove of narrow-leaf cottonwoods. I will want to
camp there on a return trip. I did stop for about an hour to walk about,
try to take photos of the many birds I could hear in the trees and brush,
look for dragonflies (none) and have lunch.</i>
</p>
</blockquote>
<p>
I had been hoping since then that my travels and timing would align so I could get here to camp. This was the time. As I drove in on the narrow access road I
became concerned. First, there had been no sign announcing the campground.
Secondly, there were large piles of logs and slash on either side of the road.
As I got close enough that I could see a USFS bulletin board I could also see
a large, three-railed barricade with a Road Closed sign. Oh, dear. I drove on
to learn my fate and hoped if all else there was a place to turn around.
</p>
<p>I discovered the closed road was placed across an old trail that ran
between the campground and the river. Why they placed a highway barricade
there to close it off instead of simply rolling a big log or a few large rocks
on the side road, I don't know. It had given me a scare and I bet it's driven
off many a visitor.
</p>
<p>
The entry to the campground was open and inviting. It was like moving into
another world of calm and beauty. Trees in their autumn colors closed in from
all sides with their branches forming a cathedral ceiling overhead. The ground
and road were dusted with fallen leaves of all colors.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnmWIjSObMGWbQg95-v5l2sjzHPU1hSy5pz8jN2d8tyd1TwpYp5RiuRKzRIhVo2NvFz3YeVdSxeouyUKDTcRalq5yOcqK83Ekxo8onnT7krcuY7aDr-6A00DQfdYStNiX-U-DedLmCdXU/s1200/BlueCrossing-road_1200w-IMG_2215.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="913" data-original-width="1200" height="486" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnmWIjSObMGWbQg95-v5l2sjzHPU1hSy5pz8jN2d8tyd1TwpYp5RiuRKzRIhVo2NvFz3YeVdSxeouyUKDTcRalq5yOcqK83Ekxo8onnT7krcuY7aDr-6A00DQfdYStNiX-U-DedLmCdXU/w640-h486/BlueCrossing-road_1200w-IMG_2215.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Blue Crossing Campground
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p></p>
<p>
The bulletin board said to camp only in designated sites. The first two small
campsites, beside the road, had Adirondack style shelters, picnic tables, and
a fire ring. The third drive-in site was perfect for a small camper and a
tent, also with a table and fire ring. There were only 3 sites in this hobbit
sized campground, thought the USFS webpage says 4. There is also a very clean
vault toilet with men's and women's sides.
</p>
<p>
Perfect. Even more charming than I'd remembered. How often is that the case?
The compact campground was lovingly maintained. I could see where they had
removed side limbs from a mature ponderosa rather than risk them falling on a
camper. There was ample vegetation to provide the sites privacy, but not so
much that it felt overgrown.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUBpMIhsvUzgO1rqA4HGmHipEl4Bkp2Ogno6wAYjyTZV0YcdI4rWjhomThtcfwqcL-2kdXpBshb8BBl0FQjRTy-buui8U3LrSRluV3XPZIfVU6_gY3B4IF2hpkMgry6ouV-XaPc-Nrhrk/s1200/BlueCrossing-campsite-rearqtr_1200w-SL1_22712.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="792" data-original-width="1200" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUBpMIhsvUzgO1rqA4HGmHipEl4Bkp2Ogno6wAYjyTZV0YcdI4rWjhomThtcfwqcL-2kdXpBshb8BBl0FQjRTy-buui8U3LrSRluV3XPZIfVU6_gY3B4IF2hpkMgry6ouV-XaPc-Nrhrk/w640-h422/BlueCrossing-campsite-rearqtr_1200w-SL1_22712.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My cozy campsite.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p></p>
<p>
After I set up in the third site, I grabbed my camera to go explore. At the end of the
campground was an interesting looking gate. On the gate was a sign I wasn't
expecting here. It warned not to "destroy any historic or prehistoric objects,
ruins, or sites." I looked up and there was an exposed rock face. Could there
be...? Sure enough, there were petroglyphs!
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTxMVRE3JvNLCTqE9soxM14WVimDGuhmZABP4CR3sucitg6-69Hd29JMGn6OLklFI6PTgrYicwIkTro8s2vqwVklzPBFX6hKxnEByY574ygzaRN8U3VQi_9E_vwrEJz1YVUTMWoUPt40s/s1200/BlueXingPetroglyphs-fence_1200w-SL1_22734.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="805" data-original-width="1200" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTxMVRE3JvNLCTqE9soxM14WVimDGuhmZABP4CR3sucitg6-69Hd29JMGn6OLklFI6PTgrYicwIkTro8s2vqwVklzPBFX6hKxnEByY574ygzaRN8U3VQi_9E_vwrEJz1YVUTMWoUPt40s/w640-h430/BlueXingPetroglyphs-fence_1200w-SL1_22734.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The petroglyph rocks are fenced off to encourage visitors to behave
themselves.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p></p>
<p>
Wow, I had totally missed seeing those last time. They were beautiful and I
could see no defacement which was a boon. According to the placard
these petroglyphs were likely created between 700 and 900 years ago by the
Mogollon Culture.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixRhpydScoxlDseE1-r1WP-rdBFGrbWsM-qgYCQ-r6-AePNXPQklkklN1MFGBaUVnY95RPzeupdFu93VzgHyCkNqAMSqudP5P3fN5391FTsxyoyeg2JlU9ayHv7zhnd55ok5pXosLMSFs/s1200/BlueXingPetroglyphs-blackrock_1200w-SL1_22720.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="858" data-original-width="1200" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixRhpydScoxlDseE1-r1WP-rdBFGrbWsM-qgYCQ-r6-AePNXPQklkklN1MFGBaUVnY95RPzeupdFu93VzgHyCkNqAMSqudP5P3fN5391FTsxyoyeg2JlU9ayHv7zhnd55ok5pXosLMSFs/w640-h458/BlueXingPetroglyphs-blackrock_1200w-SL1_22720.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
One of the petroglyph rocks
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfp7MEW6nTORBsRkepr-eIGe24j85vQ_KHBb6kFZdkADujH84NfFfYJDKEHpDenzyabVIJKzDAoa5rpjZl4FbKHPkiKkNbb-qFeUfNnm8-Wup60CjRDgRNzmqZvGONscnCxohWOXKklm4/s1200/BlueXingPetroglyphs-tall_1200h-SL1_22716.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="877" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfp7MEW6nTORBsRkepr-eIGe24j85vQ_KHBb6kFZdkADujH84NfFfYJDKEHpDenzyabVIJKzDAoa5rpjZl4FbKHPkiKkNbb-qFeUfNnm8-Wup60CjRDgRNzmqZvGONscnCxohWOXKklm4/w468-h640/BlueXingPetroglyphs-tall_1200h-SL1_22716.jpg" width="468" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
There are two sections of petroglyphs in this photo.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p></p>
<p>
In another location I noticed an unusual set of rock steps. There was an
information sign nearby explaining they were a stile/bench made by the CCC
when the campground was built in the mid-1930s. The rock was hand fashioned
using the feathers & wedges technique. The stone steps were once the main
entrance to the campground. I also learned the lean-to shelters in the other
campsites were restorations of the original shelters built by the CCC.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvnbZITgmpVxsY9SWNNneCli5jLwy6SoOxS_3NoPvhyphenhyphenx-07Amdj3NJAEWyhc_1gzyQi-nSpgfQ3FP1UhhiO7i4nNoO7F_swe0DOA-UWmCaYj7abjiY9pPGrD-DG5W_QOMr08YpzdczVVY/s1200/BlueCrossing-steps_1200h-SL1_22737.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="954" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvnbZITgmpVxsY9SWNNneCli5jLwy6SoOxS_3NoPvhyphenhyphenx-07Amdj3NJAEWyhc_1gzyQi-nSpgfQ3FP1UhhiO7i4nNoO7F_swe0DOA-UWmCaYj7abjiY9pPGrD-DG5W_QOMr08YpzdczVVY/w508-h640/BlueCrossing-steps_1200h-SL1_22737.jpg" width="508" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Stone steps hand made by CCC stoneworkers.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p></p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjvzapAXJtXTDEhGBbOzlCHuzmFbhMIK5gg6vTtF40lr-i7nS4SSsnRZLArp_flaqAzckIoax1QWEfsH2qkrhfRqp7WT1kccC61oxzuqXsJJ_jAIafdg72Tj_YEdDxrZJv0NE4KOiAQAU/s1200/BlueRiver_1200w-SL1_22752.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjvzapAXJtXTDEhGBbOzlCHuzmFbhMIK5gg6vTtF40lr-i7nS4SSsnRZLArp_flaqAzckIoax1QWEfsH2qkrhfRqp7WT1kccC61oxzuqXsJJ_jAIafdg72Tj_YEdDxrZJv0NE4KOiAQAU/w640-h426/BlueRiver_1200w-SL1_22752.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The Blue River flows just to the east of the campground.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGIl87ht0VGxdgfcTO7WO9FnAM0Sn57qotYDcPmaDk7AIO-dVEOuk7eawTM7Mw_2ryh67sl8cFmUbKgnD3kp1y6_1k7lJWBbjCH1a7s5HnGqQ7Inp-AlrGtLfiE6M8-p_vuSz9ZyHRG6Q/s1200/BlueCrossing-bushes_1200w-SL1_22751.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="635" data-original-width="1200" height="338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGIl87ht0VGxdgfcTO7WO9FnAM0Sn57qotYDcPmaDk7AIO-dVEOuk7eawTM7Mw_2ryh67sl8cFmUbKgnD3kp1y6_1k7lJWBbjCH1a7s5HnGqQ7Inp-AlrGtLfiE6M8-p_vuSz9ZyHRG6Q/w640-h338/BlueCrossing-bushes_1200w-SL1_22751.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Colorful foliage in the campground.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Qd0Vn39HK8YhUgzsIndvg-D5M8OyAsoozzf7EXa7ez3l08675CikicJfp4_7YCWSmkYme1hC_GCxkMFkdII0dcebbSXAtmAZtiMv83GZEva9bhVPfdxeF-GxZH_CwEmdvGMysE-fn5o/s1200/BlueCrossing-shelter_1200w-SL1_22748.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="735" data-original-width="1200" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Qd0Vn39HK8YhUgzsIndvg-D5M8OyAsoozzf7EXa7ez3l08675CikicJfp4_7YCWSmkYme1hC_GCxkMFkdII0dcebbSXAtmAZtiMv83GZEva9bhVPfdxeF-GxZH_CwEmdvGMysE-fn5o/w640-h392/BlueCrossing-shelter_1200w-SL1_22748.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Campsites 1& 2 have these log shelters.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsomgiMAM_7LD1rBIZx-FYYvI4vbTZGH7gRAt0B08v1s3-O_oxDoLicnoAVRw52jWI0OiD284t3EOtSsF64E_JrxvoS2m2SB5sO5FZrrd2kLSWRQ40rqVegTem2Ymge_H_FhDCG1NqiZU/s1200/BlueCrossing-grove_1200w-SL1_22738.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsomgiMAM_7LD1rBIZx-FYYvI4vbTZGH7gRAt0B08v1s3-O_oxDoLicnoAVRw52jWI0OiD284t3EOtSsF64E_JrxvoS2m2SB5sO5FZrrd2kLSWRQ40rqVegTem2Ymge_H_FhDCG1NqiZU/w640-h426/BlueCrossing-grove_1200w-SL1_22738.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A grove just to the north of the campground.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
What a delightful place that I had all to myself. There wasn't a sunset, per
se, but I did see some color in the clouds though the weave of the bare tree
branches - almost like an aurora borealis.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKDgEpMnPzhnEXnTpS41-Uapj3H72PwgQhOwmdR9Ssxxhp_Rh6o4KsWB1EGc5l-3rx0GT2iwnqBh0Xenm6AXuGYrF6ivTnEk31TzAFqfWIEpyv7S6SNXQ4lWp8dQwYb0hvv9WdHNOXsfY/s1200/BlueCrossing-sunset_1200w-SL1_22759.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="783" data-original-width="1200" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKDgEpMnPzhnEXnTpS41-Uapj3H72PwgQhOwmdR9Ssxxhp_Rh6o4KsWB1EGc5l-3rx0GT2iwnqBh0Xenm6AXuGYrF6ivTnEk31TzAFqfWIEpyv7S6SNXQ4lWp8dQwYb0hvv9WdHNOXsfY/w640-h418/BlueCrossing-sunset_1200w-SL1_22759.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Red sky at night; camper's delight.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p></p>
<p>
The only negative was that Red Hill Road climbed past close by. Many small, loud trucks pulling cattle trailers rattled down the road perhaps on their way to the corrals I'd seen beside Blue River Road. The saving grace was the trucks stopped once it got dark.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Saturday, October 23</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Blue Crossing (continued)</h4>
<p>
It was cold in the morning, 31º as I recall. Consequently, I didn't get
outside until after 10am. I took a short walk up the valley. It was still
chilly, but warming quickly. Many of the deciduous trees had already lost
their leaves or were well on their way. There were some ponderosa and piñon.
Almost all the flowers were gone by, though a few chamisa still had some
blossoms that the few butterflies were visiting.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjTj1L0-Nr5IwjbXGHkDQhAfgLavQ72AJO1CXkTRixxvDBYzZiLXwXYy1AoUdILHVNbsXSETUQPAoP64Z9Scln92d-tsMqnSmd9bNQtgy-S7c43-SsQOw6E7gaiaJIITk2mTZETXJ_NaY/s1200/BlueCrossing-campsite_1200w-SL1_22761.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="803" data-original-width="1200" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjTj1L0-Nr5IwjbXGHkDQhAfgLavQ72AJO1CXkTRixxvDBYzZiLXwXYy1AoUdILHVNbsXSETUQPAoP64Z9Scln92d-tsMqnSmd9bNQtgy-S7c43-SsQOw6E7gaiaJIITk2mTZETXJ_NaY/w640-h428/BlueCrossing-campsite_1200w-SL1_22761.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
My campsite in morning light... well, late morning light.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAT81pu3a9sFKznTN3T5niQXdsEuzHeSJTiyxHKT5GMeuj252B-AzTnRePqDiyVR8COJRN2Di4cHUjUjcssvzPXUtJwE3_7V7_bk1HcYA7nn6lNnMSv0nFYIeLY-O_a4Tz4sXU-BHPyro/s1200/CloudedSulpher_1200w-7D_22851.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="875" data-original-width="1200" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCKfCWBJDWUIZsvfc-iHQnS88BNJnsewCPHUGwtWecHdAncrv0bor3dq-gBfi2Kwa0qKmFiofxGfxQkTCFKJsTUO4LU4yVi_FmRTGw-N-rFRWMfAIhZnNWYb9gZ97NsF1BRNNH_BSkG6k/w640-h466/BlueCrossing-drywash_1200w-IMG_2217.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A dry wash along my amble north of the campground.<br /><br />
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjLUh_lFBxMm0Iud8DoVenwaV1HAGDS5fMRs5Y-eQFCQfoZ61X-fPYiIwXMmZeKVf-yYqwcMlOEDVUDBy_2iaIavJASZa6YKWpnokalPlkykxJqtabJs4X6IiGphJuaNerXhng3k2CuCk/s1200/CloudedSulpher_1200w-7D_22851.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="892" data-original-width="1200" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjLUh_lFBxMm0Iud8DoVenwaV1HAGDS5fMRs5Y-eQFCQfoZ61X-fPYiIwXMmZeKVf-yYqwcMlOEDVUDBy_2iaIavJASZa6YKWpnokalPlkykxJqtabJs4X6IiGphJuaNerXhng3k2CuCk/w640-h476/CloudedSulpher_1200w-7D_22851.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A Sulphur butterfly on Chamisa near the river.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Red Hill Road</h4>
<p></p>
<p>
I broke camp and turned right going up Red Hill Road. I stopped and took a
photo looking down on the campground. You can't see the sites for the trees,
but you can see the rocks where the petroglyphs are located. I understood why
the trucks yesterday sounded so loud.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGSVNUzsa9rJe3mSkqVa_1IDA_7AcvNNwM3ApZEUCBW3eyQ4UAheiMgqI5AADH_C4RsjWRCZcEN3G8459muFXA3H4xPPCxPNOSTwX-oOqImJWOzCxmNQFolcKmj5aeRdpQzBZ-HnSoNbY/s1200/RedHillRd-BlueCrossing_1200w-SL1_22767.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGSVNUzsa9rJe3mSkqVa_1IDA_7AcvNNwM3ApZEUCBW3eyQ4UAheiMgqI5AADH_C4RsjWRCZcEN3G8459muFXA3H4xPPCxPNOSTwX-oOqImJWOzCxmNQFolcKmj5aeRdpQzBZ-HnSoNbY/w640-h426/RedHillRd-BlueCrossing_1200w-SL1_22767.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Looking down at the petroglyph rocks from the road.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p></p>
<p>
I noticed a few side roads as I drove northwest. One was marked as a
trailhead. Others may lead to dispersed campsites. I stopped again for photos
of some rock formations.
</p>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Xazxg8R7P-NbwHzt6Nhk2CtRbW-kw6QojeKD6pGagLjoiI3IkQur-TkQl65jlhyphenhyphenXLoGfGZOnFUGKl4nfbsDQDHIWBGaKTVClEhXYgW6HA5RFg3JR9cfXvk8gCOnZTYvmGI9sSHiiB-g/s1200/RedHillRd-blackrocks_1200w-SL1_22769.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="742" data-original-width="1200" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Xazxg8R7P-NbwHzt6Nhk2CtRbW-kw6QojeKD6pGagLjoiI3IkQur-TkQl65jlhyphenhyphenXLoGfGZOnFUGKl4nfbsDQDHIWBGaKTVClEhXYgW6HA5RFg3JR9cfXvk8gCOnZTYvmGI9sSHiiB-g/w640-h396/RedHillRd-blackrocks_1200w-SL1_22769.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<p></p>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhudKakhB6kbmFJvCr0s0NVVjuikUWUgL8I0e1LvzzThKL4Huj7HKuBnapbUdig3P8eT6DEbl8DUaqsT33CA9D_4kTRBeYuhHPTYty0t3SYd2Rl-SYLhRr7vr5Wms8z1kYO_trU-jKOKnk/s1200/RedHillRd-whiterocks_1200w-SL1_22768.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="726" data-original-width="1200" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhudKakhB6kbmFJvCr0s0NVVjuikUWUgL8I0e1LvzzThKL4Huj7HKuBnapbUdig3P8eT6DEbl8DUaqsT33CA9D_4kTRBeYuhHPTYty0t3SYd2Rl-SYLhRr7vr5Wms8z1kYO_trU-jKOKnk/w640-h388/RedHillRd-whiterocks_1200w-SL1_22768.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<p></p>
<p>
I had remembered from my previous trip that there were interesting and
prominent, red sandstone formations on the road. Last time the light had not
been good so I crossed my fingers. I was lucky this time that the largest
formation was in excellent light.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP2y5-1CyB51pPQ72tti933BO8Itaov65BWufu0OlOG6jJzg8Q7JgMd5dItcvZFb0o1NNnA1K__TqQTZzERcplDgszSdo7FNIdc_ySulxj0v3wxkXOWMh3kfDZ-f5FlIVCw5OR9JRgRlg/s1200/RedHillRd-SandstonePk_1200w-DJI_0357.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="760" data-original-width="1200" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP2y5-1CyB51pPQ72tti933BO8Itaov65BWufu0OlOG6jJzg8Q7JgMd5dItcvZFb0o1NNnA1K__TqQTZzERcplDgszSdo7FNIdc_ySulxj0v3wxkXOWMh3kfDZ-f5FlIVCw5OR9JRgRlg/w640-h406/RedHillRd-SandstonePk_1200w-DJI_0357.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Aerial view of the red sandstone formation.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p></p>
<p>
I pulled off the road to launch my drone. I captured a still image of the
formation, above, then took a spherical panorama. This turned out well and was
also useful once home. At the time I thought the formation was Red Hill, but
according to the map it is to the left on the west side of the canyon. Panning
left in the panorama you can see Red Hill, though it doesn't appear
particularly red as it is covered with vegetation. "Turn around" and far to
the south is the Blue Range Primitive Area.
</p>
<iframe allow="xr-spatial-tracking; gyroscope; accelerometer" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="640" scrolling="no" src="https://kuula.co/share/NfCrq?logo=1&info=1&fs=1&vr=0&sd=1&thumbs=1" style="border: none; height: 640px; max-width: 100%; width: 100%;" width="100%"></iframe>
<p>
I continued up the the road and noticed an old corral with an excellent view
of the red sandstone formation. I pulled into the circular road at the corral
to take a photo. Not only was the view great, but the shape of the clouds
almost made it seem like the formation was a benign volcano. For the purists,
I apologize as I could not stop myself from over saturating the image in
postprocessing.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ5px9UcZMAa0EtTYzonPFvT9BEuK6zO9SPPzRyUiEbzT7-b6Lux8PtZUilmUiVvmxiFmlo0i30cFLWQBHH13Cm2NRGGZSNBfTwZyY7FMVWFlHvIt8RY5e13UdigkYgW-rdnt2gpcvJ9U/s1200/Hill-Sky-Corral_1200h-SL1_22774.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="812" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ5px9UcZMAa0EtTYzonPFvT9BEuK6zO9SPPzRyUiEbzT7-b6Lux8PtZUilmUiVvmxiFmlo0i30cFLWQBHH13Cm2NRGGZSNBfTwZyY7FMVWFlHvIt8RY5e13UdigkYgW-rdnt2gpcvJ9U/w434-h640/Hill-Sky-Corral_1200h-SL1_22774.jpg" width="434" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another view of the red formation.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<p>
The road continues to wind up the valley, then climbs up onto a plateau. At a
hairpin turn almost to the top is a vista point. You will see the Blue
Mountains in the background. The hills in the foreground appear to be covered
in dead trees. At least that is what I thought until I looked at my old blog
post photos and saw the trees were bright green - probably oaks or other fast
growing deciduous trees that had turned brown.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf3EOCpXXxbdXyVfOhba146As_hz4HTENwRN-wXnY7zZsvteTaPa636PyeRiSQTHEiFev1P1onln_lE4lrysLXEjlH7sgG6E7631Y8YCH4hQe0v-RNl8obgMxrV94R06UBqK6UAOPI7oU/s1200/RedHillRd-vista_1200w-SL1_22775.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="566" data-original-width="1200" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf3EOCpXXxbdXyVfOhba146As_hz4HTENwRN-wXnY7zZsvteTaPa636PyeRiSQTHEiFev1P1onln_lE4lrysLXEjlH7sgG6E7631Y8YCH4hQe0v-RNl8obgMxrV94R06UBqK6UAOPI7oU/w640-h302/RedHillRd-vista_1200w-SL1_22775.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View looking back from the top of the climb.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<p>
At the top I turned right onto FS-58. The elevation gain at this point is
enough to cause a transition from piñon/juniper forest to ponderosa pine. In
fact the large, mature ponderosas were quite majestic. Once again I've failed
you by not taking a photo. By the time I thought of it I was into newer growth
(and I seem to have a strong predilection to never backtrack for a photo -
maybe I should work on that.) There were dispersed campsites all though here.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc0e_RkMBgK2bB-ojZNsEw1jd5r8YiNJA8qZEZybBRL9mM5vKkyio7iqAJa6JkMr610Fp_0n6O9WiO8nAX4zNWHe-oKRhJAGKxMr4eYTxG7JhK9cUVpSOM1RoRNjjrxX6MUXsI6wS1Sp4/s1200/BuckalouCrRd-pines_1200w-SL1_22780.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="719" data-original-width="1200" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc0e_RkMBgK2bB-ojZNsEw1jd5r8YiNJA8qZEZybBRL9mM5vKkyio7iqAJa6JkMr610Fp_0n6O9WiO8nAX4zNWHe-oKRhJAGKxMr4eYTxG7JhK9cUVpSOM1RoRNjjrxX6MUXsI6wS1Sp4/w640-h384/BuckalouCrRd-pines_1200w-SL1_22780.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ponderosa pine in Apache National Forest</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<p>
The road came out onto US-191 where I turned right, north. Along much of this
section is scaring from the enormous Wallow wildfire of 2011.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Alpine, AZ</h4>
<p>
The highway drops down into the town of Alpine. At the junction with US-180
there was a NM pickup truck with signs offering tamales for sale. As I drove
past an impulse caused me to pull off. I was hoping he had ready-to-eat food
like you will often find at junctions in northern New Mexico cooked by the
nearby tribes. Unfortunately (or not) he was selling frozen dozen-lots of
homemade pork or beef tamales and batter or cornmeal chile rellenos. I bought
a dozen pork tamales, being a traditionalist. I put 8 into my freezer and four
into the fridge so they would slowly defrost to eat at home. (And OMG were
they ever delicious!)
</p>
<p>
I got back on the highway headed north though the foothills toward
Springerville where I'd turn right to head back to New Mexico on US-60. Of
course now I was getting hungry so tried to find a place to eat the light
lunch I'd prepared before breaking camp this morning. I finally found a gravel
road marked as Wildlife Viewing. I've subsequently learned this road leads to
the White Mountains Wildlife Area. I didn't drive that far, but pulled off at
a close-by parking area to have lunch.
</p>
<p>
As I was stretching my legs I noticed a flat-topped mountain way off across
the grasslands. It was so far away that it wouldn't have attracted my interest
on its own, but the cloud formation seemed to frame it. I've now learned that
this is Escudilla Mountain, a wilderness area north of Alpine.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJVgty_xE164hj8ep078p4U6Vv6FzpxefIxbtj-dUa-itxiO5lJUz0KtbXDYai60bLcFXmoW0y9LL-Lodr754RnbDk0BMUuLiFixlKxMTFZsEXbCiE-O0OoRK9s9hRzz3WaWLjqNzAhqg/s1200/EscudillaMountain_1200w-SL1_22783.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="709" data-original-width="1200" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJVgty_xE164hj8ep078p4U6Vv6FzpxefIxbtj-dUa-itxiO5lJUz0KtbXDYai60bLcFXmoW0y9LL-Lodr754RnbDk0BMUuLiFixlKxMTFZsEXbCiE-O0OoRK9s9hRzz3WaWLjqNzAhqg/w640-h378/EscudillaMountain_1200w-SL1_22783.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Escudilla Mountain framed by the clouds.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Highway 60</h4>
<p>
At Springerville I connected up with US-60 East. Nothing but NM plains for 50
miles until Quemado where I turned north on NM-36 as the first leg of the back
way to I-40. From there north on NM-117 that leads through El Malpais National
Monument. The stark and magnificent landscape was a joy to behold, but I was
too focused on getting home to stop for photos. Sorry. But then, again, I have
covered the scene in two previous blog posts that you can find
<a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/search/label/El%20Malpais%20NM" target="_blank">here</a>.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">I-40 to Home</h4>
<p>
On the freeway, with all the big rigs speeding along, a tailwind let me keep
up with the traffic and even pass some. There was construction near Laguna
that slowed everyone down, queuing up to get into a single lane. Perhaps
because it was Saturday, it wasn't as bad as I had feared.
</p>
<p>
Coming into Albuquerque I glanced over to my left and got my first look at
Amazon's new fulfillment center, which is scheduled to finish and be in
service by the end of the year. OMG - that's the largest building I've ever
seen. I think it would rival many professional football stadiums for shear
volume. I'm hoping that once it gets going my 2-day Prime deliveries will
actually get to me in two days rather than the 3 to 4 that it takes now.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Home Sweet Home</h4>
<p>
I made it safely home with just enough time to unload the truck and camper
before dark. This was a fantastic season finale and I'm glad you came along via my blog. In the time it took to publish I have stored my camper in the garage for the winter. I hope you will come along next season, as well.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
Bosque Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00001863270259847102noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3983525105536347837.post-63811998842736750612021-11-08T09:19:00.000-07:002021-11-08T09:36:08.123-07:00 Season Finale, NM & AZ - October 2021: Part 2<h2 style="text-align: left;">Part 2 of 3 - The Gila River</h2>
<p>
<a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2021/11/season-finale-nm-az-october-2021-part-1.html">Continued from Part 1</a>
</p>
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"><span style="color: #990000;"> Click on a photo to see a larger version; you can then use your arrow keys. </span></span><div><span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">October 19th (continued)</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Mogollon Box Day Use Area on the Gila River</h4>
<p>
As I previously mentioned, last winter I was pouring over my maps to look for places to visit as a first
of the season trip. For an early trip I was looking at southern sites that
would be warmer than northern locations. I found a spot that was then labeled
as Gila Box Recreation Area on Google Maps. Although it was listed as day use,
the reviewers commented that it was great for camping. Google now labels it as
Box Canyon Day Use Area which is closer to the name USFS uses,
<a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/gila/recarea/?recid=82320" target="_blank">Mogollon Box Day Use Area,</a>
referring to Mogollon Creek on the north boundary of the area. For anyone not
familiar with the southwest US: Mogollon is locally pronounced as <i>muggy-own</i>
and Gila as <i>he-la</i>.
</p>
<p>
I had been undecided on which of these Gila River spots I'd go to first. As it
was getting later in the afternoon I decided not to try Turkey Creek Road as
the USFS directions warned of 8.5 miles of rough dirt road requiring high
clearance and heavy duty tires. Sounded like that might take too long with
night approaching.
</p>
<p>
I turned east onto NM-211 at the "town" of Cliff. A little less than a mile
in, you bear left onto NM-293, a nice 2-lane paved road. Note that there are
absolutely no directional signs for the recreation area. I had to pull over to
check my map to reassure myself I was going the right direction. Also note,
the official USFS Gila National Forest map does not show the recreation site,
but does show the road. Approximately 5 miles from the junction the pavement
ends, but you keep going. The gravel road is good, but watch out for the
cattle guards as one of them has quite a drop off on the other side. It was
getting late in the day, so I was hoping there would be space available to
camp.
</p>
<p>
There was a small road sign, "Entering National Forest Land", which was
reassuring as it was the only indication on the whole route that I was on the
right path. There is a sharp turn before the road descends into the river
valley.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaI9t65CSk-1dtyu1x29bkdDbpoo7fNBHbIWRdlDb7qDonUa71ycnowiM49QJXUy01PCV22PGJ6qvxs2_QgiyqfsPSjwRGZdgq8gn0q2f0eDh9lvKeQEiWA3kAnUj9CL1slOJRKWjxeCs/s1200/MogollonBox-CountyRd_1200w-SL1_22567.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="547" data-original-width="1200" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaI9t65CSk-1dtyu1x29bkdDbpoo7fNBHbIWRdlDb7qDonUa71ycnowiM49QJXUy01PCV22PGJ6qvxs2_QgiyqfsPSjwRGZdgq8gn0q2f0eDh9lvKeQEiWA3kAnUj9CL1slOJRKWjxeCs/w640-h292/MogollonBox-CountyRd_1200w-SL1_22567.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This small road sign is the only indication along the whole road that there might be something interesting ahead. <br />Note the cliffs on the left & the two hills on the right.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<p></p>
<p>
I confess I was shocked at what I found. Looking at the satellite view on
Google Maps the site looks wide open with the network of roads easily seen and
very little vegetation. The image must have been taken in the dead of winter
when all the leaves had fallen from the trees, as the whole place is heavily
forested with cottonwoods and other tall trees. The undergrowth was so tall
you could not see beyond the road side in most places. Frankly, I found it a
little claustrophobic at first and the roads were a labyrinth. There are, however, very nice vault toilets and animal-proof trash receptacles. As I became accustomed, I began to like this area. I suspect it is quite popular in the warm months with its plentiful shade and water to play in.</p>
<p>
There are many potential camp sites in the area, some more open than others
and very pleasant. None of the sites are close to the river. There is a gravel
bed that I thought was the high water course for the Gila River between the
camping area and flowing water.<br /></p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4r-BrB9DUxX2u0YAxgIY5AmT6vufiwQuFSi_RbER7bIm2G0z4NGfq8glL0v1ZUwoUppArFfQnE6DNJ6oKcVR9eoisSumXeydxTKSnC4CN4hITHy0cb3q71bth2m3i-o_EgW4GN7CNAaE/s1200/MogollonBox-cliffs_1200w-SL1_22557.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="660" data-original-width="1200" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4r-BrB9DUxX2u0YAxgIY5AmT6vufiwQuFSi_RbER7bIm2G0z4NGfq8glL0v1ZUwoUppArFfQnE6DNJ6oKcVR9eoisSumXeydxTKSnC4CN4hITHy0cb3q71bth2m3i-o_EgW4GN7CNAaE/w640-h352/MogollonBox-cliffs_1200w-SL1_22557.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">As seen in the photo above, the cliffs viewed from near my campsite.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p></p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_YY_z9qUumhMA8Rc6U_DDmAmq88dH1QI_-fyhuc13UjxP0EAz9l2fUks3Hd08ILBMTyRniTPmdm4XICK_uYpYbfiFshI2vsepwZpBPeIQ-vq0OebebhEmA73ybRtakBsTTMLPHWp4X9U/s1200/MogollonBox-peaks_1200w-SL1_22556.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="611" data-original-width="1200" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_YY_z9qUumhMA8Rc6U_DDmAmq88dH1QI_-fyhuc13UjxP0EAz9l2fUks3Hd08ILBMTyRniTPmdm4XICK_uYpYbfiFshI2vsepwZpBPeIQ-vq0OebebhEmA73ybRtakBsTTMLPHWp4X9U/w640-h326/MogollonBox-peaks_1200w-SL1_22556.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">As seen above, the hills across the river, as seen from near my campsite.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p></p>
<p>I seemed to be the only one camped in the entire area. There was a car which I
guessed brought hikers. It left about dark. Some time after I'd gone to bed I
heard an engine and headlights swept across my site; someone coming in for the
night?</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX3_-NX5Lu_2cvz99bs3hZ9xrLMMcEvPqaY7sBwq9silVJQhnNazDqoPrVwmzDbl9j_IC5XRnLUndVSHulh06EocoOO7t0ri6s8F9YZckt9xH8K7ObqmTNoqYz7oV1oepKJB4JgdwRC-A/s1200/MogollonBox-campsite_1200w-SL1_22562.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="817" data-original-width="1200" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX3_-NX5Lu_2cvz99bs3hZ9xrLMMcEvPqaY7sBwq9silVJQhnNazDqoPrVwmzDbl9j_IC5XRnLUndVSHulh06EocoOO7t0ri6s8F9YZckt9xH8K7ObqmTNoqYz7oV1oepKJB4JgdwRC-A/w640-h436/MogollonBox-campsite_1200w-SL1_22562.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My campsite, sheltered by the large cottonwoods and sycamores.<br />You can just make out the sunlit hills behind me.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<br />
<p>
The wind came up that night. I'd chosen my spot well and was sheltered by the
trees, but leaves and twigs would drop with a clink on my aluminum roof.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Wednesday, October 20</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Mogollon Box (continued)</h4>
<p>It was chilly in the morning, but after coffee I set out to explore a bit. I
had seen approximately where the Gila River was situated the evening before,
but hadn't walked down to it. I had to walk a couple hundred feet across sand
and river rock. I assumed at the time that this was the flood zone of the
Gila, but careful examination of satellite images later at home showed this to
actually be the dry bed of Mogollon Creek. I found the river. It was flowing
well, but mostly in the shade. The low temperatures combined with a freshening
breeze discouraged me from lingering too long. I took two photos from two
vantage points then scurried back to the camper to pack up.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijH1c3SSiQq_d-79OGhkJKkxQ4oj7c-AULUiHkSoFOB1j88Wq13jXfGLzzo1GAMP24BxaACDcBOcxQ5eDQGuRfic9-xOKk62U3xsQsoZWIosTula2U5vPMxxhJpGZ9uX1NJhb8RRqxad4/s1200/GilaRiver_1200w-IMG_2207.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1200" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijH1c3SSiQq_d-79OGhkJKkxQ4oj7c-AULUiHkSoFOB1j88Wq13jXfGLzzo1GAMP24BxaACDcBOcxQ5eDQGuRfic9-xOKk62U3xsQsoZWIosTula2U5vPMxxhJpGZ9uX1NJhb8RRqxad4/w640-h364/GilaRiver_1200w-IMG_2207.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Gila River</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTFetvbnzbxfzo_lCJPBaIvHY9EpueKF44ZrbwZ9sK923ViRiEPPRVaSjckVJZnRKD5RNgy0Zj3-3rizWssSk99lAMhIN8Zxf5hCP7e40kzJDZGiSP0f6mZP0a_KR20m-Llu_tonbrpHQ/s1200/GilaRiver-cliffs_1200w-IMG_2202.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="808" data-original-width="1200" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTFetvbnzbxfzo_lCJPBaIvHY9EpueKF44ZrbwZ9sK923ViRiEPPRVaSjckVJZnRKD5RNgy0Zj3-3rizWssSk99lAMhIN8Zxf5hCP7e40kzJDZGiSP0f6mZP0a_KR20m-Llu_tonbrpHQ/w640-h430/GilaRiver-cliffs_1200w-IMG_2202.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is where Mogollon Creek would enter the river were it flowing.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<br />
<p>
What with one thing or another it was close to 11am by the time I drove up out
of the park. I stopped as I crested the hill to take one more photo looking
back.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI7QTDMVu6jh4MMe_IlKjFlNf_PROeYE86okV87bPqiuyhLFxR2ipVzJ1GEzhCONdr8s0yLz9CN06bTdBenu1Jwc7sjItS7tcGyoxnIbOWQY1_ryRHX1w8lxFtAm35Jhsxr6GSg_pZey0/s1200/MogollonBox-RecArea_1200w-SL1_22566.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="685" data-original-width="1200" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI7QTDMVu6jh4MMe_IlKjFlNf_PROeYE86okV87bPqiuyhLFxR2ipVzJ1GEzhCONdr8s0yLz9CN06bTdBenu1Jwc7sjItS7tcGyoxnIbOWQY1_ryRHX1w8lxFtAm35Jhsxr6GSg_pZey0/w640-h366/MogollonBox-RecArea_1200w-SL1_22566.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A look back at the recreation area and the two hills.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<br />
<p>
I drove back south on NM-293 to the junction with NM-211. I turned left and
drove to the tiny village of Gila. Where the highway comes to a 'T' I turned
left on NM-153, this is Turkey Creek Road. You essentially follow this road to
the end. After a few miles the pavement turns to gravel and, when it enters
forest service land, to dirt. On the maps this is called FS-155, but there are
no route signs on the road. Again there are no signs indicating a recreation
area or even a destination; only one sign admonishing vehicles to stay on the
designated road.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Turkey Creek Road</h4>
<p>
Once on the dirt road be prepared for the surface to degrade quickly. A high
clearance vehicle is required and I was much more comfortable negotiating the
loose rock on the steep climbs with four wheel drive engaged. I stopped
periodically to admire and/or photograph the view. </p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirtlbwNVIPUjgNSSoXuH_TlXMRwjGz1q6ishsGmgu_1WVO7PhcITKFrJT3wicIlMK9AccB5mPj752eN4m3anMm2RTUxD5vWWK4ZCzK3U7mfAvPErOf6X5K3UurCKaI6V8X05fDqxkt2jM/s2400/TurkeyCreekRd-viewN_2Pano-SL1_25568-9.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="712" data-original-width="2400" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirtlbwNVIPUjgNSSoXuH_TlXMRwjGz1q6ishsGmgu_1WVO7PhcITKFrJT3wicIlMK9AccB5mPj752eN4m3anMm2RTUxD5vWWK4ZCzK3U7mfAvPErOf6X5K3UurCKaI6V8X05fDqxkt2jM/w640-h190/TurkeyCreekRd-viewN_2Pano-SL1_25568-9.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is a double-wide panorama looking back a the Gila River where I was last night.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<br />
<p>There were many bushes with yellow flowers blooming. </p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSHlypt9mba4ls3i9k-t6WQuAEGJrgmJ-hRuGZ2cwt5eYGJX04IhSHYmbjteq9fcaAqB6qFNgiQsvdOx3PKh8uS_rn0WoGNOfzKEserDY52KcBd1F6AxAotpCtkALN-9nhBfelxgahC6w/s1200/TurkeyCreekRd-flowers_1200w-SL1_22572.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="797" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSHlypt9mba4ls3i9k-t6WQuAEGJrgmJ-hRuGZ2cwt5eYGJX04IhSHYmbjteq9fcaAqB6qFNgiQsvdOx3PKh8uS_rn0WoGNOfzKEserDY52KcBd1F6AxAotpCtkALN-9nhBfelxgahC6w/w640-h426/TurkeyCreekRd-flowers_1200w-SL1_22572.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Turkey Creek Road climbing up, up, up.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<br />
<p>The drive seemed interminable since I had to go so
slowly. (I timed it on the way out and it took only one hour and 15 minutes to
go from where the road reaches the parking area to the start of the national
forest land.) I was thankful that I had chosen the other camp last evening as
it is not a road you want to drive in the dark.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitAaJmfuOvWJt5Mwg5A-DMBDyDW2yB4KB0xdtCQWotGKC2dZG4o7lfySbJrSEJARaXmwMHM9EcqZu22-fcslflyDt3ZYMHU1VUr87syw2jv9lnboXVWBhhnU9YZuJjWvlhdkcxsG0DAo8/s1200/TurkeyCreekRd-sideView_1200w-SL1_22575.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitAaJmfuOvWJt5Mwg5A-DMBDyDW2yB4KB0xdtCQWotGKC2dZG4o7lfySbJrSEJARaXmwMHM9EcqZu22-fcslflyDt3ZYMHU1VUr87syw2jv9lnboXVWBhhnU9YZuJjWvlhdkcxsG0DAo8/w640-h426/TurkeyCreekRd-sideView_1200w-SL1_22575.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A view to the north of the rugged mountains from along the ridge. Now to descend.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<br />
<p>
There were several places where I had to come to a stop and inch across wash
outs, but there was never any danger of getting stuck or sliding off the road.
Still, maybe not for the faint of heart. Also, don't attempt if there is a
chance of heavy rain, or it has recently rained heavily. You climb up and
descend about 1100 feet on both sides absolute, though I'm sure with the ups
and downs the total gain is much higher. I didn't stop and take photos of the descent as I was too busy.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibZMI0w_dKgXYld6NxLRFXgzXDaK_0fHMAlnfR8ZdAqmuwOsDTQxjoM2RuE0eKkQIENrOhYInKruPdgt6cLqsPnPAZoMfRJQB4E-8P9ALmgAcPexX_HrJCIIhGUaIGHiBjiltHsC2gW70/s1200/TurkeyCreekRd-valley_1200w-SL1_22580.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="828" data-original-width="1200" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibZMI0w_dKgXYld6NxLRFXgzXDaK_0fHMAlnfR8ZdAqmuwOsDTQxjoM2RuE0eKkQIENrOhYInKruPdgt6cLqsPnPAZoMfRJQB4E-8P9ALmgAcPexX_HrJCIIhGUaIGHiBjiltHsC2gW70/w640-h442/TurkeyCreekRd-valley_1200w-SL1_22580.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Gila River is flowing across the valley where you see the trees at the foot of the hills.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<br />
<p>
I was very happy to finally see the river and recognize the area I'd studied
via the satellite images. I took a photo and drove the last section
of road, dodging a washed out spot on the steep descent. Now to find a campsite.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj41y3qU-AqKKeMvI2sUv6PoToKNpjPtWJWYh72XjuCylpvBrsCTzns0xj1gXNo8DrIzXd17A79XAxxz4Ou6MiiB8rEMBuRaj5rKng6lWTllhlJiPR-jq4-6D1kqBL77sr-3nGzvWP2XOs/s1200/TurkeyCreekRd-RecArea_1200w-SL1_22581.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="762" data-original-width="1200" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj41y3qU-AqKKeMvI2sUv6PoToKNpjPtWJWYh72XjuCylpvBrsCTzns0xj1gXNo8DrIzXd17A79XAxxz4Ou6MiiB8rEMBuRaj5rKng6lWTllhlJiPR-jq4-6D1kqBL77sr-3nGzvWP2XOs/w640-h406/TurkeyCreekRd-RecArea_1200w-SL1_22581.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finally, my destination was in sight.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Turkey Creek Recreation Area on the Gila River</h4>
<p>
I haven't found an official name for this trailhead/camping area. Google
labels it prosaically as Turkey Creek Parking Area. USFS provides information and status
on the
<a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/gila/recreation/camping-cabins/recarea/?recid=2023&actid=34" target="_blank">Turkey Creek Trail</a>, but only says "There are no facilities and parking is limited to a few
pull-offs along the road." So I've decided to call it the Turkey Creek
Recreation Area on the Gila River.</p>
<p>
I will spare you the details, but I drove through the riparian area a couple
of times looking for the ideal site - next to the river with both sun and
shade. There were a few tight squeezes between the trees and branches. I
probably picked up a few more scratches along the truck and camper.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitJbBmdtgjAcXvEF7dPFYcAj6Wux7u0W6wRpH-IzsZO9sonzrE9oXpWvPZw1wEyEDZAl-28RPnNtp9racZ_g9Elws2JIVX-QbyTTcYFH0ob_l-la94_Szafd_Ck1CKVuTB4t8NhWDt3FA/s1200/PricklyPear_1200w-SL1_22591.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="822" data-original-width="1200" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitJbBmdtgjAcXvEF7dPFYcAj6Wux7u0W6wRpH-IzsZO9sonzrE9oXpWvPZw1wEyEDZAl-28RPnNtp9racZ_g9Elws2JIVX-QbyTTcYFH0ob_l-la94_Szafd_Ck1CKVuTB4t8NhWDt3FA/w640-h438/PricklyPear_1200w-SL1_22591.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Prickly Pear on the rocks along Turkey Creek Road.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLkZ-BtjlqQuOFMGKEfiqd1OMVxtYTyUdMzK5SBSOl6XfJ1F2rleMlG_psrTLRGUzcsmmpp0vZZzJVAwode_VVbPHN25PcsiM_I9_j8_YzHsETZCNXAXO5Q5BHxNcCIyKbWcIJzv6XMoc/s1200/TurkeyCreekRA-typical_1200w-SL1_22597.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1200" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLkZ-BtjlqQuOFMGKEfiqd1OMVxtYTyUdMzK5SBSOl6XfJ1F2rleMlG_psrTLRGUzcsmmpp0vZZzJVAwode_VVbPHN25PcsiM_I9_j8_YzHsETZCNXAXO5Q5BHxNcCIyKbWcIJzv6XMoc/w640-h384/TurkeyCreekRA-typical_1200w-SL1_22597.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A typical view of Turkey Creek Recreation Area</td></tr></tbody></table>
<br />
<p>
I found a nice big site right on the river. I was able to park in the sun to
finish charging the batteries while I sat in my chair in the shade enjoying
the river and reading my book. </p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgreZXUHgPnVB41BnvTHif3x_RmOH97EJrqkO4hatIuFh3pww6gdAx4K7nOfzSZHuZMrKc40dSOoE8GeMHsPCZ_kyb4bC5YsU8oFk_HtEjPZ7CfrP_EdIxeCSsw0FFInaw5Nck_6CYIw2M/s1200/TurkeyCreekRd-campsite1_1200w-SL1_22586.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="714" data-original-width="1200" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgreZXUHgPnVB41BnvTHif3x_RmOH97EJrqkO4hatIuFh3pww6gdAx4K7nOfzSZHuZMrKc40dSOoE8GeMHsPCZ_kyb4bC5YsU8oFk_HtEjPZ7CfrP_EdIxeCSsw0FFInaw5Nck_6CYIw2M/w640-h380/TurkeyCreekRd-campsite1_1200w-SL1_22586.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My campsite beside the Gila River. <br />There was a nice grassy area beyond the truck to set up my chair.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<br />
<p>
There were myriad butterflies going up and down the river. A few would stop
long enough for me to point my camera at them, but few long enough for me to
actually get a shot. One of the butterflies that cooperated, a Hoary Comma, is
the same species I photographed last month in Rico, Colorado. I was able to
image both the dorsal and ventral sides of this individual and you can see
with the wings closed it is well camouflaged.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmsiSAIAatj6-_1jZENU6jym2siD6DpJmUne2Jwdw5gQPWkQi-6OODiL6ob5By2h1ii85QmRBXULDxFr3SLB5l5FLRwjo0H2hkXnWnBpjizicS2DnfxClkLlRbSEMnOZIPlUJ7wRTsxbE/s1200/HoaryComma-dorsal_1200w-7D_22800.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="976" data-original-width="1200" height="520" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmsiSAIAatj6-_1jZENU6jym2siD6DpJmUne2Jwdw5gQPWkQi-6OODiL6ob5By2h1ii85QmRBXULDxFr3SLB5l5FLRwjo0H2hkXnWnBpjizicS2DnfxClkLlRbSEMnOZIPlUJ7wRTsxbE/w640-h520/HoaryComma-dorsal_1200w-7D_22800.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The colorful side of the Comma butterfly.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCjKpZluKqxJwkm2uvxzOc70_Rrho6s6I2w9sTDR-68fk355emaK0tyKje1CG2h_l9ipKvkSeEqgso0Ihhn35jZaCI1xUzGfCEqAq4vCH7W_Q2yRHNvszA8wF-3T-17a0c-tUyKX6WtYo/s1200/HoaryComma-ventral_1200w-7D_22799.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="897" data-original-width="1200" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCjKpZluKqxJwkm2uvxzOc70_Rrho6s6I2w9sTDR-68fk355emaK0tyKje1CG2h_l9ipKvkSeEqgso0Ihhn35jZaCI1xUzGfCEqAq4vCH7W_Q2yRHNvszA8wF-3T-17a0c-tUyKX6WtYo/w640-h478/HoaryComma-ventral_1200w-7D_22799.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The camouflaged side of the Comma butterfly.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p>
I was also lucky enough to photograph a Tailed Orange butterfly. I'd never
seen one this shape before. Turns out this small butterfly rarely flies this
far north and its tail becomes more pronounced in winter.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZyHzgVYQzcfcW6tqOBw6NklZHcwZWF8YVY2klggTRNtWm3Bu1cvVsLqX_pcRfoTPFJDjxWOjL0BSFbK88JgjtgMe_Rwm96mUr7h-scMB3rDvg6co8kO53H3ZPPDLMMrxjbhF3H9NS1Xc/s1200/TailedOrange_1200w-7D_22801.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1054" data-original-width="1200" height="562" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZyHzgVYQzcfcW6tqOBw6NklZHcwZWF8YVY2klggTRNtWm3Bu1cvVsLqX_pcRfoTPFJDjxWOjL0BSFbK88JgjtgMe_Rwm96mUr7h-scMB3rDvg6co8kO53H3ZPPDLMMrxjbhF3H9NS1Xc/w640-h562/TailedOrange_1200w-7D_22801.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tailed Orange butterfly perched upon a cottonwood leaf.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<br />
<p>
There were at least three species of cottonwood. I'll call them big leaf,
little leaf, and narrow leaf. Coyote willows were thick along the river. I noticed the
distinctive leaves of the Arizona Sycamore. Some of the trees were beginning
to show color. A few were well along. A few juniper had encroached from the
surrounding dry hills where they and piñon rule. Of course there were a number
of bushes and other plants that I have no identification to pass along.</p>
<p>
It was a warm afternoon. In fact maybe a bit too warm where I'd set up. I
walked down the road to another nice site I almost chose and it was cool in the
shade. Though I figured by the time I moved it would cool down where I was
now, but maybe I'd move tomorrow. Yep, it did cool down and I enjoyed a very
pleasant evening.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Thursday, October 21</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Gila River (continued)</h4>
<p>Though it had been warm yesterday afternoon, it was pretty chilly this
morning. So I was slow getting going. Once I did I made a sandwich and
gathered my few supplies to carry in my daypack before I broke camp. I drove
the short distance to the clearing just before my new site so the panels would
get full sun all day while I took a hike up the river.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Suv7xJ3Wv8A5BGd54MoSu1xWeoWRvGqUVNfgPwhswcgNV8ebCLvR8K9k0CpjSkNq3531yimhbPkdHy4wyK4jNV7zPYcsbu4nvqAhjVvcLu4l41m5cnZB0fXN4Kf4oHQi9NVOZkfTnTY/s1200/TurkeyCreekRA-clearing_1200w-SL1_22587.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Suv7xJ3Wv8A5BGd54MoSu1xWeoWRvGqUVNfgPwhswcgNV8ebCLvR8K9k0CpjSkNq3531yimhbPkdHy4wyK4jNV7zPYcsbu4nvqAhjVvcLu4l41m5cnZB0fXN4Kf4oHQi9NVOZkfTnTY/w640-h426/TurkeyCreekRA-clearing_1200w-SL1_22587.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My campsite will be under those trees just ahead of my truck.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<br />
<p>There is no consistent trail along the river bank, so I started up one of the
roads through the riparian area. I found a place where vehicles had crossed
the river. I don't think stock vehicles would make it. You'd need an ATV with
big tires and super high clearance. This isn't the Turkey Creek trail, per sé,
but may lead to it. USFS says the actual trail begins 1.3 miles upstream. In
my photo, what looks like a large dark rock on the other side is actually mud deformed by tire tracks.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNi_dIjJba_p8-YBODvK2oD0NmIEiNsAEyPQqV7zrbUpdyoIQ40Wekt8TlWhSOQ_0bcXkik95_3dmojbFp9uK-6kRmmXqzo5BaCIsBrk6nhm6Gd_uKR0pXB5WmAszOdgUoT_GeG9A-zxA/s1200/GilaRiver-ford_1200w-SL1_22590.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="786" data-original-width="1200" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNi_dIjJba_p8-YBODvK2oD0NmIEiNsAEyPQqV7zrbUpdyoIQ40Wekt8TlWhSOQ_0bcXkik95_3dmojbFp9uK-6kRmmXqzo5BaCIsBrk6nhm6Gd_uKR0pXB5WmAszOdgUoT_GeG9A-zxA/w640-h420/GilaRiver-ford_1200w-SL1_22590.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A ford across the Gila. Not for stock highway vehicles.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<br />
<p>
Appropriately enough, I found turkey tracks hardened in the mud. Later on I
accidentally flushed a rafter of Wild Turkey from a small tree along the road.
I think they were more startled than I was - but not by much!</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWV6BHmy-7xCRB97rz1BfzvZAO446wzSiNVPIgVAH-oiqAXjZExpbUoVeb7kEvq_KoxFf8PKyBTG7yNxI7ogVSox063heomPuWf_oGxcuhKQrWIcO7Mcsi9Eh9rWEQALxlAXJ6T24ppHk/s1200/TurkeyTracks_1200w-SL1_22589.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="844" data-original-width="1200" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWV6BHmy-7xCRB97rz1BfzvZAO446wzSiNVPIgVAH-oiqAXjZExpbUoVeb7kEvq_KoxFf8PKyBTG7yNxI7ogVSox063heomPuWf_oGxcuhKQrWIcO7Mcsi9Eh9rWEQALxlAXJ6T24ppHk/w640-h450/TurkeyTracks_1200w-SL1_22589.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Modern dinosaur tracks</td></tr></tbody></table>
<br />
<h4>Turkey Creek Trail</h4>
<p>
The riparian road led back to the "main" road. Turkey Creek Road is
permanently blocked at 33.0670, -108.4989 by large boulders purposely placed.
Within 50 feet, half of the road was washed into the river and the trail
becomes single track which explains why they blocked the road. Surprisingly,
after 50 yards or so the road is back. Apparently it used to continue on. I
believe there is zero chance the washed out section will be rebuilt.
</p>
<p>
I was taken by a small blue juniper tree beside the road. I've seen blue
spruce, I have two in my yard, but never a blue juniper. I processed the photo
to match as closely as possible what my eyes perceived. Research has led me to
believe this is an Arizona Cypress. It is a southwestern native that usually
grows below 6500' and can reach heights of 35-50 feet. So this is a baby.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh61un_7nyCksTq0AajZkB3ta9A81IYr7vhkhkUSIzpLl-JGft7F096QA4VYNo_I_i1MT3A0IetoWOXpqQCncXeVEAX4CxYKL0CwrP_6nTJhPEGXjbdimIqL-koNti4ymzwz_61xV9Sexc/s1200/ArizonaCypress_1200w-SL1_22595.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1014" data-original-width="1200" height="540" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh61un_7nyCksTq0AajZkB3ta9A81IYr7vhkhkUSIzpLl-JGft7F096QA4VYNo_I_i1MT3A0IetoWOXpqQCncXeVEAX4CxYKL0CwrP_6nTJhPEGXjbdimIqL-koNti4ymzwz_61xV9Sexc/w640-h540/ArizonaCypress_1200w-SL1_22595.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arizona Cypress beside the orphaned section of Turkey Creek Road.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<br />
<p>
I followed this road and was surprised by there being fresh tire tracks. Where
in the heck did they come from? After a quarter mile or so the road curved
back to the riverside. There was a gravel bar and I could see that was where
the vehicles crossed the river. Apparently they can drive on the other side
from the ford I saw before. Very little of this can be discerned by looking at
the satellite photos even after the fact. However, I can see remnants of
double-track on one side of the river or the other for maybe a mile or so
farther upstream on the satellite image.
</p>
<p>
Nonetheless, that spot was amazing. There was a long, straight stretch of calm
water that was reflecting the colorful cottonwoods on the bank and an
interesting mountain peak in the background. I must have taken two dozen
photos at various angles and exposures, but to someone who hadn't been there, they would all look very similar. I will, therefore, only share one.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFCSYoV7pPlhn9VXUy9wqyY9PlBQrKDPrViNutCNkKTKTKfwJuem8J_aobktPqoP_-MbnePUoN4DBAl4KU8xJzDSsTSFctG4NXsY-scwiOV0x4cKxmYgFvvMxksYzBe2zDlC1Y-b393EE/s1200/GilaRiver-tall_1200h-SL1_22631.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="780" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFCSYoV7pPlhn9VXUy9wqyY9PlBQrKDPrViNutCNkKTKTKfwJuem8J_aobktPqoP_-MbnePUoN4DBAl4KU8xJzDSsTSFctG4NXsY-scwiOV0x4cKxmYgFvvMxksYzBe2zDlC1Y-b393EE/w416-h640/GilaRiver-tall_1200h-SL1_22631.jpg" width="416" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A calm stretch of the Gila River</td></tr></tbody></table>
<br />
<p>
I enjoyed my lunch there and basked in the solitude and beauty before
starting back. When I got back to my campsite I sat in my chair overlooking
the river in the shade and rehydrated. Read a bit, then simply soaked up the
scene, repeatedly. After an hour or so a couple of fishermen came through,
asking if I minded them fishing at my site. That was the big excitement of the
afternoon LOL.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcg6G-K67Top3ZFGM0gV7A1D7haHbM-vxH8k-wDmr_wkK5nTPTYC-JUDcQ0dtU-ehNKWwI6DzEzh2MoCXnRE59jTDBX9pjZUZL3kGI4kr0LrCf6MzZpxcDU55Xi5mCdkOXGNqRvMMVlxs/s1200/GilaRiver_1200w-SL1_22666.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="813" data-original-width="1200" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcg6G-K67Top3ZFGM0gV7A1D7haHbM-vxH8k-wDmr_wkK5nTPTYC-JUDcQ0dtU-ehNKWwI6DzEzh2MoCXnRE59jTDBX9pjZUZL3kGI4kr0LrCf6MzZpxcDU55Xi5mCdkOXGNqRvMMVlxs/w640-h434/GilaRiver_1200w-SL1_22666.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The two fishermen claimed they had caught fish in the river, but released them.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<br />
<p>
Before I moved my camper into the shade under the trees and set up my full
camp I took the drone up for photography. </p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxK1TOfpWcfqRzZH38AVBq19sxrOxM6EOHuztfq7BK6VR3tpk-SBI7gNN6_biql13JcHXw4u2blM930gTr78k0s8L5sJ9JAGxPLzD_qI_lqKv_ZdLXnn-r2nolGL0V-COd9Iww7G7YRJM/s1200/TurkeyCeekRA-GilaRiverValley_1200w-DJI_0348.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="643" data-original-width="1200" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxK1TOfpWcfqRzZH38AVBq19sxrOxM6EOHuztfq7BK6VR3tpk-SBI7gNN6_biql13JcHXw4u2blM930gTr78k0s8L5sJ9JAGxPLzD_qI_lqKv_ZdLXnn-r2nolGL0V-COd9Iww7G7YRJM/w640-h342/TurkeyCeekRA-GilaRiverValley_1200w-DJI_0348.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An aerial view of the Gila River winding between the hills.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p>A spherical panorama of Turkey Creek Recreation Area.</p>
<iframe allow="xr-spatial-tracking; gyroscope; accelerometer" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="640" scrolling="no" src="https://kuula.co/share/Nl7nH?logo=1&info=1&fs=1&vr=0&sd=1&thumbs=1" style="border: none; height: 640px; max-width: 100%; width: 100%;" width="100%"></iframe>
<p>Once I raised the camper top returned to my chair for more relaxing. </p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhHyHe8Mjl2eL40DshIjRTIIjI5RxLLIuAZdaYxOTAmh00X_3rSqqAoQfgbjOvwYhu5z-fBEAZkKLRr6xHMSJg-W6faiMLlcwU42JJmIJyAkh9oeRUHHkGdkZF4O7tJIfSdI6I15J1TPA/s1200/TurkeyCreekRA-Campsite2-river_1200w-SL1_22672.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="738" data-original-width="1200" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhHyHe8Mjl2eL40DshIjRTIIjI5RxLLIuAZdaYxOTAmh00X_3rSqqAoQfgbjOvwYhu5z-fBEAZkKLRr6xHMSJg-W6faiMLlcwU42JJmIJyAkh9oeRUHHkGdkZF4O7tJIfSdI6I15J1TPA/w640-h394/TurkeyCreekRA-Campsite2-river_1200w-SL1_22672.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Now, this is the life!</td></tr></tbody></table>
<br />
<p>I was surprised I hadn't
seen any dragonflies. Seems like this should be a good environment for them.
Maybe it was too late in the season. Late in the afternoon a number of
Rubyspot damselflies happened by. This common riparian species was easy to
detect when the sinking sun lit up the ruby spot on the wings.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJUsXgrnETTtV0OZ159TZ-FNWktpBe3QA5ZkKygShDP92teNYep5ejlNq7TdnEDooBVW-zpEehKKh18OxaMbcFJJNBllx51H8g3P_eDkKtMFI8brmLffn2QCehPmrBmbhLUKd2qmXiREI/s1200/AmRuibyspot_1200w-7D_22834.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="862" data-original-width="1200" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJUsXgrnETTtV0OZ159TZ-FNWktpBe3QA5ZkKygShDP92teNYep5ejlNq7TdnEDooBVW-zpEehKKh18OxaMbcFJJNBllx51H8g3P_eDkKtMFI8brmLffn2QCehPmrBmbhLUKd2qmXiREI/w640-h460/AmRuibyspot_1200w-7D_22834.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">American Rubyspot damselfly</td></tr></tbody></table>
<br />
<p>It was a very pleasant evening in camp. </p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzqlM3XgC4JGTyqqqAZnUDtUcafzEEYrqoIuymuSni3mqz1xIXhrZIqOu8AAGq4p65vbQ3GesBs1s4jnUZ3vogPhicxCP9vSRJ6r4TYAXS8WgOzmqpGq8LbHPnCiQmqhMDI8uXhglrrdI/s1200/TurkeyCreekRA-campsite2_1200w-SL1_22671.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="825" data-original-width="1200" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzqlM3XgC4JGTyqqqAZnUDtUcafzEEYrqoIuymuSni3mqz1xIXhrZIqOu8AAGq4p65vbQ3GesBs1s4jnUZ3vogPhicxCP9vSRJ6r4TYAXS8WgOzmqpGq8LbHPnCiQmqhMDI8uXhglrrdI/w640-h440/TurkeyCreekRA-campsite2_1200w-SL1_22671.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Only the western hillsides are still in the sun.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<p>
There was no sunset, but the last of the sun shone on the peak to my east
turning it orange.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXvyD6Z5e9hevFGtobTYJUl60frOiBkgr0CMWLi5Qgizd1As_Tf5_KPdKb6SegplwKokAkSEiKzRMPGIO3vJOiqytLXW4HC2OuuE4AuTjd3lyLtKpwTS5Y2pGANVjm-XYnFVnOdGQ3OfI/s1200/TurkeyCreekRA-orangehill_1200w-SL1_22679.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="676" data-original-width="1200" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXvyD6Z5e9hevFGtobTYJUl60frOiBkgr0CMWLi5Qgizd1As_Tf5_KPdKb6SegplwKokAkSEiKzRMPGIO3vJOiqytLXW4HC2OuuE4AuTjd3lyLtKpwTS5Y2pGANVjm-XYnFVnOdGQ3OfI/w640-h360/TurkeyCreekRA-orangehill_1200w-SL1_22679.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from my campsite as the sun sinks slowly in the west.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<br />
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Friday, October 22</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Gila River (continued)</h4>
<p>I figured to move on today. I was undecided on where to go or might even start
heading home, but I was too restless to stay here another day. I was in no
hurry to leave either, so spent most of the morning in this lovely spot.</p>
<p>
I finally got packed up and on the road by about 11am. I took a few more
photos of the area as I left.</p>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0tb8DuAF8dMMwjX-Mac7jAAnWpqoQ9k1C95qIDuT68INUqpXyhiuxams8btQKF8ah_q0SnHKEEICvkJWRZhSk6P956n5KXM0OKA8VkDqDgRJE80N_YUgl-461atGS_WIDFD46YutfhsA/s1200/TurkeyCreekRd-outbound_1200w-SL1_22688.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="654" data-original-width="1200" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0tb8DuAF8dMMwjX-Mac7jAAnWpqoQ9k1C95qIDuT68INUqpXyhiuxams8btQKF8ah_q0SnHKEEICvkJWRZhSk6P956n5KXM0OKA8VkDqDgRJE80N_YUgl-461atGS_WIDFD46YutfhsA/w640-h348/TurkeyCreekRd-outbound_1200w-SL1_22688.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Turkey Creek Road begins here to climb out of the valley.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPCvEgYpms1lQlH5hFvxhelKPwl9lOW4-hG9vAHoCvZ5DtO9ah8gEBoNgx0gyiKK7gOMoJvi9czz_w2BiJ2IWTALx447w22VrHtlH1mV4zO72ulfpMQpaCk7o5vgW3dlAnBPYheTeiGRk/s1200/TurkeyCreekRA-winding_1200w-SL1_22691.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="670" data-original-width="1200" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPCvEgYpms1lQlH5hFvxhelKPwl9lOW4-hG9vAHoCvZ5DtO9ah8gEBoNgx0gyiKK7gOMoJvi9czz_w2BiJ2IWTALx447w22VrHtlH1mV4zO72ulfpMQpaCk7o5vgW3dlAnBPYheTeiGRk/w640-h358/TurkeyCreekRA-winding_1200w-SL1_22691.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking back down at the camping area. The river makes a horseshoe bend around that small ridge in the medium foreground. My campsites were just on the far side of the ridge.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p><br />I took more photos from the road. </p>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK5DYxgZv0wDWNJki-utKcmkpD5bVn3ERRnE5lQRNbDHPxcrrg8qH6u2B8byGjIn9ZMugjLr9c8wXnSrrRva3TTqCF4_BDSXLTIUQzzkcgJoch4Pvh66moOhkzBpXr666k-27eXTj8bf8/s1200/TurkeyCreekRd-oakleaves_1200w-SL1_22693.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="837" data-original-width="1200" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK5DYxgZv0wDWNJki-utKcmkpD5bVn3ERRnE5lQRNbDHPxcrrg8qH6u2B8byGjIn9ZMugjLr9c8wXnSrrRva3TTqCF4_BDSXLTIUQzzkcgJoch4Pvh66moOhkzBpXr666k-27eXTj8bf8/w640-h446/TurkeyCreekRd-oakleaves_1200w-SL1_22693.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">As I was almost to the top of Brushy Canyon I spied these backlit oak leaves.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs0pGIvcbDr9CJgBzNxH2d8YNa8ueCPB_vIv-ufm18dxpN9adjFxLPYenK1JCLUQDmXBkSG04_UsgyzPpytRtNTKei-QGYVlCsXf0U-ks6W4Uz-9qVebbMEK-sDLtvfcsijXXi3VM3OLc/s1200/TurkeyCreekRd-viewOut_1200w-SL1_22705.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs0pGIvcbDr9CJgBzNxH2d8YNa8ueCPB_vIv-ufm18dxpN9adjFxLPYenK1JCLUQDmXBkSG04_UsgyzPpytRtNTKei-QGYVlCsXf0U-ks6W4Uz-9qVebbMEK-sDLtvfcsijXXi3VM3OLc/w640-h426/TurkeyCreekRd-viewOut_1200w-SL1_22705.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoy this last view from Turkey Creek Road.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p>
Regarding this portion of the Gila River. If you're traveling through and
looking for an overnight stay not too far off the highway with lots of shade,
then the Mogollon Box is your logical choice. If you're looking for a
destination, would like to camp next to the river, and have a high-clearance
vehicle, then consider Turkey Creek Road Recreation Area and its rugged beauty.
</p>
<div><br /></div>
<h4 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2021/11/season-finale-nm-az-october-2021-part-3.html">Continue to Part 3</a>
- NM to AZ
</h4>
<div><br /></div>
<p></p></div>Bosque Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00001863270259847102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3983525105536347837.post-90199676299002435322021-11-08T08:39:00.001-07:002021-11-08T09:36:02.035-07:00 Season Finale, NM & AZ - October 2021: Part 1<h2 style="text-align: left;">
Southwestern New Mexico (and a day in Arizona)
</h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">October 18 - 23, 2021</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Part 1 of 3</h4>
<p>
<i>I thought it would be a good idea to go south for my last trip of the season where I might find warmer temperatures. I had researched some areas in southwestern New Mexico and southeastern Arizona last winter, but failed to get my act together last spring. The long
range forecast seemed very favorable other than wind the first day and a bit
the second. Spoiler: there was a lot of wind most days this trip.</i>
</p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"><span style="color: #990000;"> Click on a photo to see a larger version; you can then use your
arrow keys. </span></span>
</h4>
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Monday, October 18</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Water Canyon</h4>
<p>
I wasn't going far today so started out in the late morning. I would reprise
<a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/cibola/recreation/camping-cabins/recarea/?recid=64076&actid=29" target="_blank">Water Canyon west of Socorro</a>. I had a pleasant stay once previously. I drove down I-25, against the south
wind, to Socorro where I topped off my gas tank. <a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2018/05/central-nm-spring-shakedown-april-2018.html" target="_blank">Read about my previous visit April 2018</a>
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwEo8pk3P5SPGuLYpoaBu85XzkQAHLadHVzwItF4NETrOgOQS7_OHx7D1WStbSiFbTAGmbLZn9GSP3D0rCU-5_UBpFeZ8hmapZ-K9vogZXkvbWKdf8nCCXA-eM9DLDLvIC1M8v7VV-kMo/s1200/WaterCanyon-access_1200w-SL1_22509.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="752" data-original-width="1200" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwEo8pk3P5SPGuLYpoaBu85XzkQAHLadHVzwItF4NETrOgOQS7_OHx7D1WStbSiFbTAGmbLZn9GSP3D0rCU-5_UBpFeZ8hmapZ-K9vogZXkvbWKdf8nCCXA-eM9DLDLvIC1M8v7VV-kMo/w640-h402/WaterCanyon-access_1200w-SL1_22509.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Entrance to National Forest - Water Canyon straight ahead
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
The campground was almost deserted with one neighbor and was very attractive
with a bit of a view across the canyon. There are vault toilets that were very
clean. I found a nice site and settled in. It was breezy, but I figured out
where to place my chair, with a view across the valley, to minimize the
effect. Very relaxing.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_dlZ6O1wZKjMKxpuWBaM0zK9HfQCfELRM_ZUnKBSl6YMfxBxxL2UBKVAKz1echR5Qq0Z5KxMzEXWAVbw3tt6ZVAIdPleinyc7mrS-visimYGhmu-TALwbJxY50fYyPlFpKMdcoOj6M84/s1200/WaterCanyon-campsite_1200w-SL1_22511.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="767" data-original-width="1200" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_dlZ6O1wZKjMKxpuWBaM0zK9HfQCfELRM_ZUnKBSl6YMfxBxxL2UBKVAKz1echR5Qq0Z5KxMzEXWAVbw3tt6ZVAIdPleinyc7mrS-visimYGhmu-TALwbJxY50fYyPlFpKMdcoOj6M84/w640-h410/WaterCanyon-campsite_1200w-SL1_22511.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My campsite</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p></p>
<p>
I took a walk later up the road past the group camp as I had done last time. I
continued up the dry wash and found the tiny stream that runs a hundred feet
or so from what must be a spring. The only wildlife I saw was a skittish flock
of about 20 Chipping sparrows that came to the spring to drink.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheX-jPMn6_e88LZO9BR656pPD-Q9QoiU-BInNBVZgCBx-u2fNJ_GMDSc8yIV20IMUnjNj6yqdxReYmg_Be9uLJX4OuaqxEiryiwFAuEpJnWh7wc_G7uo6hKDp6H-JYu4d_TmdWWMdrP2I/s1200/WaterCanyon-sparrows_1200w-7D_22792.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="805" data-original-width="1200" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheX-jPMn6_e88LZO9BR656pPD-Q9QoiU-BInNBVZgCBx-u2fNJ_GMDSc8yIV20IMUnjNj6yqdxReYmg_Be9uLJX4OuaqxEiryiwFAuEpJnWh7wc_G7uo6hKDp6H-JYu4d_TmdWWMdrP2I/w640-h430/WaterCanyon-sparrows_1200w-7D_22792.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Chipping Sparrows benefiting from the nearby spring.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p></p>
<p>
I stopped at the USFS bulletin board on my way back to my campsite. There was
a notice soliciting public comment on a proposal to begin charging fees for
the staying at the campground. It is currently free. The proposed $5 per night fee is
more than reasonable for a family campsite. And they certainly should be
charging for group reservations as a ranger has to drive out from Magdalena to
open, then drive out again to lock the gates. Public input ended in September, so I missed the deadline.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifitZi6AQMFFwnxnhYc2_6tC5rzfjHb6xA3BB6GOIKck-x1g5GX6Acl0YviTnD4xptJsxh9ws3C-KDhV1-iaxPNETxVtYhW19iVZzwNIxDe1qjksT33bkqLAZcOx2z3RO0MKR2lwarD-I/s1200/WaterCanyon-cliffs_1200w-IMG_2199.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="726" data-original-width="1200" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifitZi6AQMFFwnxnhYc2_6tC5rzfjHb6xA3BB6GOIKck-x1g5GX6Acl0YviTnD4xptJsxh9ws3C-KDhV1-iaxPNETxVtYhW19iVZzwNIxDe1qjksT33bkqLAZcOx2z3RO0MKR2lwarD-I/w640-h388/WaterCanyon-cliffs_1200w-IMG_2199.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
View of forest and canyon
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p></p>
<p>
The wind tapered off in the evening and I thought it was done. Shortly after I
went to bed it picked up again with a vengeance. It wasn't as bad as I had
experienced a couple times in Utah, but it was fierce. I was unable to get to
sleep for an hour or two hearing it scream and having little bits of
vegetation strike the camper roof. At least it did stop during the night.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Tuesday, October 19</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Water Canyon (continued)</h4>
<p>
I hoped the wind had blown itself out the night before, but it picked up again
in the morning, though not as strong, fortunately. I slowly gathered myself up
and packed up.
</p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">VLA</h4>
<p>
Back on the highway, headed west through the small village of Magdalena. I
don't come through this way all that often, but I do enjoy seeing all the
radio telescope dishes of the Very Large Array (VLA) National Radio Astronomy
Observatory across the Plains of San Augustín. <br />
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz7aHxPtZkOQYWXvymShHRH-bFefmuXwH2YJXcZmok6_b9bQNv4VBVYfaaXB8uhzO9rm8CQSkrGpjxxf8NYnY_FXxCo_nUXJe-bUDgH_RsHj-JhWUWQokLc1GIeSH6Q4f1zKK89Rubg78/s1200/VLA_1200w-SL1_22521.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz7aHxPtZkOQYWXvymShHRH-bFefmuXwH2YJXcZmok6_b9bQNv4VBVYfaaXB8uhzO9rm8CQSkrGpjxxf8NYnY_FXxCo_nUXJe-bUDgH_RsHj-JhWUWQokLc1GIeSH6Q4f1zKK89Rubg78/w640-h426/VLA_1200w-SL1_22521.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The dishes are positioned using these full-size railroad tracks.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBypq7MzGCOVaEInTcSxK9nlqh6TJoGArR-QrksjNicE98PEKqosr-oiwJOUYu_27hN6cX8_RSRZ1PGfsKhLwLWwbJ0-Fu9wiyEW71GQ1Z_oXvmV4sjpDT-9SSTGcuCikgxalARdjPfnE/s1200/PlainsOfSanAugustin_1200w-SL1_22523.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="756" data-original-width="1200" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBypq7MzGCOVaEInTcSxK9nlqh6TJoGArR-QrksjNicE98PEKqosr-oiwJOUYu_27hN6cX8_RSRZ1PGfsKhLwLWwbJ0-Fu9wiyEW71GQ1Z_oXvmV4sjpDT-9SSTGcuCikgxalARdjPfnE/w640-h404/PlainsOfSanAugustin_1200w-SL1_22523.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Historic Marker across the highway from the photo above.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h4><h4 style="text-align: left;">Datil Well</h4>
<p>
I thought I'd stop for my picnic lunch at
<a href="https://www.blm.gov/visit/datil-well-recreation-area-campground" target="_blank">Datil Well Campground</a>. It was convenient and I wanted to remind myself what it was like. I'd stayed in the group site back in 2016 when I was there for a trail rebuilding
project with the NM Volunteers for the Outdoors.
<a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2016/05/spring-2016-shakedown-nm-and-az-part-1.html" target="_blank">Read about that here</a>.
</p>
<p>
It's a very nice BLM campground in piñon/juniper woods with a few ponderosa
pine mixed in. The vault toilets are very clean and there is trash pick-up.
It's a bargain at $5 per night (half that if you have the requisite pass.)
There are small sites for small campers and bigger sites for RVs and trailers.
</p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Plains and Mountains</h4>
<p>
After lunch I headed down NM-12 toward Reserve. I enjoyed the wide open vistas
of the southern stretch of the Plains of San Augustín and managed to remember
to stop and take a couple of photos that include the small boundary
mountains.<br />
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBzC4wdEdLqssoeqC-hI7NydFesUt8z1ZnDCo8mvaW_O44eBLzWMXcZN8oVf9_1TQyruGa9Y-4yoat7ehTmcYhlZL1oKe7K_r09p8LfAeqjmOe-iEnh2JgZqyGpIE-m1tyorD5ONqe43Y/s1200/HorseMountains_1200w-SL1_22524.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="740" data-original-width="1200" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBzC4wdEdLqssoeqC-hI7NydFesUt8z1ZnDCo8mvaW_O44eBLzWMXcZN8oVf9_1TQyruGa9Y-4yoat7ehTmcYhlZL1oKe7K_r09p8LfAeqjmOe-iEnh2JgZqyGpIE-m1tyorD5ONqe43Y/w640-h394/HorseMountains_1200w-SL1_22524.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Horse Mountains (and a cattle ranch)
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhejj6Atx87nKxOIphfZoGjBlZhdAiYp2sHDkEV7LXoSh-3I6hhzHTbBeIbYwX40MTj2BOGv8bVaOlMCqKXK1shK8AUoWFl6CYjhyphenhyphen1XtWfMxi6R6zMk8n_2FuwVZTHw85K6JbXUP1xznFE/s1200/SugarloafMtn_1200w-SL1_22525.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="738" data-original-width="1200" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhejj6Atx87nKxOIphfZoGjBlZhdAiYp2sHDkEV7LXoSh-3I6hhzHTbBeIbYwX40MTj2BOGv8bVaOlMCqKXK1shK8AUoWFl6CYjhyphenhyphen1XtWfMxi6R6zMk8n_2FuwVZTHw85K6JbXUP1xznFE/w640-h394/SugarloafMtn_1200w-SL1_22525.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Sugarloaf (left) and the Crosby Mountains
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p></p>
<p>
As I left the plains the highway begins to climb up into the Tularosa
Mountains of the Gila National Forest. About twenty miles farther is the
village of Reserve.
</p>
<p>
Five miles west of Reserve the highway ends at US-180 where I turned south.
This is a pretty stretch of highway winding, as it does, between the San
Francisco and Mogollon Mountains. They are not going to compete against
the Rocky's, but the Mogollon's do have several peaks above 10,000 feet. I
continued south to Glenwood.
</p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">The Catwalk Recreation Area</h4>
<p>
I'd been hearing about
<a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/gila/recarea/?recid=2029" target="_blank">The Catwalk</a>
for years as an interesting place to visit. In 2013 the area was hit with
<a href="https://www.grantcountybeat.com/news/news-articles/12343-catwalk-receives-major-flood-damage" target="_blank">damaging floods,</a>
due to the 2012 wildfire scar east of Mogollon, and was closed for a number of
years before it was rebuilt. It reopened Memorial Day 2016.<br />
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixtvAkgX-XwSXKJL3btIQQWIZZuJve3bMOW07Pq5sykOyOjf1K4StmjFGQSwWayw5buj3jB5hg4roMzY4SAaj53-3mLNEZLQUN7BXAw0GnzVsCGGGx6AiRFljbGYzeVgyiadIj4aqHcsQ/s1200/InfoSign_1200w-SL1_22551.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="811" data-original-width="1200" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixtvAkgX-XwSXKJL3btIQQWIZZuJve3bMOW07Pq5sykOyOjf1K4StmjFGQSwWayw5buj3jB5hg4roMzY4SAaj53-3mLNEZLQUN7BXAw0GnzVsCGGGx6AiRFljbGYzeVgyiadIj4aqHcsQ/w640-h432/InfoSign_1200w-SL1_22551.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Information sign at the entrance explaining the history of the canyon.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9lbe9-t93l7jqXtYWuApXxeXoT3aras1MllsvU-kIbfmjOMApRPLxvuFBwMbiGwDpUtytVepkSQV8tBmkEdyIqtAie7k2Le06QExUXl8tMopyqJG3t9m6Ccj2tQNp_eWXnMKhPKLmFp8/s1200/WhitewaterCreek_1200h-SL1_22527.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1002" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9lbe9-t93l7jqXtYWuApXxeXoT3aras1MllsvU-kIbfmjOMApRPLxvuFBwMbiGwDpUtytVepkSQV8tBmkEdyIqtAie7k2Le06QExUXl8tMopyqJG3t9m6Ccj2tQNp_eWXnMKhPKLmFp8/w534-h640/WhitewaterCreek_1200h-SL1_22527.jpg" width="534" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Whitewater Creek at the park entrance.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p></p>
<p>
The area is approximately 5 miles from Glenwood, NM, at the east end of NM Hwy
174 (Catwalk Road). There is currently a $3 fee to park, but it's free if you
have an annual or senior pass. I almost turned around as I drove up the road
as the riverbed was nothing other than dry rocks, but I'm glad I didn't. Just
before the park is a water crossing and it was flowing. I guess the volume of
water is so low it just sinks into the ground outside the canyon. However, it
was high enough to keep all the plants in the canyon green and the air cool
and moist.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisVWmSh2zjphkv8_i71z37bQICXumzVaXyDU2Iln72E2gBnIoSzpOj0AeFGa6gnYy27pxfA0yPbQwRZ9Yeaf9IQ4vploJdfIAHqKM6Q_ZFCEkzyfiOyVZFshvYuJvtuZwCgfU1Jv_vDnE/s1200/WhitewaterCyn_1200w-SL1_22532.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="883" data-original-width="1200" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisVWmSh2zjphkv8_i71z37bQICXumzVaXyDU2Iln72E2gBnIoSzpOj0AeFGa6gnYy27pxfA0yPbQwRZ9Yeaf9IQ4vploJdfIAHqKM6Q_ZFCEkzyfiOyVZFshvYuJvtuZwCgfU1Jv_vDnE/w640-h470/WhitewaterCyn_1200w-SL1_22532.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
View up the canyon from the first bridge.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p></p>
<p>
You walk up the canyon on a paved trail that passes along the picnic area,
through tall Arizona Sycamore and narrow-leaf cottonwood trees. At the first
bridge you choose to walk ahead on a dirt trail that is listed as difficult or
cross the bridge where the paved path continues up the other side. There is
more climbing and steeper steps (from what I could see) on the north side;
more catwalks and gradual incline on the so-called easy side. Both lead to the
same destination.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDIsA-D9320XBoRz3g5wlGkhl3fHgCMUUi8ia1pEt5mgoLjr8p4HN06kqlZz4OVpGYhhz6kgH_9ND74l_doPBTShoAE15g4SrxfGFJX5gGlmhWPVzMZXHa-ruamPCEZZZQDeIsk8rRjyI/s1200/Catwalk1_1200h-SL1_22537.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="700" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDIsA-D9320XBoRz3g5wlGkhl3fHgCMUUi8ia1pEt5mgoLjr8p4HN06kqlZz4OVpGYhhz6kgH_9ND74l_doPBTShoAE15g4SrxfGFJX5gGlmhWPVzMZXHa-ruamPCEZZZQDeIsk8rRjyI/w374-h640/Catwalk1_1200h-SL1_22537.jpg" width="374" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The catwalk in the lower, wider part of the canyon.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p></p>
<p>
The designated Catwalk Trail is one mile in length, though the all-access
portion ends in half that length. The end of the Catwalk Trail connects to the
Gila National Forest Trail System.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrcBMxEFs7sm19jTH8x67pHH0WCT4Jl0rVcJfipnW6mcHSAuuaFrf-utnaqVz-QK4P9yR3zlp1rMZNXo6IqKa9lBq-H9g1OhfPhSXWyOtwmmIqIgnHVHhT0pjSe0p4yLerbWDDueBCaCw/s1200/Catwalk2_1200h-SL1_22541.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="787" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrcBMxEFs7sm19jTH8x67pHH0WCT4Jl0rVcJfipnW6mcHSAuuaFrf-utnaqVz-QK4P9yR3zlp1rMZNXo6IqKa9lBq-H9g1OhfPhSXWyOtwmmIqIgnHVHhT0pjSe0p4yLerbWDDueBCaCw/w420-h640/Catwalk2_1200h-SL1_22541.jpg" width="420" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The canyon narrows; the catwalk crosses to the other side.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p></p>
<p>
My photos don't do the canyon justice as I had to do extensive
Photoshopping to counteract the strong shadows. Also, even with my wide angle lens it is difficult to encompass the steep walls of
the narrow canyon. You should really see for yourself if you
are ever in the area - highly recommended.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ9gGK4Vj54tsPYbtuS8SWjjPNovTtsNFfeP4G9ks03T2mmxQSGRxbVcQeNFZRQRILa3t7DqoHLY2F4gQBpAYX8ChWhA4hWesUPWk3u1b2N-P9kfcXyNdQ4Hd67EjWSMNaEnTgQw7nhSk/s1200/WaterCrossing_1200h-SL1_22544.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ9gGK4Vj54tsPYbtuS8SWjjPNovTtsNFfeP4G9ks03T2mmxQSGRxbVcQeNFZRQRILa3t7DqoHLY2F4gQBpAYX8ChWhA4hWesUPWk3u1b2N-P9kfcXyNdQ4Hd67EjWSMNaEnTgQw7nhSk/w426-h640/WaterCrossing_1200h-SL1_22544.jpg" width="426" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Tricky stepping-stones to cross the creek.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p></p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqzf8RPsgs5mO_Ux-Yqo6KxtwO3AXKigZ-ula1Vc9xUnIfT7iqr7sMXuoj6j_5KX760SAUgrLaNlu3W5kgPH6zA087_aIP5N2M7ODWuzMpJ26Jn6erzt6orSXD-9xu_zpw-t7jY8Bf5_4/s1200/Bridge_1200w-SL1_22549.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="990" data-original-width="1200" height="528" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqzf8RPsgs5mO_Ux-Yqo6KxtwO3AXKigZ-ula1Vc9xUnIfT7iqr7sMXuoj6j_5KX760SAUgrLaNlu3W5kgPH6zA087_aIP5N2M7ODWuzMpJ26Jn6erzt6orSXD-9xu_zpw-t7jY8Bf5_4/w640-h528/Bridge_1200w-SL1_22549.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Formerly the Pipe Bridge. Beyond here the trail becomes steep &
challenging.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p></p>
<p>
I returned to the highway, turned left, and stopped at the Glenwood Trading
Post to top off my gas tank. Farther south along the highway I saw signs for
the
<a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/gila/recreation/picnickinginfo/recarea/?recid=4837&actid=70" target="_blank">Leopold Vista Point</a>. Thinking it would afford a nice view of the Gila Mountains, I signaled for
a right turn. Coming toward me was a black Tacoma with a FWC camper signaling
a left turn.
</p>
<p>
They parked next to me, a nice couple from San Francisco, Tom and Cheryl. They were relatively new to the pop-up camper world and had bought
the used Tacoma and Fleet as one unit. They were having a great time wandering
around the southwest and I tried to be helpful.
</p>
<p>When they went on their way. I took a picture of the flank of the Mogollon Mountains from the vista point.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEWJ4ulKvuOjOsYFNtntc8-JnKYuEleRdUBv3cKHLpKCCAbB4KLvBKQkZrUF9Sd6UYYMK7t-Bm9GX59543MD55F3NC0y7tnlEteHT0c458MSTSY9bPSG44GK2Zb3M8742m2ohVFmAyPcU/s2400/LeopoldVista_2400w-SL1_22553.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1042" data-original-width="2400" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEWJ4ulKvuOjOsYFNtntc8-JnKYuEleRdUBv3cKHLpKCCAbB4KLvBKQkZrUF9Sd6UYYMK7t-Bm9GX59543MD55F3NC0y7tnlEteHT0c458MSTSY9bPSG44GK2Zb3M8742m2ohVFmAyPcU/w640-h278/LeopoldVista_2400w-SL1_22553.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mogollon Mountains of the Gila Range</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<div><br /></div>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2021/11/season-finale-nm-az-october-2021-part-2.html">Continue to Part 2</a>
- The Gila River
</h4><div><br /></div>
Bosque Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00001863270259847102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3983525105536347837.post-2661861054586639432021-10-08T11:07:00.001-06:002021-10-08T11:10:43.999-06:00San Juan Mountains, CO - Sept 2021: Part 3<h4 style="text-align: left;">
Continued from
<a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2021/10/san-juan-mountains-co-sept-2021-part-2.html">Part 2</a>. To begin this post, jump to <a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2021/10/san-juan-mountains-co-sept-2021-part-1.html">Part 1</a>.</h4>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Saturday, September 25th (continued)</h3>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Telluride, Placerville, Ridgway</h4>
<p>
The landscape was beautiful as I drove north back on the highway toward
Telluride. I should have stopped the photograph the mountainsides around the
town, but there wasn't a safe place with a view to pull off with the truck
traffic. I bypassed Telluride and headed down the San Miguel River valley.
Just past Placerville I turned northeast on CO-62 toward Ridgway.
</p>
<p>
Though there were few aspen along this highway, the oaks and other vegetation
were showing their autumn colors. I stopped at the scenic overlook to
photograph the foothills of range of mountains north of Telluride and west of
Ouray, Mount Sneffels Wilderness. The light was very poor, with the camera
pointing into the sun, but I did the best I could and took a 3 image panorama,
but the left-most exposure was almost directly into the sun, so I only
processed two of the shots.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyRFsj4XT4O3yqGklA8V70xJ7vCnaHsX-QEVT3O0HjV0f3KbvSQSc1MW55wxeZFAtve8rz6SnKU8y3lbN3MwLN0NlqvZhgXOq7vadotql6TDbZ6REXaBcty1v5H10VXGDVF-MLWFSFRLc/s2400/OakFoothills_2Panorama_2400w.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="645" data-original-width="2400" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyRFsj4XT4O3yqGklA8V70xJ7vCnaHsX-QEVT3O0HjV0f3KbvSQSc1MW55wxeZFAtve8rz6SnKU8y3lbN3MwLN0NlqvZhgXOq7vadotql6TDbZ6REXaBcty1v5H10VXGDVF-MLWFSFRLc/w640-h172/OakFoothills_2Panorama_2400w.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
At the scenic overlook west of Ridgway. Click to see a larger version.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
Ouray and South on the "Million Dollar Highway"
</h4>
<p>
Fall had not yet come to the village of Ouray. As the highway climbed up and
south very few trees showed color. It wasn't until the switchbacks about 5
miles south of town that the aspen began to change, and dramatically,
too! Once up on Ironton Park the color was brilliant.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZduf0h7miII-xDuMDl96m1jUgR1W2ZjNf8EKvWthIAw4KkCBb1Rad1VEIXh3L617KoJ-Db-rpOVQ3EXn27YLZcZ8dsdJINcPDJib1Kzn8zmGXfLjXQUg1Jr8R9pYnhPQgZpgtu840Afk/s1200/AlongUS550_1200w-SL1_22449.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="684" data-original-width="1200" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZduf0h7miII-xDuMDl96m1jUgR1W2ZjNf8EKvWthIAw4KkCBb1Rad1VEIXh3L617KoJ-Db-rpOVQ3EXn27YLZcZ8dsdJINcPDJib1Kzn8zmGXfLjXQUg1Jr8R9pYnhPQgZpgtu840Afk/w640-h364/AlongUS550_1200w-SL1_22449.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A grove on the west side of the highway at the south end of the park
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I was dazzled by the bright yellows and oranges, especially as I had not
expected them this early in the season. There were large groves that had not
begun to change, but it was still fantastic.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNKmmucmKjMBYbYFh3mc7SAxAuYjckyw1sQwKGjvcmB5IcTM6WBEwxwNBYpmNVk9sjBK0rnJvrfxW32hOH5_bc556Yy5YttA_AWvPGjicOpxe2Wvy7Jd2q4976WunayqZFWoHo9Fk5KJM/s1200/HaydenTrail_1200w-SL1_22462.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="607" data-original-width="1200" height="324" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNKmmucmKjMBYbYFh3mc7SAxAuYjckyw1sQwKGjvcmB5IcTM6WBEwxwNBYpmNVk9sjBK0rnJvrfxW32hOH5_bc556Yy5YttA_AWvPGjicOpxe2Wvy7Jd2q4976WunayqZFWoHo9Fk5KJM/w640-h324/HaydenTrail_1200w-SL1_22462.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hayden Trail</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
From here, until the highway climbed above the aspen zone at Red Mountain
Pass, the color was amazing and the photographers were out in force! I stopped
a couple of times, including at Crystal Lake at the Hayden Trailhead to take
photos.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Mgjre4mUb2UvkZ0YAw60qooVweFHJNkLgg0Vekuetsvgl8vjAxrwn2mZ1ZxOAhOHEP34JseO-jT_zMnM-yAapM4KOoBrVZzEeDcm_9EUhQZvUEzHib8qqR-67LpFGOnwlpHqlEeUUuk/s1200/CrystalLake-RedMtn_1200w-SL1_22456.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="681" data-original-width="1200" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Mgjre4mUb2UvkZ0YAw60qooVweFHJNkLgg0Vekuetsvgl8vjAxrwn2mZ1ZxOAhOHEP34JseO-jT_zMnM-yAapM4KOoBrVZzEeDcm_9EUhQZvUEzHib8qqR-67LpFGOnwlpHqlEeUUuk/w640-h364/CrystalLake-RedMtn_1200w-SL1_22456.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Looking north across Crystal Lake at Red Mountain
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSEyVogrbnNXr-hnXSglGx20t6YxbtVrMhm5-4XlQvur4AgsEkDTnuImsKOXB33cazp3f4OKcq2VmaFAdF5F0AE_LK2QzGLZ-hfBYk_N0CUgYu4zC_saapjGXP8sLoX7sqxKE0MJBe7Mc/s1200/CrystalLake_1200w-SL1_22452.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="791" data-original-width="1200" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSEyVogrbnNXr-hnXSglGx20t6YxbtVrMhm5-4XlQvur4AgsEkDTnuImsKOXB33cazp3f4OKcq2VmaFAdF5F0AE_LK2QzGLZ-hfBYk_N0CUgYu4zC_saapjGXP8sLoX7sqxKE0MJBe7Mc/w640-h422/CrystalLake_1200w-SL1_22452.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The southwest corner of Crystal Lake
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>I also sent the drone up for a spherical panorama and stills.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwtekqXHvBuX6ihQftkpNiu0jTcARwpxn-gAjZvk9BSmyF_mpBtBDGuoNRlnsPbHXxUFq95CxowzOIVUjOcm3NWeYboGAogsqDDxNcyvoVWn_vuXQRn2NOOHlAOuo35MY1jyohQyyLAcI/s1200/IrontonPark_1200w-DJI_0334.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1200" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwtekqXHvBuX6ihQftkpNiu0jTcARwpxn-gAjZvk9BSmyF_mpBtBDGuoNRlnsPbHXxUFq95CxowzOIVUjOcm3NWeYboGAogsqDDxNcyvoVWn_vuXQRn2NOOHlAOuo35MY1jyohQyyLAcI/w640-h300/IrontonPark_1200w-DJI_0334.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
An aerial look south. US-550 pointed toward Red Mountain Pass. Crystal
Lake on the right.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I strongly recommend clicking the full-screen icon in the upper right corner!
</p>
<iframe allow="xr-spatial-tracking; gyroscope; accelerometer" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="640" scrolling="no" src="https://kuula.co/share/N01Tj?logo=1&info=1&fs=1&vr=0&sd=1&thumbs=1" style="border: none; height: 500px; max-width: 100%; width: 100%;" width="100%"></iframe>
<p>
I stopped at the Red Mountain Mining District scenic overlook hoping I could
point my camera back down the valley with the sun at my back. The overlook is
very overgrown these days and most of the view is of the trees right in front
of your face. I walked around gave it a try best I could.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8ZNPqTbM9EelBQnz6DoRigmWBycNcxjvXeY9c52bSUa93ER0VvNKMCtMLNmDgdmiA82duscoQudlGIizho134WbuTbrzEwVn39z0QkTNiEQlGuCnXJGABiDXZVUEN5N2qrzdLJMUpELo/s1200/OverlookView_1200w-SL1_22469.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="875" data-original-width="1200" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8ZNPqTbM9EelBQnz6DoRigmWBycNcxjvXeY9c52bSUa93ER0VvNKMCtMLNmDgdmiA82duscoQudlGIizho134WbuTbrzEwVn39z0QkTNiEQlGuCnXJGABiDXZVUEN5N2qrzdLJMUpELo/w640-h466/OverlookView_1200w-SL1_22469.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
I managed to find a small window of a view from the overlook.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibtOcTcQ0iDKr9TUqnSoilPCC2c3ZDgnzSxpoXRp1NrJZtnjk6JwbPQs_pRKFKY-SzEYQa75BAZli7nkITKut-xNbSTyxNp0NT-k8J7RJlAWaxZhW8ZdSE68poFIeCjbxC2GCDh0yT-a8/s1200/MineBuilding_1200w-SL1_22464.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="769" data-original-width="1200" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibtOcTcQ0iDKr9TUqnSoilPCC2c3ZDgnzSxpoXRp1NrJZtnjk6JwbPQs_pRKFKY-SzEYQa75BAZli7nkITKut-xNbSTyxNp0NT-k8J7RJlAWaxZhW8ZdSE68poFIeCjbxC2GCDh0yT-a8/w640-h410/MineBuilding_1200w-SL1_22464.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
This is one of the old mining buildings adjacent to the overlook.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Silverton and Environs</h4>
<p>
I didn't turn off on South Mineral Road this time. I'd read where the
campground and much of the road had been closed due to the 2020 Ice Fire. As
I'm writing this post I have now found the area had been partially opened
beginning September 15, 2021. Usage of the area has grown so much the last 5
or 10 years that it is very difficult to find camping spots and the traffic on
the road kicks up lots of dust. Perhaps I should have tried it; perhaps the
crowds would have thought it still closed as I had. Oh, well, my recollection
is the aspen up the road generally were a week or two behind the rest of the
region anyway.
</p>
<p>
I drove through Silverton. It was slow going with all the vehicles (maybe
South Mineral would have been crowded, after all.) I turned up the road toward
the ski lift and the Gladstone mine site. There were fantastic views of the
town of Silverton amidst the aspen.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbZ57iQHecJa2Fu-WqwOPK-l9rpwfWFjPEJ3wqvKJeuP9FbJsaE-v_uv6NNFtFENx0WNab0ZmYbbjmaU0fDEwBx4PBRi8shyz8Ok0ixBX_JBOiKSMs0XymrujpbVt3y0ndV2y3pG9ZFA0/s1200/Silverton_1200w-SL1_22487.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="625" data-original-width="1200" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbZ57iQHecJa2Fu-WqwOPK-l9rpwfWFjPEJ3wqvKJeuP9FbJsaE-v_uv6NNFtFENx0WNab0ZmYbbjmaU0fDEwBx4PBRi8shyz8Ok0ixBX_JBOiKSMs0XymrujpbVt3y0ndV2y3pG9ZFA0/w640-h334/Silverton_1200w-SL1_22487.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Silverton as seen from CO-110 just north of town.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I had hoped to find a dispersed campsite up the road, but it was surprisingly
wide and very, very dusty. Maybe I should have remembered about the Gold King
Mine spillage of 2015 and that the EPA had established a remediation facility
at Gladstone. The only campsite I found featured a prominent view of that
facility and was, therefore, less than desirable.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgROsCkPeD9qGbBmjJx7zEX_lKtAyuBJ7zkV4ePDXuqfzA43WYpHOZfldRxNjPRxRPTnfy4_Kck0zohGFjo-zs1oVVXmCDoskS4ovgePtbikppn5RD1dot1aggpduDAcGdLrlSxJzaxNWA/s1200/GladstoneMill_1200w-SL1_22480.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="819" data-original-width="1200" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgROsCkPeD9qGbBmjJx7zEX_lKtAyuBJ7zkV4ePDXuqfzA43WYpHOZfldRxNjPRxRPTnfy4_Kck0zohGFjo-zs1oVVXmCDoskS4ovgePtbikppn5RD1dot1aggpduDAcGdLrlSxJzaxNWA/w640-h436/GladstoneMill_1200w-SL1_22480.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
About the only thing left of Gladstone mine. I believe this is the mill
foundation.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSjh6DyOoJ5ohzxB8xtIFMlljdzka2zSpbypNxeWmxnWNsGzxoN2uKSYRrSPBYDuZHjFuR2IC9u72FMKpHko4tqcgdkbv_1P1ZdbEQSORysrfcYEf7SL5pav2oVue9VQ8tGS2GQdlHecI/s1200/KendallPeak_1200w-SL1_22482.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="777" data-original-width="1200" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSjh6DyOoJ5ohzxB8xtIFMlljdzka2zSpbypNxeWmxnWNsGzxoN2uKSYRrSPBYDuZHjFuR2IC9u72FMKpHko4tqcgdkbv_1P1ZdbEQSORysrfcYEf7SL5pav2oVue9VQ8tGS2GQdlHecI/w640-h414/KendallPeak_1200w-SL1_22482.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
On the way back to Silverton, this great perspective of Kendall Peak
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSkJNBk2HyBcOeEiPWj6XjCgBpRtwq_vzXkrFdtgCNsoU2uiGcC05qaaMCR9kmDPCmjRxrCllnVdfi4KS5MHYlMvVP4TGrSXfcoDTRwdhxRttGB9hgB7ZOjW2PYcrgAOro_eBWcCL4jq4/s1200/Aspen_1200w-SL1_22492.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="845" data-original-width="1200" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSkJNBk2HyBcOeEiPWj6XjCgBpRtwq_vzXkrFdtgCNsoU2uiGcC05qaaMCR9kmDPCmjRxrCllnVdfi4KS5MHYlMvVP4TGrSXfcoDTRwdhxRttGB9hgB7ZOjW2PYcrgAOro_eBWcCL4jq4/w640-h450/Aspen_1200w-SL1_22492.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
I'm often dazzled by the sun shining through the aspen, but usually
disappointed by the resulting photograph - this time turned out better
than most attempts.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I drove up one of the steep, rocky alpine roads for a ways until I realized it
would likely never lead to a suitable campsite. Only thing to do was turn
around. I thought I'd check out the forest road that goes south from
Silverton, FS-33, as it had possibilities looking at the map. When
I got there, however, it seemed to be way too popular with trail bikes and
ATVs, plus it seemed to cling to the side of the mountain and was not likely
to have campsites.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwWG8ojQM5BJslpQlMLq11wJXwzTtgBpG25cKUkqTQfg1cO_ocoZ1wmdQrGGfLrew4PZhC316gjdRhxdU4qYIcpZa4JLE98VDDi4laQ9MmagD-Gw3ZuIj8UkAlwuyfZzjv9yKYdFGzfXM/s1200/Silverton-low_1200w-SL1_22494.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="637" data-original-width="1200" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwWG8ojQM5BJslpQlMLq11wJXwzTtgBpG25cKUkqTQfg1cO_ocoZ1wmdQrGGfLrew4PZhC316gjdRhxdU4qYIcpZa4JLE98VDDi4laQ9MmagD-Gw3ZuIj8UkAlwuyfZzjv9yKYdFGzfXM/w640-h340/Silverton-low_1200w-SL1_22494.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A view of Silverton and surrounding hills from near the Animas River.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
<i>If anyone knows of good places for dispersed camping in the Silverton area
I'd appreciate hearing from you. Thanks.</i>
</p>
<p>
My Plan B was to proceed on down US-550 toward Durango while the light was
still good for autumn color (though heavy clouds were moving in) and drive on
into New Mexico and camp at Angel Peak Scenic Area south of Bloomfield. If the
BLM primitive campground was full, there were a number of picnic areas along
the road where camping was allowed.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Highway to Durango</h4>
<p>
The views from the highway were wonderful. I stopped a number of times to take
photos.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIRRO04VA00GSUXUG0oeAn2zE_M98wreAKh7KnWaJHXIHdwylifs5AjcfJ-zaLCfOJHtLqE1D257v-t7f0mgNqZ7FWqV4M5Ph_FelOm2dJkas0AsAxcdw9k4yfb_sXtGkiSTyT-RlpVBw/s1200/MolasPass_1200w-SL1_22497.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1200" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIRRO04VA00GSUXUG0oeAn2zE_M98wreAKh7KnWaJHXIHdwylifs5AjcfJ-zaLCfOJHtLqE1D257v-t7f0mgNqZ7FWqV4M5Ph_FelOm2dJkas0AsAxcdw9k4yfb_sXtGkiSTyT-RlpVBw/w640-h410/MolasPass_1200w-SL1_22497.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The increasingly heavy clouds were becoming a problem for photography.
However, in looking at this shot after the fact, I thought the dark
cloud shadow was quite striking.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj9AxkuflYZHqQYGW52XhBq3fqR3i-78n6g78fJB5kVuXwdfifbDKrtH-Sg_Kfn0PGDsnOTgAdi7Gjxu0n-zonf0oIi2a9uXHrst0TedpJ1BXZOs1UKlGDveI7NTNmJ5iBNinJEDCj-VE/s1200/KendallPeak_1200h-SL1_22498.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1154" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj9AxkuflYZHqQYGW52XhBq3fqR3i-78n6g78fJB5kVuXwdfifbDKrtH-Sg_Kfn0PGDsnOTgAdi7Gjxu0n-zonf0oIi2a9uXHrst0TedpJ1BXZOs1UKlGDveI7NTNmJ5iBNinJEDCj-VE/w616-h640/KendallPeak_1200h-SL1_22498.jpg" width="616" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Kendall Peak from near Molas Pass.<br />I think the road I see across
the way is the aforementioned FS-33 from Silverton - looks steep!
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
As I was driving south I came around and down a horseshoe curve and saw a lone
photographer with her tripod precariously set up between the highway and a
steep drop-off. The view she'd found was amazing, so I stopped as soon as was
safe. I ran across to her and asked if I could poach her perspective.
She acquiesced and offered to move her tripod. I replied "No, thanks. That's
not necessary." (
For the web, handheld photos are perfectly fine.) I was able to return her
favor - she asked if I knew the time for sunset, as her phone had died. I was
able to look this up for her. This may be my favorite image from the day.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyqAWoGJ7LBrM2BmIDt3fHGQ0O_gl1LpX8hYHAqykH4A5weg_z3Hd0POCnmOykwM-3ScDNKNKqr3NzIURtJD9xFZ0URQnqD368jb-NczDrxuVysp4xXjtGZqhJHZj_WcPoIdOv-dXwzis/s1231/WestNeedleMtn_1200w-SL1_22501.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1231" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyqAWoGJ7LBrM2BmIDt3fHGQ0O_gl1LpX8hYHAqykH4A5weg_z3Hd0POCnmOykwM-3ScDNKNKqr3NzIURtJD9xFZ0URQnqD368jb-NczDrxuVysp4xXjtGZqhJHZj_WcPoIdOv-dXwzis/w624-h640/WestNeedleMtn_1200w-SL1_22501.jpg" width="624" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
West Needle Mountain from along US-550
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYwh0DywOzEfFu2h7aB7OZgVxGZx_8jtXjumTb5hETIyLU31pbBu5yGbL5l3F9ToGOSa80cw1gSzm8tjhqp7flFKmtFnIdGUi3OlB2rtcdi2iIUxKtiC75o5EOsjIbIwm7DqiqO8qnRI4/s1200/OrangeAspen_1200w-SL1_22505.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="1200" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYwh0DywOzEfFu2h7aB7OZgVxGZx_8jtXjumTb5hETIyLU31pbBu5yGbL5l3F9ToGOSa80cw1gSzm8tjhqp7flFKmtFnIdGUi3OlB2rtcdi2iIUxKtiC75o5EOsjIbIwm7DqiqO8qnRI4/w640-h374/OrangeAspen_1200w-SL1_22505.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
I stopped a little farther down the highway to get a closer shot of just
this grove.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
The hillsides around Durango were bronze with oaks. It was quite pretty, but
it didn't present a photo opportunity.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">New Mexico</h4>
<p>
When I crossed the state line someone turned the wind velocity knob all the
way up. There were also a number of rain storms off across the landscape. I
guess the storms the forecast had predicted had hit. I started having second
(and third) thoughts about my plan to camp at Angel Peak. It's right on the
edge of a drop-off and exposed to the weather. Somehow lying in bed, trying
to sleep with the wind rattling the soft sides of the pop-up and the whole
camper rocking in the gusts, didn't sound particularly enticing. It was, after
all, only a few more hours drive to get home.
</p>
<p>
Time to implement Plan C - C as in Cuba, NM. I'd stop at my favorite
restaurant in Cuba, El Bruno's, and order one of their delicious green chile
cheeseburgers. I'd sit in my truck while it was being prepared and do my
evening meditation to recharge body and soul. I would eat dinner in the parking lot, then
drive the rest of the way home. This worked out very well. As expected the
burger was so big I was only able to eat half (but the second half was almost
as good the next day.)
</p>
<p>
I drove through stretches of highway that had been rained on, but they were
not slick and I didn't experience any rain directly. It was well past dark by
the time I got home. I unloaded only the essentials and collapsed thankfully
into my bed.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<p>
<i>What an enjoyable trip with the beautiful surprise of autumn color! Glad
you could come along via my blog.</i>
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<p><br /></p>
Bosque Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00001863270259847102noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3983525105536347837.post-4906849397659263742021-10-08T10:52:00.004-06:002021-10-08T11:17:20.195-06:00San Juan Mountains, CO - Sept 2021: Part 2<h4 style="text-align: left;">
Part 2 - continued from
<a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2021/10/san-juan-mountains-co-sept-2021-part-1.html">Part 1</a>
</h4>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Wednesday, September 22nd (continued)</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Alta Lakes</h4>
<p>
Continuing north past the junction to Ophir and the scenic overlook, I found
the right-hand turn-off to Alta Lakes. The signage makes it clear the road in
not suitable for trailers and large vehicles. In fact the very first section
is a narrow ascent along the face of a drop-off. Shortly thereafter one is
cautioned that the first couple of miles pass through private land. After that
I noticed most of the side roads were blocked off with No Camping signs to
allow vegetation to recover.
</p>
<p>
When the road passed though the old minding town of Alta I stopped for a few
photos and to let the vehicles that had been behind to go around. The road
from there to the lakes was uneven and full of pot holes. About a quarter mile
farther up is the turn-off for Gold King Basin (more on that later.)
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXuvd7b0vq5wAITCSw9uICDtXean9_NvVHCYDA1KZU2C4hg-_s7nmRF_V0Tx06txEGOr2AHWfwPaMuEcwbF2Mkv7URoLehwz-ENHNdN6V6LjdpMN7przcAgFBsORMgYLhshLEknhrJKvk/s1200/Alta-building1_1200w-SL1_22316.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="688" data-original-width="1200" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXuvd7b0vq5wAITCSw9uICDtXean9_NvVHCYDA1KZU2C4hg-_s7nmRF_V0Tx06txEGOr2AHWfwPaMuEcwbF2Mkv7URoLehwz-ENHNdN6V6LjdpMN7przcAgFBsORMgYLhshLEknhrJKvk/w640-h366/Alta-building1_1200w-SL1_22316.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Sg7YRxofcUweAJ_-n3eQsusYOREsb-gD2D5WtaANDos8kN7S7A0ilCKEUol7wwDRMVzTdZFam42odmuSes_P_qpeDgncBj1mpwRap3WJTCAcDjlACWCBmEZ-SvmkWLOWBTJ-KlDGFR0/s1200/Alta-building2_1200w-SL1_22317.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1090" data-original-width="1200" height="582" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Sg7YRxofcUweAJ_-n3eQsusYOREsb-gD2D5WtaANDos8kN7S7A0ilCKEUol7wwDRMVzTdZFam42odmuSes_P_qpeDgncBj1mpwRap3WJTCAcDjlACWCBmEZ-SvmkWLOWBTJ-KlDGFR0/w640-h582/Alta-building2_1200w-SL1_22317.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsuWOt0wyLAIJiwN7ZlyhWDCBtwyuMnTgKRpTXo2cU4_OIVacUIYhUIyn7ahRdSTIly13qKcXB907iOMdIiJpCP4UpfAfL1pjFSJHIvX2IG7LLnc2AQzOoea1KlqY10KIBwNdTxl6bqnE/s1200/Alta-SunshineMtn_1200w-SL1_22319.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="673" data-original-width="1200" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsuWOt0wyLAIJiwN7ZlyhWDCBtwyuMnTgKRpTXo2cU4_OIVacUIYhUIyn7ahRdSTIly13qKcXB907iOMdIiJpCP4UpfAfL1pjFSJHIvX2IG7LLnc2AQzOoea1KlqY10KIBwNdTxl6bqnE/w640-h358/Alta-SunshineMtn_1200w-SL1_22319.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuCcSlsu95SDZaE3agTfKW09LDLCUR2Xbntm5hI1wJyTVzhljn6FI1ZrOE4o4XAwKP0pznPn3EnPxSfHjKCQsqk2z38tEGe1I_16ApYlix-2ysY_0pn_wWxARxs5yuSFYdX4ukXa93_n8/s1200/Alta-buildings_1200w-SL1_22321.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="1200" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuCcSlsu95SDZaE3agTfKW09LDLCUR2Xbntm5hI1wJyTVzhljn6FI1ZrOE4o4XAwKP0pznPn3EnPxSfHjKCQsqk2z38tEGe1I_16ApYlix-2ysY_0pn_wWxARxs5yuSFYdX4ukXa93_n8/w640-h318/Alta-buildings_1200w-SL1_22321.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<p><br /></p>
<p>
I didn't know what to expect for camping and was a little apprehensive - Would
there be space? Would it be too crowded? Would it be a pleasant spot or a dry
lakebed? Google Maps said "campground (dispersed)" and for some reason I
hadn't thought to check the
<a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/gmug/recarea/?recid=34056" target="_blank">USFS website</a>. (Note: the icon for the campground is in the wrong location. It's
placed where Alta township is located instead of along the south side of the
larger of the lakes.)
</p>
<p>
It turned out to be what I would call a "primitive campground" and not
dispersed camping, at all. There are approximately 20 campsites; about half of
those are walk-in tent sites. There are portable toilets at each end of the
rocky road. There is no fee; first-come, first-serve. I got there about 3pm
and was able to find a nice spot, though it had no view of the pretty lake.
(Note: at the fork in the road the sign shows camping to the left and no
camping to the right. Actually sites #1 and #2 are to the right.)
</p>
<p>
If you take the right fork you cross a little causeway to the day-use area on
the north side of the larger lake. The road continues on for a short ways to
the other lakes, but I did not go up that way this time.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGGNxBZpkM28QivPUmz8biOdG2jQKSfl7NyE6WjdUaaM5i_pn3-l1wPxWJdPejxFOplr0rHPj0bfeQy3m2xJs1H1hFUOjlP2CI55UMRfme2kPM6Rn6JS72kJAE2Hpu7i_LgKJP1G_hVAw/s1200/AltaLakes-campsite_1200w-SL1_22346.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="722" data-original-width="1200" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGGNxBZpkM28QivPUmz8biOdG2jQKSfl7NyE6WjdUaaM5i_pn3-l1wPxWJdPejxFOplr0rHPj0bfeQy3m2xJs1H1hFUOjlP2CI55UMRfme2kPM6Rn6JS72kJAE2Hpu7i_LgKJP1G_hVAw/w640-h386/AltaLakes-campsite_1200w-SL1_22346.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Tonight's campsite at the top of a slight rise with a bit of a view of
the mountains.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
After setting up camp I made the acquaintance of Joe & Melinda
tent-camping across the road. They had come here many times and pointed out
that you could camp right at the lakeshore years ago. The old campground road
and those sites were closed off to protect the lake from the pollution humans
bring with themselves. A new "road" was put in and new sites created. These
new sites are not the large, level, gravel sites one finds in the newer
campgrounds, rather cleared areas squeezed in where they could, though there
are a few suitable for small groups with multiple vehicles. Most give one a
little space to one's neighbor. Joe is also a Canon photographer and we had a
nice discussion of landscape and wildlife photography.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6bsh32xO8lDxsUmG7QMytZKKaIWzwl6oauCIsIUehdubswMhlWJKYH_dfZWs4fBb_HbxsoSiyo63XL2RaIb96Ej3mIIlMYJK19D60EDf3-oJOjx9QjcQ_F0F17mf-9dy1p1slCrCNDzw/s1200/AltaLakes-daylight_1200w-SL1_22327.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="801" data-original-width="1200" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6bsh32xO8lDxsUmG7QMytZKKaIWzwl6oauCIsIUehdubswMhlWJKYH_dfZWs4fBb_HbxsoSiyo63XL2RaIb96Ej3mIIlMYJK19D60EDf3-oJOjx9QjcQ_F0F17mf-9dy1p1slCrCNDzw/w640-h428/AltaLakes-daylight_1200w-SL1_22327.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
As soon as I set up camp I walked down to the lake to admire this view.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
Joe had mentioned how great the sunset was the night before so I walked down
to the lake with my camera. There were no clouds so I didn't know what kind of
sunset there would be, but the golden colors on the mountain across the lake
was magical.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjISW-9z78zWcWR6RE2z7vSUxAjlKVmkoA1zDF2ztPQKkX5yfbuuYu6RX7nhC3-nfVlNQRc9RFEM05j5EZxy1rX_YxafDJKmG3-7-bJLSn8qmoEBO-QfJ0AboRAnA9B981rYBvb0GNZsWk/s1200/AltaLakes-golden_1200w-SL1_22333.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="697" data-original-width="1200" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjISW-9z78zWcWR6RE2z7vSUxAjlKVmkoA1zDF2ztPQKkX5yfbuuYu6RX7nhC3-nfVlNQRc9RFEM05j5EZxy1rX_YxafDJKmG3-7-bJLSn8qmoEBO-QfJ0AboRAnA9B981rYBvb0GNZsWk/w640-h372/AltaLakes-golden_1200w-SL1_22333.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Golden Hour when the sun is close to the horizon casting golden light
across the land.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMxMgGdkwkyR94TFhdbZQ1UOxo65eFApTREEP7bMFrmb2eFRrxtmIldAIGstBW6WSe2XpxUJv_doU2JzqCkAAGx2Avx4_MivwBTCo6k_PlG0K-rEkzYMtmPIl3hiSFXzXptXK2O8HXkyY/s1200/AltaLakes-sunset_1200w-SL1_22341.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="783" data-original-width="1200" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMxMgGdkwkyR94TFhdbZQ1UOxo65eFApTREEP7bMFrmb2eFRrxtmIldAIGstBW6WSe2XpxUJv_doU2JzqCkAAGx2Avx4_MivwBTCo6k_PlG0K-rEkzYMtmPIl3hiSFXzXptXK2O8HXkyY/w640-h418/AltaLakes-sunset_1200w-SL1_22341.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The last little flare of sunlight is crimson on Palmyra Peak.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Thursday, September 23rd</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Alta Lakes (continued)</h4>
<p>
On one of my trips down to the lake the evening before I'd talked to a young
couple that were camped in a spot with an amazing view of the lake. They said
they were leaving in the morning if I wanted their spot. I saw them leave, but
by the time I lowered my roof and drove over, someone else was already there.
Rats! He said he'd been waiting days for that particular spot as it was the
best in the campground. Good for him, I guess. He also said he had to leave
the next morning, so maybe tomorrow.
</p>
<p>
Joe and Melinda were packing up and suggested I take their site as it had sun
for my solar panels and was closer to the lake. This is what I did. They said
the sun was only good until early afternoon, so I deployed my auxiliary solar
panel to take full advantage.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgFPZbOSz78VRdlZhE6tHuNdjVmTj8aIP6hXNWc2PmQpcyxU8EQlBAA5sBTETyzaAYW7-xh77VxmIuxKFB6CyGQH5pBN5kUtwPJJLDgUh26Oby-GK-O6m-yq0saVOVrHKF6voBMIV4PiE/s1200/AltaLakes-campsite2_1200w-SL1_22347.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="797" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgFPZbOSz78VRdlZhE6tHuNdjVmTj8aIP6hXNWc2PmQpcyxU8EQlBAA5sBTETyzaAYW7-xh77VxmIuxKFB6CyGQH5pBN5kUtwPJJLDgUh26Oby-GK-O6m-yq0saVOVrHKF6voBMIV4PiE/w640-h426/AltaLakes-campsite2_1200w-SL1_22347.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
It may look like this site has more trees than yesterday's, but this
site is more open to the south.<br />You can't see from this angle, but
the lake is beyond the trees and can be seen from my chair.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I was very lazy this day mostly sitting in my Strongback camp chair looking at
that part of the lake I could see, listening to the songbirds, and reading my
novel. It was great! Oh, I did walk down to the lake a time or two and tried
to photograph dragonflies with no success. As the day progressed clouds began
moving in, but I was able to fully charge my batteries, nonetheless.
</p>
<p>
Come evening I went down to the lakeshore to see what kind of sunset we'd have
with clouds. As the sun went below the horizon it threw pink light upon the
mountains, which was gorgeous - the photo hardly does it justice. There was
also a bit of traditional sunset to the west through the silhouets of the
trees.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-91ebleWJ1hD8magSC43T5scWwkKtROAO5NsMu_hboe7gGotLRnwedfK6ZfnCak_Hsmsiqnsa7oV085zuY5msjXeJkY95EYssfj9Vt4uHuoDeOKQCT5-Fh_3KDbURvhziU6lBD97ucqE/s1200/AltaLakes-orange_1200w-SL1_22367.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="780" data-original-width="1200" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-91ebleWJ1hD8magSC43T5scWwkKtROAO5NsMu_hboe7gGotLRnwedfK6ZfnCak_Hsmsiqnsa7oV085zuY5msjXeJkY95EYssfj9Vt4uHuoDeOKQCT5-Fh_3KDbURvhziU6lBD97ucqE/w640-h416/AltaLakes-orange_1200w-SL1_22367.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The mountains were colorfully lit by reflections from the clouds.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtOWNKrUU7aGDGwEdCKazvO6iYiGFBgrc0Z5sv2nXwV8-wov8Xo0-ugqlYkDUeosslqL3MNU3F_TbXDodlp_FVtrZqUlFG44rXz4y_cOmbrMqrU1YMQVqkJ5yMrp86_eif13f6UJioTlw/s1200/AltaLakes-sunset_1200w-SL1_22373.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1200" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtOWNKrUU7aGDGwEdCKazvO6iYiGFBgrc0Z5sv2nXwV8-wov8Xo0-ugqlYkDUeosslqL3MNU3F_TbXDodlp_FVtrZqUlFG44rXz4y_cOmbrMqrU1YMQVqkJ5yMrp86_eif13f6UJioTlw/w640-h410/AltaLakes-sunset_1200w-SL1_22373.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
An actual sunset tonight.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Friday, September 24th</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Alta Lakes (continued)</h4>
<p>
Finally I was able to claim the excellent campsite with a full view of the
lake and mountains, plus lots of sun for my solar panels. I moved, set up, and
enjoyed the view. I took a walk around the lake and took some photos.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7-nCdiN_BM4-oI_lugOtvJeSdclxcmklqJlMYmeLb2MZCG_bIbeDNx9QX_EFCEUuZcv6UjgaMnsZCxoIySt8QgKFqam-lr2m_HqWTRCDggQNoHBy0vcZZ5bRbAo1BYrvfldehZcyDy3Y/s1200/AltaLakes-campsite3_1200w-SL1_22375.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="854" data-original-width="1200" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7-nCdiN_BM4-oI_lugOtvJeSdclxcmklqJlMYmeLb2MZCG_bIbeDNx9QX_EFCEUuZcv6UjgaMnsZCxoIySt8QgKFqam-lr2m_HqWTRCDggQNoHBy0vcZZ5bRbAo1BYrvfldehZcyDy3Y/w640-h456/AltaLakes-campsite3_1200w-SL1_22375.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
My new perfectly located campsite.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ6YwJa4dFHQc8_KA01BnTyoc21nN4PvKaoPOt2p_v1fYY_O415Erb8LD3143HrJdnjAK9xeRDh7Bkk1Op1xKFzyrqfQf4gGU-kwtEE0RiqwHNUooo3rh76s_J1bCm9hTPWaqcdg5XYV4/s1200/AltaLakes-campsite3lake_1200w-SL1_22378.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="840" data-original-width="1200" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ6YwJa4dFHQc8_KA01BnTyoc21nN4PvKaoPOt2p_v1fYY_O415Erb8LD3143HrJdnjAK9xeRDh7Bkk1Op1xKFzyrqfQf4gGU-kwtEE0RiqwHNUooo3rh76s_J1bCm9hTPWaqcdg5XYV4/w640-h448/AltaLakes-campsite3lake_1200w-SL1_22378.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
View of my campsite from across the lake.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMS5H661Xot-gZSKRnBu-aku_E493n5bis-ST4BVZ297b385NWkNKx53jzwGbHgR8E6koWULFOlvkJJOi1Nqg3boPpdWiM7VXvdgSgHs-8y8205ByouBCwF5d6opdJlqj_2JGsnXpsS1s/s1200/MountainChickadee_1200w-7D_22176.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="784" data-original-width="1200" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMS5H661Xot-gZSKRnBu-aku_E493n5bis-ST4BVZ297b385NWkNKx53jzwGbHgR8E6koWULFOlvkJJOi1Nqg3boPpdWiM7VXvdgSgHs-8y8205ByouBCwF5d6opdJlqj_2JGsnXpsS1s/w640-h418/MountainChickadee_1200w-7D_22176.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A Mountain Chickadee
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNfDBdxgy9iptNMcuXnWTob_fNdJZjXGo74pttAoEYWQ2NcxcV06eBUj-fvu1OpWDjfWWWKKc1X0OCXG1UOfmy_bDrFqU0v1qRORIIGF3yts_z0puGfJ5nVX9ib49-rBCkdJVY2TmDXcY/s1200/AltaLakes-BaldMountain_1200w-SL1_22385.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNfDBdxgy9iptNMcuXnWTob_fNdJZjXGo74pttAoEYWQ2NcxcV06eBUj-fvu1OpWDjfWWWKKc1X0OCXG1UOfmy_bDrFqU0v1qRORIIGF3yts_z0puGfJ5nVX9ib49-rBCkdJVY2TmDXcY/w640-h426/AltaLakes-BaldMountain_1200w-SL1_22385.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A gorgeous view of Bald Mountain and a tiny island.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I enjoyed my view much of the day, occasionally walking down the the
lakeshore. I was finally able to get photos of one of the dragonflies, and a
damselfly, that had been flying around. I also was able to photograph a
butterfly and a Killdeer that had been hanging around at lakeside.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirJw8X1rVcp-4NhfiKU75iu2PcQBFddzA2MgMYr8_DG4NzKQ1KJtWLy00KN6X51OoXshdxMJ7AauNh8-lXoj0rkWGJ2u1T8shERbX2Oaj35eABjcP_svqQxViRcy-mZcSfsVFKSmzRg7Q/s1200/Darner_1200h-7D_22199.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1103" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirJw8X1rVcp-4NhfiKU75iu2PcQBFddzA2MgMYr8_DG4NzKQ1KJtWLy00KN6X51OoXshdxMJ7AauNh8-lXoj0rkWGJ2u1T8shERbX2Oaj35eABjcP_svqQxViRcy-mZcSfsVFKSmzRg7Q/w588-h640/Darner_1200h-7D_22199.jpg" width="588" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
The Blue Dashers are almost always in motion and impossible to
photograph. I kept watching this one until he perched then crept up and
took lots of shots with my telephoto lens. I'm extremely happy to have
such a clear image of this dynamic creature!
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYnulxwvxs5dOHpDJNUJ_TfDT9p7srfvBP7aJuJygIXn6hdUIF1dIpQYZ6LfWrjTdZ2wSDumdFME1r10_jGjpNHhh4MItuLcNyo8hVvQ7-angPLvNeA0we4bwX472rIGKZ-wuFoEjb4DQ/s1200/NorthernBluet_1200w-7D_22220.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="819" data-original-width="1200" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYnulxwvxs5dOHpDJNUJ_TfDT9p7srfvBP7aJuJygIXn6hdUIF1dIpQYZ6LfWrjTdZ2wSDumdFME1r10_jGjpNHhh4MItuLcNyo8hVvQ7-angPLvNeA0we4bwX472rIGKZ-wuFoEjb4DQ/w640-h436/NorthernBluet_1200w-7D_22220.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
There were several Bluet damselflies all along the lakeshore.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxcDRTfX8rZw3iyBrRYU8v41H4hVu8f-PqeykTuJafCR3bapTCeKLI20EGWl0BJ8OxHoydm1G-y0a2u30psd7eX2cil66eePdABXLlVDIU-OJ0KxJ0ViaGZPfwZhpaxlCRz2LYHiy4FCo/s1200/OrangeSulphur_1200w-7D_22231.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="861" data-original-width="1200" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxcDRTfX8rZw3iyBrRYU8v41H4hVu8f-PqeykTuJafCR3bapTCeKLI20EGWl0BJ8OxHoydm1G-y0a2u30psd7eX2cil66eePdABXLlVDIU-OJ0KxJ0ViaGZPfwZhpaxlCRz2LYHiy4FCo/w640-h460/OrangeSulphur_1200w-7D_22231.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
There were a number of butterflies active this afternoon.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjQ9FY9Mmkie15rvSz9-lL33TGdrLZyhV8IIB9Y7SuqNkrfSSzFdzVsbmO0JAcyOADVK0aY8we9KhBVyNb_4OKFLg7o77Yz99kM3CpTaJQF4dUb0VXMDkmBDLEYi8CeonxkK9ZiwgXFaA/s1200/Kildeer_1200w-7D_22257.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="907" data-original-width="1200" height="484" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjQ9FY9Mmkie15rvSz9-lL33TGdrLZyhV8IIB9Y7SuqNkrfSSzFdzVsbmO0JAcyOADVK0aY8we9KhBVyNb_4OKFLg7o77Yz99kM3CpTaJQF4dUb0VXMDkmBDLEYi8CeonxkK9ZiwgXFaA/w640-h484/Kildeer_1200w-7D_22257.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
This Killdeer hung around the lakeshore below my campsite all day.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikpqSbJmsA25lE6DGXK_kGiE6W5TEFjND1rPZXXaD-JRHi4zbgyFrKAVg1GFg9SZ78C1QscdcoUn5XY2BgAzg1YL8zpNdJ-MBNUIC4_9Af5GhswNQTcjCpK8oreYvGLIx6Qd1jlLH0uCo/s1200/AltaLakes-campsite3view_1200w-SL1_22388.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="734" data-original-width="1200" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikpqSbJmsA25lE6DGXK_kGiE6W5TEFjND1rPZXXaD-JRHi4zbgyFrKAVg1GFg9SZ78C1QscdcoUn5XY2BgAzg1YL8zpNdJ-MBNUIC4_9Af5GhswNQTcjCpK8oreYvGLIx6Qd1jlLH0uCo/w640-h392/AltaLakes-campsite3view_1200w-SL1_22388.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Another perspective of my campsite with the lake and mountains in the
background.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I took the drone up for a panorama of the area and a few stills. I discovered
later, when once I was able to expand the photo that there was another lake
just north of the one where I camped. Something to explore next time.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnLk58yhzwPtJ1iPTKq90rXFS6fk5qLyXbdIk52bvAdYhhN5KrLqbTLLALkSkjyBmKxwSMDCY43qpKSxlzYmnOy6E6xDgHV9fE23xYgOIC0phhH2TjVmznN9bz1KWCzuhlTnCAHrF2xRw/s1200/BaldMtn-north_1200w-DJI_0328.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="1200" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnLk58yhzwPtJ1iPTKq90rXFS6fk5qLyXbdIk52bvAdYhhN5KrLqbTLLALkSkjyBmKxwSMDCY43qpKSxlzYmnOy6E6xDgHV9fE23xYgOIC0phhH2TjVmznN9bz1KWCzuhlTnCAHrF2xRw/w640-h370/BaldMtn-north_1200w-DJI_0328.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
An aerial view of Bald Mountain with Telluride just behind the ridge.<br />If
you look closely at the larger version you might see the airport on the
mesa on the left.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwpa7bzpmHBy9vP3vJXrX4bDLovUUxr0qGNRgjqrm14Q6YcN6P-7vFNvWzRywqw7VdWkJ4WwE7-8y-TwNPhgd6IgPwMmDY6Mb4LEy6JlWzh-2cxho1JGqWyoyNXv2-lDK3vxtz9DmMbRs/s1200/SunshineMtn_1200w-DJI_0329.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="728" data-original-width="1200" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwpa7bzpmHBy9vP3vJXrX4bDLovUUxr0qGNRgjqrm14Q6YcN6P-7vFNvWzRywqw7VdWkJ4WwE7-8y-TwNPhgd6IgPwMmDY6Mb4LEy6JlWzh-2cxho1JGqWyoyNXv2-lDK3vxtz9DmMbRs/w640-h388/SunshineMtn_1200w-DJI_0329.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
An aerial photo of Sunshine Mountain with the Alta townsite in the
foreground.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYvxHf48cPc8_3BrY65Rw4n8GKC82H4cI3eD3pwsXCeRCZAv6Y879au6ZvCcYYbHeC2x241Sh0lwd7_i1Dd-xxMVr-XigrKRx_Y8CfB5E0fKEscEXF2qKZ-YFSyPJT3Ml_FQlPFsm5_Ao/s2400/AltaLakes-Palmyra-180pano_2400w-DJI_0331.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="809" data-original-width="2400" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYvxHf48cPc8_3BrY65Rw4n8GKC82H4cI3eD3pwsXCeRCZAv6Y879au6ZvCcYYbHeC2x241Sh0lwd7_i1Dd-xxMVr-XigrKRx_Y8CfB5E0fKEscEXF2qKZ-YFSyPJT3Ml_FQlPFsm5_Ao/w640-h216/AltaLakes-Palmyra-180pano_2400w-DJI_0331.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A 180º aerial panorama of the lake, Palmyra Peak, and Silver
Mountain.<br />Be sure to click on the photo to see a larger version.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>I strongly recomment you click the Full Screen icon in the upper right corner!</p>
<iframe allow="xr-spatial-tracking; gyroscope; accelerometer" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="500" scrolling="no" src="https://kuula.co/share/N0ZMH?logo=1&info=1&fs=1&vr=0&sd=1&thumbs=1" style="border: none; height: 640px; max-width: 100%; width: 100%;" width="100%"></iframe>
<br />
<p>
My campsite neighbor, Derrick from Phoenix, was tent camping out of a classic
Jeep Wagoneer and had been taking day-trips. He told me he'd just driven over
Ophir Pass, looping back via Ouray. He said the aspen along US-550 were at
peak color. I was surprised. I'd seen them beginning to turn, but was
adamant they were at peak. He also told me the weather forecast was for
rain on Sunday. Hmmm, maybe I should move my departure up by a day so I could
drive down US-550 in good weather?
</p>
<p>
There is one downside to this campground - traffic comprised of people looking
for a campsite. I'd noticed a number of vehicles Thursday afternoon/evening.
Most of those seemed to find some sort of campsite. Friday afternoon, however,
was a parade of trucks and jeeps and cars. And most had to turn around
and drive back out, doubling the number that passed my camp. Can't really
blame the people for wanting to camp there, but as it's an un-hosted, no-fee
campground there is no one to put up a "campground full" sign at the entrance.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD6xuxrsdbyb5CLnU1vvuovTzRUyBPq2ILrrM0nFkKf94tNAHpqwquChcY0ifYUTIxsmLGp9LGEIrZzbCS8hgVzD0vrMt2HWA4byvq5BmuQmqBxp-JN6pshg1jm71Z75FHiW1jNIrxfm8/s1650/AltaLake_Panorama-1650w-SL1_22395-6.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="681" data-original-width="1650" height="264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD6xuxrsdbyb5CLnU1vvuovTzRUyBPq2ILrrM0nFkKf94tNAHpqwquChcY0ifYUTIxsmLGp9LGEIrZzbCS8hgVzD0vrMt2HWA4byvq5BmuQmqBxp-JN6pshg1jm71Z75FHiW1jNIrxfm8/w640-h264/AltaLake_Panorama-1650w-SL1_22395-6.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A last look at the lake. Click to get a larger view of this merger of
two separate photos.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
It was another gorgeous evening. No sunset, per se', but lovely light
reflecting on the mountains. Refer to the photos, above, if you wish.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Saturday, September 25th</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Alta Lakes (continued)</h4>
<p>
A beautiful morning greeted me upon rising. The lake was calm and there were a
few folk fishing, though I never saw anyone actually catch a fish the entire
time I was there. Once I was up I broke my fast and had my coffee sitting
outside in the sun. I sent a weather forecast request via my inReach satellite
communicator. When it came in, it confirmed Derrick's news - rain was expected
on Sunday. In fact, according to the new forecast, there was a good chance
moderate rain would move in as early as 5pm this very afternoon. OK, that
settled it. As wonderful as this site was, I'd break camp and head for the
aspen on the other side of the mountain. I wouldn't pass up a chance for peak
color especially as I'd not expected it at all this trip.
</p>
<p>
Despite my resolve, I was slow packing up and getting gone. I also took a
detour. Looking at the map I'd noticed a 4WD road running south to Gold King
Basin. I'd asked Derrick the day before if it was worth checking out and he'd
replied that it was. Coming up I'd noticed the sign pointing toward Gold King
Basin. The road is about 300 yards from the campground.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Gold King Basin</h4>
<p>
The first short leg is through dense evergreens. There is a fancy, summer home
where it dog-legs up the un-forested basin. The road from here is steep,
rocky, and high-clearance is needed. There are a number of spots for dispersed
camping and the views are spectacular. I suspect a few folks who were unable to
find spots in the campground were able to camp along here.
There is a small clear pond. I didn't
drive to the end of the trail, but stopped for photos above the lake and
turned around.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWy-1DU1AstySVaLYWLCt_T6hKFxlX8EWATa855Z7GYGGvELInYRZbirDJw0lElOEcoFINgrmMnVs8TQk7KW-UXGLrsLNJisk545HuXEJC3OaKW8rU7aQWSBtuHHiAgdSV-PXvx-1T1OQ/s2250/GoldKingBasin_Panorama3-2250w-SL1_22411-3.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="645" data-original-width="2250" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWy-1DU1AstySVaLYWLCt_T6hKFxlX8EWATa855Z7GYGGvELInYRZbirDJw0lElOEcoFINgrmMnVs8TQk7KW-UXGLrsLNJisk545HuXEJC3OaKW8rU7aQWSBtuHHiAgdSV-PXvx-1T1OQ/w640-h184/GoldKingBasin_Panorama3-2250w-SL1_22411-3.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A three exposure panorama of Gold King Basin. Click for larger version.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Alta Lakes Road</h4>
<p>
I also stopped several times on my way down the road for photos of the amazing
views of Sunshine Mountain, Lizard Head, and the colorful aspen. The light was
not ideal for photos, so they cannot quite convey what my eyes saw that
morning.
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXtLu0JNqpMWksXmnrMN4OjPyAMciy9tV-Bdczf806mBZWlUTfHNsEO0hxob8_o6bXVuCON9u6aLk7Cr7tC4rtfNpfImnYL5v-BdQPMfOrKMviUflweMW_q4DPa6u5X7N5NlH79L-v9LU/s1200/AltaLakesRd-SunshineMtn_1200w-SL1_22426.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="678" data-original-width="1200" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXtLu0JNqpMWksXmnrMN4OjPyAMciy9tV-Bdczf806mBZWlUTfHNsEO0hxob8_o6bXVuCON9u6aLk7Cr7tC4rtfNpfImnYL5v-BdQPMfOrKMviUflweMW_q4DPa6u5X7N5NlH79L-v9LU/w640-h362/AltaLakesRd-SunshineMtn_1200w-SL1_22426.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A grove of aspen rapidly changing into their autumn colors.<br />Just to
the left of the peak of Sunshine Mountain you can see Lizard Head Peak.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA4e4rqCnQKMnXY0DU4BEa_cIa_ZaJgqi0CogKLTyuyEcG34pyv3JsBP9lVWZp7g3o6GrBXxVpmoiYHY4ybPlaxofpJFjHsW21usiV-mIS9RzzFbq7QZUPkt_34B4Cp1bbkwdsbKzHVPo/s1200/AltaLakesRd-SunshineMtn2_1200w-SL1_22431.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="698" data-original-width="1200" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA4e4rqCnQKMnXY0DU4BEa_cIa_ZaJgqi0CogKLTyuyEcG34pyv3JsBP9lVWZp7g3o6GrBXxVpmoiYHY4ybPlaxofpJFjHsW21usiV-mIS9RzzFbq7QZUPkt_34B4Cp1bbkwdsbKzHVPo/w640-h372/AltaLakesRd-SunshineMtn2_1200w-SL1_22431.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A bit farther down the road the view opened up exposing more of the
mountainside, but the perspective is such that Lizard Head Peak has
dropped below the horizon.<br />If you look below the cliffs you can see
the cut of the highway across the middle of the photo.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
Now on to see the autumn colors down US-550, the "Million Dollar Highway" as
it's called.
</p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
Continued in
<a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2021/10/san-juan-mountains-co-sept-2021-part-3.html">Part 3</a>
</h4>
<div><br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<br />
Bosque Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00001863270259847102noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3983525105536347837.post-38281319272426085292021-10-08T10:34:00.000-06:002021-10-08T11:10:29.760-06:00San Juan Mountains, CO - Sept 2021: Part 1<h2 style="text-align: left;">September 20 - 25, 2021</h2>
<p><br /></p>
<p>
My goal after my last trip was to install a second 100W solar panel on the
camper roof, then test it out on a trip after Labor Day - in the hopes there
would be fewer folks competing for camping when the kids were back in school.
Weather pushed it a week further along. I wasn't going to worry about it being
early for autumn color, either. I thought I'd go up into the western portions
of the San Juan Mountains of Colorado to both familiar and new locations.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Part 1 of 3</h4>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Monday, September 20th</h3><br />
<p>
I got a good start in the morning. And headed up NM-528 to US-550 north. I was
delighted to discover the Chamisa (aka Rabbitbrush) along the highway, all across
the Colorado Plateau, was in full bloom. I remembered it blooming the first weeks of
October, so it seemed early to me this year. I took my usual "bypass" on the
BIA routes to avoid the Bloomfield-Farmington-Shiprock traffic and then up
US-491 to Cortez where I re-fueled.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Scotch Creek</h4>
<p>
I drove north on CO-145 hoping to find a favorite campsite on Scotch Creek
available. I first stumbled upon the site the first year I had my camper (<a
href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2013/06/brief-foray-into-colorado.html"
target="_blank"
>post</a
>) and stayed there again a couple years later (<a
href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2015/07/san-juan-mountains-co-june-2015-part-2.html"
target="_blank"
>post</a
>).
</p>
<p>
It is just under a quarter-mile off the highway, up a narrow rocky trail. It
is far enough up the canyon, though, that you rarely hear traffic along the
state highway. With an ATV, or such, you theoretically can drive all the way
over the mountain to US-550 near Purgatory Ski Area. Usually only a few
vehicles pass along the road which is so rocky and bumpy that they go slowly
and kick up no dust.
</p>
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0qWq4BaFIZVecQ8D0ytPNhT2TYjaSJGD0tPH-3tcgkYdoO7Bj0uvhSBBs_K6ZOmQDeC5Z5VwSVOwD6cUz6jQ5j7C-utNNporCdCC_re2hFjIpYObzGYpKpTV2sGUaXyvX1Wr9lLox7AU/s1200/ScotchCreek-campsite_1200w-SL1_22270.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="789"
data-original-width="1200"
height="420"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0qWq4BaFIZVecQ8D0ytPNhT2TYjaSJGD0tPH-3tcgkYdoO7Bj0uvhSBBs_K6ZOmQDeC5Z5VwSVOwD6cUz6jQ5j7C-utNNporCdCC_re2hFjIpYObzGYpKpTV2sGUaXyvX1Wr9lLox7AU/w640-h420/ScotchCreek-campsite_1200w-SL1_22270.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Campsite in the late afternoon sun. You can see the stump of the tree
that used to precariously lean over the campsite.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>
Last time I camped there I was slightly concerned about a couple tall
evergreens that leaned over the site somewhat precariously. Since then they
were removed making the site a little sunnier (good for the solar panels) and
a bit safer. The wildflowers were not blooming this time of year and only a
few aspen had the slightest tinge of yellow. The wild rose hips were brilliant
red and shiny. It may not be the most beautiful spot ever, but the creek keeps
up its end of the conversation and the narrow canyon walls are interesting.
</p>
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Tuesday, September 21st</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Scotch Creek (continued)</h4>
<p>
I decided to stay another night in this tranquil site. It was 27º in the
morning so I didn't rush outside, but sat in the warm camper drinking coffee
and reading an interesting novel I was mid-way through. Once it warmed up a
bit, I walked along the road enjoying the scenery. A downside for longterm
camping is that there are no trails to explore, so you're confined to the
rocky road. But I was able to keep myself entertained.
</p>
<p>Here are two photos showing the signs at the entrance off the highway.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQUtGRl2O_PaDD1TrYPefeN7LF7rknI6ckklhKtYBJc37bNeY4705Ykw1xSC-bN0mayrxMTbtE_4i4qPMIsvjZW8UNkfJGmBhQEvL2nnkjxy7DH99k2z1nbk7oXH2WdvD-tXKJSvGADZo/s1200/ScotchCreek-InfoSign_1200w-IMG_2190.jpg"
style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="985"
data-original-width="1200"
height="526"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQUtGRl2O_PaDD1TrYPefeN7LF7rknI6ckklhKtYBJc37bNeY4705Ykw1xSC-bN0mayrxMTbtE_4i4qPMIsvjZW8UNkfJGmBhQEvL2nnkjxy7DH99k2z1nbk7oXH2WdvD-tXKJSvGADZo/w640-h526/ScotchCreek-InfoSign_1200w-IMG_2190.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFjb-F-CUN08AIuduZBd1TpQX56HdiwLI2q06dm3ByQ3x2pFcAgAxjQmLwdC3H5A0pzkXhUa4B4N9gkfq4ZI0KoQrUAKNDZ9xpeybyW8OFZXBEzNoM4eeI2dnh2GTJ7Q_Z-YeCmR5DYCI/s1200/ScotchCreekRoad-entrance_1200w-IMG_2193.jpg"
style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="840"
data-original-width="1200"
height="448"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFjb-F-CUN08AIuduZBd1TpQX56HdiwLI2q06dm3ByQ3x2pFcAgAxjQmLwdC3H5A0pzkXhUa4B4N9gkfq4ZI0KoQrUAKNDZ9xpeybyW8OFZXBEzNoM4eeI2dnh2GTJ7Q_Z-YeCmR5DYCI/w640-h448/ScotchCreekRoad-entrance_1200w-IMG_2193.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</div>
<br />
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBU0ZP1FrtMB7JuKCfy4dlLwIs21qePLJGLHT0KapPryLhH9atF4BhDpH9PuzRrwfTnYC09bZsE7gSBZdN4Fx9pwtQ-hBGzfcgQecAUdSbYle-BVgpVw3k4uAdSQrMQBQL_EXXR92ZC9w/s1200/ScotchCreek-campsite_1200w-SL1_22276.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="867"
data-original-width="1200"
height="462"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBU0ZP1FrtMB7JuKCfy4dlLwIs21qePLJGLHT0KapPryLhH9atF4BhDpH9PuzRrwfTnYC09bZsE7gSBZdN4Fx9pwtQ-hBGzfcgQecAUdSbYle-BVgpVw3k4uAdSQrMQBQL_EXXR92ZC9w/w640-h462/ScotchCreek-campsite_1200w-SL1_22276.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
My campsite in better light.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1KHYaXkMEq49tpFhhM621Fai21dDp6TgjRjLlLEKM9OtorF8ohcO6ca5u7TnblAOTkpeXAmnmFq1FWro5YE_wgjB9q6I5odtorOuJWn-QpyEd6drqXRj7ba699ObzQMsYu3ACW2qZ00k/s1200/ScotchCreekCyn_1200w-DJI_0323.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="850"
data-original-width="1200"
height="454"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1KHYaXkMEq49tpFhhM621Fai21dDp6TgjRjLlLEKM9OtorF8ohcO6ca5u7TnblAOTkpeXAmnmFq1FWro5YE_wgjB9q6I5odtorOuJWn-QpyEd6drqXRj7ba699ObzQMsYu3ACW2qZ00k/w640-h454/ScotchCreekCyn_1200w-DJI_0323.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
An aerial view looking up the canyon (east.)
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBp81F6HDl7qwX5xPb_hO5Hfb6p1w6TUGFtrOjv-wrU8uzrNYJD8WToDTBIMnUWEchR1e9lxWiOEH0SS3AGyv0W23W28o3wDkCVKeM3mzLu86SWrQBqymc5eJTOT22970oXGMifJCQ_pE/s1200/ScotchCreek-campsite_1200w-DJI_0327.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="765"
data-original-width="1200"
height="408"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBp81F6HDl7qwX5xPb_hO5Hfb6p1w6TUGFtrOjv-wrU8uzrNYJD8WToDTBIMnUWEchR1e9lxWiOEH0SS3AGyv0W23W28o3wDkCVKeM3mzLu86SWrQBqymc5eJTOT22970oXGMifJCQ_pE/w640-h408/ScotchCreek-campsite_1200w-DJI_0327.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
An aerial view of my campsite.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmEnbguX_pfMib7UJIzo2uja1R2jW7CuQhumPi9F1NUwE5W-muhGRFDtZJNJ3VtVqu7e2BYyILt16IkUzpcO0jYDzshaq9rUBFQq9kTTexy3QX_Tx2IA7WyYU7WIeZ4y7sp8UmhZZ6_X8/s1200/ScotchCreekRoad_1200w-SL1_22288.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="800"
data-original-width="1200"
height="426"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmEnbguX_pfMib7UJIzo2uja1R2jW7CuQhumPi9F1NUwE5W-muhGRFDtZJNJ3VtVqu7e2BYyILt16IkUzpcO0jYDzshaq9rUBFQq9kTTexy3QX_Tx2IA7WyYU7WIeZ4y7sp8UmhZZ6_X8/w640-h426/ScotchCreekRoad_1200w-SL1_22288.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rocky road.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb5ET7uq208zPPtuZ6GCgwiTPgzqShQIE0Yhh3zjUM0p56MM8di1kNzj1JDDllEiwNAHdU-eV36q5GLi4zVpKUFRvxaahLVFWQ9GMaz7RYePh8AjdwTqnIJeFLuvozdnpcPMQndRDTUtk/s1200/ScotchCreekRoad_1200w-SL1_22294.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="873"
data-original-width="1200"
height="466"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb5ET7uq208zPPtuZ6GCgwiTPgzqShQIE0Yhh3zjUM0p56MM8di1kNzj1JDDllEiwNAHdU-eV36q5GLi4zVpKUFRvxaahLVFWQ9GMaz7RYePh8AjdwTqnIJeFLuvozdnpcPMQndRDTUtk/w640-h466/ScotchCreekRoad_1200w-SL1_22294.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Up the canyon a short ways.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p><br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Wednesday, September 22nd - Autumnal Equinox</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Scotch Creek (continued)</h4>
<p>
A repeat of the previous cold morning. I packed up and drove out late morning.
I headed up the highway toward Rico and Telluride. I stopped along the highway
before Rico, though, as I saw a marshy area next to the Dolores River that
looked like it might have dragonflies. I did find Black Meadowhowks and
Northern (or perhaps Boreal) Bluet damselflies.
</p>
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVZ2C0AmQLAycY6Bj7MjI6f8ijTtpGOSwTAJbDEXHY0eAJ6RKP3BypYZAd0GeL6dv6uFMCwmoj0SRczj897cQHiBr926pYAMnEZ33P2BK3kLkFrtuNKN4zLqqvJD34ZZfiZjSzPVEMyxQ/s1200/DoloresRiverValley_1200w-SL1_22295.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="741"
data-original-width="1200"
height="396"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVZ2C0AmQLAycY6Bj7MjI6f8ijTtpGOSwTAJbDEXHY0eAJ6RKP3BypYZAd0GeL6dv6uFMCwmoj0SRczj897cQHiBr926pYAMnEZ33P2BK3kLkFrtuNKN4zLqqvJD34ZZfiZjSzPVEMyxQ/w640-h396/DoloresRiverValley_1200w-SL1_22295.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Looking across the marsh next to the Dolores River south of Rico.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglTzWLlt-znWlsktWnAxIZmowDxyPevuGtp3YneXDp8K_LSxzzZRV9QjykQ4KguArlQ95G5jBQzRuX0GQ77YQf503lPpAj7b117TPUYOqO14sii9JBCx90vxOlO6qU3qvEWGW89f8tACI/s1200/BlackMeadowhawk_1200w-7D_22143.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="931"
data-original-width="1200"
height="496"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglTzWLlt-znWlsktWnAxIZmowDxyPevuGtp3YneXDp8K_LSxzzZRV9QjykQ4KguArlQ95G5jBQzRuX0GQ77YQf503lPpAj7b117TPUYOqO14sii9JBCx90vxOlO6qU3qvEWGW89f8tACI/w640-h496/BlackMeadowhawk_1200w-7D_22143.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Black Meadowhawk dragonfly
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">Bolam Pass Road</h4>
<p>
When I'd done my "research" for this trip, I'd noticed a road north of Rico
that went up a canyon toward Bolam Pass, CR-578. I'd never been that way, so
thought I'd check it out for scenery and dispersed campsites. The road ran
along (mostly above) Barlow Creek.
</p>
<p>
There were nice views and the road was good gravel for the first 2-3/4 miles.
Once it crossed the creek, however, it became one of those narrow San Juan
Mountains rocky trails that are uncomfortable to drive in a highway vehicle. I
turned around once I determined it unlikely to unveil any campsites anytime
soon.
</p>
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjH-i0wvNbaIkFeIdUeKfdPKg56D-RL9oZ-I6tcSvayGwDo6Qn45alTdoxonvUhQcMkS2yVJRmFw9V5k8cT_InfKEHaKLi5e-pcACtevv5E2DYcaxODG4xlx9fiStd0xzK3wGDyigz3Uk/s1200/BolamPassRd-SE_1200w-SL1_22298.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="772"
data-original-width="1200"
height="412"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjH-i0wvNbaIkFeIdUeKfdPKg56D-RL9oZ-I6tcSvayGwDo6Qn45alTdoxonvUhQcMkS2yVJRmFw9V5k8cT_InfKEHaKLi5e-pcACtevv5E2DYcaxODG4xlx9fiStd0xzK3wGDyigz3Uk/w640-h412/BolamPassRd-SE_1200w-SL1_22298.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
This is as far up the canyon as I drove. The road was extremely rocky
and no fun to drive.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I returned to the creek crossing (a culvert) and parked at a nice spot for
lunch. This was the one good-looking dispersed site on the road. The lower
part next to the creek was not at all level, but there was a somewhat level
place to park your camper or pitch your tent back in the trees. As it was on
the north slope it wouldn't get enough sun for my solar panels, but might be
very pleasant for others or as a single night stop-over. I should have taken a
photo, but it didn't occur to me at the time.
</p>
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOTj_-Z4hGf5dYvvODjXL-8_evFfod3xRddgI0up8P7BNkO9Ypc5HWgN4FsP7mIL0LhbAiqX1oDzkoKnh_GfDfzoOSbVn3DJNjeFa9wFw_c-Js_gpeTg0muTIDVHK1hnfIiEhUnNCZgsA/s1200/HoaryComma_1200w-7D_22159.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="966"
data-original-width="1200"
height="516"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOTj_-Z4hGf5dYvvODjXL-8_evFfod3xRddgI0up8P7BNkO9Ypc5HWgN4FsP7mIL0LhbAiqX1oDzkoKnh_GfDfzoOSbVn3DJNjeFa9wFw_c-Js_gpeTg0muTIDVHK1hnfIiEhUnNCZgsA/w640-h516/HoaryComma_1200w-7D_22159.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
I found this butterfly after I had lunch.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
Some of the small aspen groves were beginning to turn, so I took a few photos
on my way back to the highway. I'll only show you one, as they all turned out
to be only a slightly different perspective of the same view.
</p>
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFJ-TycEZ1hC51sdBOwx6KHx8BTDuOiDLnow6HS6IjJVkY5U68X9qL-Tbz8I3VXt2CxF_qoptaWfnb4m2FL05I6m6lF1s4iDeEa2nLdtXp19N5mmZpqvEUCiPuABHXl0jVmontrhSdsME/s1200/BolamPassRd-MtWilson_1200h-SL1_22302.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="1200"
data-original-width="1094"
height="640"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFJ-TycEZ1hC51sdBOwx6KHx8BTDuOiDLnow6HS6IjJVkY5U68X9qL-Tbz8I3VXt2CxF_qoptaWfnb4m2FL05I6m6lF1s4iDeEa2nLdtXp19N5mmZpqvEUCiPuABHXl0jVmontrhSdsME/w584-h640/BolamPassRd-MtWilson_1200h-SL1_22302.jpg"
width="584"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
On my way back to the highway I stopped for this photo.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<p>
I turned north, again, with my mind's eye on Alta Lakes. I'd seen the Alta
Lakes turn-off south of Telluride, near the Sunshine Campground, but never had
heard anything about it or explored there. It wasn't until after I did my
mining town video tour a couple years ago that I was researching for that post
that I discovered there a ghost town there. The map also showed there was a
"dispersed campground" at the lakes. This was my destination.
</p>
<p>
I stopped briefly at Trout Lake as a few groves were starting to turn and
the mountains always make for a dramatic background.
</p>
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjuZtje7EkyTb_ksWgMf0cBQajgnjZIEplgoiE9Daeig0mJRR09G7tKHOb7Bdy0FnFvaD2cMoV-RMXfFWV5-D0wnVrw7D-jmslvaVLEUfdO5YXgw6UYEXZvOzyy3CSeuBjsjqvovjVrDA/s2400/TroutLake_Panorama_2400w-SL1_22306-6.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="699"
data-original-width="2400"
height="186"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjuZtje7EkyTb_ksWgMf0cBQajgnjZIEplgoiE9Daeig0mJRR09G7tKHOb7Bdy0FnFvaD2cMoV-RMXfFWV5-D0wnVrw7D-jmslvaVLEUfdO5YXgw6UYEXZvOzyy3CSeuBjsjqvovjVrDA/w640-h186/TroutLake_Panorama_2400w-SL1_22306-6.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
Make sure you click the photo to see a larger version. I stitched
together multiple exposures to create this panorama of the lake and
mountains. Taken from the shoulder of the highway.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<table
align="center"
cellpadding="0"
cellspacing="0"
class="tr-caption-container"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<a
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbumMDGsEN4qr_3h-iNX8eYf6wn5cVeCO1u698UWKpj4RKeOMYgVPu0J5f5UHr1kwOOlu3-8sCdZ1XHzYIddT6i0kZ8UqxFNALE43-SYPf314mkaqEbv129UDMyw-4tHPi-uHuKxUTb34/s1200/TroutLake_1200w-SL1_22312.jpg"
style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"
><img
border="0"
data-original-height="714"
data-original-width="1200"
height="380"
src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbumMDGsEN4qr_3h-iNX8eYf6wn5cVeCO1u698UWKpj4RKeOMYgVPu0J5f5UHr1kwOOlu3-8sCdZ1XHzYIddT6i0kZ8UqxFNALE43-SYPf314mkaqEbv129UDMyw-4tHPi-uHuKxUTb34/w640-h380/TroutLake_1200w-SL1_22312.jpg"
width="640"
/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
A gorgeous morning to be out on the lake - what a beautiful scene.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
<div>
Back on the highway. Next stop is Alta Lakes and whatever that my bring!
</div><p><br /></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
Continued in
<a
href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2021/10/san-juan-mountains-co-sept-2021-part-2.html"
>Part 2</a
>
</h4>
Bosque Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00001863270259847102noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3983525105536347837.post-60040261857088348692021-08-10T12:30:00.002-06:002021-08-10T12:58:54.901-06:00Colorado Wildflower Tour - July 2021: American Basin Flower Gallery<p> The narrative for this wildflower gallery begins <a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2021/08/colorado-wildflower-tour-july-2021-part1.html">here</a>.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Wildflower Portrait Gallery</h2>
<br />
<div><span><span style="background-color: #783f04; color: white;"> Click any photo to enter an enhanced photo viewer with larger images. </span></span></div>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">July 16, 2021</h3>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvS80gAXVRi7QlOL2-5vwhb7DuCuZw7J6J57PQOCJfL8M7S1S8dUSju8CfMCycEduzAVO3pSCzw94_gmzu-21UqXk7ilq42zF200FMLneQivrHTiBzLJ9GtYSp_IiAcUn45TbBi3QBSb0/s1200/AmBasin-6_1200w-SL1_21834.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvS80gAXVRi7QlOL2-5vwhb7DuCuZw7J6J57PQOCJfL8M7S1S8dUSju8CfMCycEduzAVO3pSCzw94_gmzu-21UqXk7ilq42zF200FMLneQivrHTiBzLJ9GtYSp_IiAcUn45TbBi3QBSb0/w640-h426/AmBasin-6_1200w-SL1_21834.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">American Basin</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv_ORF-8R8iFCDTUrYPmJcK-2IIR7verbrDzfo_F9L-5JDRPBrRHKAlCKA6zH8rbuEVyORyKJ-clLKkOB9jQZkOU4x1_jPXRPodunfaKSRQf1kF1pKROlt0OkY1BsPgG1RU8bjR2OUt6I/s1200/RosePaintbrush-AmBasin2_1200w-7D_21548.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="804" data-original-width="1200" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv_ORF-8R8iFCDTUrYPmJcK-2IIR7verbrDzfo_F9L-5JDRPBrRHKAlCKA6zH8rbuEVyORyKJ-clLKkOB9jQZkOU4x1_jPXRPodunfaKSRQf1kF1pKROlt0OkY1BsPgG1RU8bjR2OUt6I/w640-h428/RosePaintbrush-AmBasin2_1200w-7D_21548.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rose Paintbrush</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguXFFhTRvWjDfBn1HZ2kuCZ8MXsYn8w8caDtbKCqJGpGcztWhXLY6Ox-nlj5d1yGPCBP6TDvSjrc6q9A6kwKfEuP1dUNsFkW8akxDf1_zPlIwKpSiVerkldrySGG2sHAjsbFv0CRXiO90/s1200/Columbine-BlueBells-AmBasin_1200w-7D_21556.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1053" data-original-width="1200" height="562" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguXFFhTRvWjDfBn1HZ2kuCZ8MXsYn8w8caDtbKCqJGpGcztWhXLY6Ox-nlj5d1yGPCBP6TDvSjrc6q9A6kwKfEuP1dUNsFkW8akxDf1_zPlIwKpSiVerkldrySGG2sHAjsbFv0CRXiO90/w640-h562/Columbine-BlueBells-AmBasin_1200w-7D_21556.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Colorado Columbine</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKZzJxRtpDfHugLUGuBxfHytiip8uM5tybo464V1YYjZYC3i0F5VzUGueNCRVfaPteG8WW85wsTdF6I5xQPQauFRmoImF2WGrXoOq5KE4w7pBiQ-g4BPFstQFSKt-oxn6IsY_Yo9amUF4/s1200/Purplefringe-AmBasin_1200w-7D_21557.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKZzJxRtpDfHugLUGuBxfHytiip8uM5tybo464V1YYjZYC3i0F5VzUGueNCRVfaPteG8WW85wsTdF6I5xQPQauFRmoImF2WGrXoOq5KE4w7pBiQ-g4BPFstQFSKt-oxn6IsY_Yo9amUF4/w640-h426/Purplefringe-AmBasin_1200w-7D_21557.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Purplefringe</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ6VWQuUw_eP7dLiWh-v_Px0GIzfARsHnHv9bpcYd2ZxsFfE0geIYVFJmk6IPFjrK0VXRkN__pg_HJKEdDN4_tOTjhDzZNoMVQuCSXTJGGCuFNY6h6GAK-kKHeFt-chxdB099HNIcxSAk/s1200/RosePaintbrush-AmBasin_1200w-7D_21542.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="845" data-original-width="1200" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ6VWQuUw_eP7dLiWh-v_Px0GIzfARsHnHv9bpcYd2ZxsFfE0geIYVFJmk6IPFjrK0VXRkN__pg_HJKEdDN4_tOTjhDzZNoMVQuCSXTJGGCuFNY6h6GAK-kKHeFt-chxdB099HNIcxSAk/w640-h450/RosePaintbrush-AmBasin_1200w-7D_21542.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rose Paintbrush</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjHmg6wQJFLosx4-sgOEQ2WF1fPnSG7ut1hM-V5ou4w4x56Er40rJrLg1eqG2csEVaToVgt1XgB9cYEEk_FCN69o_pidCoOL8n4qnZHQK4KF52lva1opp43QOH2YQDNYk9ufaEDAOSNCk/s1200/Beardtongue_1200h-SL1_21851.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjHmg6wQJFLosx4-sgOEQ2WF1fPnSG7ut1hM-V5ou4w4x56Er40rJrLg1eqG2csEVaToVgt1XgB9cYEEk_FCN69o_pidCoOL8n4qnZHQK4KF52lva1opp43QOH2YQDNYk9ufaEDAOSNCk/w426-h640/Beardtongue_1200h-SL1_21851.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tiger Beardtongue</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZCQn8-9JKGcD6GCROzjCjdHE0oI2KqfosOfE8K7ZCofSEhWdD4LZwfsLFb2BGfNxMLOOpiA4ivKmtQXsFbNCFfsRVyRZ3U23O9pl_A5eRI8-as9tc4MNrqYr3xghgmbvsDz5QcpE3vnI/s1200/YellowPaintbrush-AmBasin_1200w-7D_21559.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="844" data-original-width="1200" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZCQn8-9JKGcD6GCROzjCjdHE0oI2KqfosOfE8K7ZCofSEhWdD4LZwfsLFb2BGfNxMLOOpiA4ivKmtQXsFbNCFfsRVyRZ3U23O9pl_A5eRI8-as9tc4MNrqYr3xghgmbvsDz5QcpE3vnI/w640-h450/YellowPaintbrush-AmBasin_1200w-7D_21559.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Northern Yellow Paintbrush</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwbZl7vRosPxFcYyyrQQGhTRyNIhS6zrDy0XPLLHBL3i7WlDBGlQBQaB6qInOn4KzQADX-70kcwZrAVrxIVNIRwHsQk6IxJECXWerhhOM_BrXYCdWF2fr9NFkdDQ0HdMmYiXlWUofipEk/s1200/Columbine_1200h-7D_21581.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="901" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwbZl7vRosPxFcYyyrQQGhTRyNIhS6zrDy0XPLLHBL3i7WlDBGlQBQaB6qInOn4KzQADX-70kcwZrAVrxIVNIRwHsQk6IxJECXWerhhOM_BrXYCdWF2fr9NFkdDQ0HdMmYiXlWUofipEk/w480-h640/Columbine_1200h-7D_21581.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Colorado Columbine</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA4VYaZRM8YiBSOERlITg3LJo4cRE6QsfPpcNfGWj8zHCFPSdBZDb68ixvRLp-6bGNSzeXIy-AuHqyyqJKUSqZ0nKJ9w69JG3BdACiEQ47vuhkYANO7OSfrxcdS_SWTbbl2N4FT0cd-XE/s1200/Asteraceae-2_1200w-SL1_21866.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="899" data-original-width="1200" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA4VYaZRM8YiBSOERlITg3LJo4cRE6QsfPpcNfGWj8zHCFPSdBZDb68ixvRLp-6bGNSzeXIy-AuHqyyqJKUSqZ0nKJ9w69JG3BdACiEQ47vuhkYANO7OSfrxcdS_SWTbbl2N4FT0cd-XE/w640-h480/Asteraceae-2_1200w-SL1_21866.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was not able to determine which Asteraceae this was without question, but sure is pretty.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitf2WgNKlu2s0w-KC-cn8hw3G3UvTZ-dW-LjlYdP4NJYMs_XSuNQsWDJWAfzoUlpzI4-VCH7HSxcGJjKkR4D1ssXx0x1fwcWL9IZgH84FBZ4c_2sM7SQuI_YD_NbXg9vEXIvFBKZOeBgY/s1200/Monkshood_1200h-SL1_21869.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitf2WgNKlu2s0w-KC-cn8hw3G3UvTZ-dW-LjlYdP4NJYMs_XSuNQsWDJWAfzoUlpzI4-VCH7HSxcGJjKkR4D1ssXx0x1fwcWL9IZgH84FBZ4c_2sM7SQuI_YD_NbXg9vEXIvFBKZOeBgY/w426-h640/Monkshood_1200h-SL1_21869.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Monkshood</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMFAwRb21qBzUML9H75ENNycvZuMFhNQfPd3Y5iZW8GI9Z4fto_xGrMzkks76Ujo9bku-uqtD09POkjUiFXvF1FYN8eYd4A83gG_3_QXsURpPDfTFHVNa-JxZs4Y_lJCCtjJZfXFJme3Q/s1200/KingsCrown_1200h-SL1_21874.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="907" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMFAwRb21qBzUML9H75ENNycvZuMFhNQfPd3Y5iZW8GI9Z4fto_xGrMzkks76Ujo9bku-uqtD09POkjUiFXvF1FYN8eYd4A83gG_3_QXsURpPDfTFHVNa-JxZs4Y_lJCCtjJZfXFJme3Q/w484-h640/KingsCrown_1200h-SL1_21874.jpg" width="484" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">King's Crown</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi-IDXDP6ddj56HWhq7790QfCtIUXSSiL-xSv9a1i0Grh-6bxq_Zi2ASt650Id_-42NVY0h2tGcb2F9cRmTXx0E8q0ou1u7S8TyU-dnSMEoC2Hy2RvRteduaVGoxdD6a7CGLXsQjkotos/s1200/TwistedDraba-macro_1200w-7D_21570.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="915" data-original-width="1200" height="488" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi-IDXDP6ddj56HWhq7790QfCtIUXSSiL-xSv9a1i0Grh-6bxq_Zi2ASt650Id_-42NVY0h2tGcb2F9cRmTXx0E8q0ou1u7S8TyU-dnSMEoC2Hy2RvRteduaVGoxdD6a7CGLXsQjkotos/w640-h488/TwistedDraba-macro_1200w-7D_21570.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Twisted Draba - macro lens</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_7h1pdzPiyyAzZRkELlPmCbGgP-zvRRALygE0zBoJjZXHwMacxE7Trw-EDAGgNCOpcR5IcFrm9y3CgyZg0BVK4EpblELSWpo7-BB8b28I-YIX35OQVCrzfJ-qjZZgsIkj0orxKShWhPU/s1200/CoultersDaisy-macro_1200w-SL1_21845.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="888" data-original-width="1200" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_7h1pdzPiyyAzZRkELlPmCbGgP-zvRRALygE0zBoJjZXHwMacxE7Trw-EDAGgNCOpcR5IcFrm9y3CgyZg0BVK4EpblELSWpo7-BB8b28I-YIX35OQVCrzfJ-qjZZgsIkj0orxKShWhPU/w640-h474/CoultersDaisy-macro_1200w-SL1_21845.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coulter's Daisy - macro lens</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYrmqjKOHWiKpVVO6y_DX_kQtPokW3jV2H9gghUH9I4_wt6H6BpD_iYFFfErETrYuuFpZLZwTYLPNQfclajZf0ssp6tuqnVKS5pi6aNp8A_flshTcJDCSVlgG7kJ2s4073Un-Qt7yt8Us/s1200/Bluebells-macro_1200w-7D_21573.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="876" data-original-width="1200" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYrmqjKOHWiKpVVO6y_DX_kQtPokW3jV2H9gghUH9I4_wt6H6BpD_iYFFfErETrYuuFpZLZwTYLPNQfclajZf0ssp6tuqnVKS5pi6aNp8A_flshTcJDCSVlgG7kJ2s4073Un-Qt7yt8Us/w640-h468/Bluebells-macro_1200w-7D_21573.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fringed Bluebell - macro lens</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p> If you missed it, the narrative for this wildflower gallery begins <a href="https://bosquebill.blogspot.com/2021/08/colorado-wildflower-tour-july-2021-part1.html">here</a>.</p>Bosque Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00001863270259847102noreply@blogger.com0