Day 46. Grand Junction, Colorado. It's been a day of canyons and dramatic red rock (sandstone) scenery. First activity was to ride the 30 miles back up to Dead Horse Point State Park - this time without the thunderstorms. Dead Horse Point Overlook is the most photographed vista in the country. It's also where the final scene in Thelma and Louise (with the car going off the cliff) was filmed. We watched the film last night so we knew what to look for. We then...

Day 42. Durango, Colorado.The 06:00 start this morning was a bit of a shock, but we had to be at Durango Station before 07:30, for our steam train trip. On arrival we were given Stars and Stripes flags to wave, to mark Patriot's Day (in remembrance of 9-11). The train left at 08:00 sharp and took four hours to do the 45 miles up to Silverton (where we stopped a couple of days ago), climbing ~1000m on the way. It is described as one of the most scenic rail trip...

Day 41. Durango, Colorado.We had a relatively relaxing day today as per the plan. A short bike ride to the edge of town and then a 4 mile hike into the centre. We had lunch at an old fashioned western bar complete with barmaids in authentic costumes and then it was time to retrace our steps. We are now ready for our early start tomorrow on the steam train up to Silverton. It will mean our first 6:00 wake up for a while.

Day 40. Durango, Colorado.Halfway through our motorcycle trip today. 4750 miles completed so far! Left the dizzy heights of Ourey (at 7792') and headed south along the Million Dollar Highway. A scary road with big drops and no crash barriers, but great views. Apparently there is gold ore in the road surface - hence the name - but we didn't spot any. After climbing up and over the Red Mtn Pass at 11,008' we arrived at Silverton (at 9,318'). We were fortunate t...

Day 39. Ouray, Colorado.We left the motel early today having been woken by the sound of an idling Harley that was left to warm up (we assume) for 20 minutes! Our 160 mile trip took in winding mountain roads along Route 50, a 11000 ft summit and the obligatory roadworks. The roadworks were actually more challenging than some parts of the gravel road yesterday. We arrived at Ouray and then headed off to soak in the hot springs.