Off to another part of Colorado ! Such a diverse state.Made our way through more prairie and ranch country. So beautiful. Up through Ridgway and into the Mountains towards Telleride. The golden hues and beautiful fall colors were breathtaking!
On to the quaint town of Delorous( population 850) situated along a river of the same name in the San Juan Range, for a coffee and pastry break in a cute little shop. Back down into the valley and Cortez before arriving at the visitor center of Mesa Verde National Park. Now we had a tour for 12:30 of the cliff house, we arrived around 11:15 thinking we had plenty of time. Found out we needed to drive around 23 miles and the ranger said it would take an hour! So off we went.
Fortunately it did not take that long, so we made it with plenty of time before the tour. Enjoyed the beautiful view before descending down the steps and into the cliff house Peublo settlement. Amazingly to this was inhabited over a thousand years ago.
Climbed back up through a series of ladders and off to our next stop via the cliff loop road to the Spruce house. This settlement had a kiva ( a religious ceremonial site for the native Americans that sometimes doubled as work and campfire spots) that still had its roof with a ladder coming out of it. Watched a very interesting film produced by the Native Americans from this area about their history and the special spiritual connection they all have to it.
Continued back through the park make few stops to take in the gorgeous, but very different landscapes. Then it was off to Durango!
Durango is a former mining town and home to the historic Durango to Silverton steam engine. Got settled in at the Wyndham, did some laundry, and off to explore the downtown for dinner.
Check a few spots out , but decided on the Diamond Belle Saloon. Such a fun spot. Scored a balcony table with a great view of the downstairs with is old fashioned bar and piano. Ordered from a charming saloon girl who was just a delightful waitress. Enjoyed some delicious drinks, a nice dinner, and were entertained by a funny and talented piano player! All in all a great first night in Durango.
But now it’s off to bed, as tomorrow brings our all day excursion in the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.