Well we are off again for an early morning, as it is almost 5 hours to our next stop, Back Canyon of Gunnison National park.
Headed east out of town on the Stegosaurus Expressway, eventually coming to Dinosaur, Colorado where we headed south. Once again very desolate countryside, where producing electricity seems to be the main focus.
Continued on up into the mountains, where believe it or not were cattle grazing. We saw a cowboy rounding up steers in the flats, and while riding up to the mountain, we’re surprised to find a steer lunching right by the road! Got to the top where we were greeted with a wonderful view of the valley. Amazing!
As desolate as the drive was, got into Grand Junction, which is a small City, where we actually got tired up in traffic. This area is in the mesa, which is surrounded by beautiful rocks and hills.
Finally made it to Montrose, our stay for tonight, but continued on the Black Canyon of Garrison National Park . This park is not the easiest to get to, and while not crowded, there were more people than I expected.
This deep beautiful canyon and it’s spectacular views is amazing! Formed by a river that flows through it, we followed the rim road, making stops to take short hikes and take in the canyon and all its glory.
Finished the rim, and decided to drive down into the canyon. Good brakes are essential as the the slope was 16 degrees for five miles, and there were constant hairpin turns . Our brakes held, and saw the beautiful river running through. Learned about the tunnel built to bring water through the mountains during the summer. Quite the engineering phenomenon .
Made it out if the canyon and down the mountain to check into our hotel. After a rest, it was a quick walk to the local restaurant, Ted Nelson’s Steak House. This old school steak house, had Ted there along with an outstanding staff. The food was delicious and there was even free carrot cake for dessert. Yummy.
It’s off to bed, as tomorrow brings the 3 hour drive to Mesa Verde National Park.