April 2 - 5th
After saying goodbye to Texas...AGAIN, we made our way to Southwest Colorado. We absolutely are certain that we would never chose to live in Texas because of our love of the
mountains. Just passing the welcome to Colorado sign and seeing the La Plata and San Juan Mountain Ranges surrounding Cortez lifted all our spirits. We stayed at a Sundance RV park (wonderful elevation of 6,191’), minutes away from Mesa Verde National Park.
Once we arrived midday, we immediately headed to Mesa Verde. This national park was so different then any other park we had visited. We chose a hike that had great views of the city and surrounding area. Did I mention how much we love the mountains??? Every mountain town we visit I think maybe we should move here for a bit? The views were breath-taking. The hike up made us all realize the physiological effect of living in Florida for a month or so...yes we were huffing and puffing more than usual (so not okay). We always know the benefits of reaching the peak so we absolutely push through any discomfort. Yes, we saw so much beauty in Florida BUT our hearts belong to the mountains.
The next day we headed to Telluride. Now HERE is where we will someday call home. This place is magical! The historic town (elevation 8,750’) is immersed in the Rockies surrounded by 13,000 and 14,000 foot peaks. We loved everything about this town. We were sad to have missed the ski season here but were comforted to think Steve was not asked to drive BIG BEND 5th wheel in this rugged and unforgiving terrain. Sandie LOVED Telluride and asked when we could move;). The Miguel River with the towering peaks ....heaven on earth. Telluride - WE WILL SEE YOU SOON...VERY soon. Our insatiable thirst for what adventures await for us here, will no doubt bring us back.
On day 3 we headed back to Mesa Verde National Park. The landscape of this park consisted of massive vistas and deep canyons. On this day we committed to touring the many cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Pueblo people. Although we could not hike to see the dwellings up close, the view points were spectacular. We had a great perspective of the alcoves to see how they protect the dwellings of the Cliff Palace, Oak Tree and Spruce House. It was hard to wrap our heads around how the Pueblo people inhabited these cliffs that the canyons created. Keegan and Cullen definitely want to return post-COVID so they can explore up close. We all agreed so much more exploring is needed as this park is so unique.
Once we returned back to town we loaded up our mountain bikes and headed to Phil’s World Trails. YES for all our friends in Bend, Cortez has some pretty great PHILS trails:). Steve and Keegan did a more aggressive ride but joined Cullen and me later. We had a blast!
SOUTHWEST COLORADO....WE LOVE YOU!
Comments