A “Potpourri trip” – Landscapes & History

September 11, 2024By 10

Yes, my last blog was at the end of February this year. But there is a reason I haven’t written another until now.

In February, Cindy was diagnosed with breast cancer. Since then, she has finished having surgery and finished her chemo and radiation. It was stressful, but Cindy is incredibly cheerful and has a great attitude. Now, she watches her hair grow slowly and concentrates on increasing strength and stamina. 

We went on a short road trip to celebrate her 70th birthday, her road to recovery, and our 25th wedding anniversary. It was our first time away from home in a long time. We went to Pagosa Springs and Durango. Both places are close to home, just across the New Mexican border into Colorado.

Alberta Peak

Outside of Pagosa Springs, we hiked almost to the top of Alberta Peak, in Wolf Creek, up to 11,920ft (3,633müM), and gained 1,640ft (500m) in altitude. It was amazing. We walked slowly and truly enjoyed the experience. 

 

Chimney Rock National Monument

On our way to Durango, we explored Chimney Rock National Monument, where you can find Pueblo houses built around 925 AD for approximately 2,000 Pueblo Indians. We also learned about the Northern Major Lunar Standstill. 

 

Durango – Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

The next day, we enjoyed a very special train ride. The Durango—Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a 45-mile (72-km) heritage railroad that opened in 1882. It was initially built to transport gold and silver from the San Juan Mountains. It’s hard to imagine building this railroad line through the challenging and sometimes treacherous landscape. 

 

Bisti/De-Na-Sin Wilderness

On our way home, we stopped at another unbelievable site. Bisti/De-Na-Sin Wilderness. A year ago, we weren’t able to find a trailhead. This time, we did and hiked a part of a loop. We will return to this hike soon with a much earlier start, as there is no shade. So we saw only a tiny part and not the most spectacular formations, but it was a perfect introduction.

It was a great trip with so many different landscapes and history. Visit New Mexico. We’ll show you all these terrific and historic places. 

Click Image to View Slideshow (best seen on a desktop)

Click Image to View Slideshow (best seen on a desktop)

 

 

, , , , ,