Our 2018 adventure was to include our long time California jeeping friends Jerry and Terry and second time Texas jeepers Riney and Karen. But, on their way to Colorado, Jerry and Terry's jeep developed a major gas tank leak while they were in Phoenix and consequently they were not able to make it to Ouray. Since we were already in Alamosa and Riney was already in Durango, there was no turning back. While we had a great time, it was just not the same without the entire crew.
Ouray is one of our favorite destinations. Over the years we have heard people pronounce Ouray a lot of different ways, with emphasis on different syllables. We've heard Oooray, Your Ray, and several others. So, we asked a native what is the correct pronunciation and they said simply said, You Ray! We are beginning to see some changes to "our" little mountain town, but it's still a great place to see.
Our usual first night stop in beautiful, cool Alamosa.
When we pass through the valley north of Alamosa, you will find some
beautiful farms that produce alfalfa, all types of potatoes and wheat. During this
trip we stopped and visited one of the many potato farms and bought a couple of
varieties as well as some quinoa.
Finally made it to Gunnison. It's a crooked last few miles coming in from the south!
But, on the other hand, you don't have to travel over the Million Dollar Highway!
Beverly, Karen and Riney pose for a picture on our first day. We traditionally
take Last Dollar Road over to Telluride the first day. It's a beautiful drive and it
takes you to downtown Telluride where you can see how the rich live! On the way back
we took Ophir and it was an experience. We've been over Ophir before, but this
time we got into a lot of shale and finally had to turn on the lockers to get down.
A favorite overlook near the start of the trail. Note the photographer on the
top of the overlook. The leaves were pretty, but not as brilliant as some years.
O'Brien's Pub for dinner the first night. Their fish and chips are pretty good after a long day.
Oh, have I mentioned the flowers? Colorado in the summer features some
beautiful hanging baskets throughout the towns.
Our idea of a perfect picnic!
A little shopping in Ridgeway. I think she looks awesome in this hat!
Love it!
Oh, no! She's found a baby Christmas tree and I think she wants
to take it home! Can you say National Forrest Service?
On day two we took Hurricane and California passes over to Animas Forks.
Beverly is enjoying the view over Lake Como before we headed down toward the
road to Silverton and then back to Ouray.
A jeeper's philosophy! "Hang on, I want to try something!" I've been there,
but I try to avoid it as much as possible.
This was the first time to stay somewhere besides River's Edge. But, the staff at
Twin Peaks Lodge made the transition so easy. It's a beautiful place and we look
forward to going back in 2019.
When the old mine carts wear out, you re-purpose them into flower containers!
Twin Peaks Lodge and Hot Springs was a welcome change from our old
routine. Located on the southern edge of Ouray, it's a little further from the
downtown, but is quiet and well maintained.
Another example of the pretty landscaping at the lodge.
Little pathway from our room to the pool, hot tub and the office.
Did I mention the flowers?
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Beautiful walkway around the pool area.
While we didn't use the pool or the hot springs, we had a great time
just visiting, playing games and relaxing.
On the way home we came across the hot air balloon. It would take us a few days
to get back to Texas via a balloon! And, where would we put the jeep?
Gunnison city park for a pit stop. If you're interested, the Gunnison Sonic
makes the best onion rings anywhere.
My bride wanted to take a picture while I stretched my legs.
As Woodrow would have said, "We're gonna build a little ranch right here
in this valley!" I could enjoy living there!
Finally home and ready to unload the jeep. Thank you Lord for the safe trip!
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