Sunday we arrived at Arches National Park early afternoon. We come to find out that the campground that reservations and fills up a year ahead of time. So there was no room for us in the inn. However there are some BLM campsites next to the Park along the Colorado River. There are a little more rustic with vault toilets. But it served us just fine. If anyone would have ever told me that I would ever spend over a month sleeping in a tent much less now on a river bank I never would have believed them.
When we drove back to the park Sunday afternoon it was really crowded. There were bus loads of people everywhere. We decided instead to drive up the canyon next to the park. It was breathtaking. The rock walls, the Colorado River, the towers, the blue skies so unique, so inspiring.
Later in the day we headed back to the park. The crowds had thinned a little. So we drove the arches road. We stopped for the views and we walked to some of the amazing arches. We got back to the campsite just as it was getting dark.
Monday morning we broke camp early. Then headed out for a 4 hour rafting trip on the Colorado. It was a gentle trip with only class 2 rapids. Very enjoyable. There was only one other couple on the trip with a guide just a little younger than us. After the trip we went in search of showers. We ended up at the Community Aquatic Center - $3. Showers – we’ll take it!
On the road again to Grand Junction to visit cousin Ken and his wife Kate and their sons, Nick & Ross. Haven’t seen them for a long time and a one on one visit was even longer. They live Near Colorado Monument. Actually the Monument is in their back yard. We had a great visit. Getting caught up on family, kids, reflecting on memories of so long ago, recalling all the good times and the good people who made us who we are. Ken and Kate made us feel so welcome and for the first time in a long time we slept in a real bed. We also had some wonderful meals and ended the even by sitting on their deck watching the heavens and again enjoying the Milky Way.
Tuesday morning they drove us through The Colorado Monument. More great views and great company. We left Ken and Kate early afternoon and began the drive to Crested Butte CO.
Thanks to Neal, a friend who’s house we are staying to tonight. We headed out to get something to eat. First impression – we are the oldest people in Crested Butte at the moment. Second impression – after we ate we walked back in our shorts and t-shirts. Most everyone else had on winter coats and scarves. Mental note – it gets cold when the sun goes down.
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