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A couple of months ago, my wife, my cat, and I embarked on a six-week journey from Oregon through the stunning landscape es of Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico and back again. Throughout the trip, we experienced breathtaking scenery, rich history, and serene solitude. While we worked remotely during the week, we enjoyed the weekends to explore, spending each workweek with a different view out our windows.
We began our adventure with a two-day drive to Utah. We found a fantastic spot just outside Moab on public land, where we had no neighbors and a fantastic view of the backside of Arches National Park. The sunny weather was perfect for exploring the rocks and soaking up the last of the warmth before winter. Each day offered opportunities to marvel at the stark beauty of the desert, but the highlight came one magical evening when we were treated to the Northern Lights. Witnessing this rare natural phenomenon so far from its usual territory felt surreal and unforgettable, creating a moment we’ll cherish forever.
From Moab, we traveled to Mesa Verde National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its ancient cliff dwellings and pit houses. These remarkable structures, built by the Ancestral Puebloans over 1,200 years ago and last occupied over 800 years ago, reveal a thriving community that ingeniously adapted to the rugged landscape. Detailed informational signage made it easy to picture the lives of the people who once inhabited this area. The park is also a designated Dark Sky area, renowned for its spectacular stargazing. We spent the night in the park, and while we hoped for a canopy of stars, clouds rolled in that obscured the view. Still, the sense of history and wonder made our time there unforgettable.
We camped for a week outside the park before visiting the charming town of Durango and its neighbor, Animas City. A highlight of our visit was the historic Animas City Museum, housed in the town’s original old schoolhouse. The exhibits painted a vivid picture of the region’s history, from its early settlements to its pivotal role in the development of the American West. We learned much from one of the volunteer historians and left with a deeper appreciation for the area’s rich cultural and historical tapestry. The blend of scenic beauty and historical insight made this leg of the trip truly special.
Next, we camped south of Pagosa Springs, Colorado, to avoid approaching bad weather. This decision turned out to be a blessing as we enjoyed stunning views of rolling hills and valleys adorned with vibrant autumn foliage. Each day after work, we had drinks during happy hour and played board games by a crackling campfire. In the evenings, the clear skies provided excellent stargazing opportunities. The tranquility of the setting allowed us to recharge and reconnect, making this week a perfect blend of relaxation and natural beauty.
We then headed over to Taos, New Mexico, where we spent a weekend immersing ourselves in the town’s unique blend of art, culture, and history. Known for its iconic adobe architecture and thriving arts scene, Taos is a haven for creatives, offering charming galleries and cafes that made our time there both enriching and enjoyable.
From Taos, we ventured to a wildlife area near Chama, New Mexico, where we camped for a week surrounded by nature’s tranquility. Every day, we spotted wild turkeys and deer wandering near our camper.
Light snow transformed the landscape into a picturesque winter wonderland as the week progressed. We spent Halloween there, and despite having a bowl of candy, no kids came knocking on our door.
Returning to Colorado, we drove the famous Million Dollar Highway, a breathtaking stretch of U.S. Route 550 known for its dramatic cliffs and panoramic mountain views. Navigating the winding roads in our motorhome was both exhilarating and a little nerve-wracking. However, the reward was unparalleled scenery that made you feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard.
At the end of this awe-inspiring drive, we enjoyed a relaxing soak at Orvis Hot Springs. The warm, mineral-rich waters provided a soothing contrast to the crisp mountain air, leaving us feeling completely rejuvenated.
Our journey continued to a remote site along the Gunnison River. Getting there tested our motorhome’s capability as we navigated rugged dirt roads, loose rocks, and steep slopes. We nearly got stuck at one point, but some quick thinking and strategic rock-piling helped us reach our campsite. Perched on a cliff overlooking the river, the views were spectacular. Once again, a week of light snow fell upon us, completely altering the landscape. From the edge of the cliff, we watched from our cozy, warm interior as storms and flurries silently passed our windows.
Leaving proved challenging—deep puddles from the melted snow near the highway’s edge trapped our rear tires. Thankfully, a kind local in a truck came to our rescue, towing us out and ensuring we could continue our journey.
As our adventure drew to a close, we began the trek back to Portland, making overnight stops in Utah and Idaho. Each pause gave us a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we’d just completed.
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