Mountain Lion

Taken at the Rocky Mountain Wildlife Park in Pagosa Springs, CO.

I shot this through a wire fence, which made it very difficult to focus on the mountain lion and keep the wire blurred out.

What Next

I’m trying to decide whether to stay in Moab another day or two, or head elsewhere. Plenty of options exist from here. I still think I’ll head south as I haven’t been down there in years, maybe do some hiking in the Needles on the way. I just need to get out on a trail for at least a couple days of back country hiking. The crowds are leaving in droves this morning, and that makes me happy.

Sunset in Arches National Park

Corona Arch

Corona Arch, Moab, Utah.

Love it or hate it?

Seriously.. I can’t decide if I like the idea or absolutely hate it (though I’m presently using it). Nearly every commercial campsite I’ve seen lately has free wifi. It’s about to the point where wifi is more readily available than mobile coverage.

Onward

Sunday morning, I’m heading through the Canyonlands on a Jeep Safari which breaks for lunch around noon before returning via river raft. The price was right, space was available and I’m tired of driving through National Parks when crowds are at their peak.

In the meantime, I’m trying to hit some places more off the beaten path away from the crowds. Once the weekend is over things should calm down and then I’ll likely continue South.

View Larger Map

$$$

I haven’t really gone anywhere today. The water pump on my car began acting up and I’m going to need that fixed before going elsewhere. I found a shop that seems reliable and quoted me about 300 bucks. Research shows they tend to fail around 90k miles and mine has 88k. Seems a timing belt is suggested at that mileage as well and I may want to add in that replacement cost.

You win some, you lose some. On the upside, I got my campsite for free for being active military.

Grand Staircase Escalante

This place was incredible. I didn’t really plan on staying there, but I’m glad I did. I’m continuing to have issues finding places to camp for the night, but the crowds are dispersing and finding solitude is much easier.

My plans for some camping in Goblin Valley were shot due to heavy rains and a high flash flood threat. The campsite I was going to use was under about six inches of water and looked as if a river had recently visited. Not a good places for a tent, nor a good time to be exploring slot canyons.

I’m in Moab now. Much sooner than anticipated, however beating the holiday rush is quite beneficial. I’m going to visit the usual hot spots right away and as the crowds arrive more on to the more remote locations before departing on Memorial Day.

Road Trip 2011

I’m having a blast. Granted, the weather and crowds have been rather unexpectedly unpleasant when encountered, yet the lull between those makes it all worthwhile.

Road Trip 2011

Heading out for a few weeks or so. Here’s the run down. Subject to change!

View Larger Map