My lovely wife and I went for a drive today to Telluride, CO. The highway took us up the Dolores River, past a cute old mining town named Rico, then into the San Juan Mountains. Our trip today took us over 10,000 feet in elevation twice; once on the highway and a second time on the Telluride gondola. Our map has the route marked as scenic, and it certainly was.
We had a pleasant day up there. Historic downtown Telluride is in a valley, the ski resorts are about 2000 feet higher on the mountain. The resorts have built a gondola ride that connects the two; it is a no charge public transport and a real hoot to ride. We did some browsing in both places and had a great lunch in an old tavern downtown.
These mountains certainly have stories to tell. Native Americans, miners, ranchers, railroaders, all must have been challenged by the terrain and the climate.
Well, tomorrow is another day to learn more. We are headed to Hovenweep National Monument to do some hiking. We have a driver’s meeting tomorrow night; Friday is a travel day as we move on to Durango, and an appointment with a train on Saturday.
