Colorado Part 2

2 Chicas Reserved at the El Oldo Condo

The solemn quietness of the surrounding Navajo lands was soon behind 2 Chicas. As we approached Cortez, CO, Chica 2 promised to make this a memorable trip. Promises, promises Chica 2, all of our trips are unforgettable.

Chica 1 breaks into a rousing, lowered voice, 2 Chicas version of Unforgettable – “that’s what we are…. Unforgettable though near or far….darling it’s incredible 2 Chicas are unforgettable…and we hope you’re unforgettable 2!”

Chica 2 was relieved that we pulled into Mesa Verde National Park; maybe Chica 1 would stop howling that made up song! Anyhoo, there’s something about ancient Native American pueblos that get 2 Chicas juices flowing.  Mesa Verde reflects the living styles of ancient Puebloans, who grew crops atop the mesas and carved out their homes into the canyon walls. They lived in a vibrant, thriving community peacefully working together to hunt, trade, and share creative expressions that live on centuries after their demise.

It is difficult to understand how these builders without the theorems and engineering expertise of today could build large dwellings that have withstood the wear and tear of the ages. Yet, here these archaeological marvels stand, a proud display of yesterdays ingenuity!

Chica 2 parks and we begin our trek to the Far View Visitor’s Center. If you are going to visit the dwellings, you must purchase tickets at the visitor’s center. There are a few exhibits of pottery and baskets here, but there are far better displays located in the Chapin Mesa Museum.

The weather was beautiful, but the trail is steep to the dwellings. The ladder up to these ancient condos is even steeper. 2 Chicas decide to enjoy the grounds but not risk slipping, sliding and ending up face down in the pueblo high rise.  Chica 2, ever so thoughtful, was really just trying to protect her dear friend from herself. When Chica 1 gets vertigo, she is transformed into a hilarious bobble head. Chica 1 usually does everything to the extreme! Tee hee hee

Over at the museum, 2 Chicas are enthralled with the dioramas which displayed life in the Puebloan village. The ancient baskets, tools, and other artifacts added depth to the visit. We spent a good two hours immersed in the history of the native people who simply walked away from their home and like so many modern day U.S. Northerners, moved south! It’s just that their south was New Mexico and Arizona.  Come reserve a day to climb into the homes of the ancient southwest! Tell them 2 Chicas said to get your ascent on!

2 Million Dollar Smiles on the Million Dollar Highway

2 Chicas proceed out of Mesa Verde and head up toward Durango on our procession up the Million Dollar Highway. Some say it cost a million dollars early in the twentieth century to construct this grand piece of highway. Others say there’s a million dollars worth of gold ore hidden under the road. One thing is for sure, this piece of highway is as beautiful as it is dangerous.

While driving through Durango, Chica 1 spots a big blob of color on the side of the road with a sign and a small pullover. It is quite a head turner so Chica 2 whipped a U turn and went back to investigate. The site marks Pinkerton Springs, which is named for a farmer in the area a long time ago.

2 Chicas discovered that the springs were originally across the street on the more mountainous side. The attraction was creating quite a traffic danger so a pipe was run under the road and up in a fountain like manner. 2 Chicas guess the rest formed around the pipe. It is beautiful and free so be sure to stop. Back to our journey....

Along the way, it is hard not to notice that the San Juan Mountains are stunning.  This route takes you right past the San Juan Skyway. But don’t be fooled, this road is a real nail biter. MSN lists the Million Dollar Highway as number two of its 10 Highways to Hell. There have been a number of fatalities on this road, so 2 Chicas always give the safety warning: “slow it down and keep ur eyes on the road buddy!” The sign warning of an avalanche doesn't help at all, even though it is late May.

Chica 2 breathed hard at every hair pin turn and switchback. Chica 1 just closed her eyes and tried not to moan too loudly. Fortunately, Chica 2’s steady hand was on the wheel. At some point, Chica 1 began singing Amazing Grace and making horn sounds like the band playing on the Titanic. Not very encouraging Chica 1.

It seemed at that very moment the road had a most severe switchback.  It appeared that Chica 2 had to almost bring the car to a complete stop in order to navigate the tight twist and turn. Chica 1 did not take one picture; Chica 2 actually pulled over a couple of times to snap photos. Poor Chica 1 with her vertigo kicking in was looking like a petrified child (or a petrified forest log).  

Despite what you have read, it is a beautiful drive between Silverton and Ouray, but take your time. It is important to note that 2 Chicas drove from Silverton to Ouray, which is the “safer” direction. If you drive from Ouray to Silverton, you are on the outside of the highway which is the side that has the steep drop off.  Pull over if you need to and don’t let anyone on the road rush you through this tough drive. God forbid you encounter wild life while driving. There are no guardrails and very little room to navigate.

Once 2 Chicas descended into Ouray, audible sighs could be heard.  Chica 2 bragged forever that she was the Million Dollar winner! With a big smile, she told everyone who would listen that she had conquered this beautifully dangerous highway. Chica 1 must admit that Chica 2’s grin was worth a million dollars! 

This is one grandiose piece of real estate but proceed with caution. No picture or touristy behavior is worth risking your life. Visit the Million Dollar Highway and tell everyone 2 Chicas said have a Million Smiles for 25 Miles!

2 Chicas Hooray for Ouray

Ouray was a beautiful little town with a whole lot of history. It is considered the Switzerland of the United States because of the beautiful mountains all around the area. The Ute Indians loved the area because of the great hunting and for the spa like springs. Surprisingly, the town is named for a great chief of the Ute Indians, who was esteemed for his great diplomacy. Sadly, the land of his people was taken at an alarming rate. So much for diplomacy…

Many of the Victorian era buildings are still intact, but on this trip, that's not our thing. 2 Chicas really looked forward to trying out the Ute recommendation concerning the “therapeutic” springs. Soon after checking into our hotel, we threw on our swimwear and a jacket (it was cold out) and headed over to the hotel’s hot spring. It was in an enclosed building, but it was wonderful!!! The water was hot, but it felt fantastic! There were a number of mineral deposits around the edge, but there was no sulfur. 

2 Chicas really needed to decompress after our self-imposed stressful ride.  Chica 2 brought her little yellow ducky for a ride on a hot springs wave.  Huh?  Chica 1 tried to engage Chica 2 in a round of drown the dag-gone duck. Chica 2 was not amused.

After being steam pickled, 2 Chicas ran through the cold parking lot back to the room to dress for dinner. It was nice strolling through the streets of the little settlement. Speaking with the locals, we found out the town has its own hot springs pool.

They also said there are people who occasionally come here to go up in the mountains and hunt for gold and silver. Chica 2 wanted to buy a pick ax and give it a shot. Chica 1 knowingly would never go to an isolated area with Chica 2 and an ax  Nothing but trouble would ensue. Tee hee he

Chica 2 arranged for a nice birthday dinner at a local steakhouse The Outlaw. Chica 1 was as pleased as a mountain lion at the deer town hall meeting! The rib eye was fit for a birthday celebration and the leftovers were outstanding with eggs the next morning. As 2 Chicas bid Ouray goodbye, we promised to return for another round of fun perhaps in the fall.

2 Chicas Gunning to the Black Canyon

Chica 2 in her normal child like questioning asked what in the world is the Black Canyon of the Gunnison?  She said it sounded like a movie that would have a really tragic ending. Only Chica 2! 

Black Canyon is a spectacular national park that is not nearly well known as its northern cousin Rocky Mountain National Park.  2 Chicas were heading into the South Rim of the Canyon. The black rock and beautiful sheer canyons really make this an outing any nature lover must experience.

Chica 1 was so excited about checking out the canyons, she forgot to wait for the car to make a complete stop. Of course she accused Chica 2 of trying to kill her and turn this excursion into a ghostly horror flick - “The Black Canyon Haunting of the Lost Chica!” 

Chica 2 once again wished Chica 1 would shut up. After all that drama, maybe it would be a homicide investigation?  No that’s just n ot nice at all Chica 2!

The parking area does not adequately prepare you for the breathtaking views seen from the trails. While hiking to the first overlook, Chica 1 tripped and watched a few rocks topple over the edge. These trails are not steep at all, but Chica 2 laughingly reminded Chica 1 of her clumsiness. This is not the place for taking chances. 

The overlooks thankfully have a protective rail.  Looking down into the canyon is breathtaking. The drop off is deep and you can barely see the Gunnison River below.

Chica 2 threatened to go rock climbing.  She knows better than to make idle threats. Chica 1 said she would gladly pay for the right to take pictures of this spectacle. Of course Chica 2 was only joking. The North Rim is much more isolated and the trails are more difficult. Black Canyon of the Gunnison gets the 2 Chicas 2 Snap Salute! Enjoy the scenery and take a slow ride on the Gunnison River to get views of the canyon from below.

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Colorado - Part 1

2 Chicas Get All Hot and Bothered

As the plane descended into Denver, CO, Chica 1 began singing Rocky Mountain High! With the beautiful Rockies as a backdrop, the song soon shifted to one of the lines in New York State of Mind. Chica 1 has a nice voice, but she never knows all of the words to any song. Because Chica 2 doesn't know any better, she asked if Chica 1 could put that song (the made up one) on her MP3 player (not knowing these are two very different tunes). Surely John Denver and Billy Joel wouldn't care if their songs were morphed into a new 2 Chicas medley!

The Mile High City wasn't ready for the two fabulous girls so quickly, so the Colorado excursion began with a trip down I-25 South. Chica 1 squealed – “look, it’s the Potter’s House Denver!” Right off the road was one of Chica 1’s favorite Sunday night television offerings. Chica 2 suggested Chica 1 may need to spend a few days at the church sprawled out over the alter asking for forgiveness. Don’t we all Chica 2?

The drive down the interstate was relatively bland, but going through Colorado Springs, the twists and turns around the beautiful topography caused 2 Chicas to pause. Further down the road, close to Pueblo, was the exit that would take 2 Chicas to one of the most interesting sights in the country. In the midst of such beautiful mountainous terrain, are these incredible, desert-like sand dunes.  Chica 2 said maybe we could rent a dune buggy and fly up over the knolls all "hillbillyish."

For some reason Chica 1 immediately felt the elevation changes and was called a “bobble head” by Chica 2. Surely this vertigo condition would limit Chica 1’s time out on the dunes; so much for a dune buggy. (Just a note, there are no such rentals on site.)

2 Chicas always stop at the Visitor’s Center first to gather more information about the area and to obtain any advice or advisories from the Park Rangers.

They suggested we drink plenty of water and don’t underestimate the heat of the sand. Armed and ready, 2 Chicas headed over to the big sand box. Looking like two naive explorers from some old black and white movie, we marched side by side ready for some sun and fun.

Chica 2 inhaled deeply and remarked at the gigantic dunes that seemingly were approaching us. Chica 1 was speechless and a little breathless. These sand dunes are massive!

2 Chicas frequently spend time at the beach so walking on sand is not typically a big deal. But this sand is deep and hot. There are no compressed shells to make some areas firm. Each step sinks the foot firmly into the warm sand. Chica 2 said she didn't expect the hot dirt pedicure spa treatment. 

Well less than a mile out, Chica 1 looked over at Chica 2 and asked if she thought anyone would find our bodies. Chica 2 said yes and pointed over to the cute meerkats. Chica 2 babbled and said something about the cute guy in the film crew would certainly rescue her.

She pretended to be a damsel in distress, but alas, it was all just a mirage. Chica 1 weebbled and wobbled back to the car, sweating and hallucinating that some of the cars were large glasses of sangria. She asked for a priest.

Chica 1, you’re not even Catholic, and if you were, the priest probably wouldn't approve of the alcohol! Chica 1 always comes back strong - "it would be representative of the blood of Christ...." Sinners always convince themselves of doing wrong and pretending that it is right! Tee hee he

With the air conditioning turned on, Chica 1 quickly returned to her senses. Chica 2 soon appeared back at the car as well. She had enough of the desert like environment surrounding the sand. Needless to say, 2 Chicas were scared to get out of the vehicle for any more exploration! Chica 1 reached into her backpack and pulled out an I.V.  Tee hee hee

There are other beautiful areas in the park, including the gorgeous Medano Lake which has many hiking opportunities. You can also investigate the Montville Trail which is shady and relatively cool. Zapata Falls isn’t too far away, and is a great option if you get too hot. (Hint, hint)

If you are adventurous, you can tumble down a dune or better yet, spend the night on a dune! Just remember you have to make it to the top before you can come down. Although we were scorching, 2 Chicas are pleased that we had the chance to explore this American wonder.

2 Chicas headed over to the town of Alamosa to recuperate. After soaking in the hotel hot tub, (to break the fear of heat – go figure) Alamosa was a nice little town with plenty of restaurant choices.

2 Chicas hunkered down for the night. The next day would be Chica 1's birthday. As if that wasn't pressure enough, 2 Chicas would set off on a journey that would literally take us across the state.

2 Chicas and Four Corners!

Chica 2 was up bright and early and ready to hit the road. She is an excellent driver, which is a good thing, because her tenacity and skill would be tested! We set out from Alamosa to drive 240 miles to the Four Corners Monument. 

This trip would take us up and down and around some beautiful, mountainous country. We would look off into the distance and see the most beautiful summit, and within 30 minutes, would find ourselves high on that very mountain.

We drove through national wilderness areas, past Wolf Creek Pass and the Continental Divide, and through a national forest. The drive was stunningly beautiful and by the time 2 Chicas arrived in Cortez, CO, the road was starting to wear on us. We had not yet reached our destination but we had been in the car for hours! LAWD!! Chica 1 was getting cranky (which is normal if you ask Chica 2). Chica 2 was getting hungry (which is normal if you ask Chica 1).  Yet 2 Chicas pressed onward.

After leaving the city, 2 Chicas were suddenly in a very beautiful desert-like setting. There were buttes and plateaus, but primarily, dry land all the way to our destination within the Navajo Nation. There is an entry fee and they only take cash, so be prepared. Once inside the “park” 2 Chicas discovered their high expectations were going to be somewhat disappointed.

The Four Corners Monument was a circle on the ground that commemorated the spot a surveyor marked as four states intersecting. The Demonstration Center is a flea market-like semi circle of booths. Native Americans were selling their wares. Chica 2 bought beautiful jewels for her kids. Of course she posed in each triangle and tried to place her foot so that it resided in each state simultaneously. She also unceremoniously pointed at a visitor and whispered he had a “four corners head”.  Strangely, he did have a really square head that had four corners. Just joking! How perfectly outlandish and 2 Chicaish!

 

Chica 1 wanted to try the Navajo Fry Bread, which was a nice treat. After eating the little snack, Chica 1 became possessed by some long ago ancestor. She began sharing a story that she was from the Slapaho Tribe. She even took a swing at Chica 2 to prove her point. Awwh, nothing like good old fashioned fun…. Tee hee he

The area is very remote and isolated. If you come, enjoy your time here. 2 Chicas love anything Native American, so draw nearer, respect the lands and the people. If you have time, visit the true treasures at the Navajo Nation: Monument Valley, Window Rock or Lake Powell. 

Organize a large Twister Contest and see how many of your friends can simultaneously be in four states at one time! Tell em 2 Chicas said make your own rules but be respectful of everyone around you! Have fun.

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Falling Waters and Florida Caverns

2 Chicas Didn’t Miss Our Water Until the Waterfall Ran Dry

The trip to Falling Waters State Park was a nice little drive up I-10. 

The up and down drive reminds one of a kiddie roller coaster  not too dramatic, but just enough to remind you that you’re no longer in west central Florida. 

Entering the park, the 2 Chicas were tingling with excitement; we were about to see Florida’s tallest waterfall.  The air was crisp and the sky was clear; it was the perfect day for exploration.

The park is primarily home to a gigantic sinkhole or should we say a series of sinkholes.  There is a cement sidewalk that takes hikers down to a boardwalk which surrounds the different sinkholes. 


Chica 1 asked in a deep serious voice: “Are you down down down for this adventure?”  Keep walking Chica 1; keep walking.

The ferns and coolness in the park contained a serenity that was only broken by the occasional cry of its resident birds. A scrub jay was seen flitting about announcing the royal arrival of the 2 Chicas.

Once the 2 Chicas ascended the stairs to the overlook area it became very apparent something was missing – like H2O. 

The waterfall was gone! Yes, gone…. A lack of rain had made the waterfall nonexistent. How is this possible? 

Chica 2 proposed that someone had robbed the park of its water and we should go in pursuit of the thieves. 

Calm down Chica 2. She insisted that there should be pretty clear clues in the huge trail of water. Ahem, maybe it’s time for this little explorer to get in a cat nap.

The 2 Chicas looked at each other quizzically, shrugged, and began singing in unison – “You can’t always get what you want.”

Since we believe we always get what we need, we admired the different sinkhole areas, took pictures of the wild flowers, enjoyed the birds, and went racing off to the Florida Caverns.

2 Chicas Cavort In the Caverns

The drive to the caverns takes you through Marianna which has a strip that is a part of the Old Florida Heritage Highway.  It is a little congested though so be careful not to get distracted while driving.

Florida has caves- can you believe it. Chica 1 spent most of her life believing that Florida was one step away from being totally underwater.

As an adult, she learned of the true diversity found in the state. 

The ground is made up of sandy areas, a rich loam, clay, limestone, shell deposits, and other minerals depending on where you are in the state.

These north Florida caves have an interesting history that is prehistoric, but we’ll get to that latter.

The cave tour is well worth the current $8.00 fee.  In 45 minutes you will go up and down, sideways, bent in half, and ducking through a gallery of stalactites, stalagmites, draperies, soda straws, wedding cakes, pools, continents, catacombs, and Christmas trees. 

The ranger provides full facts and shows off things like a prehistoric shark tooth embedded in the rock.  Chica 1 could have sworn the shape of that tooth looked closely familiar. Ms. Ranger are you sure you didn't turn your back on Chica 2?

There is also a lot of information shared on how the formations grow, the composition of the rocks, and the men who worked tirelessly to excavate the area.

Chica 1 was not too fond of some of the really tight areas in the cave.  There seemed to be some hyperventilating or at the very least some huffing and head bumping on the ceiling. 

Chica 2 chuckled and assured Chica 1 she was far too short to worry about bumping her head on anything but the floor! Tee hee he

There are a couple of fossils visible in the ceiling of the cave, and the ranger reported that a few full sized fossils were excavated in the park, including a mastodon.

The ranger towards the end of the tour turns off all of the lights and allows visitors to experience the cavern exactly as it is. 

It is difficult to describe total darkness.  It’s not the type of darkness in your home or outside. It's eerily nondescript. Chica 2 said maybe this is what death looks like. You can always count on Chica 2 for a good dose of profound insanity!

The hike back to the visitor center is far more strenuous than the cave tour so be prepared! After sharing some much needed oxygen, both Chicas vowed to get in caveman shape. One day we may have to out run a dinosaur! 

Spend some time walking around the caves on the trails and go upstairs in the visitor center to the learning room for more factoids. If you feel adventurous, rent a canoe and explore the Chipola River. 

2 Chicas give this “real Florida” experience four thumbs up and a finger snap. Only 2 Chicas could be so dramatic!


Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park – 2 Chicas and another Black Lagoon

The long winding road to the Wakulla Springs Lodge does not give any indication of the fabulous experience to come.

Chica 2 was so excited to see the spear throwing fish that she ran out of the car and left it running. 

So remember to park the car, TURN IT OFF, and walk over to the old sign, through the boathouse type building to the springs. You have to keep it kind of simple for good old Chica 2.

If you do this exactly as described, you will immediately see the swimming hole, beach-like area and the old tour boats. Tee hee he...

Find out the time for the next tour and hop on board for a 45 minute ride in paradise.

Chica 2 scared just about everyone on the boat letting out a loud, crackly Tarzan call.  Luckily, the animals did not desert their sanctuary!

The springs are a part of the Florida aquifer and from the dock area, you can look straight down to the bottom.  Clear as can be!

Chica 1 was amazed at how the fish and flora intermingled to produce a whimsical musical dance. 

Chica 2 said it looked like they were doing the electric slide, no better than that, the wobble.  Sorry, Chica 2, I don't really see that at all.

The ebb and flow of the springs is beautiful. The boat tour is very informative and the birds, alligators, and manatee seem to perform on demand. The peace on the river is incredible. Thank God it has been preserved for all to share in the wonder and majesty of nature!

The anhinga and ibis pose throughout the park for photo opportunities.  Chica 2 also struck a pose very much like this bird, just not a stea
dy on the feet.

The lazy alligators are sunning up and down the river, and the egrets soar on demand. 

When the noisy motor of the boat is stopped, the sounds of the spring really come alive. 

After your tour, go to the observation tower and remind yourself of the great ecosystem you just explored.  Afterward, go to the lodge and try their famous Ginger yip. 

Tour around the lodge, review the history of Edward Ball, marvel at Old Joe – the murdered alligator, and then bid farewell to a perfectly preserved peace. 

Of course you could very well make a reservation and stay in the beautiful lodge. Just remember, no internet!

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