Tuesday, March 21, 2017

Change of plans

Before we get into today's blog, please enjoy two sunset pictures that Frederick took last evening. If you remember, there were clouds threatening rain late yesterday afternoon. That yielded this beautiful sunset.



Today was supposed to be a quick drive through the far western part of central New Mexico then back into Arizona to a state park near the White Mountains on the far eastern edge of the state. When we arrived at Lyman Lake the campground was nearly deserted - only two other RVs in a campground designed for over 50. We soon found out what we believe to be the reason - no cell phone service and certainly no internet access. There was a land-line phone at the entrance. 

After discussing access with the Ranger ("there is none") we cancelled our 6-day reservation and headed north to Holbrook on I-40 which is adjacent to Petrified Forest National Park in the Painted Desert. We'll be here at least two days as we reconfigure our travel plans.

Here are some of the views we enjoyed today as we traveled along our journey through western New Mexico into Arizona, courtesy of Frederick.

Last night, in Pie Town, we were at quite a hight elevation - 7, 778ft. Soon after leaving PT this morning we began our descent. Tonight we are at 5,000ft.


Passing through Quemado, the last New Mexico town on Highway #60 we spied the High School mascot...

a church and ...

historic downtown.

Approaching Arizona we spied Baldy Peak (El 11,403ft) and...

the White Mountains.

It's nice to be back in Arizona.

Not a busy road; all the traffic is north, traveling I-40.

What happens at high elevations.

Gently rounded hills and...

interesting erosion patterns.

Close-up of the hill on the right, above.

After we left Lyman Lake there was a change in the scenery.

At first there were hilly rocks emerging from the landscape.

then more rounded rocks.

Chunky rocks and finally...

getting closer to the...

painted desert.

Another long, isolated road vista with...

a warning. This time it's dust.

Near the Petrified Forest - more tomorrow.

Today's windmill.

And, as we passed through Holbrook to the RV park, a sign of the local culture. The sign reads - Bucket of Blood Street!



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