March 20, 2022
After spending 5 full days in Texas I am now sprinting towards the west coast, trying to find interesting things to do along the way to stretch my legs on long drives. Today I planned a stop at a scenic overlook in El Paso for a photo op and a hike in Rockhound State Park in New Mexico.
The first did not work out. Despite TripAdvisor listing the scenic overlook as El Paso’s highest rated attraction and Google Maps showing cars parked there in Street View, the street was blocked to cars this morning with gates set to only allow bikes and pedestrians through. The potential view looked wonderful, as you can see in the road video, but there was no photo opportunity.
The second stop worked out perfectly with the trail climbing part way up a steep hill in the Little Florida Mountains surrounded by cacti and with some nice views of the surrounding hills and valleys. This allowed me to get some much needed exercise after spending all day yesterday in the car..
You know you’re in the desert southwest when your trail is between cacti. The view looking towards Deming, NM.
The peaks of the Little Florida Mountains are not high but they are rugged.
The only other thing of interest on the journey was a dust storm. As you drive along Interstate 10 there are many signs warning of the dangers of these and telling drivers what to do if they are caught in a bad one. Soon after arriving in Arizona I could see a large cloud of dust in the distance and got to experience, albeit on a minor scale, what driving in a dust storm is like. This is highlighted on the map/video page.
We are in Florida now and getting a good look at this state so often in the news. Have fun on your westward bound ride
How is spring break in Florida? I hear it’s wild. Have fun.
What varied landscapes! I am walking in Bethesda to get ready for our hikes in San Francisco. In 5 days we meet Steve. Very excited!!
Sounds good. Looking forward to seeing you.
Always good to read of your exploits and your westward journey is most interesting. Back reading this in sunny Sussex.
Hope you managed to get another day of skiing before you left and do not feel too bitter about how you were treated. The Canadians are always considered nice to-a-fault by Americans. Guess we can kiss that stereotype goodbye. Glad you’re home safe (and healthy).
Yes we had a final day of freedom and it was a good one skiing with Sue’s cousin. We will go back, but it may be some time…..
The photos reminded me about the time we used to teach about landforms.
I’m surprised that you don’t teach it now. I used to love talking with you about this stuff.