It was a wise decision, driving to Moab yesterday. It allowed us to sleep in an extra hour, and be right outside Arches National Park. It is a real cool park with quite a few hiking trails. We hiked up to Delicate and Skyline Arches, it was not a big hike, but had some fast and furious elevation.
We were on the road by 12:30 and headed out to Vail. Upon a locals recommendation, we took Route 128E out of the canyon. It was absolutely gorgeous. It runs along the Colorado River. What blew my mind was that the Colorado River runs up, instead of down. The water volume flowing from 1200 miles away, causes the river to flow uphill. It is amazing to watch the parallel river on a 6 degree downgrade, flow uphill. I was in awe, once again! We took it to i70 East and caught a little rain heading into Grand Junction, which followed us to Vail. We can’t complain, as our weather has been perfect till today.
We arrived to Vail at 5:30. Our hotel room, the Christiania at Vail, is five star, robes and all; our wallet did not feel it. I guess it is off season.
We ventured to Up The Creek for an amazing dinner. They definitely employ a magnificent chef. The restaurant is on the creek, and the ambiance is amazing. I had the Braised short rib, accompanied by the Orcchietta pasta embellished with a bacon and gouda cheese sauce. The short rib rested on roasted asparagus. Todd had the NY Strip steak, and this too, was magnificent. Local brew and wine made it even better.
We are feeling so blessed this evening [this entire trip]. We are so grateful we are hiking fools and foodies. I am more blessed for the white feather. While at dinner, a white feather (we were inside) flew to the floor, at my feet. I know where it came from. It came from my beautiful mother in heaven. Mommy, I pray to, and for you daily, thank you for letting me know you are with me.
Tomorrow we will meander around Vail. I will try out my lungs on the Booth Falls Hike, make sure they have acclimated to my new found altitude. Please keep a good thought for me. I was a little winded walking in town today, but that could be because our day was long. Either way, I will keep you posted.
After the hike we will venture to Estes Park for the next 6 days. Hopefully it will include plentiful hikes at RMNP, white water rafting, fine food, good spirits and plentiful photo ops! Peace from Vail.
Somewhere in America 