Black Canyon of the Gunnison

This is a return visit, but has a totally different feel from the last time I was here.

This canyon is stunning.  The sheer walls dropping 2700 feet to a roaring river is something you will not see anywhere else.  

I spent a little more time learning about the history of the canyon and the early explorations.   I really have an appreciation for how hard it must have been to survey this canyon.   And the engineering feat for the 6 mile water diversion tunnel is quite amazing.  The water in this area really has changed the landscape and the possibility for humans to thrive in an otherwise dry, hot environment.

I was able to camp inside the park at the upper campground.  Lots of wildlife.  I had a couple of deer hang out for a while, a cottentail rabbit visit, a ground squirrel,  and more birds than you can imagine.  And after dark, the bats were busy catching bugs.

Nice relaxing day.  Now to get back to civilization to get some work done and take care of some personal businesses.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Olympic NP - Hoh Rainforest

Image
The second most popular stop in Olympic in the Hoh rainforest.  Not much for trails, only about 2.5 total unless you were leaving for the back country.  Lots of people.  Personally,  I thought Sol Duc was nicer and showed better examples of rainforest life. Ended up being a relaxation day.  Catching up on blogs and reading by the river.  Was so nice to have sun and warm weather after Mora, I slept with the canopy off.  Crazy bright moon that was amazing and lots of stars.  Woke up a little damp, but nothing like Mora. 
Read more

Corpus Christi, TX

Image
It has been an amazing week here with Cindy.  I am thankful that even tho we grew apart for several years we were able to reconnect and keep our friendship going.  She has really spoiled me with wonderful home cooked meals, and even let me take over the kitchen one night for me to make home made coconut shrimp. Yum! My first day here, I went out to Mustang Island park too see if the campground was open. No luck, they are still recovering from hurricane damage that happened last August.  I also went down to the National Seashore on Padre. Got lots of good informatioon on beach camping, but was warned that by next week there would be a lot of people around for spring break. It was a nice day on my own exploring the beach and enjoying a little down time.  Such a difference from Big Bend.   Cindy worked out to have a little extra time off work, so we hit the road.  One day went to the aquarium and explored down there and the next she took me out to an isl...
Read more

Joshua Tree NP

Image
The north part of the park is so amazing with all the rock formations and climbing routes. Took the rangers advice and summited Ryan Mountain.  Great views of the entire area.  Felt like standing in top of the world! Another nice warm night in the desert.  I am sleeping so much better with out the cold making me bundle up.  Cold feet keep me up at night! I am starting to realize that I am feeling a little burned out.   I am not appreciating this park the way I should be.  I think it is time to head home and take a rest.  Will sit down and plan out a route and see what is between here and home.
Read more