We had 2 different plans for today depending on the weather. When we awoke the sun was shining. It was 52 degrees and the forecast for the day was sunny with a high of 70. Since we were staying at the same motel for another night we did not have to pack the bike with the extra weight of our luggage. For that reason we chose to ride the more challenging mountain loop. It was time to get rid of those chicken stripes on the new rear tire and drag some pegs through those mountain switchbacks.
After a quick gas stop and a tire pressure check, we headed north around 8:00 AM on 550 out of Durango. It’s known as the Million Dollar Highway. This road takes you into some high mountain passes with altitudes over 11,000 feet as you pass through the old mining towns of Silverton and Ouway. This is truly God’s country. I felt I was in motorcycle heaven as we passed beautiful mountain streams and waterfalls all along the route.
When we reached the town of Montrose, we turned east on 50 and headed to Gunnison. We then took 149 south through the Rio Grande National Forest. As we motored through the forest the large Cottonwood trees were shedding their cotton and as it drifted in the breeze it appeared as if it was snowing in June.
We picked up 160 west in South Fork and traveled through Pagosa Springs and Chimney Rock as we headed back to Durango. We arrived at home base around 6:00, cleaned the bugs off the bike and had some dinner again at the Texas BBQ place across the street.
Tomorrow we’re heading east and dropping down into New Mexico briefly before visiting San Luis where Tom’s family has some property.
Life is good.
Total miles: 402 Butt factor: 3
%5D.JPG)
Can the sky get any more blue?
ReplyDelete