Good for the Soul

The pure mountain air, the whispering aspens and the solitude (and lack of any kind of news) are just what we needed. It definitely soothes the soul.

Today we drove across Independence Pass. It’s the highest paved mountain path in North America and passes over the Continental Divide. The road is steep, narrow, twisty and has only a few guardrails. It wasn’t the scariest road Jon has ever driven. The Road to Hana holds that distinction.

Of course there were a few stops…

The first one was the Grottos. It’s a hike to a cascades of waterfalls with interesting rock formations and ice caves along the way.

You can’t do this drive without stopping at the Continental Divide, the numerous scenic pullouts, the perfect place for a picnic lunch and ending at the highest town in Colorado. Check. Check. And check

You know those signs that say “Watch for Falling Rock”? Have you ever actually seen any? On our way back over Independence Pass to Aspen there were two huge boulders in the road that were not there before. By huge I mean the size of a small car. Huge. Ever wonder what happens to them? A snowplow plows them to the side of the road. I really wish I would’ve taken some pictures. But I’m not a photographer. The photographer was driving. My inclination is just to observe. It wasn’t until we were 1/2 mile down the road that I even though about it.

It’s early to bed tonight. Tomorrow we are getting up way before sunrise to see the sun rise on the Maroon Bells.

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