While I was out taking an evening walk, I decided to try to capture some southwestern sunset photos. Mother Nature wasn't as cooperative this evening as she is some evenings.
After two peaceful weeks in Dripping Springs, I headed south toward Tucson, stopping and spending a good portion of the day at the spectacularly interesting Biosphere 2.
Although this wasn't much of a hike, I knew I wanted to stop and see one of the largest natural arches in New Mexico while I passed through the El Malpais National Monument.
With all that I've been learning about taconite and iron mining over the last few weeks, I decided to visit one more historic site connected with iron ore mining around Lake Superior.
To say I enjoyed myself with my friends Lynn and Erik would be a monstrous understatement; leaving was difficult, but I had a lighthouse and waterfalls to visit on Lake Superior.
Since I met Lynn and Eric on a climbing trip with Erik's brother, it should come as no surprise that we had to go and find an absolutely spectacular place to get up on the rock.
Driving through Sioux Falls, I had to stop and see the waterfalls and park. Plus, the park has a multi-story observation tower that provides a panoramic view of the falls and city.
After a busy day of laundry, errands, visiting a cathedral, and hiking in the path of Jessie James, I rolled into Jasper, MN, for a night at a campground with electricity and an outhouse.
On my way to Vermilion, SD, to deal with Internet challenges, I had to cross the Missouri River. I thought the overlook was a quick place for a photo, but it had a nature trail too.
Having camped at the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area a few years ago, I wanted to return and check out one of the more isolated areas, and Firehole Canyon was perfect.
There's a fantastic little bit of BLM land just outside of the City of Rocks that offers free camping. There is easy access into the city and, of course, into Almo for a beer and a burger.
I hiked up to the summit of Saddle Mountain as a reward for getting my new business launched. It was a beautiful day, and I had the mountain all to myself.
Explore the ruins of Van Patten’s Mountain Camp and Boyd Sanitarium at Dripping Springs in New Mexico’s Organ Mountains—rich in history, desert beauty, and healing lore.
