Weekend Out West

06/20/2024

06/19/2024

Greer, AZ FSR 87

06/17/2024

What is a great Small town to Celebrate the 4th of July in the Southwest?
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06/17/2024

🎆🏔Why You Need to Visit Ouray for the 4th of July Weekend🌲🦌

🛤Nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, Ouray, Colorado, is a hidden gem that promises an unforgettable 4th of July weekend. Often referred to as the "Switzerland of America," Ouray offers a unique blend of historic charm, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant local culture. Here’s why you should make Ouray your destination for this Independence Day.

✅The Ultimate 4th of July Celebration
Ouray’s 4th of July celebration is nothing short of spectacular. The festivities kick off with a charming small-town parade that winds through Main Street, featuring colorful floats, marching bands, and local groups showing off their patriotic spirit. Following the parade, the town hosts a variety of family-friendly activities, including games, live music, and delicious food vendors. As the sun sets, the celebration culminates in a breathtaking fireworks display that lights up the majestic mountain backdrop, creating a truly magical experience.

🛤Convenient Driving Distances
One of the many advantages of Ouray is its accessibility from larger cities and airports. The town is approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ), which offers several direct flights from major hubs. If you're driving from Denver, expect a scenic 5.5-hour drive covering about 300 miles. From Grand Junction, you can reach Ouray in about 2.5 hours. Additionally, Ouray is approximately 8 hours (530 miles) from Phoenix, 6 hours (360 miles) from Albuquerque, and 6.5 hours (370 miles) from Salt Lake City. This makes it a perfect road trip destination, with stunning vistas along the way.

🫔Dining Delights
Ouray boasts a surprisingly diverse culinary scene for such a small town. For breakfast or brunch, try Backstreet Bistro, known for its delicious pastries and cozy atmosphere. For lunch, Maggie’s Kitchen offers mouthwatering burgers and casual fare. When dinner rolls around, head to Brickhouse 737, where you can enjoy innovative dishes crafted from local ingredients. For a fine dining experience, Bon Ton Restaurant in the historic St. Elmo Hotel provides a romantic setting with exquisite Italian and Continental cuisine.

🐢Relax in the Hot Springs
No visit to Ouray is complete without a soak in its famous hot springs. The Ouray Hot Springs Pool offers several pools with varying temperatures, all fed by natural geothermal water. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring. For a more intimate experience, visit the Wiesbaden Hot Springs Spa & Lodgings, where you can enjoy the serene v***r cave and outdoor soaking pool. These hot springs are renowned for their therapeutic properties and stunning mountain views.

🚗Explore the Million Dollar Highway
Just outside of Ouray lies the Million Dollar Highway, a scenic stretch of U.S. Route 550 that offers some of the most breathtaking views in Colorado. This 25-mile drive to Silverton winds through rugged mountain terrain, with sheer cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and awe-inspiring vistas at every turn. It’s a must-do for any visitor, providing numerous opportunities for photography, hiking, and simply marveling at nature’s grandeur.

🌲Ouray, Colorado, is the quintessential 4th of July destination for those seeking a mix of adventure, relaxation, and small-town charm. From the lively parade and dazzling fireworks to the rejuvenating hot springs and delectable dining options, Ouray offers something for everyone. Its convenient location and proximity to the Million Dollar Highway make it an ideal spot for a memorable holiday weekend. Pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to create lasting memories in this picturesque mountain paradise.

06/13/2024

🦌❤️Discover Elkhart, Kansas: A Hidden Gem for Your Next Weekend Adventure🎋☀

✅If you're looking for an unforgettable weekend getaway, Elkhart, Kansas, should be at the top of your list. This charming small town offers a unique blend of community spirit, local charm, and rural beauty that makes it a perfect destination for a relaxing escape. One of the best times to visit is during the Morton County Fair, an annual event that showcases the very best of this vibrant community.

Getting There

✅Elkhart is nestled in the southwestern corner of Kansas, near the borders of Oklahoma and Colorado. The town is easily accessible from several major cities. From Denver, Colorado, it's approximately a 300-mile drive, making it a scenic and manageable road trip. If you're coming from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, the distance is about 270 miles. For those flying in, the closest major airport is in Amarillo, Texas, roughly 150 miles away. Renting a car from the airport will provide a leisurely drive through the beautiful Great Plains, allowing you to fully appreciate the landscape.

The Morton County Fair

✅The Morton County Fair is a highlight of the year in Elkhart, offering a slice of traditional American life that's becoming increasingly rare. The fair typically includes livestock shows, home arts competitions, carnival rides, and a variety of live entertainment. It's an event that brings the whole community together and provides a wonderful opportunity for visitors to experience local culture first-hand.

You can enjoy the excitement of 4-H competitions, where local youths showcase their skills in agriculture and crafts. The fairgrounds also feature an array of delicious food stands offering everything from classic fair treats like funnel cakes and corn dogs to hearty barbecue. Live music performances and tractor pulls add to the festive atmosphere, ensuring there's something for everyone.

Local Dining: El Aguage

✅After a day at the fair, you'll want to refuel at one of Elkhart's best restaurants, El Aguage. Known for its authentic Mexican cuisine, El Aguage offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The menu boasts a variety of flavorful dishes, from sizzling fajitas to savory enchiladas, all prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Don't miss their homemade salsa and guacamole, which perfectly complement their extensive selection of traditional Mexican dishes.

Small-Town Charm: Moore's Food Pride

✅No visit to Elkhart would be complete without stopping by Moore's Food Pride, the town's beloved small-town supermarket. This isn't just any grocery store; it's a cornerstone of the community where locals gather and visitors can get a taste of the friendly, welcoming spirit that defines Elkhart. The store offers a wide selection of groceries, fresh produce, and local specialties, making it easy to pick up supplies for a picnic or stock up on snacks for your trip.

The Three-Point Border

One of the unique attractions near Elkhart is the three-point border where Kansas, Oklahoma, and Colorado meet. This geographic curiosity is a must-visit, providing a great photo opportunity and a chance to stand in three states at once. The drive to the border is scenic, showcasing the expansive prairies and wide-open skies that characterize this part of the country.

Elkhart, Kansas, may be a small town, but it offers a big-hearted welcome and a wealth of experiences that make it an ideal destination for a weekend adventure. From the lively atmosphere of the Morton County Fair to the delicious offerings at El Aguage and the charming community hub of Moore's Food Pride, there's plenty to see, do, and savor. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to discover the hidden gem that is Elkhart, Kansas.

06/12/2024

❤️🌲ASHLAND, OREGON ⛰️🇺🇸

🏔️Nestled in the picturesque Rogue Valley of southern Oregon, Ashland is a small town that packs a big punch when it comes to charm, culture, and outdoor adventures. Whether you're an arts aficionado, nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Ashland promises a week of delightful experiences that will leave you longing to return.

🏰One of the crown jewels of Ashland is the renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF). Founded in 1935, the OSF is one of the oldest and largest professional non-profit theaters in the United States. Running from February through October, the festival stages a diverse repertoire of plays, including the works of Shakespeare, contemporary dramas, and musicals. The outdoor Allen Elizabethan Theatre, with its stunning backdrop of the Cascade Mountains, provides a magical setting for an unforgettable theatrical experience.

🚗Ashland's downtown area is a vibrant mix of boutique shops, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants. Stroll down Main Street and discover unique stores offering handcrafted jewelry, fine art, and locally-made goods. Don't miss the chance to visit Lithia Park, a 93-acre oasis in the heart of the town. Designed by John McLaren, the landscape architect behind San Francisco's Golden Gate Park, Lithia Park features beautiful gardens, tranquil ponds, and miles of walking trails. It's the perfect spot for a leisurely picnic or a peaceful afternoon of reflection.

🍱Foodies will delight in Ashland's culinary scene, which boasts a variety of farm-to-table restaurants, cozy cafes, and wine bars. The region's rich agricultural heritage ensures a bounty of fresh, local ingredients, which are artfully prepared by talented chefs. Pair your meal with a glass of wine from one of the nearby vineyards in the Rogue Valley, an up-and-coming wine region known for its excellent Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Tempranillo.

🚣🏾For outdoor enthusiasts, Ashland serves as a gateway to a myriad of adventures. Just a short drive away is the stunning Crater Lake National Park, home to the deepest lake in the United States. The sapphire-blue waters of Crater Lake, surrounded by sheer cliffs and volcanic formations, provide a breathtaking backdrop for hiking, boating, and photography. Closer to town, the Ashland Watershed Trails offer miles of hiking and mountain biking paths with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.

❄️In the winter months, nearby Mount Ashland transforms into a snowy playground for skiers and snowboarders. With over 200 acres of skiable terrain, it’s a fantastic destination for both beginners and experienced winter sports enthusiasts.

Ashland is conveniently located for those traveling by air or car. The closest major airport is Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR), which is approximately a 20-minute drive (about 15 miles) north of Ashland. For those coming from larger cities, Ashland is about a 5-hour drive from Portland, Oregon (285 miles) and about a 6-hour drive from San Francisco, California (375 miles).

Driving distances from airports and larger cities:

Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR): 15 miles, 20-minute drive
🍎Portland, Oregon: 285 miles, 5-hour drive
🌊San Francisco, California: 375 miles, 6-hour drive
☃️Sacramento, California: 300 miles, 5-hour drive

🍇Whether you're soaking in a play at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, savoring a gourmet meal downtown, or exploring the natural beauty of the Rogue Valley, Ashland offers a perfect blend of cultural richness and outdoor adventure. It's a town that invites you to slow down, savor each moment, and immerse yourself in its unique charm. So pack your bags and get ready for a week of unforgettable experiences in Ashland, Oregon!

06/12/2024

Antelope Near Greenspeak

06/11/2024

🦅🏔Journey Through the Heart of Arizona: Morenci to Alpine Along US Route 191🌲🏕

Arizona's US Route 191 offers one of the most captivating drives in the American Southwest, particularly the stretch from Morenci to Alpine. This journey takes travelers through a diverse landscape, from the desert's edge to the lush forests of the White Mountains, offering breathtaking views and a sense of Arizona's rich natural beauty.

🚌Brief History of US Route 191

US Route 191, formerly known as US Route 666, has a storied past. Originally designated in 1926, US Route 666 earned the nickname "The Devil's Highway" due to its number. However, the route was renumbered in 2003 to US Route 191, largely due to concerns about the negative connotations associated with the number and to discourage the frequent theft of road signs bearing the "666" designation. This change marked a new chapter for the route, emphasizing its role as a critical north-south corridor through the heart of the American Southwest.

✅The Journey Begins in Morenci

Starting in Morenci, travelers find themselves in a town steeped in mining history. Morenci is home to the largest copper mining operation in North America, the Morenci Mine. The town's landscape is dominated by the vast open-pit mine, a testament to the region's industrial heritage. As you leave Morenci, the road starts to wind its way up into the mountains, offering a stark contrast to the industrial scenery below.

👀The Coronado Trail Scenic Byway

As US Route 191 heads north from Morenci, it becomes part of the Coronado Trail Scenic Byway. Named after the Spanish explorer Francisco Vásquez de Coronado, this stretch of highway is renowned for its challenging driving conditions and stunning vistas. The road is narrow and winding, with numerous switchbacks that demand careful navigation. However, the effort is well worth it, as the views are nothing short of spectacular.

🏔Ascending Into the White Mountains

The elevation steadily increases as you drive north, and the landscape transforms from arid desert to lush forest. The transition is marked by the appearance of ponderosa pines and other high-altitude flora. Along the way, there are several lookout points where travelers can stop to take in panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. These spots are perfect for photography, offering stunning backdrops of mountains and valleys.

🏕Hannagan Meadow: A Serene Stop

About halfway between Morenci and Alpine lies Hannagan Meadow, a perfect place to take a break. This high-altitude meadow sits at an elevation of over 9,000 feet and is surrounded by dense forest. The area offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. In the winter, it transforms into a snowy wonderland, attracting snowshoers and cross-country skiers.

Into the Heart of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest

Continuing north, US Route 191 passes through the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. This vast forest covers more than 2 million acres and is home to diverse wildlife, including elk, deer, and black bears. The forest's rivers and lakes are popular spots for fishing and boating, making it a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Arriving in Alpine

The drive culminates in the charming town of Alpine, nestled in the White Mountains at an elevation of 8,050 feet. Alpine serves as a gateway to some of Arizona's most pristine wilderness areas. The town itself is a haven for those seeking a peaceful retreat, with cozy cabins, quaint inns, and friendly local establishments.

The drive from Morenci to Alpine along US Route 191 is more than just a road trip; it's an adventure through some of Arizona's most beautiful and diverse landscapes. From the industrial heritage of Morenci to the serene beauty of Alpine, this journey offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and adventure. Whether you're an avid outdoorsman, a history buff, or simply someone who loves a good scenic drive, US Route 191 has something for everyone.

06/10/2024

🚗🌲Discover the Charm of Truckee, California: Your Ideal Weeklong Getaway🏂⛳️

🏔Nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains, Truckee, California, is a picturesque small town that promises an unforgettable weeklong adventure. From its rich history and vibrant arts scene to its stunning natural beauty and plethora of outdoor activities, Truckee has something for everyone. Here’s why you need to pack your bags and head to this charming destination for your next vacation.

🌲A Gateway to Natural Wonders

Truckee’s location is one of its biggest draws. Situated just 12 miles from the famous Lake Tahoe, it serves as the perfect base for exploring this iconic region. Whether you're into skiing, hiking, mountain biking, or simply soaking in breathtaking views, Truckee has it all. In the winter, the nearby Northstar California Resort and Squaw Valley offer world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities. During the warmer months, Donner Lake and the Truckee River are hotspots for water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing.

🚂Rich Historical Heritage
History enthusiasts will find Truckee fascinating. The town played a significant role during the California Gold Rush and the construction of the transcontinental railroad. Take a stroll through Truckee’s Historic Downtown, where the preserved 19th-century buildings house boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes. Don’t miss the Donner Memorial State Park, which commemorates the ill-fated Donner Party. The park’s visitor center provides a deep dive into the region’s pioneer history.

A Vibrant Cultural Scene

Truckee is not just about outdoor adventures; it also boasts a thriving cultural scene. The town is home to numerous art galleries, showcasing works by local artists inspired by the area’s natural beauty. Throughout the year, Truckee hosts various cultural events, such as the Truckee Thursdays street fair during the summer, where you can enjoy live music, local food, and artisanal crafts.

🥑Culinary Delights

Foodies will be delighted by Truckee’s diverse culinary offerings. From gourmet restaurants to charming diners, the town has a vibrant food scene that caters to all tastes. Enjoy farm-to-table cuisine at Stella Restaurant, savor authentic Mexican flavors at Casa Baeza, or grab a casual bite at Jax at the Tracks, a classic diner featured on Food Network’s "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives."

🚘Convenient Accessibility

Truckee is easily accessible, making it a convenient destination for travelers. If you’re flying in, the closest major airport is Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO), approximately 40 miles away, a scenic drive that takes about 45 minutes. For those coming from larger cities, here are the driving distances:

🚘San Francisco, CA: 200 miles, roughly a 3.5-hour drive.
🚗Sacramento, CA: 100 miles, approximately a 1.5-hour drive.
🏂Reno, NV: 32 miles, around a 40-minute drive.
These distances make Truckee an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, offering a tranquil and refreshing change of pace.

⛳️Accommodations for Every Preference
Truckee offers a range of accommodations to suit every preference and budget. Whether you’re looking for a cozy cabin, a luxurious resort, or a charming bed and breakfast, you’ll find plenty of options. For a unique experience, consider staying in one of the historic lodges that provide a blend of rustic charm and modern comfort.

Truckee, California, is a destination that beautifully combines history, culture, and nature. Its convenient location, rich heritage, vibrant arts scene, and diverse outdoor activities make it the perfect spot for a weeklong getaway. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history buff, or someone looking to relax and unwind, Truckee has something special to offer. Plan your trip today and discover why this small town in the Sierra Nevada mountains is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

06/10/2024

To all the wild land crews, Godspeed!!!

06/10/2024

Yurt Colorado City

06/10/2024

The Western United States boasts an incredible array of fascinating destinations. My aim for this page is to spotlight some of the best spots perfect for an unforgettable weekend getaway.