Tucson to Cortez, Colorado

Hello!

On the road at last, heading north first (and even a bit west) before turning east. Today’s route took us from Tucson to Cortez spending minimal time on the freeway – the ONLY way to travel! We opted to take the slightly longer but much more pleasant route up Oracle to Globe and Show Low, and through the beautiful White Mountains. Absolutely lovely drive, especially the section going down the Salt River canyon, crossing the river, and then winding up the other side. (Note: Reminiscent of Turkey, where we had to find new windshield wipers – fortunately we were able to find them in Globe; now all set!) Great weather – lots of black and stormy looking clouds, and we did drive through periods of driving rain – absolutely wonderful to those of us who love every drop of rain we can get! To be honest, I think we sometimes forget what a beautiful state we live in! Arizona is truly magnificent!



















Stopped briefly for lunch in Show Low, then headed to Holbrook for the stretch on the freeway from there to Gallup, New Mexico – not far, maybe 80 miles. In Gallup we exited the freeway and headed north through Indian reservations to cross into Colorado just north of Shiprock. Again, lovely plains, deserted land – wonderful!
We took our time and stopped at numerous scenic overlooks along the way, and tooled into Cortez, Colorado about 5 p.m.











Neither of us can remember being here before, which is surprising, as it is very close (about 44 miles) to Durango, where we have been often. At any rate, Cortez is a really charming community, mostly lying alongside the highway to Mesa Verde National park. Had reserved at the Best Western Turquoise Inn. Very, very nice place. Lovely staff; very helpful. Our room, 219, is on the second (top) floor in the corner – very nice and private, as no one next to us on one side. As I hadn’t had any exercise today, other than sitting and/or driving, I took a nice 50 minute walk up and back the gently sloping hills of town. A bit dusty, but really pleasant community.

Back in time to head out for dinner. We picked Ko-Ko’s (which we found is short for Kokopelli) because they grill all their meals outdoors, and were really not disappointed. (Sorry, no photos of food yet – we brought the camera, but were too tired to think about using it before starting dinner!) Ko-Ko’s was about a mile and a half down the street, and we had a very nice meal. R had salad with balsamic vinaigrette, garlic mashed potatoes, and grilled trout stuffed with veggies. I had a lime marinated chicken breast with garlic mashed potatoes and the same salad. All excellent! Very good choice for first night out! Stopped by Safeway on the way back to the motel to pick up some fruit and hummus (always a good combination!). Now safely ensconced in room, planning tomorrow’s tour of Mesa Verde! Very excited!!

Lots of love, and more tomorrow!
m
xxx