It has been exactly two weeks since we set off from our Montana home on an exciting cross-country adventure in our 1984 Winnebago.
Our next family destination is on the east coast. Although the logical choice would be to head east from Colorado, our instincts tell us to take a different route. October was upon us, and with no pressing timeline, we decided to follow the weather and embrace the journey. So, we’re heading back to Utah for a while before venturing south and then eventually east.
We updated our families on our route change and expected arrival dates. They knew we were going with the flow, following our hearts, and staying safe. However, it was difficult for them to understand our chosen route, especially when the interstate offers a direct path eastward. We understood their eagerness to see us and appreciated their patience.
As we traveled back to Utah, Brian and I discussed the excitement we felt to be alone for a few weeks exploring the country as nomads. It would be a true test of our skills and the Big Tan Turtle. Of course, with that excitement came a little fear. We don’t know anyone in the middle of the country, so we bear sole responsibility for any challenges that may arise.
During our trip to Colorado, a few days prior, we passed the entrance to Sego Canyon in Utah. According to the Bureau of Land Management, “Sego Canyon contains three culturally distinct styles of rock art: Fremont, Ute and Barrier-style. A well preserved ghost town and ruins of a coal mine are located nearby.” We couldn’t wait to explore the petroglyphs and pictographs left by different cultures thousands of years ago.
After a short drive, we parked the Big Tan Turtle at Ballard RV Park in Thompson Springs, Utah. The location, water pressure, and laundry facilities were exactly what we needed to spend a few days exploring and preparing for the next part of our trip. The level campsites, reliable cell service, and complimentary Wi-Fi made the campground fee of $33 a day well worth it. We were able to catch up on some work, immerse ourselves in nature, and plan our next few stops.
The following day, we hiked over nine miles to explore the historic rock art and the cemetery in Sego Canyon. The history, plants, landscapes, and rock art made it worth every mile. It was fascinating to see the art that was created so many years ago. What was the meaning behind these drawings? Why were they created? What do they symbolize? We let our imaginations run wild as we explored this area of the country.
Later, we decided to stay closer to the motorhome and explore the Thompson Springs area. On our adventure, we found a food truck called Desert Spoon. The weather was perfect for an outdoor picnic and the burgers and loaded fries were amazing. We continued our stroll through Thompson Springs, admiring the scenery and enjoying each other’s company.
After spending three days in Thompson Springs, it was time to head south to Cortez, Colorado. As we drove through Moab, Utah, we passed the entrances to two of Utah's national parks. Although we hold an annual pass for entry, we decided to save those adventures for another day. The scenic landscapes during the drive were stunning enough to make our hearts content. Even the first rain of our trip failed to dampen our spirits, as the Big Tan Turtle handled the conditions with ease, and the scenery continued to amaze us.
We arrived at our destination, Cortez/Mesa Verde KOA around 2 o’clock in the afternoon. This was our first time parking at a KOA and the experience was very pleasant. The view from our RV was breathtaking to say the least. We had views of the Mesa Verde National Park and of the Ute Mountain Reservation.
According to ColoradoInfo.com, “legend has it that this is a Great Warrior God who had come to fight against evil ones causing much trouble. A great battle ensued, and the Warrior God was hurt, so he laid down and fell into a deep sleep. Look carefully at the mountain and you will see him; his head points toward the north, his arms are folded across his chest; his stomach, legs, knees, feet (even toes) are all clearly visible”.
That evening we took a walk around the city park and ventured up the road to explore some of the city. After grabbing dinner and drinks, we headed back to the motorhome to prepare for our next travel day. We reviewed our route, marked our gas stops, and picked a few destination spots for the next night. The next morning, we packed up and headed south.
We can’t wait to come back to Colorado to explore, but the journey must continue.