The Road to Durango
May 12, 2013
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I departed the Santa Fe area for Durango, Colorado, via route 84 on a clear morning before the dense traffic surrounding the city began its morning commute. The previous day I decided not to ride into Santa Fe due to traffic congestion caused by road construction on the outskirts of the city and of course… rain. I turned on my human radar, clicked the button for “hotel immediately”, found a hotel before I was completely soaked and settled in for the night. The following day, about 15 miles up the road and driving through the most beautiful scenery I experienced on this trip, I met an artist drawing a landscape by the side of the road while I was taking pictures. I realized I was only minutes from downtown Santa Fe when I decided to check into the hotel the night before. She owned a studio and lived in a stucco home in the historic part of the city. From her description I regretted not making the visit. Had it not been for the breath-taking white and red buttes and vast expanses spreading out before me, I would have held the regret longer. Moments later as I was framing a picture of the twisting river that no doubt helped form the buttes thousands of years before, my attention had already shifted back to the gratitude I felt for being in this magical land.
I can’t find the words to describe this land. New Mexico has captured my heart. I doubt it will let go any time soon. For my part, it remains tucked securely in a most special place. Enough words. Here are some pictures taken on my trip along route 84 on my way to Pagosa Springs, Colorado, before turning west on route 160 toward my destination for the next few days, Durango, Colorado (more on that in my next post).
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The little village of Abiquiu where Georgia O’Keefe had one of her homes
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Some views from the village – inspiration for O’Keefe
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Walking around the village
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The scenery between Abiquiu and Ghost Ranch
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Colorado in sight
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Coming soon: Three days of delight in Durango with my friends Bill, Bonnie, Gracie, Chance, Ramble, Diesel, Frankie and Poncho.
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All content Copyrighted © Stephen Tavella
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Thank you so much for those pictures and thoughts about New Mexico. I saw all those places as well, it is one of my favorite places on earth, magical and endless.
You’re welcome, Mary. I’ll have to hear some of your stories when I get home. Hope you’re doing well!
Great pictures Steve, looking forward to see more new pictrues. Be safe
Great shots. I used to spend a lot of time on the Chama River. I really miss the area. You are fortunate to be able to spend time there.
Thanks for the comments. I loved Durango. Hope you get a chance to go back.