Adventure In the Southwest

Our recent nine-day road trip through the Southwest was nothing short of spectacular. From the rich cultural heritage of Santa Fe to the breathtaking landscapes of Moab, every stop was filled with awe and adventure. Here’s a recap of our journey.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

We started our trip in the vibrant city of Santa Fe. Known for its Pueblo-style architecture and thriving arts scene, Santa Fe did not disappoint.

Melody in the charming streets of Santa Fe, New Mexico.

We explored the historic Plaza, visited the local Japanese-inspired onsen and spa, and enjoyed the local sopapillas. Santa Fe’s architecture and art scene were truly captivating and it is unlike any other city in the United States I’ve been to due to it’s unique history Pueblo and Spanish history.

Mesa Verde National Park

Our journey continued to Mesa Verde National Park, home to ancient cliff dwellings. The park’s rich history and archaeological sites were fascinating.

Square Tower House | Mesa Verde National Park

We toured the Cliff Palace and learned about the Ancestral Puebloans who built these incredible structures.

Cliff Palace | Mesa Verde National Park

Telluride, Colorado

Next, we headed to Telluride, a charming mountain town surrounded by stunning scenery. The town’s picturesque beauty and outdoor activities were a highlight.

The town of Telluride from the Jud Wiebe Memorial Trail. 05/19/2024

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

After Telluride, CO we visited the Black Canyon of the Gunnison, known for its steep cliffs and dramatic views. The sheer depth and narrowness of the canyon were awe-inspiring.

The painted wall | Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

We hiked along the rim and took in the breathtaking vistas. Mel was afraid I would fall in.

Moab, Utah - Arches and Canyonlands National Park

Moab was our next destination, where we explored Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. The unique rock formations and expansive high desert landscapes were unforgettable.

What Utah puts on it’s license plates | Arches National Park, UT

Me after a three mile hike to Delicate Arch | Arches National Park, UT

On our second day in the park we did the nine mile Devils Garden Trail, which took us to the Landscape Arch, Navajo Arch, Partition Arch, Double O Arch, and the Dark Angel. The trail was a challenging scramble on Navajo sandstone fins but the views of the arches and natural rock formations were worth it.

Melody under the Navajo Arch, Devils Garden Trail | Arches National Park, UT

In Arches, we marveled at the Delicate Arch and the Windows Section. In Canyonlands, we were captivated by the dramatic canyons and mesas in the Island in the Clouds and The Needles Quadrant of the Park.

Dead Horse Point State Park | Moab, UT

A highlight of the trip from me was seeing petraglyphs in Bears Ears National Monument outside of the Needles quadrant of Canyonlands National Park. The petraglyphs were created by the Ancestral Puebloans, Navajo, and Ute people.

Newspaper Rock | Bears Ears National Monument, UT

Return Home

After an amazing journey, we made our way back home, filled with memories of the incredible places we visited. This road trip was an adventure of a lifetime, and we can’t wait for our next one.

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