South West Galleries

Vallecito Reservoir Area : Our cabin was situated right along the river that feeds the man-made Vallecito Reservoir. Large portions of the surrounding area burned several years ago, so many nearby trees were dead. Nevertheless, there is a particularly nice and long hiking trail to the North that climbs the mountains and overlooks the river from a high altitude, and this part wasn't harmed in the fire. My brother and I spent a few hours on this trail on our last day there, which was an enjoyable and relatively relaxing way to conclude the vacation.

Vallecito Reservoir Area

Our cabin was situated right along the river that feeds the man-made Vallecito Reservoir. Large portions of the surrounding area burned several years ago, so many nearby trees were dead. Nevertheless, there is a particularly nice and long hiking trail to the North that climbs the mountains and overlooks the river from a high altitude, a ...

Updated: Aug 16, 2006 3:40pm PST

Mesa Verde and Cliff Dwellings : Although it was a lot of driving for a few cool cliff dwellings, the scenery was great and the dwellings we could get close to were really neat. Of course, it started pouring right after we got down to the only one that wasn't near the road. After waiting a while for the rain to lessen, we finally ran back during a lull, still getting rather soaked. But it was invigorating, despite the altitude!

Mesa Verde and Cliff Dwellings

Although it was a lot of driving for a few cool cliff dwellings, the scenery was great and the dwellings we could get close to were really neat. Of course, it started pouring right after we got down to the only one that wasn't near the road. After waiting a while for the rain to lessen, we finally ran back during a lull, still getting r ...

Updated: Aug 16, 2006 3:05pm PST

Durango, Silverton & Surrounding Area : Durango is known partially for an original coal steam train that still travels to Silverton, a still-inhabited mining town. Silverton's population is about 500 and its primary industry these days is tourism, which is what the train is now used for. On our visit, we went on a jeeping tour of the surrounding mountains and abandoned mine shacks. Our guide drove us in an open-backed Hummer along narrow rocky roads up to areas of alpine tundra. Gorgeous scenery and wonderfully crisp, cool air made it the highlight of the trip. Also in Durango is touristy yet classy shopping and other family activities such as river rafting.

Durango, Silverton & Surrounding Area

Durango is known partially for an original coal steam train that still travels to Silverton, a still-inhabited mining town. Silverton's population is about 500 and its primary industry these days is tourism, which is what the train is now used for. On our visit, we went on a jeeping tour of the surrounding mountains and abandoned mine s ...

Updated: Aug 16, 2006 2:44pm PST