PAGOSA SPRINGS, COLORADO

Jeanne wanted a stay at home day so Allan wanted to take a trip over Wolf Creek Pass to Pagosa Springs.  I had never been there before, but had heard from other sources it was scenic and a nice place to visit.  It was easier taking the Jeep rather than the motorhome especially since when we leave Del Norte we will be going to Santa Fe.  Wolf Creek Pass is well known for its long steep grades up one side and down the other.  Three days before my trip, Wolf Creek Pass had received its first snow of the year.  The highway was cleared and the snow had been melting.  There were some beautiful views from the summit and from multiple viewing areas.  I also took a trip up a snow covered dirt road and was able to look down on the ski resort.  On the Pagosa Springs side I stopped at a waterfall named Treasure Falls.  Pagosa Springs is famous for its hot mineral springs.  I passed on those.  It is a big tourist town and there were many people shopping and on their way to view the scenery.  At the Visitor's Center they directed me to some nice scenic drives.  I decided on the East Fork Road that took me 8 miles on an unpaved, very rough road, for high clearance vehicles only. (Jeanne was really glad she didn't go)  I had to continually dodge big rocks, potholes and rocks that had come down off the mountain.  I also had to ford a few streams.  I am glad the Jeep has four wheel drive.  I parked the car and hiked to the base of Silver Falls which was listed as 1/8 mile trail, but it seemed much longer especially because of its steep ascent.  It was worth the effort and I got some nice pictures, but was winded by the time I got back to the car.  Hope you enjoy the slide show.