Wednesday, May 3
With temperatures in the 70s, today is perfect for a windows-open drive through scenic Rainbow Canyon!
Less than a mile from our RV Park, we turn onto Route 317.
We pass the entrance to Kershaw Ryan State Park and continue southward. The paved, two-lane road follows alongside Meadow Valley Wash.
At the Longhorn Cattle Company, the Perfect Tow Vehicle stops so I can photograph the longhorns. They are dwarfed by the immense canyon wall.
I choose a group and zoom in . . . . Awww . . .
Next we come upon a flock of turkeys!
The PTV creeps forward. Two toms are in display and I assume this is the cause of the excited gobbling. What a ruckus!
This guy takes his show to the road.
It’s hard to imagine that the canyon was the site of a massive flood in early 2005.
As the water roared down Meadow Wash, it ripped up train tracks, bending and tossing them aside.
The line across the bottom of the next photo is the new track line. Trains travel through here regularly. I hear them from the RV park as they go through Caliente.
I want a better look at the red rock in the photo above. In photo editing, I crop out this section. Wow!
My favorite scenic drives are the ones less traveled. We meet only one vehicle on this drive, a road crew truck.
Several times we slow or stop for repair work on low sections of the road.
No marked trails are apparent along this route.
It’d be nice to take Reggie on a hike. Well, no matter. If there were trail heads, there would be people and vehicles.
Anyway . . . There will be trails in our future.
“That’s called The End of the Rainbow Canyon Ranch, Reg. I bet you’d like to get out. I’ll let you out in a minute, up here at the schoolhouse.
Elgin School has been designated a Nevada historical landmark.
The PTV rumbles over three railroad tracks.
The one-room schoolhouse opened in 1922 for children in grades one through eight. We don’t go inside because tours of the renovated building are by appointment only.
The last student graduated in 1967.
See the slide in the photo above? Do you remember playground equipment made out of metal? That metal would get so hot you’d burn your legs on the way down.
Reggie enjoys a brief walk-about and a drink.
I pop him into the Perfect Tow Vehicle and we travel through the canyon again, heading north toward home.
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“Almost home, Reg. You’ve been such a good boy today.”
rvsue
THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING AMAZON FROM MY BLOG!
Every order, large or small, is appreciated. Here are links to a few of the items readers ordered from Amazon during the month of April:
eBags Crew Cooler II
Tunnel Self Feeder for Cats
Teva Women’s Tirra Sandal
Stylish Camping Director’s Chair
RV Extreme Tank & Sensor Cleaner
Sambucus Elderberry Immune Syrup
CLICK LINK TO SHOP AMAZON NOW!
First?
GOOD GOLLY, CYNTHIA IS FIRST TODAY!
Second?
AND LOOKEE HERE, DAWN IS SECOND!
Third?
FROM THE MEN’S DIVISION, BRUCE COMES IN AT THIRD PLACE!
Good morning! Lovely photos, does this mean your new computer is up and running and not giving you too many hassles?
Good morning, Lee J.,
Yes, I’m using my new computer. It has Windows 10 which is in its own category of hassle, but I’m working the bugs out. As for blog glitches, some remain. The inverter is supposed to arrive today which will allow me to blog without hook-ups.
If that is Win 10 Home, consider an upgrade to Win 10 Pro. My son upgraded mine and it’s better.
Now that I’ve gone back to read … the photos of the cliff walls and canyons are beautiful. I love the way there are a few spots of green clinging for life on the cliff walls and then a crowd of green trees down in the canyons. And the longhorn mamas and their baby calves – too adorable. Dd you notice the colors and markings on that first mama are very similar to Reggie’s colors? Maybe he’s a longhorn terrier!!
Ha! I hadn’t thought of that, Cynthia. Maybe the cow is a terrier longhorn!! 🙂
Double ha!! I hadn’t thought of that one!
Or longhorn terrier LOL
Hi Sue, Awesome, once again. Enjoy your blog so much!
I would like to share with you and other bloggers: As I was investigating the areas you mentioned on google maps, I noticed something exiting — Kershaw Ryan State Park Hiking Trail can be viewed by the “street view” little man –> That means you can take a hike through that park today view street view!!! I have never seen this work for hiking paths before but it was very exiting to take a walk through it!!!
Thanks again for all your wonderful posts! Will be eagerly waiting your next post:-)
Oh, boooo! Now when I show the trail on my blog next week, it will be old news!
That’s okay, Lee Ann. I’m happy you are enjoying my blog. 🙂
Oh please do share those photos still! Please!!!!
I am absolutely certain you’re photos will far exceed both quality and content than those presented by the little google man! Your photos of nature are so professional… as if they were taken by an actual National Geographic professional photographer, 🙂 and I truly mean that😊
YEP! AGREED!
Thank you, Lee Ann and Dawn.
Wow. Okay, not completely jealous because it’s pretty here in the mountains of Asheville, too, but I am hankering to be on the road! Love the pics as always!
Quick update – finally got the roof sealed, the corner trim sealed, and vent gaskets done. Some struggles – can’t replace my front vent garnish and screen (which are cracked and broken) because it’s so old – would have to replace the whole vent. So just painted so it’s white at least and going to just have to take my chance on a vent crank. And I’m not going on that roof again until I get a ladder put on – scratched up my paint with lean-to. I will say Camping World and Ace groan to see me coming each weekend I think! Ace staff has been so helpful, however.
Fridge doesn’t work – may have already reported that – but expected that. PO disclosed that. I did discover as I went to test out my water system that the converter, main wiring and the WATER pump are all housed together in the same area. Can we say problem waiting to happen? So the next two weekends I have some work ahead of me while I reconfigure some things.
Then, the 15th she finally gets to go to the mechanics!!! He’s going to see if we can adjust the carb to get her running as well as she was before she left Denver and then go over her with a fine tooth comb…oil, fluids, brakes, suspension, and anything else we can think of 🙂
Also, I have registered for fall semester – two professors are agreeing to work with me remotely – so first major trip to Denver falling in place and I have two willing to do so again in spring so I can head out to Quartzsite and start my thesis.
Feels like things have really started falling in place, so you know I’m excited. It’s been a lot of years dreaming so just want to pass on to any of your blogorinos that it just takes persistence and faith. I really do believe if you believe and put action (even if it is just baby steps) into your dreams they will eventually come to you.
Course – still got a lot of work ahead! Thanks for all your inspiration Sue and Reg Man!
You’re welcome, Dawn, and thank you for an inspiring comment today!
Dawn, your comment about believing and putting action into your dreams reminded me of one of my favorite quotes from the mountaineer William Hutchison Murray in “The Scottish Himalayan Expedition”:
“Until one is committed there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back, always ineffectiveness. Concerning all acts of initiative (and creation), there is one elementary truth, the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then Providence moves too.
All sorts of things occur to help one that would never otherwise have occurred. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one’s favour all manner of unforeseen incidents and meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamt would have come his way. I have learned a deep respect for one of Goethe’s couplets:
Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it.
Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it.”
Those are PERFECTION. Thank you for sharing. Both of those are going up in my RV as inspiration 🙂 It’s easy to forget when things have been slogging along for awhile! I mean, I used to know it, but the last decade seems to have wilted. Probably, in hindsight, because I did!
You are welcome!!
If you need to lean a ladder against your trailer again….
to prevent the ladder from scratching head to the hardware store and purchase the split foam insulation meant for putting around pipes. It comes in a variety of diameters. Then just slip it around the structure of the ladder and use a bit of duct tape to hold it in place. Now you have a cushioned surface on the ladder that won’t scratch the trailer 🙂
Excellent idea!
I see on Google maps there is what looks like an impressive train station there?
Dave
Yes… I might go look at it today.
Almost top 10!!!
🙂
It’s dry in Mi today after what seems like a week of constant rain. Ugh. Doggy muddy foot prints.
Those dog foot prints can make a mess of one’s floor and then the time comes when one wishes for the footprints to return.
I’m glad you’re having a break from the rain, Pat. Enjoy!
Looks like one of the best spots you’ve shown us .
Hi, chas . . . .”One of the best spots” EVER? In six years of blogging? Or maybe you mean around Caliente…
Oooh! I love the spotted bighorn! And, WOW! Great photos of such a great area. We can’t wait to get back there again. We loved it too!
Have an awesome day Sue and Mr Reginator. Love your stories Sue. Thanks!!
Suzicruzi 😎
You’re welcome, Suzicruzi! 🙂
Oh goody, previous purchases are listed instead of the ads. I like to check them out. I was wondering as I was reading about your wanderings…what kind of gas mileage do you get on your express van? I have the same chassis on my Roadtrek and I only get 12 mpg..
Loved your post and pictures as always. Give Reggie a snuggle from me and the 3 M’s
Hi, Linda Rose,
I’m glad you like this post.
I haven’t done a careful examination of the PTV’s gas mileage. A few years ago I figured 12-15 mpg while towing in mixed traffic conditions: interstate, stop-and-go, long uphill and downhill grades, cross wind, etc. I think that’s pretty good for a V-8.
I always point out, when talking about the PTV’s mpg, that the total cost of gas per year is a lot less than paying rent. In a way, gas IS my rent. 🙂
Linda, keep in mind your RT is much heavier due to its conversion, than Sues van. Weight definitely affects mileage. Then there is my 8000 lb Leisure Travel van on its diesel Sprinter chassis which I get around 17 mpg town and from 22 to 28 mpg on long trips.!
Well hello Sue and Reggie! What a great report today. Such beautiful scenery. I love traveling this country, so much to see! We too love the solitude of traveling back roads and often do so once we are setup in camp. It’s our discovery and touring trips. Beautiful red rocks too. I’ll have to look up the flood of 2005 in that canyon. Have a great day and weekend.
Hi, Renee,
Yes, do look at the photos of the flood that you’ll find with a search. There’s one of the twisted RR tracks that illustrates the force of the flood.
You have a great weekend, too!
Such pretty country! So different from what we have here in Michigan that is also pretty. I just got back from 10 days in D.C. where it was hot and full out summer…to 45 and rain here. 2 days ago flip flops and shorts, today I was walking Katie-girl and wearing my winter coat, gloves and a hat. Ha. The advantage of living on the road is that if I were….I’d be heading somewhere warmer today!
Wow, that is quite a change in weather for you…. Yes, wheels on one’s home do come in handy. I think it’s fun figuring out where to go in order to live in perfect-as-possible weather.
Longhorns and wild turkeys and canyons, oh my! Hi, Sue – I really enjoy your blog! When I’m reading it on my phone, I don’t comment much. On my laptop, is better, but not comfy sitting at my table. I’ll have to look into one of those curved little posture helpers. I have a tush cush, but then it’s too thick to get long legs under the table.
Thank you! Happy Trails, to you. (Remember when we used to use so many more commas? You don’t see them used nearly as much these days. Saves on ink and paper if printing a book.
Pamelab in Houston for now
Hi, Pamelab,
Now that you mention it, I notice sentences without a period at the end. I guess that’s because it’s easier to leave them out when texting. ?
Thank you for letting me know you enjoy my blog.
Hi Sue & Reg.
Fantastic photos.
Bet Caliente lives up to it’s name in July & August.
Hi, george,
A high of 87 degrees this fifth day of May is an indication that, yes, Caliente does get hot. Weather Underground reports that Las Vegas’s high for the day is 99. It also states that Caliente is heading into a cooling trend in a few days, highs in the high 60s.
Thanks for noting my photos, George.
Hi Sue (and Reggie)
Well you’ve hooked me on Caliente. I looked around on the internet about this cool little town and checked out Young’s RV park. I love peaceful and what you’ve written and photographed looks like it fits the bill. I can’t wait to visit in person.
Take care,
Karen
Hi, Karen,
It is a nice park. What I like are the neighbors — They tend to leave by 9 a.m. or so, leaving the park empty for us. 🙂 Today everyone was gone, including the long-timers who are working people. Very quiet, day and night, except for an occasional train whistle.
What a great little outing! Thanks for taking us along.
I’m so happy the list of recent purchases is back. I just love that thing. Silly, isn’t it? I usually click on each one and see what everyone is buying. And, I get really excited when I see one of my own purchases on the list.
I’m easily entertained. 🙂
Have a great day, you two!
Hi, Suzette,
I didn’t realize the popularity of that list until I didn’t post it. You “get really excited” when you see one of your own purchases…. so do I! 🙂
I hope you are having a great day, too!
Beautiful scenery photos, Sue. Wish I was seeing that scenery first hand. I certainly remember those hot metal slides. Burned my legs more than once.
70 degree weather sounds good to me. We have been having light rain and cold all day today. The high was 51. It will be down in the 40’s for the next 2 nights, but 70’s during the day assuming the rain really is leaving. I’m tired of the cold, rainy, and dreary weather for a while. On the upside, we no longer have drought conditions.
Hubby is slowly improving, but can’t come home yet. He sees the Orthopedic doc next week for x-rays and to learn if he can start putting weight in his knee joint.. if he can, hopefully he will be home by June 1st. He is wearing me out to leave rehab. Ugh!!!!
Thanks for the report on your husband, Barbara. I’m glad he’s making progress, although I can understand you both wanting it to move along more quickly.
Hi Sue,
Such pretty country out west but honestly, pretty can be found anywhere if you really keep an open mind. It is pretty in different ways. Terrain may be different but there is beauty everywhere.
Enjoy the beauty of your current place and I am always looking forward to what you will show us next!
You’re absolutely right, Jolene. Beauty can be found most anywhere.
Great photos as usual! Longhorn mama with calf is so cute.
Thank you, Carolyn.
Gorgeous country AND cattle make for a perfect blog entry today.
Cattle for you, Susan! 🙂
What is the white ‘thing’ in the center of the pic with Reggie looking out the window?? Can’t seem to figure it out??
Hi, Sandy,
That white thing is water shooting upward from a big pipe or something. I think it might be for filling irrigation canals in the orchard. I really don’t know.
Great photos and interesting history. Thanks.
You’re welcome, Martha. Always happy when someone likes my photos. Thanks.
Such a pretty place! And so nice there are no crowds. I love it when I go places and there is no one else there.
The turkeys made me smile. I grew up in MA and the wild turkeys were pretty much gone. They’ve come back now and there are flocks of them all over the place.
Longhorn terrier = Reggie in devil mode. 🙂
Hi, ValGal . . . The turkeys are fun to watch and to hear. They make me smile, too.
Great photos and post Sue,,, we just arrived at McPhee Camp Ground above Cortez, Colorado and are paid up till Thursday morning, might get a little snow this coming week, but it’s a great spot, # 22,, haven’t had Internet since the 1st till now, 3 to 4 bars@4G at our camp site,, have a great weekend and stay safe and give Reggieman a huge hug from us,,,,, 👣👣🐾
Hi, Rusty,
I know where you are! We almost went there. I hope you enjoy your camp. You’re moving quickly… in Colorado already. 🙂
Thanks for stopping by with an update on your trip. Have a super weekend with Lady Piper!
You’re welcome and I’ll keep ya posted where we are or been, so don’t worry if ya don’t hear from us all the time, no Internet access will be our reason, have a pleasant evening you 2,,,,, 👣👣🐾
Another cliffhanger…”trails in [your] future”😃
What amazing photos! And I love those longhorn mamas and babies.
Thank you, Marcia.
Some years ago, as we came home to the barn apt we lived in while in Virginia, we had a tom turkey fight going on…Hubby tried honking the horn, whistling loudly, yelling, etc. NOTHING deterred those boys!! If a predator came along, they would have had a 2 turkey meal!! The owners had lived years on that property and had never seen that. Said it was very rare to see…so you saw something few people apparently get to see!!
More hospital tests tomorrow for our granddaughter, just 4 years old. Any one who can pray is much appreciated!! So far no one will say or can see what is wrong or what to do for her. It all began shortly after she got 2 immunization shots however. At least the raging fever is down in the 98-100 range…so at least that and she is fairly normal in her playing etc…so we have hope it will get better…so far no help from doctors however!! I had a hard time watching my youngest suffer so much, Sue…and here we are again…sigh!! (My youngest still suffers…just far away and we don’t see it). Hubby talks about RVING full time…but I don’t see an end to this tunnel yet!!
Praying for your Granddaughter Elizabeth.
Prayers for your granddaughter and her loving family..
Will be praying for your granddaughter Elizabeth, and for your entire family and the doctors.
Thank you friends!! Tis appreciated!! She had some tests run today at the hospital…so we hope soon they figure out what is going on!!
Praying for the sweet little thing; God’s perfect and innocent children. xo
Gee, Sue, what a treat seeing all the great photos in this post(of scenery, cows, turkeys and Reggie) was. Seeing that much grandeur, beauty and sweetness all at once can be a bit overwhelming, so I walked away and came back to focus on just a few at a time. The one of the railroad crossing signs and schoolhouse is totally charming! I’m continually amazed by what an artistic eye you have as a photographer.
My elder siblings were taught in a one room schoolhouse for several years. When it closed my father bought the merry go round to put in our yard at home. So,yes, I do remember metal playground equipment, and how hot it became on sunny days. It’s nice that today kids sustain fewer injuries because so much is built with their safety in mind. Still, I really don’t like the newer slides.One can’t gain as much speed on them as we could on the ones that burned our legs.
Did your new inverter arrive yesterday? Will you be moving today or tomorrow , or extending your stay where you are now?
The way you put a small photo into the Amazon section lends it a quite professional touch. I like the whole look of it more than having the printed links and a closing photograph above the comment section.
Hi, weather,
Thank you for complimenting me on my “eye” and for the RR crossing photo. It’s a pleasure to share what I find.
Yes, the inverters arrived yesterday! I paid for a week’s stay at the RV park. That week ends on Monday, so that’s when we move camp. 🙂
Love the longhorns and the turkeys! I went to a one-room school house for 1st and 2nd grades. And we had a very hot metal slide as well!! The colors in the hillsides are beautiful there. Thanks for sharing a lovely day.
Love the turkeys! We have them running around our place right now. Came across a fawn curled up in the grass the other day and yesterday we saw our first Oriole of the summer. They migrate through in May and June. The fix for the hot metal slide? As kids we attached the garden hose to the top of it and made a water slide out of it!
Safe travels!
🙂