Rocky Mountain Road Trip | Jackson, Wyoming to Meeker, Colorado

Tetons, Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Early Morning Early Snow

We interrupt our regularly scheduled blog post to share our most recent adventure: a road trip from to Trappers Lake and the Flat Top Wilderness Area in Colorado. We left Jackson Hole first thing last Friday after three solid days of rain; the early morning departure rewarded us with stunning views of the Tetons and its mantle of fresh snow. Intermittent fog blanketed the valley as we headed south, but soon dissipated and we were bombarded with breathtaking scenery and endless photo opportunities, which wreaked havoc with our schedule.

Wind River Range, Wyoming
Wind River Range off in the distance near Pinedale, WY

Just south of Pinedale (where we stopped for breakfast at the Wrangler Cafe) we saw our first herd of antelope.  They were a little camera shy, but looked at us with interest.

Pronghorn Antelope, Wyoming
Pronghorn Antelope Heading South

Once we crossed into Utah, we followed the advice of the National Geographic Guide to Scenic Highways and Byways (highly recommend for any US road trips) —- and took a detour through the Sheep Creek Canyon geological area. Mere words cannot do justice to this slice of heaven, so here is a gallery of photos instead!

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Then to Vernal where we enjoyed enchiladas at Don Pedro’s Mexican Café before continuing on our way. Heading out of town, there was no time to stop, so please forgive the windshield reflection in the portrait of my first ever pink dinosaur!

Pink Dinosaur, Vernal, Utah

We didn’t have time to visit Dinosaur National Monument on this trip, but we’ll be back! It will be fêting its centennial on October 4, 2015.

Dinosaur National Monument, Jensen, Utah
Dinosaur National Monument

Crossing into Colorado, we were struck by the isolation of this cabin and imagined what it would have been like to spend winter there. So glad I have all the modern conveniences at home.

Pioneer Cabin, Rangely, UT

Road into the Wilderness

Soon we reached Meeker, Colorado the gateway to the recreation area where we purchased provisions and the crucial fishing license. Next stop: Flat Tops Wilderness.   More on this phenomenal destination later this week.

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