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Oregon Trail
Still visible.....The ground was dry in Vernal as we prepared for departure Monday morning. An encroaching thunderstorm grazed us as we rode North, over the East Shoulder of the High Uinta mountains.
Beautiful green meadows and aspens along the road set against some fine twisties and empty road riding.
Passing Flaming Gorge to the East, we flew over a beautiful road toward Rock Springs. The headwind caused horse power envy for Reverend Bill as Reverend Chuck flew through the high-speed sweepers on his R1150GS.
North out of Rock Springs you cross the high basin that the Oregon Trail traversed. It is the lowest point in the continental divide and desolate sage covers the endless expanse. North of Farson, we came across the Oregon Trail itself, wagon ruts still visible just off the highway. The nearby cattle bones reminded us of the severe toil these emigrant pioneers invested in crossing to the their new world.
We were soon in Pinedale provisioning for our evening camp at Granite Hot Springs.
Leaving the highway for the final ten miles up Granite Creek road, we again aired our tires down for the unpaved surface.
An easy gravel and dirt ride up the valley was accented by
Bones
Late for steaks. the dramatic peaks and cornice covered ridges of the Gros Vente mountains.
We found the prime camp spot in the nearly empty campground, made camp, and walked the last mile to Granite Hot Springs.
Built in 1933 by the CCC, the waters were relatively cool at 99F from the Spring runoff of Granite Creek.
It was a pleasant soak as we got acquainted with our campsite neighbors, Scott and Lita.
We walked back to the campground past the falls and were soon enjoying an evening beverage on the point at our camp.
Today (Tuesday) dawned clear and cold, a morning fire keeping the chill at bay.
Wildlife sightings the last day include deer, antelope, elk, moose, water ouzels, and numerous waterfowl.
The beavers, with a huge lodge and abundant damming creates an extensive wetland along Granite Creek across the the campground.
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Chris Allan
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Bones
Missing work so much you have to drag a little ortho into it, eh? Lotsa crafting phrases and clicking pix for a roadtrip! Impressive that you can make the time and find the resources to do it. All right Rev.--thanks for a window on the beautiful world out there...and safe travels. Chris