Category: Travel across the U.S. with HorseTail Legacy LLC Blog
Follow us as we travel across the U.S. with an American Quarter Horse named Irish. The journey will be a modern day version of the pioneers trek to discover this great country. What better way than to do it with America’s horse. Check in often to see all the great place we visit like National and State Parks as well as unique regional attraction.
Grand Canyon National Park is located in Arizona and was officially designated a national park in 1919. The canyon was created after the uplift of the Colorado Plateau. This allowed the Colorado River to carve the one mile deep gorge that is the Grand Canyon. The forces of wind, water, erosion and active faults all contribute to the never-ending formation of the Grand Canyon.
Hermits Rest
Hermits Rest
Hermits Rest
The Abyss
Pima Point
Mohave Point
The geologic wonder that is the Grand Canyon has 40 exposed and identified rock layers that make up the walls of the Grand Canyon. The hard Coconino Sandstone, the Red Wall Limestone that make up the wall and the dry climate all contribute to the rapid downcutting and slow widening of the canyon. The continuous force of the Colorado River as well as flash floods and violent thunder storms are what erodes the rock walls to create the canyon that exists today.
Grand Canyon Vista: Lava Dams
Colorado River in the Grand Canyon
Hopi Point
Battleship Nest
Hopi Point elevation 7,071 feet
California Condor Nest
Yavapai Geology Museum
Cape Royal, Wotans Throne, Vishne Temple
left to right
The Grand Canyon is so massive that it influences the weather in and around the area. The temperature gradients that are caused by the rough terrain and elevation changes affect the amount of solar heating and air circulation throughout the canyon. The lower elevations have the highest temperatures during the day but the rapid heat loss at night can cause the temperature to drop 30 degrees in one day.
Yaki Point
Powell Point
Maricopa Point
The mere size of The Grand Canyon takes your breath away. I can see why it has drawn people to it for 10,000 years. The colors of the rock create amazing vistas that go on for as far as the eye can see. For the explorer, there is the lure of what the canyon will reveal. The adventure seekers can be challenged by trails and the rivers rapids. The Grand Canyon simply inspires. https://www.nps.gov/grca/index.htm
While visiting the Grand Canyon National Park we stayed in Williams, AZ. This town was founded in 1901 and is also known as the “Gateway to the Grand Canyon”. Williams is a cute little tourist town that celebrates the heyday of route 66. As you walk the streets the history of Route 66 is every were from the shops to the restaurants. Williams is also known as the last town on Route 66 to be bypassed by I-40 on October 13, 1984. If you are a Route 66 fan Williams, AZ is a must see.
Frontier Homestead State Park and Museum Cedar City, UT
The Iron Mission State park was started in 1973 as a way to preserve the history of the Mormons who settled in Cedar City. The need for iron in 1847 led to the colonization of the area in 1851. Within 10 months the area had a blast furnace and iron foundry up and running. The name of the park was changed to the Frontier Homestead State Park and Museum in 2009. The park now offers hands-on school programs, living history activities as well as artifact and historic building preservation.
Hunter House. This house was the oldest remaining home in Cedar City
Hunter House Front Room
Hunter House Front Room
Hunter House Bedroom
Hunter House Cradle
Pioneer Cabin built in 1851 by George Woods
This is the oldest Cabin in Southern Utah
Telephone Line Shack built in 1945
Sheep Shearing Shed
The Teacherage
The Pioneer School House that also housed the Teacher
The Teacherage Interior
Map of the United States and the Western Territories
One of the largest collections of horse drawn wagons and carriages is now housed in the museum. Most of the collection came from a private collector named Gronway Parry.
Clarence
Large Family Carriage
The Iron Mission Overland Stage Coach
Brougham
Gentleman’s Carriage and Public Cab
Dairy Wagon
White Hearse
Roof Seat Break
Mountain Wagon
The Green Meenie
Overland Stage Coach
Surrey
The hands-on aspect of this park makes it easy to submerge yourself into life on the frontier. There are pioneer cabins, 19th century printing presses, a 100-year old rug loom, horse drawn farm equipment, and a saw mill. There are also historic structures like the Hunter House. This house was the oldest remaining home in Cedar City. The George Wood cabin is the fifth oldest structure still standing in Utah.
Earthmovers and Scapers
Earthmovers and Scapers
Snow Tank
Iron Ore Shovel
SHE-22 used until the 1970’s
Arrastra: used to crush rock to retrieve iron ore
Replica of the Noble Blast Furnace built in 1854
Wagon
Printing Press
Hay Baler
Fire Engine from the late 1800’s early 1900’s
Two-wheeled Chemical Fire Engine
The Frontier Homestead State Park and Museum is truly a great place to visit. The museum is well organized and engaging. http://www.frontierhomestead.org/
Dead Horse Point State Park Moab, UT
The mesa of Dead Horse Point State Park overlooks the Colorado River and provides views of Canyonlands National Park. The geology of the area has created the 2,000-foot-deep canyon that has been carved out of the ancient sand dunes and sedimentary rock, by wind and water. The park offers hiking and biking trails as well as an informative visitors center.
The plants and animals of the high desert are uniquely adapted to live in this harsh dry climate. The plants grow slowly and remain low to the ground. This helps plants to conserve the limited water and nutrients available to them. Most of the animals are nocturnal and have developed to thrive in this harsh environment over time.
Pinyon Pine
Yucca
Utah Juniper
Blackbrush
Morman Tea
According to legend the peninsula at the end of the mesa was used to corral wild Mustangs during the early 19th century. The horses were herded to the area and the cowboys would select the ones they wanted to keep. The unwanted horses were left to find their own way out. Many horses would die of thirst after they were trapped out on the narrow peninsula overlooking the Colorado River.
The Colorado River from Dead Horse Point State Park
Dead Horse Point State Park
Dead Horse Point State Park
We enjoyed the beauty of Dead Horse Point State Park from the overlooks. We were able to see more of the Colorado River than we could from any of the national parks we visited. The natural landscape around the visitor’s center had many of the native plants along the pathways. Be sure to visit this park if you are in Moab, UT it is well worth the trip. https://stateparks.utah.gov/parks/dead-horse/
Arches National Park located in Moab, UT became a national park on November 12, 1971. Arches is part of the Colorado Plateau with elevations that range from 4,085 – 5,653 feet above sea level. This park boasts the most naturally occurring stone arches in the world at over 2,000. Many of the arches are only visible from the numerous trails that meander through the park. However, the arches are not the only amazing sights to see. There are many plants and animals that call Arches home. Some of the smallest organisms are the biggest contributors to keeping the dessert habitable.
The geology of the area is what allows the relatively rare rock formations to exist. The stone that makes up the arch is a combination of Entrada Sandstone which is very porous and the Carmel layer which is a mix of sand and clay making it much harder. Beneath the surface of all this rock is a thick layer of salt that created a bulging dome of rock. When the dome cracked, the rock formed a series of parallel lines much like fins on a fish. The fins of sandstone are now exposed to rain and wind that slowly erodes holes in the softer rock creating the magnificent arches we see today.
The Rise and Fall of an Arch
Broken Arch
Landscape Arch
Sand Dune Arch
Skyline Arch
Balanced Rock
Delicate Arch
The Three Gossips
There are many plants that have adapted to the extremes of the high desert in Arches. Each is uniquely suited to the elevation and amount of water needed to survive. The cryptobiotic soil crust is a living ground cover that forms a foundation for the plants to grow in. This crust is made up of cyanobacteria, lichens, mosses, green algae, micofungi and bacteria. Together they form an intricate web of fibers that joins the soil particles together into a stable surface that is resistant to wind and water erosion. In addition to holding water and minerals in the soil the cyanobacteria in the crust converts atmospheric nitrogen into a form the plants can use.
Arches Biscuitroot
Cryptobiotic Crust
Arches National Park was the last of the Big Five parks we visited in Utah. Visiting in April was a great time to see the park. The weather was comfortable and the plants were starting to bloom. Walking the trails that took you between enormous rock fins was truly a one of a kind experience. You can feel the wind blowing the fine sand through the gaps and really see how the forces of nature created these amazing natural stone arches.
Canyonlands is divided into four districts, Islands in the Sky, the Needles, the Maze, and the Rivers. Each district is part of the desert landscape that was created by the Green and Colorado Rivers. Canyonlands National Park encompasses 337,598 acres of high dessert of the Colorado Plateau that ranges in elevation from 3,700 to 7,200 feet above sea level.
Canyonlands National Park’s mazes, buttes, rivers, arches, pinnacles and rivers all come together into an amazing geological landscape. The creation of Canyonlands occurred during the uplift of the Colorado Plateau and the cracking of the earth allowed melted rock to rise and cool creating igneous rock surrounded by sedimentary rock. Over time erosion exposed the rock and the water of the Green and Colorado rivers began to create the canyon.
Canyonlands National Park Buck Cayon
Canyonlands National Park
Green River Overlook
elevation 6,000 ft
Canyonlands National Park
Grand View Point
Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park
La Sal Mountains in the distance
The flora and fauna of Canyonlands has adapted to survive in the extreme weather of the high cold dessert. The winters are extremely cold and the summers are extremely hot. In addition, the daily temperature can vary up to 50 degrees. Add in the average amount of rain fall per of 9 inches and you have an environment that is challenging to live in. Still, there are many birds and small mammals that make Canyonlands home. The rivers also provide a habitat for many endangered fish.
Dessert plants have also adapted to living in the dry high dessert. There are plants like the Utah Juniper that can divert fluid to one or more of its’ branches to conserve water so the tree can survive. Other plants will only grow if there is enough water in a given year. Still others have modified leaves that are more like spines that lose less moisture to the air and solar radiation. The Yuccas have extensive taproots that allow it to access water deep in the ground.
Utah Juniper
Two Needle Pinyon Tree
Produces Pine nut every 6 yrs
We only visited the Islands in the Sky region of the park since it was the most accessible area. The other regions are only reached by hiking, off road vehicles or by boat. For me the canyon was visually magnificent. The colors of the rock layers told the story of how the canyon was created over time. The plant life that adapted to the harsh environment is a testament to survival. The rivers are a reminder of the tremendous force that water can exert on the land.
Canyonlands National Park in Utah has something to offer to anyone that wants to explore this beautiful place. For more information about the park, click on the links below.
Red Canyon is located on the route to Bryce Canyon which gives you a glimpse of what you will see at Bryce Canyon. As you travel down highway 12 you see hoodoos rising up next to the road like sentinels guarding the magnificence yet to come. There are even two stone arches that the road passes through. https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/dixie/recreation/recarea/?recid=24942&actid=120
Red Canyon UT
Red Canyon Utah Arch Over the Road
Red Canyon Hoodoo UT
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park is one of the big five national parks in Utah. In 1928, the 35,835 acres that make up Bryce Canyon became a national park. The park is part of the Colorado Plateau and lies on the Paunsaugunt Fault. Bryce Canyon is not truly a canyon because it was formed by headward erosion and not a central stream. The result is a giant natural amphitheater of hoodoos, which are delicate colorful pinnacles that can be as high as 200 feet. The largest of the amphitheaters is Bryce which is 12 miles long and 3 miles wide and 800 feet deep.
The Bryce Amphitheaters can be viewed from the many rim trail overlook points. Each of the overlook points give you spectacular views of the hoodoos that rise up in the Bryce Amphitheater. The hoodoos are not the only amazing thing in Bryce. The clear air allows you to see the Navajo Mountain, the Kaibab Plateau and the Black Mesas of eastern Arizona and western New Mexico. The night sky in Bryce is a stargazer’s dream. The lack of light pollution makes Bryce one of the darkest places in North America.
View From Bryce Point in Bryce Canyon National Park Elevation 8,300 feet
View From Bryce Point in Bryce Canyon National Park
View From Bryce Point in Bryce Canyon National Park
View From Bryce Point in Bryce Canyon National Park
Thor’s Hammer at Sunset Point Bryce Canyon National Park Elevation 8,000 feet
View From Sunset Point Bryce Canyon National Park
View From Sunset Point Bryce Canyon National Park
View From Inspiration Point Bryce Canyon National Park Elevation 8,100 feet
View of Agua Canyon in Bryce Canyon National Park
View of Agua Canyon in Bryce Canyon National Park
View of Agua Canyon in Bryce Canyon National Park Elevation 8,800 feet
View from Rainbow Point in Bryce Canyon National Park Elevation 9,119 feet
The elevation changes in Bryce Canyon creates three life zones that suit a variety of plants and animals. This is very evident when you travel from one overlook to another ultimately to Rainbow Point which is 9,105 feet above sea level. Bryce Canyon was my favorite Utah National Park. The views are breathtaking and the hoodoos and their delicate permanence is captivating.
White-throated swift in Bryce Canyon National Park
Raven at Ponderosa Point in Bryce Canyon National Park
Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel Bryce Canyon National Park
Utah is known for the” big five national parks”, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches and Capitol Reef. We visited four of the five and they are truly amazing. The parks are all part of the Colorado Plateau which occupies 130,000 miles in Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, and Arizona. In this blog, I will be writing about Zion National Park located near Springdale, UT.
Zion became a national park on November 19, 1919 and later the Kolob Canyons area, was incorporated into the park on July 11, 1956. Upon entering the park, you find an outdoor display area at the visitor’s center that explains the history and features of the Zion. There is also a museum about the area and the people that made Zion their home. This is also the location were the ranger talks occur. During the peak season the only way to access most of the park is by using the shuttle bus system. Each of the shuttle stop are located at the most notable areas of the park. It is also nice not to have to try to find parking while you are trying to take in all the grandeur of the setting.
Due to the extreme variation in elevation Zion has desert, riparian, woodland and coniferous forests. Because of these different environments, Zion is home to numerous plant species as well as 289 species of birds, 75 mammals, and 32 reptiles spread through the park. The largest of the birds that make Zion home is the California Condor. The California Condor adults can have a wing span of nine feet and primarily live high on the cliffs. These birds are scavengers, who soar over great distance to hunt for food. Due to conservation efforts, the Condor is making a comeback. The biggest threat to them now is lead poisoning from bullet fragments in the carrion left behind by hunters.
Prickly Pear Cactus in Zion National Park
Lizard in Zion National Park
Zion was formed by uplifts in the Colorado Plateau 13 million years ago. The area that is Zion today was once a great desert basin. Over time sandstone, limestone, mudstone and shale was deposited and the Virgin River cut through the deposits to form the Zion Canyon we see today. Zion’s shape is ever changing due to forces of nature, but the biggest change comes from flash flooding of the Virgin River which erodes the walls of the canyon resulting in massive rock slides.
Zion National Park
Zion National Park
The Organ, The Great White Throne and Angels Landing Peaks in Zion National Park
There is so much to do in Zion from difficult hikes to the top of Angels Landing, to walks along the Virgin River. For the truly bold there is an opportunity to climb the walls that form the canyon. April was the time of the year we visited Zion and the weather was ideal and the crowds were small.
Virgin River in Zion National Park
Weeping Rock in Zion National Park
Weeping Rock in Zion National Park
Red Canyon is near Zion National Park and is located in the Dixie National forest. Driving through the Red Canyon was truly amazing with the red rock archway over the road and the hoodoos and cliffs that frame your way. There is just so much to see not just in the big five but in all the areas surrounding the parks.
For more information about Zion National Park visit the following website https://www.nps.gov/zion/index.htm
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The city of Salt Lake is a combination of big city and historic town. When approaching the city from the north you can see the capitol dome sitting high on a hill overlooking the rest of the city. Once you get close to the capitol building and the surrounding homes you feel transported in time by the architecture of the stately homes and the capitol building itself.
We were fortunate enough to take a tour of the capitol with one of the volunteers. He explained about the history of Utah before it became the 45th state and the significance of the Morman pioneers that settled there to avoid religious persecution. The state symbol of a bee hive stems from the Morman’s belief in a community working together. The art work in the capitol depicts the history of Utah and what makes it a unique state.
The building itself was constructed between 1912 and 1916 and was designed by Richard K.A. Kletting. Mr. Kletting wanted the Utah capitol to have the best that technology had to offer and a structure that was grand enough to house the state government. The building was designed with elevators and electricity in a time when that was not common. The chandelier in the done is on a pulley system that allows it to be lowered for cleaning and light bulb changing. The curved skylight creates of sense of being outside from all the natural light that pours into the center of the building. The marble columns, walls and staircase only add to the elegance of the building. Click on this link to learn more about Utah’s state capitol building. https://utahstatecapitol.utah.gov/explore/about-the-capitol
Utah State Capital Building Marble Stair Case
Utah State Capitol Building Skylight
Utah State Capital Building Art Around the Dome
Utah State Capital Building Art Around the Dome
Utah State Capital Building Art Around the Dome
Utah State Capital Building Art Around the Dome
Utah State Capitol Building Leaded Glass Window
Utah State Capital Building State Reception Room
Utah State Capitol Building Dome
Temple Square in Salt Lake City
Temple Square is owned by the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-Day Saints. The square is a quiet oasis in what is a bustling section of Salt Lake City. The raised flower gardens are bursting with spring flowers which lead you to a cascading water fountain. No matter the time of year the gardens are filled with seasonal plants. Once in the center of the garden you can see the Temple building and infinity edge reflecting pool overlooking the gardens. http://www.templesquare.com/
Garden In Temple Square Salt Lake City, UT
Mormon Temple in Salt Lake City, UT
Garden In Temple Square Salt Lake City, UT
Antelope Island State Park
Antelope Island is the largest of the 10 islands in the Great Salt Lake. The island is near Salt Lake City and is accessed by a causeway from Syracuse, UT. John C. Fremont and Kit Carson were the first non-natives to visit the island in 1845. From 1848 – 1870 the land was managed by the Mormons. Than in 1870 John Dooly, Sr purchased the island and started the Island Improvement Company which managed a ranch on the island until 1981 when the Island was purchased by the state of Utah and made into a state park.
The wildlife and the scenery are why people visit Antelope Island. From the visitors center you have a panoramic view of the great Salt Lake. The center also has displays that explain the history of the island and its environment. As you follow the winding roads around the island you find antelope and mule deer grazing on the grassy fields and buffalo sunning on the sandy beaches. They are not the only wildlife that make the island home. Antelope Island’s shores provide an ideal environment for migratory birds.
The Fielding Garr Ranch is also located on Antelope Island and is the oldest Anglo built house in Utah still on its original foundation. Walking around the ranch gives you a glimpse into ranch life on an island. The ranch complex has a collection of old and modern equipment and tools that you can pick up and touch. You can tour through the building and learn the history of the family that made this ranch home. To learn more about this wonderful state park visit their website at https://stateparks.utah.gov/parks/antelope-island/
Antelope Island State Park
The Great Salt Lake
and the Wasatch Mountains
Bison on Antelope Island
Antelope on Antelope Island
Fielding Garr Ranch House Kitchen
Fielding Garr Ranch House
Fielding Garr Ranch Bunk House
Fielding Garr Ranch House Spring House
Utah State Railroad Museum at Union Station Ogden, UT
The Railroad Museum is located in the old Union Station building which sets the tone for what you will see in the museum itself. The railroad played a big part in settling the west. The railroad museum chronicles the exploration of the western territory for the route the railroad would take as well as the engineering required to lay the tracks across such challenging terrain. As you wind your way through the museum you are immersed into life on the railroad. By the end of the exhibit you are treated to a large display of model trains as they follow the route of the Union Pacific railroad. The detail of the model makes you feel like you are right there riding the train across the west.
Outside there is a collection of retired locomotives. You can walk right next to these massive railroad icons and get a true sense of the immense power they produced to pull their heavy loads through the mountainous terrain. http://theunionstation.org/museums/utah-state-railroad-museum/
Utah State Railroad Museum
Railroad Dinning Car
Railroad Clock
Railroad Switching Control
Railroad Handcar
Train Engine Simulation Car
Union Pacific Caboose #25766
Union Pacific Super Turbine Locomotive #26
Can Pull 735 Fully Loaded Freight Cars
Nickname The Big Blow
Southern Pacific #7457
Rio Grande #5371
“Tunnel Motor” Diesel”
Union Pacific DDA40X Locomotive #6916
“Centennial Locomotive”
Two diesel engines on one frame
Union Pacific Steam Locomotive #833
The Speedy Engine with “Elephant Ears”
Can reach speeds of 110mph
John M. Browning Firearms Museum
The museum is also located in the Union Station building in Ogden, UT. Four generations of Browning’s are represented in this comprehensive collection of rifles, shotguns, handguns, machine guns, and automatic cannons. The basic mechanisms of many modern firearms were first invented by John M. Browning. He is also responsible for designing the first mechanisms to utilize energy generated from firing to load and cycle further rounds. John M. Browning’s life work culminated with the “Over Under” shotgun. It is amazing to see all the ground-breaking designs that John M. Browning created over his life time. http://theunionstation.org/museums/john-m-browning-firearms-museum/
1878 Single Shot Rifle
John M. Browning’s First Invention
First Semi Automatic Pistols
Gas Operated Pistol Invented in 1894 – 1895
By John M. Browning
Superposed Shotgun (Over-Under)
Invented in 1923-1924
By John M. Browning
Gas Operated Automatic Rifle 1889
By John M. Browning
Double Automatic Shotgun
Browning Machine Gun
Browning-Kimball Classic Car Museum
Union Station is also the home of the Browning-Kimball Classic Car Museum. The collection was started by Matt and Barbara Browning in 1971. They assembled one of the finest prewar Brass American classic car collections. When they died in 1996 and 1999 the cars in the museum where donated to the city of Ogden to remain on display for car enthusiasts to enjoy for years to come. We were fortunate to have a volunteer at the museum give us a guided tour which made the visit to the museum even more enjoyable. http://theunionstation.org/museums/browning-kimball-classic-car-museum/
1901 Oldsmobile Run-a-bout
1911 Knox Double Rumble Raceabout
1937 Packard Model 115C
1929 Packard Runabout
1929 Graham Paige Model 827
1926 Lincoln Sports Touring
1931 Lincoln Duel Cowl Phaeton
1935 Hudson 6 Cylinder
I hope you enjoyed this blog about Northern Utah. Keep following us for future blogs about the amazing National Parks in Southern Utah.
Garden of the Gods Park is a city park located in Colorado Springs, CO. It is a registered National Natural Landmark.
“It was August of 1859 when two surveyors started out from Denver City to begin a townsite, soon to be called Colorado City. While exploring nearby locations, they came upon a beautiful area of sandstone formations. M. S. Beach, who related this incident, suggested that it would be a “capital place for a beer garden” when the country grew up. His companion, Rufus Cable, a “young and poetic man”, exclaimed, “Beer Garden! Why it is a fit place for the Gods to assemble. We will call it the Garden of the Gods.” It has been so called ever since.”
Charles Elliott Perkins owned the land that the park sits on today. In 1909, the Perkins family gifted the land to the city of Colorado Springs to be used as a free public park. Today the park plays host to visitors from all over the world. They come to hike the trails, climb the sandstone rocks, and to photograph the beauty that is the Garden of the Gods.
We visited the park on a clear sunny day which made the impact of the sandstone rock formations and the distant Pikes Peak even more impressive. Inside the visitor’s center is an exhibit about the history of the area as well as information about the habitat and wildlife. This park is a photographer’s dream subject and not to be missed if you are visiting Colorado. http://www.gardenofgods.com/
Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak
Garden of the Gods Balanced Rock
Rocky Mountain National Park Colorado
On January 26, 1915 President Woodrow Wilson signed the act the established the boundaries of the Rocky Mountain National Park. The Continental Divide runs directly through the center of the park which helps to create one of the most diverse plant and animal environments in the United States. With an elevation of 14,259 feet, the Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the highest National parks with Longs Peak being the highest point in the park.
We visited the park in April and found much of the park closed to cars. Even with the limited access along Bear Lake Road the vast beauty of the park can still be appreciated. On a sunny day, you are able to see snowcapped mountains rising up from the valley floor to create a majestic landscape. Rocky Mountain National Park is a true American treasure to be seen. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rocky_Mountain_National_Park , https://www.nps.gov/romo/index.htm
St Vrain State Park Longmont, Colorado
“Formerly named Barbour Ponds, this nature and people-friendly park offers 604 acres of land and 152 acres of water split among several ponds. It’s a great place for anglers, campers, photographers, birders, walkers and anyone who loves nature.”
While visiting Longmont we hooked our LQ horse trailer up at St. Vrain State Park. The nice thing about hooking up here is that there is plenty of space between sites and almost all the sites have a water view of one of the many ponds in the park not to mention the great view of the Rocky Mountains and Longs Peak in the background. The park is also very close to the city of Longmont so you are able to camp and have access to all the things the city has to offer. http://cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/StVrain/Pages/default.aspx
The Longmont History Museum Colorado
The Longmont Museum houses exhibits on the history of Longmont as well as, art and science. The area that is Longmont was first traveled by nomadic Indian tribes that followed the migrating buffalo herds. Than in 1870 a group of men from Chicago sold memberships to the “Chicago-Colorado Colony and built the small town of Longmont. The town remained primarily agricultural until the early 1960’s when high tech companies like IBM came to Longmont.
Twenty-three years ago, Dick Doore and Eric Wallace started Left Hand Brewing in Longmont, CO next to the St. Vrain River. They decided to name the brewery after Chief Niwot (meaning left hand). They started producing their Sawtooth Ale and moved on to release America’s original Nitro bear, Milk Stout Nitro. Today the company distributes to 40 states, the District of Columbia, Europe and Japan. This award-winning brewery became an employee owned company in 2015.
We were treated to a tour of the brewery by Lauren. She started by telling us about the company and then walked us through the brewery and explained the art of brewing from fermentation to bottling. Turns out that the reason beer is so good from Colorado is the water. Of course, no brewery tour is complete without tasting the finished product. I had their Traveln’ Light Kolsch bear and Mom had three samples, The Milk Stout, Milk Stout Nitro and her favorite the Wake up Dead Nitro. If you like craft bear give Left Hand beers a try. http://lefthandbrewing.com/about/history/
The University of Colorado South Denver Wildlife Experience Museum
The Wildlife Experience Museum offers something for all ages. The Globelogy exhibit is an interactive journey through habits around the globe. The displays depict the animals and the plant life that make each area home. There are interactive video screens that allow you to gain information about each area by selecting the topic you are interested in learning more about. There is also a gallery dedicated to Colorado. This exhibit depicts the wildlife and their habitat that is unique to Colorado.
The wildlife art gallery was established when Dave and Gail Liniger donated a large number of important wildlife art pieces to the museum. The collection is made up of paintings and sculptures by internationally acclaimed artists. For me the highlight of the visit was seeing the bronze sculpture of the Canon Princess by Gerald G. Balciar. The same artist that did the marble sculpture of the Canon Princess at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma. http://southdenver.cu.edu/events/event/wildlife-experience-gallery/
Vehicle Vault located in Parker, CO
Vehicle Vault is the brain child of Daniel and Erin Dilley. They have taken their private collection of rare and exotic automobiles and have created a museum and event space for the car enthusiasts. They are also creating a community in which elite car collectors can store their cars and share their passion with like-minded car enthusiasts.
You can tell from the moment you walk into the gallery that every car has special meaning to the owners. From the way, the cars were restored and displayed, to the details on the signs it was clear that these cars are something special. The photos say it all. http://www.vehiclevaultco.com/
Route 66 is alive in Oklahoma. We have traveled up and down Route 66 and its side roads as we explore the Northeastern part of Oklahoma. This area is like stepping into a time capsule of the American West.
The Rock Cafe Stroud, OK
The Rock Café epitomizes the enduring spirit of the Route 66. In 1936 Roy Rieves built the café from the sandstone that remained after the constructions of U.S. Route 66. That is why the café is called the Rock Café. Over the years, the Rock Café has endured many hardship such as the Dust Bowl, the Great Depression, an F3 tornado and a fire. Through all that the Rock Café remained and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places. To further confirm the impact of the Rock Café and Route 66, Disney Pixar’s film Cars based the character Sally Carrera on the current owner Dawn Welch.The Rock Café
The Rock Café is a must do for anyone traveling on Route 66. The menu takes standard dinner fare and puts a unique spin on it. The atmosphere is rustic and the staff warm and friendly. We even got asked to sign the visitors book while we waited for our meal. http://rockcafert66.com/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rock_Caf%C3%A9
Rock Cafe Route 66 Stroud, OK
Wine in Oklahoma
The first documented winery in the Oklahoma Territory was opened in 1898 by Charles Fairchild. By 1907 the state enacted a prohibition on alcohol. After the repeal of the national prohibition in 1933 the state of Oklahoma continued to imposed prohibition through 1959. It wasn’t until the mid-1990’s along the Route 66 corridor did Oklahoma see an increase in the vineyards and wine production. I am happy to say that we have visited two such vineyards and feel we have tasted the future of wine in Oklahoma.
The Stable Ridge Vineyards
Stable Ridge Vineyards is located on Route 66 in Stroud, OK. The tasting room is housed in an 1898 Catholic Church that was dedicated to those who died in the Civil War. As you taste the wine made from locally grown grapes you are treated to the simple architecture that made up the buildings of the time. Stable Ridge Vineyards makes 11 wines including: Bedlam Chardonnay, Riesling, Peachy P, White Zinfandel, Beau Blanc, Montage, Centennial Red, Ridge Port Select, Cabernet Sauvignon, Wild Thang, and Jeremiah’s Red. http://www.stableridgevineyards.com/
Stable Ridge Vineyards in Stroud, OK
The Tidewater Winery
Tidewater Winery is located in Drumright, OK. The tasting room is the 8,000-square foot Federal Style Tidal School built by John D. Rockefeller company and later owned by J. Paul Getty. The school was to provide a first-rate education to the children of the oilfield worker. Tidewater winery makes ten different wines including: Moscato, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Way White, Cimarron Red, Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Rush, White Zinfandel, and Sweet Jimmy Jane. All the labels on the bottles are of the mural depicting the history of Drumright. http://www.tidewaterwinery.com/
The owners of both these wineries have not only contributed to the regrowth of wine making in Oklahoma, they have also preserved the history and architecture of the area. If you are traveling Route 66 and love wine be sure to support these trail blazing wine makers.
Drumright Historical Society Museum
The Drumright Historical Society Museum was founded by Emma E. Akin in 1965 and is housed in the 1915 Santa Fe Railway Depot, which is on the National Register of Historic places. Mrs. Akin was passionate about education and the museum certainly carries on her vision of preserving the history of life in Oklahoma during the oil boom to current times.
The first thing you see when entering the museum is an eight-foot mural that tells the history of Drumright and Oklahoma from the arrival of the Spanish and French, the trappers and traders, the Trail of Tears and the discovery of oil.
On March 17, 1912 oil was discovered in Drumright. By 1917 Drumright and the neighboring towns of Shamrock and Oilton became the largest oilfields at that time. With the oil boom came an influx of people ready to capitalize on the wealth that came with finding oil. The setting as well as the artifacts paint a picture of a time when fortunes were made and lost on the backs of hard working men and women. There is still oil being drilled but the boom is over and all that remains is the small-town America and its rich history.
Drumright Historical Society Museum Mural
Drumright Historical Society Museum Mural
The Drumright Historical Society Museum
Replica of The first Oil Well of the Oil Boom in Drumright, OK
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
“The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum preserves and interprets the evolving history and cultures of the American West for the education and enrichment of its diverse audiences of adults and children.”
The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is located on the top of Persimmon Hill overlooking Oklahoma City. The museum is surrounded by beautiful gardens that only enhance the setting. The portico at the entrance looks like a line of tents that would have been seen back when the west was wild. Once you enter the museum your eye is drawn to the magnificent 18-foot sculpture “The End of the Trail” by James Earle Fraser. This sculpture sets the stage for the amazing collection of fine art, and culture of the American west. The galleries take you from life on the frontier to modern day rodeos. Each gallery expertly presents a glimpse into what life was like for the Native American, frontier military, and cowboy of the west.
I found this museum to be truly amazing. The roll of the horse for me was the most interesting part of the museum. Even though we have modernized the making of saddles and horse tack, the basic form and function has remained the same. Now when I get into my saddle I will feel even more connected to my American heritage. For more information click this link https://nationalcowboymuseum.org/about-the-museum/
National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum
National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum
The End of the Trail Sculpture At the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum
Canyon Princess Sculpture At the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum
Native American Artifacts At the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum
Native American Artifacts At the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum
The Rodeo Gallery at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum
The Military Gallery at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum
Western Saddle at the entry of The American Cowboy Gallery
Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum
On April 19, 1995 at 9:01 AM a bomb exploded on the street in front of the Oklahoma City’s Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. This act of terrorism shocked not only Oklahoma City but the entire nation. On that day 168 people lost their lives and countless others were affected by such a horrific event. Many lessons were learned as a result of the bombing and a community came together to rise above the hatred that inspired this act of violence.
Today, on the site of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building is the sacred Oklahoma City National Memorial. Every aspect of the memorial is designed to honor all the people effected by the bombing and to inspire hope for the future. The Mission Statement sets the stage for what you will find when entering the Memorial. Every aspect of the Memorial is designed to remind us of the great loss and the coming together of a community.
“The Mission Statement
We come here to remember those who were killed, those who survived and those changed forever. May all who leave here know the impact of violence. May this memorial offer comfort, strength, peace, hope and serenity.” https://oklahomacitynationalmemorial.org/about/mission-statement/
Entry Plaque at the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum
Reflecting Pool and Enry Arch of the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum
Survivor Tree Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum
The Field of Empty Chairs at the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Gilcrease Museum
The Gilcrease Museum houses a vast collection of fine art, anthropology and archival items that bring the American West to life. When you visit, you will view the history of the American West through the art of Frederic Remington, Charles M. Russell, Charles Schreyvogel and Frank Tenney Johnson. You’ll find landscape paintings of Thomas Moran and Albert Bierstadt, and works by Winslow Homer, John Singer Sargent, James McNeill Whistler and William Merritt Chase.
What I found most interesting was the Plains Indian Art. The Plains Indians lived a hard life and yet they saw the beauty in what was around them and incorporated it into everyday life. I was also inspired by their ability to change and adapt to survive. Through their art, you are able to get a glimpse in the Native American values and culture. For more information about the Gilcrease Museum visit https://gilcrease.org/
Native American Basket at the Gilcrease Museum
Native American Beaded Mocassins at the Gilcrease Museum
Native American Clay Figure at the Gilcrease Museum
The Sacred Rain Arrow Sculpture at the Gilcrease Museum
The Page Memorial Library Sand Springs, OK
Charles Page lost his father at the age of 11, and was forced to go to work to help support his mother and siblings. This experience inspired Charles to create a planned community where widows and orphans could live and become more productive members of society. To achieve his vision Charles purchased land and encouraged businesses to come the Sand Springs to provide jobs and income that sustained the orphanage and homes.
The Page Memorial Library was donated to the city of Sand Springs in 1930 by Lucile Page in memory of her husband Charles Page. Today the building is a museum depicting the history of Sand Springs and the progressive thinking of Charles Page. The building is in the art deco style which is evident on the exterior facade and in the interior with its cork flooring and chandeliers. We were fortunate to have a guided tour of the building while hearing the history of Sand Springs from a gentleman that has called it home for most of his live. http://www.sandspringsok.org/index.aspx?NID=480
Page Memorial Library Exterior Sand Springs, OK
Charles Page Statue
Page Memorial Library Interior Sand Springs, OK
Sand Springs, OK Town Clock
I hope you get a chance to travel Route 66 and experience this iconic highway.
The Ozark Mountain area of Missouri is a beautiful part of the U.S. The rolling hillside has almost a roller coaster feel to it. There is a sense of history and family throughout the area. A visit to this area provides many sites to see such as Wilson Creek National Battlefield, Downtown Branson, Cavern tours, and the National Tiger Sanctuary.
Wilson Creek National Battlefield, Republic, Missouri
Wilson Creek National Battlefield is the first National Park we visited on our trip across the U.S.. Being from the North-Eastern part of the country I was unaware that this battle opened the Civil War in Missouri and was the second major battle of the civil war. Looking back at Missouri during that time it was a true microcosm of the sentiments of that time in U.S. history. Although Missouri legislature voted to stay in the Union there was a section of the population that wanted to keep slavery. This division contributed to Missouri being the state with the third greatest number of battles to occur during the Civil War.
Leading the Union Forces were Brig Gen Nathaniel Lyon, Col Granz Sigel, and Major Samuel Sturgis. These men all are notable in their own right. However, Brig. General Nathaniel Lyon was the first Union General to die in battle during the Civil War at the Battle of Wilson Creek.
Leading the Confederate Forces were Brig Gen Benjamin McCulloch, Major General Sterling Price and Brig. General Nicholas Bartlett Pearce. Together these men and their troops fought a five-hour long battle against the Union forces at the Battle of Wilson Creek. At the end of the fighting, the Confederate forces drove the Union forces back and took the battle field.
A trip to this National Park brings the history of the civil war to life. The visitors center at the park, is nicely done with a collection of Civil War artifacts and informative displays. There is also a replica of the battlefield that shows the battle in action as it talks you through the event. The park offers access by car or walking trail around the site of this landmark battlefield. For more information click this link https://www.nps.gov/wicr/index.htm
Wilson Creek Battle National Park
Wilson Creek Battle John Ray House
Wilson Creek battle Rays Corn Field
Branson, Missouri Water Front
Branson, Missouri is known for all of the theater shows, but the center of town is a throwback to home town America. The main street has quaint shops to stroll through and a railway station. The water front offers a spot to take a leisurely stroll on Lake Taneycomo. There is a little bit of everything to do in the Midwestern town.
Branson, MO Scenic Train Station
Branson, MO Riverboat on Lake Taneycomo
Branson, MO Fountain Duck
Lamberts Café is just north of Branson in Ozark, Mo, it is a family café known as the Home of the Throwed Roll for over 40 years. From the moment, you walk in you feel like the clock was turned back to the 1930’s. Once you are seated you feel like you are at one big family dinner with home style cooking and a friendly atmosphere. If you are hungry for some serious comfort food Lamberts Café is the place to get it.
Lamberts Cafe Ozark, MO antique Coca Cola Machine
Lamberts Cafe Ozark, MO Antique Stove
The National Tiger Sanctuary in Saddlebrooke, Missouri
The National Tiger Sanctuary (NTS) was established in 2000 by Keith Kinkade and Judy McGee. This non-profit organization was formed to provide permanent homes for rescued exotic and domestic animals. NST also provides educational opportunities in the areas of research and internships. Public awareness of animal abuse and the need for legislation to protect both domestic and exotic animals is part of the mission of NTS. I have always loved big cats and visiting NTS and seeing these animals was a great experience. It is evident that the animals well being is the primary focus at NTS. If you are ever in the Branson, MO area a visit the National Tiger Sanctuary is a must. http://www.nationaltigersanctuary.org/about-us/
National Tiger Sanctuary Saddelbrooke, MO
National Tiger Sanctuary Princess 10 year old Tiger
National Tiger Sanctuary Precious 10 year old Tiger
National Tiger Sanctuary Max 14 year old Tiger
National Tiger Sanctuary Harry 3 year old Tiger
National Tiger Sanctuary Kora 3 year old Tiger
Nation Tiger Sanctuary Bambi 10 year old Leopard
National Tiger Sanctuary Merlin 10 year Lion
National Tiger Sanctuary Kora 3 year old Tiger
Nation Tiger Sanctuary Blackie 11 year old Leopard
National Tiger Sanctuary Banshee 10 year old Mountain Lion
National Tiger Sanctuary Tina 16 year old Tiger
Fantastic Caverns in Springfield, Missouri
Missouri is also known as the cave state. There are nearly 6,600 caves one of which is the Fantastic Caverns in Springfield, Missouri. The Caverns were discovered by John Knox and his hunting dog in 1862. Over the years, the ownership and the name of the caverns have changed as well as its use. Today the family owned business strongly supports conservation and scientific educations. Three endangered species make the caverns their home. They are the Ozarks’ Blind Cave Fish, Ozarks’ Blind Cave Salamander and the Ozarks’ Blind Cave Crayfish. The Eastern Pipistrelle Bat shares the cavern as well. Fantastic Caverns’ staff provide a one hour driven tour of the inside of the cave. You will get to see what nature has been building just underground from the water, minerals and limestone. The caverns feature stalactite, stalagmite, soda straws, columns, draperies, flowstones and sink holes. A trip to the cave state must include a visit to at least one of its’ many caves. http://www.factasticcaverns.com/
Fantastic Cavern Springfield, MO Discovered by a Dog
Fantastic Cavern Columm Springfield, MO
Fantastic Cavern Stage
Fantastic Cavern Springfield, MO Sink Hol
Fantastic Cavern Drapery Springfield, MO
Fantastic Cavern Electrified Cave Tour Car
The Acrobats of China in Branson, Missouri
The Amazing Acrobates of China
“Acrobatics have more than a 2,500-year history in China. Developed from everyday life and work the early acrobatic skills presented in village harvest festivals have now evolved into one of China’s national treasures. Building on the traditional performances, today’s artists have added new techniques and spectacular stunts thrilling audiences around the globe. Highly skilled, rigorously trained, and superbly talented, these performers follow an unbroken tradition since 700 B.C.” The performance was about 1 ½ hours and was filled with amazing acrobatic feats that showcase the performers skill of balance and strength. https://www.acrobatsofchina.com/all-about-acrobats
I hope you have a chance to visit the Ozark Mountain area of Missouri and experience all it has to offer.
