Taos, New Mexico

On July 19th Dorothy, Edward and I headed out to Taos, N.M on United Airlines. We flew through Denver to Albuquerque. Then rented a Pontiac Vibe and headed 2 hours north to Taos in the mountains. The temperatures for the week were in the 70's and 80's most of the time due to frequency thunderstorms and short periods of rain. We stayed at our time share Worldmark where Barbara joined us from Canon City. She was happy to provide us with tour guide services as she has visited Taos many times and loves the place. We visited many shops and restaurants during our stay, we saw the Taos Pueblo, the little town of Arroyo Seco, and the Earthship demonstration project just outside of Taos.

One day we did the Scenic byway an 84 mile drive through national forests, with several small ski towns and artist shops along the way. It actually took us most of the day due to a tour up a ski lift at Red River where we checked out the Worldmark there and decided we need to make plans for our next trip to be there. The views from the top of the mountain were spectacular.

On our last day Barbara went home (not a train enthusiast) and Edward, Dorothy and I went to see the Cumbres and Toltec scenic railway at Antonito, CO. They bused us to Chama, New Mexico for the start of the ride as it takes all day to return by train to Antonito. The bus takes 1 hour then the train takes 6. The countryside is amazing, so lush and green I was completely in wonder that it was New Mexico. The train travels through the Cumbres Pass at 10,300 feet and the station home at the pass sees 25 feet of snow by mid-winter.

The guide told me that autumn (mid October) is spectacular on the trip. The fall colors mixed with the green grasses are outstanding according to the staff. Edward will definitely want a return trip and won't have to twist my arm to much to join him.

After five days we returned home through Salt Lake City. A fabulous trip that I for one would be happy to repeat.