Leaving

The van’s loaded, the cabin shut for the winter, and we’re on our way.  Let’s pause at the as we get on the Red Grade Road and take a look at the mountains in the dawn.  Do you see Black Tooth back there, about right in the middle, still with snow?

The view just as we start to descend is even more beautiful than usual.

Now into low gear, not riding the brakes too much.  At least this early we’re unlikely to meet anyone coming up.  I didn’t realize when I planned the return trip that today’s the day of the solar eclipse.  The population of Wyoming is supposed to double today, as it’s one of the prime viewing areas.  Thankfully that’s south of us, but hopefully all the people are already where they plan to be at about noon and not on the highway!

Remember when I told you about the forest fire that caused us to have to evacuate some years ago?  This is what is looks like these days.  The fire jumps from tree to tree, not burning them down completely, so the burned trunks remain.  The undergrowth has come back, but it will be years before there are good-sized new trees.

The sky is really putting on a show this morning.  We have to stop here for a minute so I can take some photos.  It’s safe, as we’re in a spot where we can see someone coming and they can see us.  The eclipse is going to have to be quite something to top what we’ve already seen this morning.

Once we get on the paved road, it always seems that we’re flying.  One reason you have to be careful in the morning or evening, thought, is the number of deer that are out, often crossing the road.  There must be 20 or more here on either side of the road.  Maybe they’re here to say good-bye!  🙂

Ok.  Onward to the Badlands.  Feel free to take a nap if you like.  We’ll make one stop in Gillette and be in the Badlands about noon.