Yesterday we ventured out to Great Sand Dunes National Park for the day. Many of the mountains were not visible due to smoke. There are major fires near Rocky Mountain National Park and the smoke is traveling hundreds of miles. The scenic routes through RMNP are closed. When we got to the gate of the Great Sand Dunes National Park, I gave them my “lifetime senior pass” and drivers license. The ranger asked if the “senior” was in the car! At first I looked at Carol, but decided I needed to reveal I was the senior! 
It was surreal in many ways, 1. Sand Dunes in Colorado 2. Smoke and haze from fires in the North 3. People surfing in the sand! The Dunes are about 700’ tall and the tallest sand dunes in North America. We hiked about an mile to the base of the dunes to take in their enormous size.
This morning, we awoke to 40 degree temps and the weather report was dismal, 6-8” of snow and falling temps. Weather coupled with smoke and fires, we abandoned September in Colorado! We are now in Santa Fe, NM with 60 mph wind…the good news, we are retired and can go and do whatever we want! We are going to re-route our September, so stay tuned….
GEEZ!!!! 😊😜…Challenges of traveling and climate change. Glad you are handling it well!! Great pictures!!
Wow! I had no idea there were sand dunes in colorado!!!! Be safe!
Just loaded a very short video that shows how big.
I have other friends out there too camping and they are heading to Nashville….then heading home…not on the journey you all are….would love to do that in a couple years….stay safe ….love the updates ….and have a great journey!!!
Thanks!
Never been to the Dunes – sledding looks like fun! Sorry you had to abandon your plan, but nice that you’re free to regroup and find a different path. Headed to RMNP later this month so keeping our fingers crossed that the fire/smoke situation will improve by then. Enjoy Santa Fe – love it there.
The weather should be ok in a couple days. But the thought of Trail Ridge Road being closed just didn’t seem good for us, we were to be at the RMNP on Monday. Hope you get to go!
Have fun yall” I see you are” except the smoke and such… but its better than working right..may your travels bring even more youth to you both…feeling freedom first hand in your retirement.. so glad for you both
Thank… hope you’re getting out in your RV too!
Wow! That’s like sahara desert? So very interesting!
That is the beauty of retirement. Have a great time.
We have been thinking about you with all the crazy weather in the west. Can’t wait to see where you go next.
We are going to be in Santa Fe at least until Friday. Working on plans today…stay tuned.
Looks fantastic! What a great trip you have planned.
So far so good…we have had to adjust a few times, but who cares we are retired! What are you guys up to?
Great shots! I can see why the ranger was looking for the senior… you look good kiddo! Travel safe.
That’s a lot of sand!!!