Dolomites, near Corvara, Italy

Dolimites PanoramaThe Dolomites are called the Italian Alps, for good reason.  The mountains themselves are not extremely tall, but they rise so abruptly from a low valley floor their tall jagged peaks are very impressive.  The area is a mecca for skiers, hikers , mountain bike enthusiasts and para-sailing.  Many inhabitants do not like that this region became part of Italy after World War I, so there continues to be a strong Austrian influence in the buildings, language and menus.   We hiked most days here and learned about Italian rifugios.

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Crested Butte, Beautiful View

Beautiful View

Beautiful View

Above the town of Crested Butte, Colorado, and beyond the ski area, is a National Forest.  But before getting to this public land, one must pass through 1.5 miles of private land.  It is hard for me to imagine that this is someone’s view each day.   Crested Butte has some of the most beautiful mountains and land in Colorado.

Toroweep Overlook North Rim Grand Canyon

Toroweep-Overlook-20120512-_ALL0797The drive to Toroweep Overlook on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park is long and dusty.  It is 58 miles of dirt road, one way.  The last 6 miles require a high clearance 4-wheel drive vehicle.  I came across two disabled trucks.  One had three of the five lug bolts sheered off and the other a blown tire.  Another big problem would be to encounter someone going the opposite direction on the narrow road.  I took over three hours to cover the 58 miles when the books say it should only take 2 1/2.

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