Monument Valley

I approached Monument Valley from Kayenta, AZ. While I have visited Monument Valley many times, this time felt like I was seeing this special place for the first time.  I arrived at mid-day, the lighting for photographs was not ideal.  I left Grand Canyon early to avoid traveling through the Cameron area during the heat of the day.  It might be possible to find nice Lodging in Kayenta to enjoy this part of the drive in the morning light. 

There were a lot of high points in today’s riding. When leaving Grand Canyon, there were a lot of Elk along the road. Riding early through the Cameron area, the temperature was pleasant and made for an enjoyable ride. I stopped a number of times for photographs and to just enjoy the scenery. The roads in this area are great for motorcycling – well paved, some fun curves, and some steep areas. In particular the road to Medicine Hat has some nice descents.

The road to Monticello was long and I watched for the oncoming rain. To get a pleasant night sleep, I headed for the higher altitudes in the La Sal mountains. The road is windy as it ascends up the mountain side. I enjoyed some frequent stops to enjoy the vista. The last three miles turned into steeper gravel roads – with some hairpin turns.

The evening was very quiet at the side of a lake. I listened to the quiet; water, birds, and elk whistling. A watched the dark clouds form and the evening rain began. I retreated to tent for a nice evening.