Oak Creek Canyon » Albuquerque, NM

2009-08-03: Here was a pleasant drive up and up through the canyon, on narrow, winding, shady roads. I had to wait until I got to the top to finally capture some of the breathtaking scenery. Then I made for Albuquerque. The desert was open, vast, empty, and all under an ash grey sky. Wind-carved rock formations could be viewed occasionally, some along the road, and some very far off. I made it into the city just before dusk and headed toward UNM, since I knew it would be a good place to find some food. I took an enchilada break at El Patio de Albuquerque, which is the sort of place that caters to students and vegans, and it was just great. Busy, vibrant, crowded but in a homey sort of way, and of course delicious. Then I prepared to get some needed rest, but I noticed a stunning sunset and drove to the east side of the valley as quickly as I could. Does this sunset not resemble the state flag of Arizona?

Sedona Area - Part II

Sedona Area - Part I

2009-08-03: Sedona has a reputation for being a New Age Mecca, and I set out to see it that was true. I hoped to be at least amused by the quirky and interesting locals. As it turned out, the road into Sedona was incredibly scenic. I drove around Red Rock State Park and captured these breathtaking landscapes. As for Sedona, the town was jammed by major construction projects, and it seemed the locals might not be out until later. I was intrigued by all their strange shops and such, but not enough to wait around. I moved onward toward Oak Creek Canyon, sometimes referred to as a cousin of the Grand Canyon.

Travel Notes: Grand Canyon Nat'l Park » Dead Horse Ranch State Park

2009-08-02: Satisfied with my glimpse into the foundations of our planet, I left Grand Canyon National Park to retire for the day. My destination was Dead Horse Ranch State Park. There I ran into a bit of danger, though it was unfortunately somewhat mundane.

It was around 9:00 PM when I arrived. The desert moon was brightly shining above. Agile bats swooped and flitted around the few lights, looking as if they were tethered to the lamp posts. I began to set up my tent in the dust-filled haze of my halogen lights when I noticed eyes looking at me from behind and to my left. There stood a dog with a broken or unfastened leash, growling aggressively. My hand flashed to my Buck knife and my adrenaline began to flow. I bellowed "NO!" and "LIE DOWN!" at the animal but it would not back down. Nor did it come closer. In the camp from which it came, a trailer was parked, and its compressor and its TV made it unlikely that its occupants heard me.

I tried staring the dog down but it would not move. I almost wanted it to come after me so the tension could be released. Still it did not move. I decided I had to get my tent set up so I could get to sleep. So I had to face the dog at all times, and try to set up my tent. It was difficult but I got it done with creative use of my one free hand. Then I had to walk to the showers, backwards, in the dark, and it did not follow. Once I got into my tent I could hear it growling but I do not think it entered my camp at any time. Dog owners need to be far more responsible than many of them choose to be.