Shortly after leaving Steamboat Springs we started a long assent up to Rabbit Ears Pass (elevation 9,426), which straddles the Continental Divide. For those not familiar with the Continental Divide, it defines which way water flows. Generally speaking, watersheds on the East side flow towards the Atlantic, while watersheds on the West side flow towards the Pacific. About halfway up we found a sunny place to stop and have breakfast. My guess is that the name came from a rock formation seen from the summit that looks like...rabbit ears.
We passed through Kremmling, Parshall, Hot Sulphur Springs and Granby before reaching the Rocky Mountain National Park visitor’s center. After a 10 minute wait our neighbors from across the street showed up for a short visit. Based on their schedule and ours, we might meet up again in Gunnison, Colorado.
Once entering the park, courtesy of the Golden Age Pass, we began a slow steady climb up to 12,220 feet. From about 10,000 feet on you best stay on the road, as there is absolutely nothing to stop an instant drop into the abyss. I probably averaged around 25 MPH, which was about 20 MPH too fast for Barb.
We got into Estes Park at 1:00 and went in search of lunch, which turned out to be splitting fish and chips, a bowl of chili and a couple of beers. The next few hours were spent window shopping and a short drive along the Big Thompson River.
We are now debating what to do for dinner and at this point going without seems to be the leading contender.
Today’s best deal: Breakfast for 2 - $5.25
Today’s high: 12,220 feet
Barb’s thought for the day: I don’t need to be at 12,000 feet to enjoy the scenery.
Tomorrow we have a short drive to Denver to visit a friend. 181 miles today.
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