The Westward journey started from La Junta, CO on its second day with an early takeoff toward Col Springs to meet up with two local pilots to guide us around Pikes Peak (see picture) and unto Leadville, CO. We had to climb from 4400 feet to 12,500 feet in order to transit the Peak. This long slow climb took a very long time. As we approached the south Peak side the guide pilots knew what was the safe path to take in a 30 MPH south wind! We finally climbed to 13,700 as we approached the Peak, which is over 14,000 feet. The guide pilots are friends of one of our pilots and fly RV's like mine. The valley approach to the Leadville airport (9,900 elev) was a new experience for me to land at such a high elevation. My touch down was not pretty, but was safe. I thought that I would never stop rolling. The Leadville takeoff was one to never forget. I rolled for a very long time before finally getting airborne, and then could barely climb at around 100 mph. Our destination was Canyonland, at about 200 miles. About half way, the lead plane with weather radar announced rain showers ahead. We continued thru some of the showers in hopes of continuing the trip. However, the rain closed in all around us and a decision was made to land ASAP. So, we turned back and landed at Gunnison, CO for the duration of the weather. We may just rent cars and drive to Durango,CO since we have rooms reserved there and we planned on taking the narrow gage train to the mines. Stay tuned. Having a great time. The showers got Ginger rather nervous, and I wasn't too comfortable my self !
5 comments:
WOW! Sounds like an exciting day!!! The picture is beautiful!
We had a great day at Sherwood too. Pastor Mark had a great message from the "Ten Commandments" this morning and Ted Davis gave his "Amazing Grace" testimony tonight. His niece Lisa sang also. She is a beautiful girl with a beautiful voice!!! Ted has memorized so much scripture that he is a walking Bible. He led a lot of men to Christ while he was in prison. I'll make a CD for you two so you can hear it when you get home.
After your flight today BB I may have to increase my prayer time for you two.
Oh! Snap, Margaret's daughter Barbara was there tonight and she and John are going to join our church soon.
We all love and miss you two. Take care!!!!
Peg
Bama and Auburn both won... LSU squeaked one out. Had a terrific day at church. Looks like y'all are having a wonderful time. I'll pray for good weather and your safety. The weather here may get nasty by the end of the week... Gustav. Have a blessed journey.
P.S. And THANKS for helping Ted out!!
Fitz
Thanks for the blow by blow! I enjoyed it! Felt like I was right there with you! Sounds exciting! Not sure your landing was an "un-pretty" as you said. You are your worst critic! I love that area around Leadville. We explored lots of old mines there. But be careful around Gunnison...I left my VISA card there in one of the little shops and had to have it mailed to me. Enjoy your train ride from Durango to Silverton and tell us about it. You remember that we made that trip in Dody's jeep in the snow. It was a beautiful drive! Be safe and enjoy! Judy B
Hey Bob and Ginger,
What a neat idea to blog your trip! Something tells me it was Ginger's idea! You guys have a great trip and keep the posts and photos coming. You'll remember this trip for the rest of your lives. Best wishes, Don Hull
What a pretty picture! I can't wait....
-Aaron
Post a Comment