Blanding, UT

The ride today took us 82 miles from Dolores, CO to Blanding, UT. Another state line has been reached. The ride traversed irrigated rolling farm land toward Monticello, UT at the foot of the Abajo Mountains. This small range is what is known as a desert island oasis in the middle of a dry mesa. The altitude draws in more moisture that provides runoff water to the surrounding area. A left turn south took us the final 21 miles to Blanding. There was a short climb out of Monticello to a shoulder mesa of the mountains and the view was forever. In contrast to the mountain weather, today was fair with patchy afternoon clouds and nary a threat of rain. After arriving in Blanding, we decided to take a short drive down to Bluff, UT to satisfy our curiosity since we have heard so much about the town as it is the current home of our friend Tucker. We didn't find his trailer home, but did enjoy looking at how the town is under the edge of the bluff.

Tomorrow we head out on a stretch of road that has no services for 122 miles. So we will be camping and dining in. And there will be no blog post so we will catch you up on the journey in a couple of days or so. By-the-way, you have dedicated bloggers. Last night Bob had to go to the Dolores Library after dark and walk around the building until he found a strong enough WiFi signal to make the post with the mosquitoes buzzing. And Sally just got back from a quick ride on her bike, around Blanding, before dinner.