Colorado Adventures 2012-Day 3

Day 3 in Colorado.  August 11th, 2012.  Our last few hours at Valleceto Lake.  I had time for a few hours of birding as the packing up process was very quick.  By the end of this day, we were to be in the area of the famous Telluride, where we would stay for the remainder of the trip. 

Birding wise at Valleceto, I enjoyed more up close looks at Evening Grosbeaks (see photo below), and an adult Bald Eagle perched alongside the lake (also see photo below).  Other birds around the lake included American Goldfinch, Hermit Thrush, Williamson's Sapsucker, Belted Kingfisher, Western Bluebird, Barn Swallow, and a Lewis's Woodpecker.

From the area of Durango, we took the scenic route to Telluride.  This route took us through the breathtaking and beautiful Million Dollar Highway.  Along this route, we went through the historic town of Silverton as well as Ouray.  The scenic wonder of this area was impossible to capture well with photos.  A book perhaps, "the panoramic photo book to the Million Dollar Highway", might come a little closer..

My family taking in the views...

This Red Crossbill was taking in the views as well and was sharing the views with us.  This is also the Red Crossbill's home, he is a lucky bird! 

The town of Ouray..

Towards the end of the day, we arrived in the Telluride/Mountain Village area.  Our cabin was just south of Mountain Village and roughly five miles southwest of Telluride.  The cabin was awesome and was my personal favorite of all the cabins I have ever stayed in. 

Go to Day 4