States #36, 37, 38, 39 (TX, NM, OK, AZ).
Our exciting cross-country road trip continued west, leaving the lively jazz vibes of New Orleans behind as we rolled into the Lone Star State where we couldn’t resist making a pit stop at the iconic Alamo. We immersed ourselves in the tales of the brave Texans who stood their ground against the Mexican army in 1836. It was like stepping back in time, yet with a modern city surrounding the small Alamo.
We hit the jackpot when it came to food. In the Southwest, Mexicali-style restaurants were calling our names. Tacos, enchiladas, and sizzling fajitas danced on our taste buds, leaving us wanting more. We indulged in the delightful Tex-Mex cuisine like there was no tomorrow!
We set our compass for Tucumcari, New Mexico to hit the iconic Route 66, the Mother Road! Cruising along this historic highway was a dream come true. During out trip, we couldn’t pass up a refreshing break at the enchanting Blue Hole in Santa Rosa, NM.
Who would have thought that an 80-foot-deep artesian spring could be so mesmerizing? This aquamarine oasis left us awestruck! As the crystal-clear waters glistened under the sunlight, we discovered that divers from all corners of the world come here to explore its magical depths. It is indeed a one-of-a-kind dive destination!
With our hearts full of adventure, we continued westward, and the Blue Mesa Scenic Road led us to Gallup, New Mexico. This route was a treasure trove of natural wonders, which we discovered at the Petrified Forest National Park. It felt like wandering into a mystical realm, spotting ancient pueblos and mysterious petroglyphs along the way.
The wheels kept turning, and our journey finally took us to Winslow, Arizona!
Nestled in the heart of Winslow, Arizona, lies a surreal and awe-inspiring testament to the forces of the universe – the Meteor Crater National Park. During our trip to Winslow, we couldn’t resist the opportunity to immerse ourselves in this otherworldly experience and embark on a thrilling hike at one of the most well-preserved impact sites on Earth. This site is so other-worldly that NASA requires all astronauts to train in Meteor Crater before going into space.
As we approached Winslow, the desert landscape stretched endlessly before us, painted in varying hues of red and gold. The scenic drive set the stage for the adventure that awaited us at Meteor Crater. The area is steeped in history and geological significance, making it a must-visit destination for anyone with a love for science and natural wonders.
Upon arriving at Meteor Crater National Park, we were welcomed by the park’s informative visitor center. The center provided us with an overview of the meteor impact event that occurred thousands of years ago. The crater, also known as Barringer Crater, was formed when a massive iron-nickel meteor, about 150 feet in diameter and weighing several hundred thousand tons, hurtled from space and collided with Earth’s surface at a staggering speed of 26,000 miles per hour. This impact unleashed an explosive force equivalent to millions of tons of TNT, forever altering the landscape.
As we set out on the hiking trail, a mix of excitement and anticipation filled the air. The well-maintained path led us to the crater’s rim, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the colossal crater below. Its massive size, measuring nearly 4,000 feet in diameter and over 550 feet in depth, is truly mind-boggling, leaving us humbled by the immense power of the universe. We couldn’t help but marvel at the various rock layers exposed on the crater walls, revealing some of the Earth’s history.
Reaching the rim’s edge, we paused to absorb the sheer grandeur of the site. The surreal landscape resembled a scene from an alien world, with the crater’s central peak, known as the “saucer,” sitting in the center as a reminder of the meteor’s impact. It was a humbling experience, realizing the forces that shape our planet and how Earth has evolved over time. Standing there, surrounded by the silence of the desert, we felt a profound connection to the vastness of space and the intricate dance between celestial bodies.
This charming town had gained fame thanks to the legendary tunes of Jackson Browne and Glenn Frey. And you bet we couldn’t resist taking a moment to stand on a corner in Winslow, Arizona, just like the lyrics of “Take It Easy.” What a rockin’ way to cap off our day!
While in Arzona, we tried a local specialty: The Navajo Taco. This dish is made with fry bread smothered with homemade chili con carne, topped with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, cheese, cilantro-lime crema, and served with aside of fresh salsa.
The road ahead promises even more excitement and discovery. Remember to keep your spirits high and your sense of adventure even higher! Happy trails! 🚗🌵🎶
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