Gogol Bordello Live in Albuquerque NM

Written by Kyle

I’ve loved Gogol Bordello since I first heard them in 1999, but I’ve never had the chance to see them live. Bee has seen them a couple of times, but it’s been years., so when we saw they were playing a short drive away in Albuquerque, New Mexico we grabbed tickets right away!

We left Creede on a Tuesday morning, stopping in Monte Vista, Colorado to see the Crane migration. Every year about 20,000 Sandhill Cranes migrate and stop in the area. As we were passing by, we figured we would take a gander. There was an absolute massive amount of them both in the air and on the ground, unfortunately with my phone I was unable to get good aerial shots.

We had an uneventful drive down, and checked into our mid-century hotel in downtown Albuquerque, within walking distance of the theater. After a quick dip in the pool, we cleaned up and headed out for a sushi dinner (no sushi in Creede!), then made our way to the venue.

I couldn’t think of a better venue to see this band, the historic El Rey Theatre, once a movie theatre and now a concert venue. And the best part? A capacity of around 700 people…that is the population of our whole county! I’m not sure if the show ended up selling out, but it was definitely packed. We started the evening up on the balcony watching the opening bands and the beginning of Gogol Bordello’s set. The sound up top was decent, but our view was a bit obstructed so we decided to make our way down to the floor.

It was a great move, we were able to get right up front where we could really see the band and the sound was amazing. The crowd was energetic, singing along and dancing. I can honestly say it’s been years since I felt that kind of energy in a crowd. I took a handful of photos and one short video, but honestly, I was too engrossed in the show!

I loved seeing these guys, it was one of the most high-octane, eclectic shows I’ve ever seen. I’m hoping to see them again down the road someday!

Chaco Culture National Historical Park – Nageezi, NM

Written by Kyle

We took a drive down to the remote area of Negeezi, New Mexico to visit Chaco Culture National Historical Park. We knew the area had no cell signal, no restaurants, or places to stay within hours of the park except the camp sites on location… so why go? To put it simply it is one of the largest concentrations of pre-Columbian indigenous pueblo ruins anywhere and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

From Creede it was about a four-hour drive through the gorgeous Southern Colorado mountains and the Jicarilla Apache Nation Reservation. After the last 7 miles of gravel road we arrived at the park. (We had read it was a much more treacherous road…..but maybe the people writing that had never driven forest roads before?)

We stopped at the visitor center to get our vehicle pass ($25 per vehicle or no charge with a National Park Pass!) and talked to the ranger to see where our time would be best spent. It turns out the five major sites are easily accessible from the 9 mile loop access road running through the park. We chose to purchase some additional guidebooks and do a self guided tour rather than wait for a ranger-led program.

This weather this time of year was perfect, about 68 degrees out, sunny, and barely any other visitors at the park. We drove in, said hi to a couple coyotes, and parked at the lot for the Chetro Ketl and Pueblo Bonito sites.

Immediately we were surprised at how large and tall the ruins were. After seeing Pueblos at nearby Mesa Verde National Park and Chimney Rock National Monument we did not expect to see such a large complex. These ruins were constructed between 850 and 1250 CE, so it is amazing how much is still standing.

We started at the smaller site Chetro Ketl and examined the ruins and the masonry techniques outlined in the guidebooks, then made our way to the largest complex in the park, Pueblo Bonito via the petroglyph trail.

The Pueblo was stunning, walls remain over 2 stories tall, and the Great Kiva (a large, typically circular, subterranean or semi-subterranean structure used by Ancestral Puebloans for major community ceremonies, political meetings, and social gatherings) was the largest and best preserved we have ever seen. The guidebook was easily worth the $3.00 as it took you through the complex, pointing out the different sections and techniques used through hundreds of years of planned building, and highlighting features unique to this park.

Chaco Culture National Historical Park was one of the largest pueblo complexes we have visited, allowing the most access through the buildings themselves. We would absolutely recommend a detour to this park in you are in Northern New Mexico, it is worth the detour for sure! 

The Elklund Hotel – Clayton, NM

Written by Kyle

I’m a huge fan of Western history, so anytime I get a chance to stay in an 1800s hotel I take it. While passing through New Mexico, decided to stop for the night in Clayton, a New Mexico town near the border of the Texas panhandle. After reading this on the hotel website, I decided to stay at the Elklund Hotel: “The original part of the structure, now serving as our saloon, was built in 1892 and operated as a saloon and gambling hall; the property was purchased by Carl Eklund in 1894 and during the following years was expanded in phases to its present configuration. The historic Hotel Eklund currently has 24 guest rooms, as well as 2 dining rooms and one of New Mexico’s most iconic bars. We serve delicious steaks, authentic New Mexican dishes, and classic comfort foods, along with an excellent selection of regional beers and wines. For over 100 years The Eklund has been Clayton’s premier boutique hotel, dedicated to preserving the Wild West Experience for the modern traveler.”

Walking into the gorgeous Gorgeous lobby did feel like a step back in time. I admired the original switchboard while waiting for my key (an actual physical key, of course), then went up to my room to clean up.

The rooms have been updated, personally I like it when they feel more untouched, but I do appreciate having a bathroom (they were not originally part of the standard rooms, and you shared a bathroom down the hallway).

I headed down to the restaurant and asked for a table, while waiting I walked over to the bar to admire the gorgeous antique bar back. The barkeep let me know that unfortunately there was no music tonight, but recommended a few local whiskeys to try.

I was seated and ordered the NY strip steak ($26!?!?) and enjoyed the atmosphere (pretty sure there are a few bullet holes in the ceiling), then enjoyed my meal! I asked about the pie I saw other tables feasting on, but unfortunately they had just run out so I ordered the Texas sheet cake instead. So I have never had this before…and I do not know if this was a standard example or something special…but Wow! I retreated back to my room with a full belly and hit the hay, back on the road in the morning!

American Basin – Lake City, CO

Written by Kyle

You have probably seen photos of American Basin in a calendar, on instagram, or a magazine at some point before. Located near Lake City, Colorado in the Gunnison National Forest this high alpine basin is surrounded by cliffs up to 14,000 feet in elevation, and is absolutely stunning.

You can get to the American Basin from the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway which starts in Lake City. Since that is only an hour away from our cabin we decided to make the drive over Slumgullion Pass early on the weekend. This winter has been remarkably dry so far and because of the time of the year there was almost no other traffic…..very different from the summer months! Bee’s son was visiting and came along as well, so we had an excuse to show him the sights and of course grab some lunch at the Sportsman’s BBQ Station in Lake City. We made our way up the loop, enjoying the sights along the way – mountains, waterfalls, and a bit of wildlife. Most people aim for the wildflower season in the summer, which is beautiful, but the fall and winter seasons here offer beauty and quiet most people never get to enjoy. The loop itself is a fun all day adventure (this is just one stop on the trip), but 4WD is required.

We made our way to the American basin trailhead (only the last mile is really bumpy, but if you do not feel up to the off roading, or your vehicle is not high clearance, you can always park at one of the earlier turnouts and walk to the trailhead), took a few minutes to stretch after the long drive, and enjoyed the views.

We were greeted by a dusting of snow on the mountains, and the view from the trailhead was perfect. We started to hike up the basin and were able to see several waterfalls, as well as one we stopped at for a quick cool down. 

If you are in the area, the Alpine Loop is absolutely worth the trip, and seeing the American Basin is an experience to remember, whether in the summer months or shoulder seasons!

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Museum – Cleveland, Ohio

Written by Kyle

Last time I was back home visiting family in Cleveland, Ohio, I took Beulah to some of the local sites, including the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Museum. I had actually not been to the museum since it opened back in 1995, so I was looking forward to going back and seeing how it had changed. It was, of course, a beautiful grey day on the lake in Cleveland, Ohio when we arrived, but we took a couple minutes to admire the rock hall architecture, and of course, took a couple pictures at the Long Live Rock sign.


We entered the museum and were immediately greeted by an overwhelming amount of rock ‘n’ roll memorabilia. We decided to start on the lower level and make our way through rock ‘n’ roll history. Many of the exhibits had been there since the museum opened, but this was not a disappointment at all, especially for B who had not ever been there before.


It’s pretty amazing to be able to see the guitars and apparel worn by classic artists like Elvis, Buddy Holly, and instruments played by Prince, Johnny Cash, and Jimmy Page. There was also a really neat Cleveland rocks exhibit with local music history – something that definitely has extra meaning to somebody from the mistake on the lake.


The current special exhibit was revolutionary women in music. Bee was excited to check out some of the costumes and equipment from many of the women from the 70s to today.


We also took a minute to go into one of the jam rooms where Beulah practiced her best bass face while slapping the strings. Check out those snakeskin boots.

We absolutely recommend going to the museum if you’re ever in town, or if you’re lucky enough catch one of the live concerts often held there or even the induction ceremony for the next year‘s class!

The Big Texan Steak Ranch – Amarillo, Texas

Written by Kyle

I have been to The Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo, Texas a few times over the years, but recently on the way back from South Carolina the timing lined up and I was able to stop not only for a steak dinner, but to stay the night!

I was planning my stop for the night and looked for a hotel near the restaurant, and to my suprise the Big Texan Motel came up! It was very reasonable, and only a walk across the parking lot from the rooms to the steakhouse. I arrived in Amarillo and checked in and headed to my digs for the night. The room was clean and decorated in what I can only assume was “Big Texan” style. 

I decided to clean up and head over to grab some dinner, with a quick stop to pet the goats who were hanging out at the Horse Hotel!

I was seated near two sisters on their way cross country via Route 66. I did not feel prepared so I skipped the 72oz “Free” steak and decided to just get a 12oz steak and some fried pickles.

Dinner was good and fast, and I took a spin around the gift shop, past the shooting galleys, had my fortune read, and headed to the bar for a nightcap.

It had been a long day of driving so I decided to call it a night. The bed was comfortable, and once I tuned out the I-40 freeway noise I fell right asleep. This was a reasonable and convenient stop, but I suppose if I ever stay again I may need to try the 72oz steak challenge!

Mesa Verde National Park – Montezuma County, CO

Written by Kyle

A couple weeks ago we had planned to go to visit Mesa Verde National Park in Southwest Colorado. At that time we were hoping the government shutdown would be over, but at the time I am writing this it is still dragging on. We were not sure what to expect but as we already made arrangements for the trip and booked a hotel, we hit the road as planned.

The drive from Creede, CO to the park was beautiful weather and the Pagosa Springs side of Wolf Creek Pass was still showing fall colors. We even spotted a few of our bighorn neighbors on the drive out.

We grabbed some lunch in Cortez (Delicious, but insane portion sizes Loungin’ Lizard!) and headed to the park entrance. We were surprised to find there was a park ranger manning the gate, they were not collecting entrance fees or checking park passes, and he informed us most of the roads in the park were closed except the main route. All the museums, visitor centers, and guided tours of the cliff dwellings were shut down, however you could still visit the Spruce Tree House.

We headed into the park and enjoyed the beautiful, traffic free drive, and made our way to the Spruce Tree House. We arrived and were happy to find the restrooms were still open and clean, and there was a park ranger present. Mesa Verde is full of petroglyphs and archeological sites, so it was good to see there was someone watching over them. We have definitely seen horror stories of people causing damage or running free at other national parks during the shutdown.

The view of Spruce Tree House was pretty amazing, especially knowing this is one of the smaller existing cliff dwellings in the park. We headed out of the park, glad to have seen what we could, and we definitely want to visit again when the full park is open and guided tours to the dwellings are available. We thanked the lone ranger for looking over the park and headed home.

Ray Wylie Hubbard Live in Red River, New Mexico

Written by Kyle

When I saw Ray Wylie Hubbard was playing over my birthday weekend back in August, we decided to take a little wiggle down to Red River, New Mexico. We’d never been there before, so we weren’t exactly sure what to expect, so we jumped on the bikes and headed out!

Our trip started smoothly with clear weather, and we stopped at the Wagon Wheel Saloon in La Jara, CO for lunch. We’ve driven and ridden past this place a bunch of times, and it always seems to be full so we gave it a shot. It did not disappoint, it definitely seemed like more of a local restaurant and had good food. Guess we went just in time, evidently the restaurant is now permanently closed!?!?!

As we were nearing New Mexico, we saw thunderstorms on the horizon.

We got thoroughly soaked and cold, but luckily rode out of it and into the sun as we headed towards Taos. As we got closer to Red River, the terrain became more mountainous again and the weather began to get a bit colder and we caught a bit more rain. The last 10 miles or so of twisty mountain roads was pretty wet, but luckily nothing we have not encountered before. For the record we did have rain gear with us, but decided not to put it on both times….

We arrived at our hotel, cleaned up, and headed into town for dinner. We decided to grab a little Mexican and saw the real life Hank Hill having dinner as well.

We walked over to the Mother Lode Saloon, which was taking part in the yearly 8750 Festival, a celebration of music and barbecue. Although there were some other great bands this weekend, we specifically came in for this one event which was held independent of the main festival. I’ve loved Ray Wylie Hubbard for a long time and finally got a chance to see him live. No better excuse for a road trip right?

His first song or two started a little shaky, but his voice just got stronger and better as the show went on. He played the best of the best out of his large catalog, told stories, and played for about a hour and a half ending with a drunken singalong of Up Against The Wall, Redneck Mother…I was not disappointed!

After the show we headed across the street to the Bull O’ The Woods Saloon (in operation since 1939!) to shoot a little pool.


The next morning, on my actual birthday, we hit the road and passed through Taos and into Carson National Forest. We’ve ridden this stretch before, but on this particular day, there was almost no traffic and we were just able to really enjoy the roads and clear warm weather.

We headed up past Chimney Rock National Monument and into Pagosa Springs.

We decided to end the trip with a stop at Rachel’s Keep On Keepin Onfor some delicious sliders and mac ‘n’ cheese before heading up the valley towards home.


A fun trip to another little mountain town, good food, great music, and open roads. What more can you ask for?

Phoenix Park Waterfall – Creede, Colorado

Written by Kyle

Bee and I decided to head up to check out Phoenix Park Waterfall, only of the many waterfalls in the Creede, CO area, but one we had not yet visited. We did a quick map download on AllTrails and headed towards Willow Creek.

We read that it was about 2.5 miles to the falls from the trail head, but that a 4×4 could drive to 2/3 mi from the falls….so we aired our tires down and hit the trail!

It started out a bit rocky and bumpy but about halfway in definitely became a bit more technical! We took our time on the trail and passed a few side-by-sides headed out as well as some hikers sharing the road. We didn’t have any real issues but I am glad I had skid plates in a few of the more narrow rocky areas on the trail! After a water crossing we came to the trails end and caught up with a cool old Toyota FJ. 

We started hiking and caught glimpses of the falls, and after an easy hike we were standing at the base of the falls and treated to a cool mist.

It was starting to cloud up and we knew some afternoon rain was coming in, so we headed back to the runner and started making our way back towards town. All in all a fun few hour trip and we crossed the last waterfall in the area we had not been to off the list!

A Mushroom Foray in South Fork, Colorado

Written by Bee

I visited the South Fork Colorado Visitors Center last week and joined up with a mushroom foray group. We met at 8:00 a.m. and went over the game plan for the day. The group leader let us know where we going and what we were hoping to find. We were going to visit three locations, so we all got in our cars and followed the leader to our first location, Big Meadows Reservoir. We pulled over to the side of the road and fanned out into the forest. When anyone found a mushroom we would call out so those in the vicinity could check out the finds.

We learned a little bit of the anatomy of mushrooms and the different types of caps and stems and how they released their spores. We also learned how to gather ethically by making sure to leave some behind and not just scoop up all the mushrooms and clear out the patch.

The second location was off of Park Creek Road. I had a little less luck here and ended up peeling off from the group at this point. The third location was going to be in Del Norte and instead of following them, I headed back home to Creede.

I wanted to take the class to get tips on gathering, where and when to find certain species and most important of all, which ones are safe to eat! There are many types of mushrooms and many look alike so the safest bet if you’re unsure is not to eat them. I can now go confidently in to the forest and harvest Oyster Mushrooms and Chanterelles for sure, I found a patch on a hike here in Creede last year and I want to go back and see if I can find them again.

They offer a few classes through the summer, next up is an herb gathering class and you can find info through the South Fork Visitor Centers Facebook page. This class was free and they had mushroom hunting guides for sale and many other maps and info available. I live here year round so I never thought of myself as a visitor and had never thought of going in to the visitors center! Lots of info, friendly folks 10/10 would recommend.