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Tezels on the Road

Category: Mountains

  • Big Bend Road Trip 2026: Scrambling Grapevine Hills and Soaking in Juniper Flats Views

    Big Bend Road Trip 2026: Scrambling Grapevine Hills and Soaking in Juniper Flats Views

    Day 3 – Grapevine Hills and Juniper Flats

    We eased into the day with a slow morning, lingering over coffee and soaking in the views of the Chisos Mountains right outside our window. Nature provided an unexpected show as clouds appeared to pour over the mountain rim and spill into the Basin below—a mesmerizing sight that reminded us why Big Bend National Park is so special.

    By late morning, we were ready to head out for our first hike: Grapevine Hills. Reaching the trailhead is an adventure of its own, with a gravel road that can be rough in spots but is well worth the effort.

    The Grapevine Hills are a fascinating laccolith, formed when magma pushed upward beneath the surface and later erosion exposed the rock. Up close, the hills look like a chaotic jumble of massive boulders. The hike begins easily, following a dry wash through the center of the formation. That changes in the final quarter mile, where the trail climbs into the rocks and turns into a true scramble.

    We took our time navigating the boulders, carefully picking our way upward. While keeping our balance, we couldn’t help but think how much our grandkids would love this kind of hands-on adventure. The payoff comes at the end: a massive boulder perfectly balanced atop two others, framing a stunning view of the distant Chisos Mountains—one of Big Bend’s most iconic sights.

    After lunch back in the Basin, we set out for the final hike of this trip: the Pinnacles Trail to Juniper Flats. Like many Chisos trails, the views are rewarding all along the way, but the climb to Juniper Flats—about 240 feet above the Basin—opens up an especially impressive panorama. From this vantage point, we could take in Casa Grande to the east, Toll Mountain and Emory Peak to the south, the Window to the west, and the Basin spread out below us to the north.

    The Pinnacles Trail continues deeper into the high Chisos, eventually reaching Boot Canyon and the South Rim. That kind of strenuous trek wasn’t in the cards for this trip, but it definitely got us wondering whether it might be possible in the future—with a more dedicated training program. Big Bend has a way of inspiring new goals.

    We wrapped up our day with a short ranger-led walk near the Window View Trail, learning more about the park’s natural and human history. Just as we returned to our room, the Chisos Mountains ignited with deep reds and oranges as the sun set. It was the perfect ending to a memorable final evening in Big Bend National Park.

    See our Short from today’s adventures…

  • Day 2: Lost Mine Trail & Boquillas Canyon

    Day 2: Lost Mine Trail & Boquillas Canyon

    We woke to damp ground and low clouds drifting through the Chisos Basin, the result of light rain overnight. It wasn’t the most promising start for a hike on one of our favorite trails—Lost Mine—but in Big Bend, patience is often rewarded.

    The drive up to the trailhead at Panther Pass did little to boost our confidence. The sky stayed gray, and expectations were modest. Still, we found a parking spot—no small victory these days—and decided to take our chances. It turned out to be the right call.

    The Lost Mine Trail begins with a steady, moderate climb, and almost immediately delivers. The first three-quarters of a mile wind upward through welcome shade, offering expanding views into Green Gulch and the Basin Road climbing into the Chisos. The oak, juniper, and pine woodland here feels worlds away from the dry scrub of the Chihuahuan Desert below, a reminder of how dramatically Big Bend’s landscapes can shift with elevation.

    At the three-quarter-mile mark, the trail tops out on a ridge above Juniper Canyon, where the views begin to open and the work really starts. A seemingly endless series of switchbacks carries you higher, each turn revealing a little more of the park. At the top, the reward is one of the finest panoramas in Big Bend: Juniper and Pine Canyons and the southern Chisos to the south, the vast Chihuahuan Desert stretching east, Casa Grande rising to the west, and Lost Mine Peak to the north—its name tied to legends of Spanish prospectors searching for riches in these mountains.

    Just as we reached the summit, the clouds parted. The views were clear, dramatic, and fleeting. On the descent, the clouds rolled back in, and by the time we reached the parking lot, light rain had returned. Once again, our timing felt just about perfect.

    After lunch, we headed east toward Boquillas Canyon, one of the three major canyons carved by the Rio Grande. Rain followed us most of the way, falling harder as we drove, but as luck would have it, it stopped just as we arrived at the trailhead.

    The half-mile trail into the canyon is short and mostly easy, with a brief climb at the start. Inside the canyon, steep limestone walls close in, creating a quiet, intimate space that contrasts sharply with the openness of the desert. Twenty years ago, we brought two of our boys here, where they spent endless time climbing and sliding down a large sand hill. Today, that hill has been narrowed by a rockslide—time leaving its mark, as it always does.

    As we headed back toward the car, the rain returned, heavier this time. Fortunately, the trail is short, and we made it back without getting completely soaked.

    Back in the Chisos Basin, the day wound down quietly. Dinner on our balcony came with a front-row seat to sunset colors washing over Emory Peak, the clouds finally beginning to thin. But the day wasn’t quite finished.

    AThat evening, we drove down to Panther Junction for a ranger-led Star Talk. As an International Dark Sky Park, Big Bend delivers night skies that still feel overwhelming. Telescopes were set up, celestial objects came into focus, and stars filled every dark space above us.

    Tomorrow, we look forward to more hiking. If today was any indication, Big Bend still has plenty to offer.

    Watch our YouTube Short of the day:

  • Day 1 – Arriving in the Chisos Basin

    Day 1 – Arriving in the Chisos Basin

    Though long, the drive across West Texas is always worth it. Around 4:15 p.m., we turned onto the Basin Road and began our ascent into the Chisos Mountains. The higher we climbed, the desert shrubs gradually gave way to trees, transforming the landscape outside our windows.

    Soon, we were navigating the familiar switchbacks up to Panther Pass, cresting the divide and crossing into the Basin. This stretch is always memorable as the road descends into the high mountain valley, with the Window framed perfectly at the far end. No matter how many times we make this drive, it never fails to impress.

    After checking into our hotel room—home base for the next three nights—and unpacking, we set out for an easy walk on the Window View Trail. The flat, paved path offers little challenge, but the payoff is enormous. The views down through the Window and out across the desert below are simply breathtaking.

    We capped off the day with a simple dinner on our balcony, soaking in views of Emory Peak and the surrounding Chisos Mountains. Clouds obscured the sunset, but the wispy layers caught the fading light and created a quiet show of their own.

    It’s good to be back in Big Bend.

    Watch today’s YouTube Short…

  • Southern Caribbean Cruise 2026 – Day 7: Waterfalls, Volcanoes, and Champagne Reef in Dominica

    Southern Caribbean Cruise 2026 – Day 7: Waterfalls, Volcanoes, and Champagne Reef in Dominica

    ⚓ Port of Call: Roseau, Dominica

    Today we arrived in Roseau, Dominica, an island that is dramatically mountainous, incredibly green, and very wet. Dominica is the youngest island in the Lesser Antilles, still actively shaped by geothermal and volcanic activity—something we experienced firsthand.

    Heavy rain greeted us upon arrival, introducing us immediately to just how damp this island can be. Even the “dry” coastal areas receive about 75 inches of rain annually, while parts of the mountainous interior can see as much as 390 inches per year.

    🚐 Into the Mountains of the “Nature Island”

    We joined the Trafalgar Falls & Champagne Reef Snorkel Tour with Venture Ashore. Leaving the pier—where Grand Princess was docked—we drove through the relatively “flat” (a very relative term here) capital city of Roseau, before heading up into the mountains toward Morne Trois Pitons National Park.

    Dominicans take great pride in protecting their natural surroundings and proudly refer to their home as the “Nature Island of the Caribbean.” This UNESCO World Heritage Site makes it easy to understand why. Deep canyons slice through rugged volcanic mountains as the road winds through dense tropical rainforest, offering views of the geological forces that continue to shape the island.

    We were especially thankful for our skilled driver, who navigated the steep, narrow, and winding mountain roads with ease.

    🌊 Trafalgar Falls: Papa and Mama

    Our first stop was the iconic Trafalgar Falls. A short—but always wet—10‑minute walk through the forest led us to a viewing platform overlooking the twin waterfalls: the taller “Papa” Falls and its shorter companion, “Mama” Falls.

    • Papa Falls originates from a mountain lake high above

    • Mama Falls flows from the “Breakfast River”

    Just below the falls, the two tributaries merge and continue on through Ti‑Tou Gorge as the Roseau River.

    Prior to a landslide in 1995, hot springs and pools existed at the base of Papa Falls. Geothermal activity still warms the water here, making it noticeably cooler at Papa Falls compared to Mama Falls—a fascinating reminder of Dominica’s volcanic core.

    Locals refer to the trail as a “stroll,” though that may be a bit misleading. While not overly difficult, the path is rocky, steep in places, and perpetually wet, so sturdy footwear is highly recommended.

    🌋 Sulphur Springs and Volcanic Features

    Back aboard the bus, we continued deeper into Morne Trois Pitons National Park, stopping briefly at a fumarole (sulphur spring) just off the roadside.

    Here, sulphur gas bubbles up through pools of water and mud, releasing the unmistakable scent of volcanic activity. Locals claim the mineral‑rich mud and water have healing properties—but that remains happily unverified science.

    🤿 Snorkeling Champagne Reef

    Our final stop was Champagne Reef, where we geared up for a unique snorkeling experience. The reef gets its name from volcanic gases that escape through the seafloor, creating streams of bubbles that rise through the water like champagne.

    From the rocky shore, our snorkel guide led us along the coast, where we spotted coral formations and tropical fish below. Soon we reached the bubbling vents, swimming among warm currents of escaping gas.

    At one point, our guide captured some of the bubbling water in his hands and brought it to the surface so we could feel just how much warmer it was. According to local legend, simply running your hands through the water can shave ten years off your age—we’ll report back on that claim.

    🌙 Evening Aboard Grand Princess

    That evening, Grand Princess sailed away from Dominica. After dinner, we attended the Captain’s Circle Reception, where we learned that Captain John Foster, spending his final night aboard for this contract, is not only an experienced ship’s captain but also quite the comedian.

    We caught part of the production show in the Princess Theater before retiring to our cabin, watching the lights of Martinique glow in the distance.

    🌴 Up Next: Our Final Port – Barbados

    Tomorrow marks our last port of call as we arrive in Bridgetown, Barbados, wrapping up our Southern Caribbean port visits.

  • Southern Caribbean Cruise – Day 2

    Southern Caribbean Cruise – Day 2

    El Yunque National Forest & Isla Verde

    Day 2 of our Southern Caribbean Cruise gave us a chance to slow down and enjoy Puerto Rico before boarding the ship.

    We started the morning with coffee with an open balcony, taking in views of the Atlantic Ocean from the Courtyard Isla Verde Beach Resort. It was a peaceful way to begin the day and a perfect reminder of just how close we were to the beach.

    After breakfast, we drove east toward El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest system. Our first stop was the El Portal Visitor Center, where we watched the introductory video and explored the exhibits that highlight the forest’s natural and cultural history. We also walked the Discovery Trail, an easy path that offered a nice introduction to the rainforest environment.

    From there, we drove deeper into El Yunque, enjoying the lush scenery, towering trees, and winding mountain roads before eventually heading back toward San Juan.

    The afternoon was all about relaxation. Back at the Courtyard Isla Verde Beach Resort, we spent the rest of the day enjoying the beach, listening to the waves, and soaking in the Caribbean atmosphere. It was a perfect balance of exploration and rest before our cruise departure.

    Tomorrow, we’ll board the Grand Princess and officially begin our Southern Caribbean Cruise.

    🎥 Day 2 Video

  • Colorado Road Trip 2025 – Day 9: Reaching New Heights on Pike’s Peak

    Today was the grand finale of our Colorado adventure, and we couldn’t have picked a more iconic way to wrap things up than riding the historic Pike’s Peak Cog Railway to the summit of one of America’s most legendary mountains.

    We boarded the train in Manitou Springs, excited for the journey ahead. The cog railway, the highest in North America, winds its way up to 14,115 feet, offering breathtaking views of alpine forests, rugged rock formations, and sweeping vistas that stretch for miles. As we climbed higher, the air grew thinner and the scenery more dramatic—golden aspens giving way to snow-dusted peaks and endless sky.

    At the summit, we stepped out into a world above the clouds. The panoramic views were nothing short of spectacular. From the top, we could see five states and the vast expanse of the Great Plains meeting the jagged edges of the Rockies. It’s easy to see why Katharine Lee Bates was inspired to write America the Beautiful after visiting this very spot.

    As we descended back to Manitou Springs, we couldn’t help but feel a mix of gratitude and nostalgia. This road trip has taken us through charming towns, majestic parks, and unforgettable landscapes. From the quiet streets of Georgetown to the wild beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park, every day has been a gift.

    Tomorrow, we head home, loaded with memories. Colorado, you’ve been incredible.

    For photos of our Colorado Road Trip 2025 visit our Road Trip Collection

  • Colorado Road Trip 2025 – Day 8: From Snowy Hills to Red Rock Wonders

    We said goodbye to Granby this morning and hit the road toward Denver. After winding through the mountains, it was a great to reconnect with family over a delicious lunch with our cousins. There’s nothing quite like good food and great company.

    Garden of the Gods: A Sunset Stroll

    From Denver, we continued south to Colorado Springs, where we spent the afternoon exploring the stunning Garden of the Gods. The towering red rock formations against the late-day sky were absolutely breathtaking. It’s one of those places that feels both ancient and alive—like nature’s own sculpture garden.

    We wandered the trails, admired the dramatic geology, and soaked in the golden light as the sun dipped behind the rocks. It was the perfect way to end the day.

    We’re staying in Colorado Springs for another day, and we’re excited to see what tomorrow brings. There’s so much to explore in this area—stay tuned!

    For more photos from our road trip visit our Colorado Road Trip 2025 collection.

  • Colorado Road Trip 2025 – Day 7: Snowy Mornings & Sunny Strolls in Granby

    An Unexpected Surprise

    We woke up this morning to a soft, quiet world—Granby had received a light dusting of snow overnight, blanketing the ground in a delicate white shimmer. With the snow gently melting under the rising sun, we took the opportunity to relax indoors. 

    Sunshine & Scenic Strolls

    By midday, the clouds parted and the sun broke through, casting a golden glow over the hills. We couldn’t resist heading outside to explore. The trails just outside of Granby offered stunning views of the surrounding landscape—rolling hills, snow-capped peaks just beyond the trees, and the kind of crisp mountain air that makes you feel alive. The contrast between the morning’s snow and the afternoon sunshine made everything feel a little more magical.

    For photos of our Colorado Road Trip 2025 visit our Road Trip Collection

  • Day 6: Trails, Rivers, and Renewal in Rocky Mountain National Park

    Day 6: Trails, Rivers, and Renewal in Rocky Mountain National Park

    Colorado Road Trip 2025

    We woke up this morning to a peaceful view looking into the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park—a quiet start to the day with misty peaks in the distance and the promise of adventure ahead. After a slow and relaxing morning, we headed into the park to explore one of its hidden gems: the Valley Trail/Colorado River Trail Loop.

    The hike was a perfect blend of serenity and grandeur. Towering snow-capped mountains framed the horizon while the Colorado River meandered gently through the valley.

    One of the most interesting parts of the hike was witnessing the regrowth from the East Troublesome Fire, which swept through this area in 2020. Charred tree trunks stood like sentinels among a vibrant field of young pine saplings, a powerful reminder of nature’s resilience. It was humbling to walk through a landscape that had endured such devastation and was now quietly healing.

    Scenes from the Valley/Colorado River Loop Trails

    For more photos from our road trip visit our Colorado Road Trip 2025 collection

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