Frost/Nix-ing (The return trip West)

The trip back to California had also been planned to within an inch of its life. Mother Nature, once again, had different ideas.

My goal for the return trip was to drive from West Houston to Los Angeles without ever using an Interstate Highway. It was a glorious plan that I still hope to achieve one day. On this trip, that’s all it lasted: One Day.

The first day of my trip wound from Houston…

Up through Bellville…

To Comanche…

And finally Abilene - all on Texas state highways or Farm to Market roads. If I needed any reassuring that the idea was sound… this drive proved it.

Then the inclement weather came.

And stayed.

The remainder of the trip back did feature three main highlights:

Palo Duro Canyon State Park - just southeast of Amarillo, Texas.

Think of a mini Grand Canyon - with far fewer crowds and a road leading right into the canyon.

It was a stunning way to improve a snow-hampered day.

The second highlight, as I had hoped, was Petrified Forest National Park.

The park features beautiful rock formations with vibrant colors and vast expanse.

The final highlight, a day in Sedona.

I had long wanted to visit the Sedona area - with hopes that its fire red rocks would live up to the hype.

Spoiler alert: they do.

In the end, the drive West was, at best, a wash. I didn’t accomplish what I set out for… I didn’t photograph to my expecations… but I did see some incredible things, which serves as a reminder… Even stressful travel still holds value.

Until next time.

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