Today was supposed to be a 2h ride for us to reach our next destination. We took it easy in the morning and spent some time preparing the upcoming trip and only left around 11h our glamping place. It was quite chilly and our route took us even further up where we got to touch snow at 9600 feet altitude. We were amazed by the changing forests. We were taken away by stunning views as we passed the scenic route that overlookes canyons, mountains and valleys sculpted by wind, water and time. We stopped to take a snapshot of an abandoned gas station that reminds of past times just to find the most incredible coffee shop we could have hoped for with amazing coffee and hot chocolate and brownies for the kids. All we could ask for at this very moment.

Our ride continued with a breathtaking scenery. Guided by one of the signs that typically indicate historic sites or national monuments we took a spontaneous turn and ended up running over unpaved grounds that did not seem to end. Since we did not have internet connection we had little understanding how far this route would take us and if it was worth the bumpy journey. Eventually we were too far in to just return without knowing what we chased so that we just rode on. At one turn Eva seemed to remember the name of a trailhead and we stopped. Kids were semi-amused about having to put on their shoes for a walk. However, we were all amazed by the next unexpected discovery we made as we hiked for half an hour thru the desert: the spooky slot canyon falls nothing short of its name: We squeezed thru the gulch, having to duck in our heads or suck in our belly at times. Unfortunately we did not have enough time to tour the entire track but enough to feel totally excited, feeling that the discovery was worth of the long detour.

The kids fell asleep on the back seats of the car for the last 1h ride, the scenery remained enchanting. We finally reached our hotel just before sunset, allowing the kids to enjoy the Hollywood swing before dinner. Even though we were very hungry we could not finish the delicious food, which we enjoyed listening to some live folk music.