A few more photos of the Dunes and then a lengthy stop in Alamosa for laundry and then we were on our way through Southern Colorado towards New Mexico. The drive along 17 from Antonito towards Chama New Mexico took us through La Manga Pass and Cumbres Pass (both just over 10,000') and presented a wonderful display of Golden Aspen and other fall colors.

Once over the passes and back to a tolerable altitude (8000ft) we happened upon an inviting gravel pit and decided it would do for our nights accommodation. In preparation for an anticipated busy time in Albuquerque we decided to have a bit of a "cook up". Some "ready to eat meals" might be handy, we thought. We spent a busy couple of hours preparing a quiche and a vegetable "stew". I am pleased to report that the new micro wave oven with its additional ventilation seems to be working fine.

A little after settling into our bed a car pulled up near us; turned off the engine, cabin lights on, and occupants chatting audibly. It took us some time to conclude that this was a couple looking for some privacy, less likely we thought, looking for a place to spend the night. It turned out to be the latter; they did not leave until 6:00am.