We had been to Durango back in 2003 and not much had changed so we decided to drive out to Lake Vallecito to check out the Tour of Carvings. The Mission Ridge Fire from June 9 to July 28, 2002 burned over 70,000 acres. 4,000 firefighters and support staff helped extinguish the fire. One life was lost when an experienced tree cutter was cutting down one tree when another one close by fell on him. As a tribute to the firefighters and to help restore tourism to Vallecito, a local woodcarver was hired to carve images from actual photos.
We tried to see all 14, but a few were in closed areas and others listed on the map by a business name we could not find as the business had probably changed it's name.
This is #1 - Fireman with Shovel
Carving #2 - Black Bear and Cubs.
Carving #4 - Sheriff with Radio
Carving #5 - Alan Wyatt Memorial. In Memory of Alan Wyatt who died fighting the fire. This carving was done on a Tree trunk rooted in the ground. It was snapped off by a thermal vortex.
Carving #6 - EMT and Eagle.
Carving 7A - Rebirth of Vallecito. It was the last one carved and represents the sun instead of flames and animals returning to the forest.
Carving #8 - Oregon Firefighter with Chainsaw.
Carving #11 - Doe and Fawn. A 6 week old Fawn was found under a log and taken to safety.
Carving # 12 - Lynx and Eagle. Vallecito Lake is home to over 25 Bald Eagles at certain times of the year.
Carving #13 - Fireman with Hose
Carving #14 - Colorado Mounted Ranger. They helped rescue People and Animals and delivered supplies.
It was located about 22 miles northeast of Durango and was a beautiful drive. Note the deer on the porch of this house next to the Bear carving.
When we got back we found it hard to find a place for the night. The 2 places in town were $40/night and the US Forest Service campground was $24 and 2 miles down a washboard dirt road. We tried another Forest Service campground 23 miles west of town but it was not open yet. We finally ended up at a Passport America park - Echo Basin Resort for $20 for a full hook up site.
Next we tackle the Million Dollar Highway up to Ouray!
Till Later!
Meanwhile, we keep on Trek'n
Melissa, Gary & Tucson
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