Day 14 - waterfalls, silver mines and sore bums

We are spending two nights at the Box Canyon Lodge in Ouray so today was a day to relax, no driving just walking and enjoying the mountains.

We started with a hike to Box Canyon Falls - not too far but did give us our first sight of Chipmunks!

Chipmunks were plentiful and cute. We initally thought there were some very fat Chipmunks until the Ranger pointed out the fat ones were Squirrels.

Box Canyon falls were impressive and worth the hike + $9 entry fee.

Next stop Cascade Falls. Another hike to some nice waterfalls with stunning views back over the valley.

After a morning of hiking it was lunch time - yet another burger....I think all the weight I lost at the start of this year may be back on....

This afternoon we went to an old Silver Mine. Emma, James and Olivia went into the mine for a 45 minute tour while I looked after Jack and chatted to the mine operator about how BHP have destroyed the industry!

The mining included some gold panning at the end - no matter how much I explained to James that it was a silver mine and he was not going to find a nugget of gold - he kept trying - so much so that he fell in the pond! Up to his knees in brown, cold water.

Next another hike - James now wearing thongs to Baby Bath Tubs - a series of small waterfalls that have formed the rocks into smooth 'bathtub' like holes. Very pretty.

The sore bum of the story came when Olivia wanted to jump across the stream but was worried it was too far. I kindly offered to throw her over. Three swings by the arms and a perfect throw....if only Olivia had not closed her eyes in fear and lifted her legs....and landed THUMP on her bottom on the rocks.

I thought she would at least thank me that she was on dry land...it was a great throw!

Anyway she is still sulking "Daddy - it felt like I was in the air for ages and ages. I was so scared I just closed my eyes."

If you look closely you can see Olivia gingerly walking over the rocks - one hand on her sore bototm and carefully holding on to Emma's hand - no longer trusting Daddy.

Tomorrow we move on - passing the scene of John Wayne's reins in teeth charge towards the baddies in True Grit and on to Mohab and Arches National Park.

Two weeks gone, four to go. Emma has organised one hell of a trip!

Ken