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The sun is sinking really low, and I am still barely
in Texas. I have a loop through Texas to travel, before re entering New
Mexico to stop at Carlsbad. |
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Nearing El Paso. I passed a number of feed lots, many
of which seemed to go on for miles, with a characteristic odor. I spent only
enough time here to gas up and leave. Adding to my concern was the fact
that this city is right on the border. One wrong turn, or incorrect exit
would put me in Mexico. For a person with a pair of handguns in the back,
this would not have been a good thing. |
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Guadeloupe Mountains National Park
headquarters. It is late at night and I am out the middle of the country.
I will not even attempt to get the rest of the way to Carlsbad Cavern. There
is camping here, and the place seems very pleasant and peaceful. |
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My van sits in the headquarters parking lot, while I
look at the park map, and try to determine how to get to the campground.
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Guadeloupe rears up against the night sky. |
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Left: The mountain, as seen entering the campground. Below: A deer feeds on the grass of the median strip, in the middle of the night. |
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The campground sits at the base of the mountain. Trails
lead up, through, and all around these mountains. |
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A look at the other end of the campground. Coming in
at night, I had to stop at the self service drop box, and deposit an envelope
with payment, and my license number, as well as the number of the campsite
that I used. Rangers do check the drop box, and the campsite, and failure
to register and pay could be cause for a rude awakening. |
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No time or energy for a picnic, despite the benches,
trees, and public areas of the campgrounds. A few minutes on the computer,
looking over my photos, and then I will wrap myself up, and go to sleep. |
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My van sits at the foot of the mountain. This was one
of the most quiet and peaceful places I have ever stayed. Rarely have I slept
so soundly, or so long. |
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Twelve hours latter, I am awake. A great and uninterrupted
night's sleep has deposited me into a bright and promising morning. In contrast
to the dark tense feelings of the previous day, things are now light, cheerful,
and shaping themselves into a pleasant and interesting day. |
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My van is visible towards the lower left of the photo.
There is much to be said for waking up near a mountain. |
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Rest rooms, phones, vending machines, and other comforts
of the road and campground. |
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I am just about ready to leave, having taken some photos,
washed up a bit, and taken care of all of the usual morning rituals. Carlsbad
Cavern is an hour or so away. |
| Back
to New Mexico |
Forward to Carlsbad Cavern |