The next five pics are of "Skyline Drive", just outside of Canyon City, CO.
Rather than backtracking home, we decided to ride all the way around Pike's Peak, coming home through Woodland Park. It was a good decision in regard to views and the smell of Pine Trees for a couple of hours, but it did get a little chilly.
New disc and front brake pads.
New rear brake pads for the drum brake.
We removed the smog pump (only required in CA), and installed the block-off plates.
The newly painted frame and swing arm with front and rear shocks installed.
Bryce and Tyler clearcoated the "new Blue Parts" and we mounted the engine.
My first stop is Roswell, NM to experience a little Alien activity and fill up with gas.
Hours later, I cross the state line, into Colorado.
After all the night time storms, I awoke in Alpine to a beautiful day. A pic of Alpine from the Sul Ross State University, High Rise Dorm parking lot.
After riding around Alpine and taking in the sights, I rode up to Fort Davis to meet the Miller's for lunch at Poco Mexico. It was great to see them, visit and enjoy some great Mexican Food.
Red Enchiladas, Tamale and Chili Renello.... good stuff!
On the way north, we stopped at McDonald Observatory to take in the views.
North of Van Horn, we are headed for Guadalupe Peak.
Stopping at the Rest Stop at Guadalupe Peak, we made a hotel reservation for Carlsbad, NM. Two hours later we checked in to the hotel, got cleaned up and enjoyed a Chili Cheese Coney at the Sonic. I treated Frank to his first Onion Ring. He liked them.
Leaving Rio Grande Village on Wednesday morning, Frank and I rode to the Chisos Basin Lodge.
Enjoying the breakfast buffet, we loaded up on calories for a full day of riding. 20 miles down the road, Frank and I shook hands and parted. I wished him the best in his riding and vowed to stay in touch.
This cactus is one example of the desert being in full bloom. These flowers were a bright fuchsia.
Big Bend NP offers a lot of dirt road, dual sport riding that take you deep in the back parts.
Once I left the Park, I headed to Lajitas and then on to the River Road.
About 7 miles later, I found a 4x4 trail down to a dry river bed that led to the Rio Grande. This allowed me a bit of relaxation along the water's edge.
The Tipis up the River Road.
From a high spot on the road between Presidio and Marfa. Looking toward Alpine to the Northeast.
Once arriving in Marfa, I enjoyed a Chili Reno lunch.
Between Marfa and Alpine, the state of Texas has built an observatory..... to observe the mysterious Marfa Lights.
The "Four Peaked Mountain" is Twin Sisters. The old Lane Ranch 'took in' half that mountain.
Dinner with my high school basketball coach, Brent McWilliams.
Packing up to leave with my mother watching on.
Leaving Midland, I headed south to Rankin, TX. It is amazing to me that the little county roads in Texas are 75mph.
After all the miles in the Panhandle, it was very cool to see some mesas and canyons.
On my way down, I sent a text to Fudd, asking for a good place to eat lunch. He replied with.... Old House Cafe in Iraan, TX. I was amazed at the $7 Chicken Fried Steak. Took me back to my high school years of Football and Basketball trips and the meals we ate.
And the much awaited destination.... Big Bend National Park!!!!
10 miles into the Park, I came upon the awesome view of the Chisos Mountains. 
I had originally planned to spend the night in Big Bend Ranch State Park, but I wanted to spend more time in the National Park. I chose the Rio Grande Village Campground for my overnight stay. 
Camped next to me was a fellow from Germany (Frank), accomplishing a 6 month motorcycle tour of our "Contiguous 48". Frank and I quickly formed a friendship and even shared a spaghetti dinner, as we swapped stories of motorcycle trips and motorcycles. We even studied his maps and I gave him some great ride ideas that he had missed.
After spending the night in Terry's yard, I hit the road for Palo Duro Canyon State Park (PDCSP).
The 16 mile loop of PDCSP is full of great twisties and phenomenal sights.
After leaving the State Park, I headed to Canyon, TX, for lunch and a pic of 47' tall, Tex Randall.
The Mexican Food at El Patio was pretty darn good.
Riding down through the Texas Panhandle, there are a lot of cotton fields to see.
After a couple of hours behind the handle bars, I need a little "pick me up", so I stopped for a rest and a little java.
Once arriving at my Sister and Brother-in-Law's home outside of Midland, TX, we enjoyed a lot of conversation and some great food. Here is a pic of my big Sis.... experiencing the VStrom.
