Friday AM brought another early wake-up and run in the ominous morning weather. The legs were not as cooperative this morning, so the run was ended after 4 tough miles. After cleaning up, packing, and saying good-bye to the resort we made our way out of Taos. After searching for a bakery, we found a coffee shop that was sufficient and fuelled for the trip.
On the way out of Taos, in the smaller village of Ranchos de Taos, we stopped to view the San Francisco de Asis church, the most photographed church in the US. It seems to represent the typical adobe chapel model of NM churches.
Adding ourselves to the number of people who have photographed the church. We were also struck by the beauty of the neighboring house and courtyard, (below) complete with chiles.
We then made our way south to Santa Fe, this time taking the “low road” which provided great canyon views and some time riding along the Rio Grande river.
Before heading to Santa Fe proper, we climbed the adjacent mountain to the Santa Fe ski area and rode the ski lift to an overlook. It was cool at the peak and we were not dressed for it, so our time on top of the mountain was short-lived. After an obligatory couples photo, we hiked back to the base.
Notice the blanket of aspen trees covering the mountains. Dramatically different than the desert below. The fall colors were impressive.
Once reaching Santa Fe, it was time for a late lunch. My chicken sopapilla (puffed bread) with chile sauce was just what I needed before heading into the plaza. The plaza was buzzing with vendors and tourists as we crossed to the Cathedral, a more modern church built in a similar model to the adobe chapels.
Then went away from the plaza to Canyon Rd, the road of the artists. It’s a winding road that isn’t much wider than an alley, but is covered on both sides by art galleries for at least a mile. Of course, we couldn’t even pretend to be able to buy any of the art, so Susan just grabbed some photos as we passed through.
Below is an artistic shot of a windmill.
…and a bronze sculpture of a girl swinging from the nearby tree.
Once we returned to the plaza, we realized how worn down we were. Since the plan was to return to the same area for dinner we decided to check in at the hotel and take a break for a while.
We returned to the plaza after dark and hunted down a restaurant where Susan got a 400th anniversary (of the founding of Santa Fe) margarita with collectors glass. It may have also been the first hot meal I’ve eaten here that didn’t feature chiles. Then, since we have an extra early morning planned, we decided to call it a night. However, on our way out of downtown, a pit stop was made at Ecco for some deliciously authentic gelato.
Tomorrow brings the last full day of this mini-trip, but the plan is to end with a fiesta…
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