Summit Cove, Dillon, CO

After leaving Custer State Park in SD, we continued westward to spend the next night, September 13, in Cheyenne, WY at the AB Camping RV Park, famed for its on site smoked ribs. Unfortunately the evening we pulled in, they had run out…

Colorado Hwy 40

September 14 we pulled into Dillon, CO (Elevation 9,000 feet) where we visited with Chris, Robyn, Callie and Carter for a few weeks. The expansive Luetkens’s backyard allowed us ample room to park. Somewhat of a tight fit through the side gate, and it took a bit to maneuver and level the trailer, but in no time at all we were settled in and in full swing with the grandkids. They were very impressed to have Pa and Grandma Carol’s home in their backyard. Like a really big tree house, just without a tree.


Electric was all we would need as we were had house bathroom privileges. A few days later Chris provided a split to their cable TV – what else could we wish for?


Very comfortable weather was bestowed for almost the first week. Then below normal temps hit – even the locals were surprised. Eventually that four-letter word we vowed to avoid struck. Yes, snow. Not a lot but enough to track into the RV. Oh, the horror….

Rock Creek Road

On the way to Maroon Bells

Maroon Bells

During our stay we had ample time for exploring on our own as well as with the family. Day trips to a few places we had not been before – Maroon Bells, for example. Revisiting a few mountain passes we had not been over in quite some time like Independence and Loveland. This was the first time Tom had seen the Rockies in the fall when the aspens were turning. Guanella Pass, a favorite spot to look for ptarmigan and rosy finches was not allowing through traffic from the Georgetown access beyond Clear Lake due to unstable rocks. When the rocks give way (not if but when) the pass will be closed indefinitely. Access to the pass summit will only be available from the southern access via Grant.

Carter, Cali, Carol, Tom

Robyn, Chris, Carter, Cali (and of course Chewy!)

Visits to old haunts like the Mountain Lyon (breakfast), Sunshine Café (lunch), Georgetown’s The Happy Cooker (lunch) and a saunter through Deadwood for drinks. Walks to and from Cali’s elementary school to drop her off or pick her up, a must visit to the Pearl Izumi shop (major clothes discounts!), or just hanging out.

Independence Pass

Loveland Pass

Loveland Pass

By the time we departed Summit Cove, the overnight temps were regularly in the upper 20’s and lower 30’s. Dustings of snow continued off and on and there wasn't a whole lot of sun. Why, one might almost refer to the weather as winter-like...