Day 14: Black Canyon of the Gunnison + Aspen

As predicted, it is cold and the camper clearly feels the temperatures. We wake the kids up at half past 8, as we have a lot planned for today. First, we drive through the park and visit several viewpoints of the impressive canyon. We complete tasks from the Junior Ranger booklet. One of them is to pause and imagine where very small animals find food, water, and shelter. Just as we quietly observe nature and discuss the tasks, we see 5 Bighorn sheep nearby. Always fascinating.
The number of wildflowers is also very beautiful to see, we count over 20 different plant species. After the kids receive their badges, we continue our journey. We want to go to Aspen. The famous ski resort in the Rocky Mountains. The distance is 230 kilometers and 3 hours drive, very exhausting. The nature changes, becomes more wooded and is now very green. Occasionally we see snow-covered mountains. A raging river accompanies us for a large part of the way. Once we take a break at a small waterfall. I slip on the sandy ground and fall. Fortunately, I only get a scrape.
Arriving in Aspen, it is bustling. Today is July 4th, the American Independence Day. People are out on the streets and having fun. The cafes and restaurants are full. Everywhere you can see the American flag. After finding a parking spot, we stroll through the small town. The fire department has its doors open and we purchase t-shirts. Unfortunately, David once again misses out. These small shirts are not available. The town is very well-maintained. The houses are clean and many flowers are planted. We see the mansions of the wealthy on the surrounding mountainsides. There is also an airport outside the city with numerous private jets. Since there are hardly any camping options here, we have to drive another 45 minutes to the National Forest to take our spot by the lake. We fire up the grill and retire to the camper early, as it has gotten quite cold once the sun is gone.