I took a slow drive down the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive after bagging Croton Peak, to grab a few shots of the Dorgan House. In addition I visited the tuff and lava formations near Castolon Peak. The area near Castolon Peak is delightful. The myriad of color and shapes are worthy of exploring. Especially interesting are the lava plugs resembling petrified tree stumps.
Returning to the Basin, I made prep for an early departure the following day. Finally I got on the road at 06:35 and detoured to Austin to have dinner with my eldest. Finally touchdown in Houston was 21:30 hrs. “Always take the Long Way Home”. Road weary, but peaceful, I mentally prepared myself for the slide back into the trappings of everyday living.
Finally the Big Bend Feb 2013 journey ends, but not forgotten. A small photo sample below chronicles this day of my journey. I Hope you enjoy the pics and the trip report.
The full log of the complete trip and photos can be found by browsing my trip report page or the compiled photo album of this trip.
Postscript from Big Bend Feb 2013
For many years I’ve sworn to make something from creosote bush. The smell is a perceptual cue that floods my senses. Firstly I harvested about 1 1/2 lbs of fresh creosote leaves (outside the park). Next I processed a few tins of creosote salve. Lastly I cranked out some homemade creosote soap. In addition the salve is a great moisturizer with a desert scent and the soap is currently curing. I’ll let you know how it turns out. It is the color of milk chocolate.
