ONCE UPON A TIME IN THE WEST

ONCE UPON A TIME IN THE WEST - Part 1

3/29/2026

We have had a horrible Winter this season at the ranch (located in Montana) Normanly we receive about fifty inches of snow and this year have only had only two feet. So I decided to take advantage and go for a trip around the West to see some sight and friends.

Some trip - 6,000 miles in a month; Montana, Utah, Arizona, Palm Sprngs, Morro Bay and drive back through Lake Tahoe and across the
Great Basin of Nevada,up through Idaho and home.

First stop was early morning at Brice Canyon then onto one of the finest Mexican lunches ever in Kanab, Utah.

After enjoying the sunrise at Brice continued on to a fine lunch in Kanab. I love Mexican food and this is one of the finest ever - period! So good tempted to drve back today just for a meal! The place has been run by the same family in the same location - 373 East 300 South for 29 years.

With a full belly of very fine food it was time to continue the trek to Monument Valley When there always stay at Goulding's RV park; but in past times have stayed at the lodge. Be sure to dine at the resturant and try a Fry Bread Sandwich.

While cruising for photos, found a new friend. Mr. Binks was to all that excited to see her. Perhaps a stray but my cats were not interested in traveling with a dog onboard.

To bad for she was a very sweet dog. I fed her for a few days while in the area. The Navaho Police said she may belong to a family; but sadly not tken reel good care of.

Was up a dawn every day crusing for photos; even booked a sunrise
"backcountry" shoot with a Navaho guide. To get back in this area you are required to have a guide.

Shooting Forrest Gump 's Hill

This photo above is the most iconic scene in all of Monument Valley - John Ford's Point. If you have watched THE SEARCHERS, staring John Wayne then you have seen this and so much more of Monument Valley.

Get up early and stay late for some best photo opportunities. Here is a early morning photo I call
CASTLE IN THE FOG. In the background you can see Castle Bute appears floating in the fog.

TOTEM POLE at sunrise.

This is EAGLE EYE Can you see the Eagle head and eye?

All Images Available at:
KarlHJohnsonPhotography.com

After a few days in Monument Valley I headed out to see friends in Tucson. Since I was driving to Flagstaff and taking Highway 17 to Phoenix, was told I had to stop at Rock Springs for a meal.
Man o Man am I glad I did for it was wonderful! Highly suggest if you are in Phoenix or Flagstaff do make it a stop - you will not be disappointed and don't forget the homemade pies!