US191 Ramsey Peak area s(u)

Approaches

From North. At the low point between the two US191 summits it is program in contrasts to visualize how US191 started out from Dutch John. There it was lush and green, usually not the first thing people think of when they hear the word "Utah". Here across the border in Wyoming, the landscape has grown bare and impressively austere. The last lines of snow still mark the featureless flat rim of the mesa above. The road quickly climbs to a the next summit, with vast views, that are rich in texture and minimalist in form.

      

From South. (described downwards) The road seems to emerge on an ever so gently curving ridge with far views into three directions. Landmarks are distant and small, like the Cliffs behind Green River or Aspen Mountain with its antennas. They inspire more awe, if you have actually biked there. Because actually, each one is a rather large land feature and requires a lot of energy to get to the top of. But from here they are small details on the horizon.

But what is most poignant about this the shallow ridge is the endless parade of snow fences, all facing west into the fierce constant wind coming from the west. I was looking for a lunch spot, and strategically sheltering behind an endpost without slats was the best bet of getting some shelter from the wind.