I headed through Jackson, WY and toward Vance's home. I had the pleasure of meeting and hunting with Charlie before at the Texas Sweat, but had only met Vance online here at Trad Gang and talked to him on the phone. I was looking forward to, as he would put it, "shaking his paw". It truly amazes me the friendships that can be made through an impersonal medium like the internet.
I met Charlie at a store in Daniel, and he gave me an escort the rest of the way to the ranch. This is what greeted me as I turned into the driveway.
After a tour of the ranch we loaded some gear in the truck and headed for the hills. I was given a first rate tour of the mountains, and saw loads of game, including deer, antelope, and moose. I was amazed at the sight of antelope at elevations over 9,000 feet. When told there were goats up here, I thought he meant white ones!
Vance puts on a stalk.
We stopped for a photo op at a scenic spot, and since we had bows in hand, a fine round of stump shooting broke out. This afternoon had been a highlight of the trip for me.
Returning to Vance's, we found a feast laid out for us - a true smorgasboard of Mexican delights, washed down with an appropriate beverage... Now I know why Vance is always wondering how we're eating on the adventures - he is certainly used to good cooking!
The master at work in the "mens room". This is where "The Way West" epic saga story is being told...
After a restful night, all too soon it was time to hit the road again. Charlie had a rendevous to the north, and I needed to head for Colorado. I sure was glad I made the desicion to stop by on my way though. The opportunity to spend time with two gentlemen as fine as Vance and Charlie doesn't come around often enough, and I was honored to have had the chance to do so.