Grand Canyon Majesty, Abandoned Relics & a Starry Colorado Night

Day 10: We hit the road early from Flagstaff, kicking off Day 10 of our overlanding adventure. First stop? A much-needed truck wash to shake off the thick layer of Arizona desert dust — and a fill-up for the long road ahead.

Our first destination of the day: the Grand Canyon. No matter how many times you’ve seen photos or heard stories, nothing prepares you for the jaw-dropping beauty of this natural wonder. Towering cliffs, layered rock carved by time, and eagles soaring above — it was a humbling reminder of how epic this planet really is.

After taking in the canyon’s grandeur, we pushed northeast toward Mesa Verde, with a few spontaneous and unforgettable stops along the way.

Passing through Tuba City, we stumbled upon an abandoned gas station and trading post—Van Trading. It felt like a scene from a movie, frozen in time. Not far up the road, an old weathered abandoned house caught our eye. We stopped, explored, and snapped some photos, imagining the stories it once held.

Then, things heated up—literally.

The truck overheated again, sparking a wave of concern. We pulled over, let it cool down, and topped off the fluids. Fortunately, it wasn’t too serious, but it reminded us that overlanding always comes with its challenges.

Onward we went, and soon we discovered an old Navajo trading post—a roadside gem filled with history, character, and mystery. We wandered around and soaked in the spirit of the place.

We crossed into New Mexico, then Colorado, and finally found ourselves at a peaceful RV park to end the day. After a string of Walmart nights, this was a luxury. Hot showers, quiet surroundings, and clear skies.

That night, as we lay in our rooftop tent under a blanket of stars, we looked up at the universe and reflected on just how wild and beautiful this journey had been. Day 10 was a perfect mix of highs, hurdles, and heart — the kind of day that fuels our love for adventure.