Where The Llano Ends

At the northern reaches of the Llano Estacado Plateau its grasslands tumble abruptly into the ancient Canadian River Basin. Pinion and juniper saddle rugged alluvial tongues, which reach into the mesquite and cactus covered river plain. In the distance portions of the legendary Route 66 still meander through towns with names that conjure images of its glory days--Tucumcari, San Jon, and Glenrio.

In 1946 Nat King Cole first recorded the Bobby Troup rhythm and blues song “Get Your Kicks on Route 66”, while the hopes and dreams of our Nation flowed east and west on the two-lane ribbon of concrete. Today, as in bygone days the panorama of the Northern Llano Estacado Escarpment delights weary travelers. Its timeless sun, wind, and rain-swept slopes endure and I gladly give in to the allure.

After hours of exploring scraps and discards of history I wend south towards the Llano. Just below the tablelands I pause for a parting look across the color and drama of red soil and blue New Mexico skies.


© Ilija Lukić 2012

Where The Llano Ends (Quay County, New Mexico)