Tale of Two Valleys: Black Canyon and Angel Peak

Happy New Year! My first video of 2019 compares two lesser-known canyons in the West: Black Canyon in Colorado and Angel Peak in New Mexico. Along with spectacular scenery, both places also have free camping. Shot in late September.
For a list of all my videos, please use this link: / @slimpotatohead
My Equipment (Amazon Affiliate Links*):
Main Camera: Sony A7Sii: amzn.to/2J9voXk
Camcorder: Sony FRD-AX33: amzn.to/2khCRMT
Sports Camera: HD 1080P: amzn.to/2xhPzws
Shotgun Mic: amzn.to/2kOJqqY
Editing: Powerdirector 16: amzn.to/2InANdX
NEW!: Powerdirector 17: amzn.to/2KqY8gC
How I get around:
Trailer: 2004 Aliner with around 70,000 miles of hard use. Includes propane stove, hot shower, toilet, refrigerator, 200W solar, two 12V batteries (one AGM)
Tow Vehicle: 2007 Jeep Liberty, 6 cyl 3.7L gas engine, 4WD, over 200,000 km
Amazon Affiliate Links provide me with a very small percentage of the sale with no additional cost to the buyer. Please support Slim Potatohead by using them for any Amazon purchase. Thanks!
Music Credits:
Fresh Fallen Snow by Chris Haugen
Destination Unknown by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license (creativecommon...)
Artist: audionautix.com/
A Revelation by Jeremy Blake
All music courtesy the KZbin Audio Library

[@MyDenali-pv5nh]

Started my morning with your video and some coffee. Your cinematography and narratives surpass many. Thanks for taking the time to do such beautiful work.

[@dieselnine1022]

I just saw this video around 2:00pm, so I watched with a lovely IPA. ;-)

[@ChonkBob]

Can't get enough of your videos Slim. They are always amazing and put me in a great mood. Take care.

[@justaroundthebend6679]

WOW! what Beauty!..... Took My Breath away..... Ok, just stick the camera out there, standing on the edge Freaked me out!.... Thanks Slim for taking us along...... WOW! Your Videos are just Amazing!..... Happy New Year....

[@kimhorton6109]

ALine has really done some nice things with the little trailer space. Their full service models have a nice shower and an easy living space for one.

[@ncplantdoctor]

Lovely way to end the year. It is amazing that so few people select the road less travelled but you had beautiful scenery and not a screaming kid in sight. Maybe someday I'll be there, too.

[@gwkoglin7516]

I so appreciate your videos... your talent for word smithing and linking the scripts to your video editing are simply spot on. You have a wonderful gift. Thank you for sharing.

[@DrJohn493]

I got dizzy just watching you take that selfie standing on the rock overlooking the canyon and walking along that ledge at Angel Peak. Always enjoy your posts and to pick up a tip or two on accessorizing my A-Liner Ranger.

[@vickypastrana1245]

Equally entertaining and informative. As I lay watching your videos, my spirit ventures along with you as my physical being shudders to where you dare hike. I am just in awe.

[@kimtolliver8923]

I love ur videos Be safe out there. God bless u.

[@liktom]

Thank you for opening up this magnificent earth we live on. Most would never have the opportunity to experience just how blessed we are. So beautiful, so majestic.

[@allorenz6591]

Went there with my Mom and Dad when I was 16. Distances were unbelievably hard to estimate. I'm 74 now and really appreciate your video !!!! Thanks for the memories. :)

[@bored2033]

Love the Black Canyon, been there a few times. My kids still talk about the time a deer 'threw` rocks on the roof of our car. Can't wait to see where you take us all on the next video adventure!

[@averagealice8877]

I always enjoy learning about these lesser-known camping spots! It's very helpful in planning our own trips and getting a feel for these places.

[@drqhyflyer4365]

wow! 32k subs.....a true testament to your talents. Thanks Slim for taking us along.

[@delstanley1349]

First went to AP in 1987 and have been back about five times. Every time I was there I was the only one in the park. A great place to wake up refreshed in the morning. The only mar was that looking north towards Bloomfield you could see the very distinct brownish/rust colored pollution trail that hovered above U.S. Highway 64. You could follow the highway just by looking at that ugly line well into the distance as it wound its way about the highway. I didn't see it in the above, maybe it's better now. I remember back in 87 there was a "vault toilet" (just a big dugout s-hole) near the picnic grounds and I read one of funniest park rest-room cautions about falling in and the things that could happen to you. Don't know if it's still there. AP is an enjoyable place with broad vistas that allows for many contemplative moments.

[@livingthelife6284]

There is a vlog in England called cruising the cut. It's a guy who cruises the canals around Great Britain in a narrow boat. He also has another series in which he build out a Van into an RV and takes trips in Great Britain. I have have been a fan of both of you for a long time now. The British guy recommend five of the clogs he watches. Yours was number one. Was amazed as he is on the other side of the pond as the British say, but I was not amazed by his choice. You are both very similar. Smart, pleasant, informative and produce very good videos. I wasn't sure if you were aware of this. Congratulations.

[@terrymoseley168]

Dam man! Yes, heights do scare the hell out of me and even in a good picture like U have within here just is too much to look at. U do excellent photography work and I so enjoy your videos. For me, I would be staying closer to my trailer and enjoy what I could see from there.

[@doriskarnila2906]

Incredibly beautiful. Almost brought me to tears. Thanks for sharing.

[@Verner471]

Like your unspectacular way to show nature’s beauties. It’s always good to stay off the beaten track and to save money where there is a chance. Happy New Year from Elsfleth, Germany.

[@iTrove]

Digging your videos. Nothing like a good breath of the open world around us to lift the soul out of this cosmic swamp we now call life.

[@rhondalyn100]

Made my knees weak! And I'm sitting in a Lazyboy in Tennessee!!! Love your travel vids...BEAUTIFUL!...thanks so much! Happy 2019!

[@joycebarnett5813]

I used to live at Montrose and went to the Black Canyon about 3-4 times a week. I love to sit on the rim and listen to the roar of the water as it echoes through out the whole canyon. I truly miss it. Loved your video. Thanks for sharing

[@cjhawk45]

Angel Peak with the sunset... WOW.

[@allenwatts4497]

Nothing more beautiful than western north America and you bring it to us so well!

[@joycefranklin8981]

I can not tell you in words how much I enjoy your videos. We visited the Black Canyon many years ago. It is truly beautiful. I had hoped to visit that area again in my little converted minivan camper. Still hopeful. Thank you for bringing back those good memories.

[@SlimPotatohead]

Hi Joyce, good to hear I brought back your fond memories. I hope you will again enjoy the wilderness in your camper soon! SP

[@dansmith6508]

The imagery and music at 15:00 is very special, striking a strong chord. Thank you for this.

[@oldcrow6990]

Such great shots! Great places. And you have such good balance! Happy New Year, and thank you for continuing to inspire. PS. I came back to make sure I saved this. Definitely want to visit. Thanks

[@reinhardneumann2658]

6:02 ... the canyon vanishes into a dark void." For a moment I thought you were going to vanish into the dark void. Made me plenty nervous enough, and I've got a good grip on the edge of my desk. Glad you made it.

[@DarrenMclarnon]

I want more slim can't get enough of your vidoes

[@debbiemorad8755]

Happy New Year, Slim. I have been binge watching all your videos this past couple of weeks, love them all. There are loads of things l want to ask, but l will limit it to one. You always say the solitude and back to nature is what you want, l totally get that. But your joy and natural ability to talk about what you are doing/seeing shines through. I too love what the untrodden paths show, but to have a companion that you can just say wow to, the chance later on to recap highlights of the day over a fire and a beer are to me part of the joy. Talking for talking’s sake isn’t my thing either, but the sharing of that day’s adventure has a place, in my opinion. Thank you for sharing with us 😊

[@SlimPotatohead]

Hi Debbie, Thanks for your kind words. Although I enjoy solitude, I don't always seek it. I equally enjoy meeting people, sharing, and listening to their stories. I also respect that very few want these meetings on public media! Hopefully the other side of my travels will be more apparent as others are more trusting with my viewers. Thanks! SP

[@noahcount7132]

Slim, your travel/adventure videos are simply great! Have a happy, healthy, fulfilling 2019 with all the freedom you desire from those annoying crowds!

[@MA-jr8hj]

Beautiful footage of Angel Peak, one of my favorite places to camp. Don't rely on your GPS; ours wanted to drop us down into the "badlands" and through a deep erosion. We drove around down there for over an hour. We have had only two other campers ever be there when we have camped. The rock formations remind me of ancient sculptures or fortresses. Caution for anyone going, the wind can be brutal, and the heat and dryness in the summer months also is extreme.

[@davemenard5089]

Very lovely Mr. Potatohead. Thanks for this peaceful feeling I have now.

[@cindymaag4212]

That shot at 15:30 was breathtaking! Thank you Slim for sharing it with us.

[@abozo1592]

Excellent, excellent, excellent!!!!! I seconded the statement below. I love your video style, music selection and narration. Your videos are "documentry quality" You have this (video production/editing) down to a professional science! Bravo, bravo! 👍👍 Please keep up the excellent videos!

[@skylarbrooks4524]

good erie music for the deep, deep canyon. and i was afraid for you as you were on the edge filming it for us. and then angel peak? let's just say i'm happy you have a good sense of balance. but i really, really enjoyed the scenery. you are wonderful w/ the camera! i have a ford freestyle which would be a good car to pull one of those aframes. every now & then i shop around for one. just can't afford it yet, but it would be so cool to travel to some of those places in comfort. you must be having a wonderful time! thank you for sharing.

[@km2965]

Thanks, from a remote part of the UK. Great videos - please never stop. It was only recently I was recommended your channel by a British KZbinr, David Johns of Cruising the Cut. He praised your videos and I have to agree, he was right.

[@anthonys4159]

Wow... your cinematography is gorgeous at times.

[@wandabooth3411]

Some of your videos touch that sensitive part of my soul quite deeply. Thank you.

[@nicholascasaletto3581]

Mr. P you are by far the best nomadic KZbinr channel I've come across so far. The production values of your videos are unreal, it's like a cross between a nature documentary and travelogue but with a boondocker's ethos. I get wanderlust every time. Keep doing what you're doing!

[@SlimPotatohead]

Not a nomad, a traveller. I do appreciate your kind words though. Thanks! SP

[@N8D79]

I have been binge watching all of your videos and can't get enough! I feel like I have been around the world with ya slim! Can't thank you enough my friend!

[@bobnelson9468]

Beautiful. Lucky us that SPH took his camera along again and again........Happy New Year!

[@DarthVader1977]

Saving up for my Aliner 🎅

[@scottsladeadventures1102]

As a fellow Calgarian, traveler and television broadcast tech.. I have really enjoyed your videos. I'm preparing my new travel van for adventures. Plan to hit the road late spring. Keep up the great work.. you are an inspiration. See ya on the road...

[@valeriegriner5644]

You must have been a MOUNTAIN GOAT in a previous life! These videos made my heart beat faster as I am VERY afraid of heights! Beautiful footage...thanks!

[@miked5728]

Wow.... Nice video! We've been to the Black Canyon twice... Headed to Utah this summer. But after seeing this video, I'm leaning towards New Mexico for 2020... It's a heck of a drive from Michigan, but we LOVE the wild west!!!

[@debrahayes2572]

Not everyone can go into areas you go in, and probably don't want to scratch up their rigs either. Beautiful footage, thanks for sharing!

[@Daave12953]

Great video...Happy New Year!

[@silverbreezeRn]

Gorgeous scenery and loved the background music.

[@sargintrock2538]

Thank you Sir! You are a Godsend for those who have "life responsibilities" such as caring for elderly Parents. Through your Magic and Talent we can soar with the eagles and refresh ourselves with the exultations of the Great Outdoors!

[@vj3lady]

I lived in Farmington for 5 years and I'm sorry to say I never knew this was so close to me. I will be returning there just to see Angel Peak. I'll be retiring this year and will begin my travels and you've given me an idea to spend next New Year's Eve. Thank you for sharing

[@generybarczyk6993]

I was particularly impressed with the your ability to show elevation changes (on the trail) as well as the more dramatic canyon depths. So often, graphic recordings tend to flatten elevation variations. The rest of the video essay wasn't too shabby, either. Thanks. BTW, I'm subscribing after a recommendation (01/01/19) from _Cruising the Cut._

[@skybluepink998]

Happy New Year Sim! That shot at the 16:43 mark with the rock and the blue band in the background--- Stunning! Seriously Slim, you could have a side business selling photographs, a calendar or postcards from some of your shots. So beautiful, and your music overlays are so well done!

[@NorthRiverTV]

Every time I watch a new video, I say to myself the production quality just cant get any better. Then the next video comes along and proves me wrong. This channel has some of the most spectacular work I've seen anywhere on KZbin. Thank You for a great 2018, and best wishes for 2019!

[@johngrant7979]

Come back to this video time and time again , your best so far Slim, great video clips and music tracks 👍

[@ohillbilly]

Shew-wee! What views!!! Thanks Slim ever so much! Just plain awesome!

[@Metalgearsolid1992]

I enjoy every video you post. Please keep them coming.

[@autumnskyes5633]

Holy cow Slim! Seriously one of your best compilations. I've never heard of Black Canyon or Angel Peak and the contrasts between the two were very well put together. The footage of the night sky at the end was a nice touch. You're getting quite good at taking night time video. Happy New Year!

[@maobfh]

You just walked all around where I grew up. Coming up 550, we always knew we were almost home when we saw Angel Peak. If you ever go back, I can point you to some more great (and hidden) camping spots. I then moved to the West Mesa of Colorado and tried to enjoy my time at Black Canyon. A good friend’s mother lives in Gunnison and took me to see Black Canyon. We parked near the edge where you filmed and I relived the anxiety when you stood at the ledge downhill a bit at the edge. Knowing you did not fall (as this video was published) I breathed a sigh of relief when you started filming away from that spot. Whew!

[@DarkZephyrus]

This. This is what I want my life to be like. Thank you very much, Slim. Always love seeing the world through your eyes.

[@tracesplaces1964]

WOW! What a hike! Thanks for taking us with you Slim!

[@XJ1042]

WOW!!!! I'd take those canyon adventures to GC any day of the week. Spectacular! You selections of music were perfect for each section of the vid. Great camera work and editing. Thanks.

[@norm7298]

your video has been one of the best starts to a new year that I can remember in the 50 I've had, thanks, and happy new year

[@aghdassdehghan6509]

Your poetic narativs are just beautiful along with gorgeous scenery. Thanks!

[@festerhairball6588]

Your videos are every bit as entertaining as any mega production on TV. I can't believe you don't have a million subscribers.

[@donaldosier8507]

I love your videos Slim. You are showing me things I can't see for myself. I'm 52 now, been paralyzed since I was 3. Thank you.

[@SlimPotatohead]

Thanks Donald. So happy to share my world with you! SP

[@patriciasolomon7618]

Geez, Slim....was scared for you on that ledge, kept thinking of that couple that fell at Yosemite taking a selfie. Some beautiful footage though for sure. Can't give it enough thumbs up!! Stay safe out there.

[@mtss0917]

I was in the area for the first time last July. Camped at Curecanti NRA . Spectacular. Happy New Year, Slim.

[@GrizOnTheTrail]

Your finest work...IMO! I have followed and enjoyed you and your adventures for some time. This by far is some tremendous videography of nature and our gorgous country! And your commentary is second to none. Thank you for the effort you put in to bring it to us!!!

[@Rebeccamyst]

I have stayed at Angel Peak a couple of times this past year. The sunsets there are breath taking. Great video.

[@lizmccready1560]

Your photos and vids make me want to visit all these places - although i would not be able to wander them as you do - your pictures do it for me - love your vids - keep them coming

[@maryedunkin9839]

So glad you enjoyed the beauty of the 5th largest state in the union. New Mexico is truly one of America's diverse and unique states. Hope you find more to explore.

[@thizizliz]

Oh my gosh! So beautiful. Those last shots of the night sky were breath taking! Interweaving the realities of repairs, discomfort, whatever happens along with spectacular beauty is a great way of keeping it real. I love the balance.

[@eyewonder3052]

Really nice video, Slim! 👍 🌟 💚 Happy New Year! 🎉

[@shadesofidaho]

Beautiful country. I thought Colorado would be cold by now. It is a balmy 14 degrees here at 9:30AM. Happy New Year and Safe Travels.

[@johnmeadows5645]

i enjoy the blend in your videos, scenic views, helpful information, and a small amount of jocularity.

[@ShawnVanden]

I think Colorado's Black Canyon and New Mexico's Angel Peak owe you a debt of gratitude; you've become their official Travel Mascot for the New Year ! Happy New Year's Slim & Happy Travels into 2019 as we look forward to being inspired further by your travel adventure narrative ~ !

[@Jaing79]

A great video. The nature is so beautiful. Have a great new year. Greetings from Switzerland.

[@okcantbelieveit294]

We call bushes scraping the sides of the van, pinstriping. Shows you don’t just stick to the highways.😁

[@centralcoastcamper9631]

Some call that Oklahoma pinstriping, lol.

[@mcschneiveoutdoors3681]

Great footage and editing! Thanks for posting!

[@rubberdiscoduck]

Incredible, just incredible. I play this on my big screen TV and it feels like I'm there. The silence adds to the beauty. Awesome way to start the new year. Thanks.

[@briannab5296]

WoW .. words fail me at the sight of such beauty. Thank you for sharing 💕

[@m.morininvestor9920]

8:17 ''Strange bird''' hahaha loved it

[@squareheadcoughlin5592]

WORDS CAN'T SAY ENOUGH OF HOW MUCH I ENJOY ALL THE GLORY OF GODS CREATION THAT YOU SHARE

[@TrailBlazer5280]

Yeah Colorado! 😁 The scenery is so varied here, Black Canyon is gorgeous but its also quite dry and the mountains are more of what you expect from a western movie. Arid, short grasses and shrubs with few large trees. Maybe hard to get used to for some but so beautiful and wonderful geology! Love that you are showing off the rocks here

[@justicekeyes]

Thank you, it's so beautiful. I sure miss NM. that beautiful blue open sky! dreamy

[@adkanp]

This was a great travelogue. The scenery at Angel Peak is amazing.

[@projet2907]

Gorgous shots, Thank you, I do not think I could walk up there,, afraid of heights !,, I have to crawl to take a peak down 😂

[@eileenfostel2645]

Just beautiful! I did get a bit dizzy as you approached the edge of the cliffs....I would never have seen those views,my self. I always know you will have either good scenery or good tips in your video. I'm hoping you continue for a long time! Happy New Year!

[@randythompson6175]

Thanks for sharing Slim, we live in a beautiful country! Happy New Year!

[@chrisc.8018]

Thanks for the video SP. You're right, the sunset really brought out the colors. As always I enjoyed the scenery and adventure. Looking forward to more. -Chris

[@cocochanel9291]

Not sure many tell a better story of nature and the road than you do Slim. Cheers.

[@subuer]

I appreciated your videos being so well done were the apparent content being well thought out cohesive and many times with a story being told as well!

[@Steamer10600]

Dear Slim..... I really enjoy your videos. Your narration is to the point, reflective, and has great content. Your camera work is (better then) very well done, and you (thankfully) don't try to subject US viewers to a bunch of (who cares any way) drama about your (a) dog, your "what ever ???", or any of that stuff like so many U-tuber's seem think increases content.But doesn't... GOOD content increases the quality of content. I just wanted to let you know that I think that you do a GREAT JOB and(always) while I'm enjoying your current video, I'm always looking forward to your next video.... It's my opinion that YOU, your content, and great filming, and editing skills are really rare (and enjoyed) for the some times "get it up there" content of a LOT of you-tube channels. Thanks and keep up the good work. Your ONE of the very few that I would even consider doing a monthly $$ donation to.

[@SlimPotatohead]

Thanks Steamer10600, glad to hear my style of storytelling appeals to you. My goal is to inspire people to enjoy the outdoors and not be afraid to live their dreams. Happy New Year to you! SP

[@1robertmkelly]

Those 2 campsites are beautiful. And your videos were great. Thanks for sharing.

[@gmanjay3541]

Great video......... you have a great eye for nature

[@davidbarts6144]

Beautiful spots. Like you, I've always liked the view from high places.

[@susannichols4372]

What a great way to bring in the New Year! Your eye for nature is breathtaking, or was that me holding my breath as you stood on the edge? Seriously, you are a kindred spirit and you feed my need for nature while I am unable to go at the moment, thank you and Happy New Year!

[@deeblakley7422]

@Ashurii Me, too. We need to do a GoFundMe campaign to get this man a drone.

[@i67moroz]

We (me and my husband) just discovered your videos, Slim. So happy to subscribe to your channel. Amazing videos, deep interesting thoughts, truly real life. Thank you so much for all you share with us.

[@sandramccoy491]

Im so glad u let us go with u . The county side is beautiful.

[@deandaniel6504]

I live about an hour from Black Canyon. It's a magical place. Looks like I need to put Angel Peak on my list. Great vid as always.