First, let me say that the 25 miles a day goal might have been a bit over-enthusiastic.
Made a bit less than 20 yesterday, and that was really pushing it.
The trail immediately started up the Huachua Mountains...elevation 8500 feet. It will get your attention.
By early evening it was downright cold.
I fixed my evening meal and turned in after the particularly spectacular sunset
By this morning I was greeted by a blanket of white fluffy snow!
The extremes of this trail are shocking.
I spent the night on the north side of the mountain and this morning began slowly with coffee and warm oatmeal.
Leaving on my thermals I finished up, starting the descent. It was now only 54 degrees.
In a little less than an hour I made it to my first water refill-
Bathtub Springs
And the snow was nearly gone.
Bathtub Springs was essentially a real clawfoot tub that had been modified with a trickle pipe to fill from the natural spring...and an overflow hole drilled to control the water so there would always be a moving fresh supply.
Refilled my water bottles using a Platypus filter
The mountain taking me through the Coranado Forest and some lovely pines. I have yet to see wildlife of any kind...but I am sure this will change as we go on.
The flat spots in these mountains are known as sky-islands...and make perfect camping areas.
Miles to go before I sleep and doubtless will shed the thermals and such as I reach the desert temps once again.
Love,
(...slowly thawing...)
"Beans"
Catch everyone on Friday...