Deadman - Rock Spring Ridge, NM

From Alamogordo, looking up into the ridges rising on the east, there is always a pull to make your way up to the top of the formation known as: “The Lady”. This would also have you resting at the base of the towering cliffs known as the Steamboat at the far west end of Long Ridge.


The problem: just how to get there.There is an easy walking access ridge out of Deadman Canyon. Lying between Deadman South and Rock Spring Canyon this gently climbing feature provides great overviews down into the surrounding areas… and far vista views of all of Alamo Canyon drainage across to Hershberger Peak and beyond. The grade is soft enough to be called "stridable".

Unfortunately, the north end of this ridge is guarded by its own towering cliffs. There is no easy access until half way up Rock Springs Canyon.

There is a vertical cleft. For those so foolishly inclined, it might be climbed, thus giving access to the full length of the ridge. You can clearly see this cut out towards the end of the high ridge, just inside the Rock Spring side of the hill. I do not recommend going anywhere near that cleft.

The better option: hike up Rock Springs and climb out midway up… then hike the ridge down to the cleft just for the overviews. Or, simply enjoy the easy walking up to the top of the ridge. Do both.

There are numerous connecting loop potentials, but the value lies in checking out the views on the east side down into the Deadman Canyon drainage. Take the time and check it out... it is not easy to get up on this hill, but well worth the effort.

2013-11-16 imike