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Hiking | 4.80 Miles |
1,038 AEG |
| Hiking | 4.80 Miles | 2 Hrs 31 Mns | | 1.91 mph |
1,038 ft AEG | | 18 LBS Pack | | |
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| partners | | Although our morning Heart of Rocks lasso hike took significant effort we still had some energy in-the-tank so what do we do... explore the Faraway Ranch with all the touristy folk? 'Fraid not!
Other than that the only thing close at hand was the Natural Bridge Trail. Looking at the stats I wasn't sure if my hips and/or knees could handle another step ascent and descent today. But when Tracey offered we'll see how it goes and if we don't make it all the way out so be it, I figured, have at it.
Once we were far enough on the trail to see how far up we'd have to climb before turning back South toward the Bridge, I thought, no way I'm gonna make it up there. But taking it just one-step-at-a-time it wasn't long and we were up on the ridge. Wow, that was easy! I guess the earlier hike just warmed me up and having eaten lunch just before the hike I had enough energy.
After the first long ascent the trail made a steady but easy descent for a while before a steep descent, which was made quite easy by the numerous switch-backs, most allowing for a short walk on level ground. After that descent the trail stayed pretty level for just under a mile before a short ascent to the end of the trail, where one could SEE the Natural Bridge, ACROSS THE CANYON. I guess my lack of research on this hike meant I thought we'd actually hike right TO the bridge.
Oh well, it was still a scenic hike, and it turned out to be another one in which the return trip seemed to take little time at all. Although a bit warm, we had enough of a breeze I hardly noticed.
Ambient Temps: 80-85°
HR Avg/Max = 99/131 |
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