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| Hiking | 21.06 Miles |
2,784 AEG |
| | Hiking | 21.06 Miles | 8 Hrs 59 Mns | | 2.61 mph |
| 2,784 ft AEG | 55 Mns Break | | | |
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| partners | | At one point earlier this week, it was claimed this hike would have a high around 80 degrees at the top. Another claimed it would be low-key miles. I fell for it. So did Wally.
Bruce piloted the Subaru at record dirt road speeds and got us to the trailhead before 0830. Warmish, and not a cloud in the sky. I tried to keep my crying to a minimum. The first few miles on Old Military trail, once we got unlost, were easy but dull. We seemed to hike every direction EXCEPT towards Juniper Mesa.
Scenery improved as we finally turned west and gradually climbed uphill. Occasional shade from scattered clouds lifted the spirits. Easy hiking, and as the vegetation greened up and the trees got taller, it was quite pleasant. Oaks and Willows trail had plenty of oak trees, but no willows. Miles 4 thru 10.5 were the best section of the hike, and we made great time. We heard a few distant rumbles of thunder while eating lunch, but nothing of concern.
After lunch, the trail got steeper and rockier. We topped out at the turn onto Juniper Mesa trail. Easy hiking at first, occasional nice views, but not as pretty as the previous miles. The trail was vague at times, but the fenceline kept us going in the right direction. Some of the roller coaster as we headed east was a drag. The trail gradually deteriorated. Plenty of fallen trees to detour around. At times, the trail followed near the edge of the mesa, affording some dramatic views. I liked the geology of the mesa—all limestone—and spotted some fossils along the way. A leisurely day exploring the rocks up there would probably yield some rewarding finds.
Descending off the mesa was tedious. Steep, loose, rocky trail, with catclaw in places. Hot. Storms lingered to the east of us, but provided no relief. Took another break in the shade at the top of Juniper Springs. Divided up my remaining water with Joe, it was unfiltered tap water, but nobody was going to turn it down at that point. Some louder rumbles of thunder during the final 3.5 miles, more of a breeze, but no rain to cool things down. As soon as we arrived at the car, there was one loud clap of thunder, and the rain started. Temps dropped from 82 to 60 within minutes. Could have used that a couple of hours prior.
All new territory for me today, which was nice. Fun day, with good company. Thank you, Bruce, for driving. |
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Pine Springs |
Dripping |
Dripping |
| | | Seemed like there were two Pine Springs in this area. This one was right next to the road. There was a well and a large trough. The trough was full, but was rather murky. I guess it would keep you alive if you were really thirsty. | | _____________________
| Stop crying and just go do the hike. |
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