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| Hiking | 22.00 Miles |
2,496 AEG |
| | Hiking | 22.00 Miles | 3 Days | | |
| 2,496 ft AEG | | | | |
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| no partners | | Wow! A week later and I am still saying that. It was a beautiful hike. I was not prepared for the village or the animals condition, but after meeting and spending time with a couple of Native Americans, I have a better feeling as I look at my photos. The people do not like the visitors that come through mainly because of the way we all look at how they live. Once I was able to get past what I saw and not look in distaste, I was able to make a few friends there. My friend thought that the people were rude and nasty, but I persisted until I finally made a friend of the Ranger that was just above the first falls. He stayed with us and walked all the way to the bottom of Mooney Falls. I would not have gotten to the bottom of this, as I was SCARED, if the Ranger had not been patient. He also took us to the top of the plateau that overlooks Mooney Falls. What a sight from there. As you come to Mooney Falls, look up at the canyon wall to the left, and there is a natural bridge. Never would have noticed if it was not for this kind ranger. He told me stories of how he is to stop all rock climbers. He stated that we ( non Indians) do not listen. While he tells people to stop and come down, they keep going up. They now have a BB Gun and when someone refuses, they are told to shoot at them. Sorry, but I think things like this make them so stand offish to the general people.
The hike in was not hard, but time consuming if you want to take pictures! Plan to get going early so you can take your time and enjoy the scenery. The hike to the falls was not to hard, the trails are mainly sand untill you get to Mooney, and then it is just plain scary! I made it to the ladders, and could not get myself to go farther. I was really disappointed in myself, but now it gives me a goal for the next time I go there. I also immediately picked a dog up, and that gave me a secure feeling. Bring a couple dog snacks with you and you will have a loyal companion that will let you know of things in your surroundings before you do. I saw an elk because of the dog. Besides, most of the dogs could use the food.
If you plan on riding horses out, be prepared to trot the whole way. The animals are trained to keep at a jog the whole way and that is what we did! I have horses at home, and I think that this was an unbelievable ride.
I think that the heights and nerves add to your muscle soreness. I was bracing every muscle in my body going down Mooney Falls, and did I feel it after! Next time, a little less adrenaline would probably help make it an easier trip. Its all in the head!
Enjoy! |
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Route Editor
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