headwaters
Seems strange to be fishing headwaters this time of year. Fun to get out on a nice, sunny day and try our hand at some technical fishing in skinny water with very skittish cutthroats. Throw in a few beaver ponds and it was a nice way to spend the day.
east side
Another fine weekend of single track served up in the Land of Enchantment. Noticed just a speck of snow on those north facing slopes pictured below in the Manzanos. Dang its dry. Even the bark on the ponderosa is brittle and lacking the usual, pleasant, vanilla aroma. Dry conditions aside, hard to complain about bluebird skies, and temperatures in the 70′s.
View south toward Capilla Peak, Manzano range.
new climb
The newly constructed “birdhouse” trail has quickly become my new favorite climb. Descending it is great too, but it needs a little time for the trail to pack down. It’s a nice addition to the already great Tunnel Canyon/Otero Canyon trail network. The weekend weather was fantastic with near perfect temperatures and light breezes. Despite the busy trailheads, the trails never seem crowded. Ann and I hit up a nice loop at Cedro Peak on Saturday, and on Sunday, I moved to the other side of the highway for a long loop. Now, we just need some significant moisture or the Forest Service will likely shut the place down before long due to fire danger. Get out while you can!
Top of Birdhouse trail burn area looking northwest toward south peak of the Sandia Mountains.
fishing related
While Ann was away for a couple of days, I took the opportunity to wrap her a new fly rod for her birthday. A good all-arounder for these parts; 7.5′ 4wt on a high end blank. A little bit of nickle-silver bling, red silk, and high quality snake quides. Top grade cork grip and uplocking real seat (not installed in picture), with a glossy redwood insert. It was finished off with her name in caligraphy and I tell you, it casts like a dream. I’ll get her outfitted with a 4wt double taper line and she’ll be set for adventure this year! Can’t wait to post some pictures with a fish on!
a little hike
A quick trip to the Jemez mountains recently, found Ann and I on the East Fork trail for an easy 4 mile hike. The trail was covered in long stretches of ice so hiking was slow but we weren’t in any hurry being lulled by the sound of nearby running water. We took our yellow lab, leaving the other at home so he could have some quality time with us. Some as of yet, unknown neurological problem has caused some damage, so he got some well deserved trail time, running back and forth through snow, ice, and mud, grinning ear to ear. He had an exceptional day.
Redondo Peak should be deep in snow this time of year; the drought continues.
So much there, behind those eyes.
Sunset from the trail
Enjoyed a beautiful sunset from the trail with Ann and a couple of friends. Probably the last night ride of the season with the time change this weekend. That’s Mount Taylor off on the horizon. Some great riding out there too after the snow melts.
it’s a big mountain
Great day to be outside. The mountains are there for you to enjoy. Though I frequent this area, I never get tired of the views. Just after shooting this photo, I watched 4 young mule deer bucks bounce across the hills. It’s so dry and there is so little for them to eat now, I pray for a good dose of winter soon…..
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