Member III
A Rebel Yell
- Thread starter Nick Malette
- Start date
Enthusiast III
Enthusiast III
Thank you both, that's very kind.
One of these days I'll get a real, non cell phone camera and learn how "to take pictures"
Brooks is almost 13 - I'm holding on for dear life
One of these days I'll get a real, non cell phone camera and learn how "to take pictures"
Brooks is almost 13 - I'm holding on for dear life
Enthusiast III
[Mid May 2023]
I wanted to track and submit my first trail to OnX Offroad and spent some time looking at maps of roads and places I haven't seen. I don't remember the logic but I decided I wanted to venture from Abiquiu to Tres Piedras via dirt roads. This route took me through some small mountain towns in northern NM and I will absolutely doing it again, in its entirety or piecemeal.
Map for reference:
I fueled up at Bode's, which is always a delight.
This little ledge was the 'biggest' challenge of the very tame, well maintained roads traveled. Abiquiu lake and Cerro Pedernal in the background
The view moving forward was lovely as well
Truck Stuff
Setting up a simple camp is quick and still useful. Makes me thoroughly happy
I'd come back just for this view and sun set
When camping, Brooks heads to bed with the sun
Indian Paintbrush littered the trail
Ok, this scared me at first and I walked it. Got away clean
As I got to El Rito, the red rock and Juniper gave way to tall Pines and meadows, along with this welcome "sign:
These doors just did it for me.
Found a wonderful detour to have lunch. Brooks is a water buffalo at heart and love a good wade session.
Snack & nap time
I love views like this. Northern NM is pure magic
Wild horse spotting, he was skeptical but beautiful
Camp view, looking north to Colorado (I think)
There must be water!
Looking East ish across to Taos, the mesa and Sangre de Cristo mountains
I'd love a driveway lined with Ponderosa Pines someday
Aldo Leopold Cabin in Tres Piedras, NM
The miles and miles of big Sage makes me happy, never gets old
On the way home, I detoured through Jemez Mountains and stopped along Jemez River
I wanted to track and submit my first trail to OnX Offroad and spent some time looking at maps of roads and places I haven't seen. I don't remember the logic but I decided I wanted to venture from Abiquiu to Tres Piedras via dirt roads. This route took me through some small mountain towns in northern NM and I will absolutely doing it again, in its entirety or piecemeal.
Map for reference:
I fueled up at Bode's, which is always a delight.
This little ledge was the 'biggest' challenge of the very tame, well maintained roads traveled. Abiquiu lake and Cerro Pedernal in the background
The view moving forward was lovely as well
Truck Stuff
Setting up a simple camp is quick and still useful. Makes me thoroughly happy
I'd come back just for this view and sun set
When camping, Brooks heads to bed with the sun
Indian Paintbrush littered the trail
Ok, this scared me at first and I walked it. Got away clean
As I got to El Rito, the red rock and Juniper gave way to tall Pines and meadows, along with this welcome "sign:
These doors just did it for me.
Found a wonderful detour to have lunch. Brooks is a water buffalo at heart and love a good wade session.
Snack & nap time
I love views like this. Northern NM is pure magic
Wild horse spotting, he was skeptical but beautiful
Camp view, looking north to Colorado (I think)
There must be water!
Looking East ish across to Taos, the mesa and Sangre de Cristo mountains
I'd love a driveway lined with Ponderosa Pines someday
Aldo Leopold Cabin in Tres Piedras, NM
The miles and miles of big Sage makes me happy, never gets old
On the way home, I detoured through Jemez Mountains and stopped along Jemez River
Enthusiast III
For Memorial day weekend we went up and camped along the Rio Chama, northwest of Abiquiu, NM. I need a kayak or ducky or something to run this river next year. Spectacular and icy cold swimming.
Sweet Charlie
Afternoon is for naps
Went for a quick hike / scramble up the hill across from camp for broader river views. Not disappointed
Charlie was the lifeguard whenever we went swimming
Took a longer way home and spend some time enjoying the views of the Valles Caldera
Sweet Charlie
Afternoon is for naps
Went for a quick hike / scramble up the hill across from camp for broader river views. Not disappointed
Charlie was the lifeguard whenever we went swimming
Took a longer way home and spend some time enjoying the views of the Valles Caldera
Enthusiast III
[July 2023]
Took another family adventure up north. This time up the Conejos river valley and Platoro. Once you get north of Espanola the drive up 285 is just wonderful. You see the landscape changing as you go. Tres Piedras is a welcome stop and a place I dream about building a cabin. Once in Antonito the real magic happens. Driving 17 takes it up a notch and I know I'm close of FS 250 and taking my partner there for the first time adds a new layer for me. Most of the time these trips as solo with the pup or pups. Mind you it is July but Platoro is 9k ft elevation and it is just perfect weather. The sun is intense but the snow on fleeting snow on the mountain peaks confuses the brain. I've chronicled my previous trips up this way prior and it is a place I hope I always come visit - hell I best learn how to fish so I can properly revel in it's majesty.
Rebel Yell overlooking Platoro Reservoir
Wider reservoir shot
Not much light pollution here
We camped near the road and found our way down to the river
Freezing clear
Cookie learned to trust water this summer
Writing this up on a cold January day...looking forward to warm sunshine and river swimming again
Took another family adventure up north. This time up the Conejos river valley and Platoro. Once you get north of Espanola the drive up 285 is just wonderful. You see the landscape changing as you go. Tres Piedras is a welcome stop and a place I dream about building a cabin. Once in Antonito the real magic happens. Driving 17 takes it up a notch and I know I'm close of FS 250 and taking my partner there for the first time adds a new layer for me. Most of the time these trips as solo with the pup or pups. Mind you it is July but Platoro is 9k ft elevation and it is just perfect weather. The sun is intense but the snow on fleeting snow on the mountain peaks confuses the brain. I've chronicled my previous trips up this way prior and it is a place I hope I always come visit - hell I best learn how to fish so I can properly revel in it's majesty.
Rebel Yell overlooking Platoro Reservoir
Wider reservoir shot
Not much light pollution here
We camped near the road and found our way down to the river
Freezing clear
Cookie learned to trust water this summer
Writing this up on a cold January day...looking forward to warm sunshine and river swimming again
Enthusiast III
[Aug 2023]
Brooks and I went up to Carson NF in mid August last summer. Time slows down when out in the woods and there is nothing I cling to more than that idea when I'm with Brooks. The forest service roads we meandered down were all well maintained, it was a low stress trip where we moved slowly and I saw a piece of New Mexico that I hadn't prior.
We arrived after dark on Friday night, somehow found a little spot near a creek right off FS 76. My goal on this trip was to follow the slope to slope trail on OnX Offroad which I ran south to north, Tres Ritos to Angel Fire.
I found this up hill view staggering. Not just burn scar, standing dead trees but the diverse grasses made for a beautiful scene, albeit less traditional.
Mid morning I stopped for a second cup of coffee while exploring an off shoot of the main forest service road being explored.
36.25464, -105.36655
Overlooking Angel Fire
Stopped in Angel Fire for food and sundries and went back in the way I came, in search of new camp spots
When I find water here in NM I don't forget! I'll be back.
Brooks and I went up to Carson NF in mid August last summer. Time slows down when out in the woods and there is nothing I cling to more than that idea when I'm with Brooks. The forest service roads we meandered down were all well maintained, it was a low stress trip where we moved slowly and I saw a piece of New Mexico that I hadn't prior.
We arrived after dark on Friday night, somehow found a little spot near a creek right off FS 76. My goal on this trip was to follow the slope to slope trail on OnX Offroad which I ran south to north, Tres Ritos to Angel Fire.
I found this up hill view staggering. Not just burn scar, standing dead trees but the diverse grasses made for a beautiful scene, albeit less traditional.
Mid morning I stopped for a second cup of coffee while exploring an off shoot of the main forest service road being explored.
36.25464, -105.36655
Overlooking Angel Fire
Stopped in Angel Fire for food and sundries and went back in the way I came, in search of new camp spots
When I find water here in NM I don't forget! I'll be back.
Attachments
Member III
Awesome trip report man. Love the 4 leggers. I always one of mine when I explore too.
Enthusiast III
[Labor Day '23]
After my exploratory (more driving forest service roads than relaxing in the woods) trip in August, my partner and I went back to an area I had scouted along the Rio Chiquito in Carson NF, southeast of Taos (36.31254, -105.45211)
The campsite isn't far off the USFSR but it drops steeply down to the creek making it feel much more secluded and quiet. We sat put our chairs in the creek and did crosswords - I look forward to coming back here. The few days we spent here we long and slow, I couldn't ask for more. We took the pups on walks and enjoyed the warm sun and cool nights at ~8700k ft elevation.
The dogs seem to sleep best when their people are all home and when we are off camping together they get out of their morning nap routine and love watching their clocks sync with the sun. They put themselves to be earlier than back home and it cracks me up watching them operate and have free reign, as there is no one near and they all stay close to camp.
Dog montage:
Camp set up
Tree-ception
Protecting camp from chipmunks
Late afternoon walk, slow bub and speedy boi's
Night mode shots:
Starlink train spotting
Took a different route home
We will revisit this beautiful spot by the rio this summer!
After my exploratory (more driving forest service roads than relaxing in the woods) trip in August, my partner and I went back to an area I had scouted along the Rio Chiquito in Carson NF, southeast of Taos (36.31254, -105.45211)
The campsite isn't far off the USFSR but it drops steeply down to the creek making it feel much more secluded and quiet. We sat put our chairs in the creek and did crosswords - I look forward to coming back here. The few days we spent here we long and slow, I couldn't ask for more. We took the pups on walks and enjoyed the warm sun and cool nights at ~8700k ft elevation.
The dogs seem to sleep best when their people are all home and when we are off camping together they get out of their morning nap routine and love watching their clocks sync with the sun. They put themselves to be earlier than back home and it cracks me up watching them operate and have free reign, as there is no one near and they all stay close to camp.
Dog montage:
Camp set up
Tree-ception
Protecting camp from chipmunks
Late afternoon walk, slow bub and speedy boi's
Night mode shots:
Starlink train spotting
Took a different route home
We will revisit this beautiful spot by the rio this summer!
Enthusiast III
[Sept '23]
End of September I get to visit Buena Vista, CO again for beautiful sights and music by Billy Strings. This is such a special weekend to me, the drive up, seeing the gorgeous San Luis Valley and listening to my favorite musician play. So grateful I get to do this. The aspens are turning, the sun is bright but the temperatures are cooling off. I visited the ghost town of St. Elmo on my way home and I'm glad I ventured down, it was my favorite ghost town visit to date.
I headed north from ABQ Wednesday night and camped outside of Salida. If I won the lottery I could see myself living in Salida - unbelievably beautiful town nestled along the Arkansas River and surrounded by mountains.
Imposing Sangre de Cristo mountain range to the east as I headed north up 285 toward Salida.
Oh to live down this road (County rd 176)
Going over a little bridge toward national forest land
Morning view after I stopped for coffee in Buena Vista, I was early for entry to the farm and came up here for lunch last year before going in. Looks out over the Collegiate Peaks (Co Rd 304).
Got in as early as I could and enjoyed the quiet before everyone rushed in. Lucky me and the incredible view
Couldn't get enough of those peaks. Makes you feel small, literally and figuratively
I spend the mornings before music starts wandering around the camp spots with my coffee and ogling all the adventure rigs. I'll only spam you with one.
I'll keeping coming to this as long as he wants to have us
Off to St. Elmo
Until next year!
End of September I get to visit Buena Vista, CO again for beautiful sights and music by Billy Strings. This is such a special weekend to me, the drive up, seeing the gorgeous San Luis Valley and listening to my favorite musician play. So grateful I get to do this. The aspens are turning, the sun is bright but the temperatures are cooling off. I visited the ghost town of St. Elmo on my way home and I'm glad I ventured down, it was my favorite ghost town visit to date.
I headed north from ABQ Wednesday night and camped outside of Salida. If I won the lottery I could see myself living in Salida - unbelievably beautiful town nestled along the Arkansas River and surrounded by mountains.
Imposing Sangre de Cristo mountain range to the east as I headed north up 285 toward Salida.
Oh to live down this road (County rd 176)
Going over a little bridge toward national forest land
Morning view after I stopped for coffee in Buena Vista, I was early for entry to the farm and came up here for lunch last year before going in. Looks out over the Collegiate Peaks (Co Rd 304).
Got in as early as I could and enjoyed the quiet before everyone rushed in. Lucky me and the incredible view
Couldn't get enough of those peaks. Makes you feel small, literally and figuratively
I spend the mornings before music starts wandering around the camp spots with my coffee and ogling all the adventure rigs. I'll only spam you with one.
I'll keeping coming to this as long as he wants to have us
Off to St. Elmo
Until next year!
Attachments
Enthusiast III
[Oct '23]
Trip to Sedona with my mother and sister. They flew into Phoenix and I drove west. We rented a camper van for them and I had the truck. I hadn't experienced a van yet and it was fun to compare the two side by side. Each has their strengths and having two vehicles made for holding down a camp spot in the limited dispersed camping much less stressful.
I camped along the East Verde River the first night solo before I was to pick up my family from the airport the next day. Found this spot in the dark and to my luck, while it was close to the road, no one drove by. (34.28769, -111.37471)
First stop on the way to Sedona was a visit to Tonto Natural Bridge State Park - I was expecting a bridge but not a desert oasis up in the mountains
We packed a lunch and hit Montezuma Castle National Monument - quick but fantastic stop
First views of Sedona from Red Rock Ranger District Visitor Center - excitement!
First time setting up the van, which was just a delight. The increased inside living space was beneficial given there were three of us, not just me.
Sunrise
Views for days - our first hike (Bear Mountain Trail)
We got lucky and moved campsites the second day, more secluded, beautiful views of sunrise, hot air balloons and the rock formations
We operated out of the van - having a fridge was epic...
The truck was for sleeping and my first cup of coffee
Drove up the road to the Palatki Heritage Site for a short hike and viewing the cliff dwelling
If I remember correctly, the homesteaders that lived out here used the ridge line on the right edge as a sort of calendar
While we were up here we continued down the forest service road to see Honanki Heritage Site as well.
I jammed an unused piece of plywood between the bumper and rear corner of the truck. It fits hilariously well and come night time and closing up the tailagate the same piece of wood is lodged between the water take and the camper shell lip.
My most satisfying truck leveling to date. Big shout out to the perfect rock ramp boy.
The next hike we did post heritage site spectating was Fay Canyon
Then we scrambled up and on top of the bridge
Snoopy Rock was my favorite
A morning visitor!
While the itinerary of this trip was fairly planned out, we wanted a place to spend the afternoon, relaxing in the sun. We hadn't done any previous research but Crescent Moon park was an absolute high light. None of us had showered in a bit and the water was PERFECT.
After our restorative mid day swim and sun bathe we ventured up to Cathedral rock after looping and looping and looping for a parking spot (in the van).
Mid hike, I love this shot from my sister, the church just feels perfectly nestled in the rock. Epic up close but even better with zoomed out perspective
Stars were fantastic each night, finally got a solid shot
Final morning in Sedona
Leaving Sedona, we went north for a day trip Grand Canyon visit. The San Francisco Peaks were turning magnificently, we hit a campground that was ok with us dumping the black water and topping off the Van's water.
We camped down Coconino Rim Rd - I look forward to coming back, camping out here and really deep diving the Grand Canyon. Back in 2020 I was able to hike the Bright Angel trail and this time was just a walking, top of the rim tour. Always worth a visit and I was glad I was able to explore the forest service roads, east of the main south rim visitor center. (35.94787, -111.95237). We had a wonderful night here. We had a fire and while we didn't know it until morning, there was a small watering hole and we were visiting by a few elk buck who were bugling at us in the dark. Unreal.
We continued east along the south rim, stopping in pull off for great views and had the opportunity to see the Desert View Watchtower which was a first for all three of us
Another wild card turn we made when heading south was to detour and check out Wupatki National Monument. One of the coolest archeological sites that I've visited since moving to New Mexico.
Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument was next and this place felt similar to White Sands National Park in New Mexico - it felt wholly unique and I hadn't seen anywhere else like it. The volcanic rock ground cover and towering Ponderosa Pines were staggering. Big fan - highly recommend a visit to both of these monuments.
Cone view side of Sunset Crater Volcano:
Backside with hiking trails:
I hadn't seen the plant before and it was swaying in the wind. I assume it is a weird coincidence that so many desert plants seem to look like the are underwater or belong in a coral reef
Last stop with Mom was the Petrified Forest National Park. My sister and I had another day and after dropping Mom off at the Phoenix airport we spend the afternoon and next day down in my safe place, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. I had done little research on the Petrified Forest and boy was it much better than I expected.
Near Puerco Pueblo
The Tepees
The highlight of this stop - Historic Blue Forest Trail. It seems like most people drive up and around to a paved walking path called Blue Mesa Trailhead. We stopped first at Historic Blue Forest and ended up skipping the Blue Mesa entirely. We saw only a few people and were able to walk up into these alien hills. It felt as close to being on another planet as I'll get unless I get drafted to die on Mars.
We saw our first petrified wood here as well
Crystal Forest
Spotted to of my favorite adventure rigs to date, a classic and something I thought I'd never see!
Final Chapter: Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument
I'm so grateful I was able to bring my sister here. I've gone on and on about what this patch of desert means to me but I was so happy to share it with her. It was the perfect end to a remarkable trip. We just relaxed after a go go go itinerary. The sun was warm and we snagged the best camp spot I've had in all my visits!
We were posted up, not quite in the shadow, of Locomotive Rock
This was also the first time my camp site had organ pipe cacti in it. The national monument seems to encapsulate the vast majority and while there is BLM just north, it is predominantly made up of Saguaro, Cresote, Palo Verde and Mesquite.
We played cards and watched the sky all evening. After spending the first twenty years of our lives attached at the hip, we cherish the time we get to be around each other now.
Trip to Sedona with my mother and sister. They flew into Phoenix and I drove west. We rented a camper van for them and I had the truck. I hadn't experienced a van yet and it was fun to compare the two side by side. Each has their strengths and having two vehicles made for holding down a camp spot in the limited dispersed camping much less stressful.
I camped along the East Verde River the first night solo before I was to pick up my family from the airport the next day. Found this spot in the dark and to my luck, while it was close to the road, no one drove by. (34.28769, -111.37471)
First stop on the way to Sedona was a visit to Tonto Natural Bridge State Park - I was expecting a bridge but not a desert oasis up in the mountains
We packed a lunch and hit Montezuma Castle National Monument - quick but fantastic stop
First views of Sedona from Red Rock Ranger District Visitor Center - excitement!
First time setting up the van, which was just a delight. The increased inside living space was beneficial given there were three of us, not just me.
Sunrise
Views for days - our first hike (Bear Mountain Trail)
We got lucky and moved campsites the second day, more secluded, beautiful views of sunrise, hot air balloons and the rock formations
We operated out of the van - having a fridge was epic...
The truck was for sleeping and my first cup of coffee
Drove up the road to the Palatki Heritage Site for a short hike and viewing the cliff dwelling
If I remember correctly, the homesteaders that lived out here used the ridge line on the right edge as a sort of calendar
While we were up here we continued down the forest service road to see Honanki Heritage Site as well.
I jammed an unused piece of plywood between the bumper and rear corner of the truck. It fits hilariously well and come night time and closing up the tailagate the same piece of wood is lodged between the water take and the camper shell lip.
My most satisfying truck leveling to date. Big shout out to the perfect rock ramp boy.
The next hike we did post heritage site spectating was Fay Canyon
Then we scrambled up and on top of the bridge
Snoopy Rock was my favorite
A morning visitor!
While the itinerary of this trip was fairly planned out, we wanted a place to spend the afternoon, relaxing in the sun. We hadn't done any previous research but Crescent Moon park was an absolute high light. None of us had showered in a bit and the water was PERFECT.
After our restorative mid day swim and sun bathe we ventured up to Cathedral rock after looping and looping and looping for a parking spot (in the van).
Mid hike, I love this shot from my sister, the church just feels perfectly nestled in the rock. Epic up close but even better with zoomed out perspective
Stars were fantastic each night, finally got a solid shot
Final morning in Sedona
Leaving Sedona, we went north for a day trip Grand Canyon visit. The San Francisco Peaks were turning magnificently, we hit a campground that was ok with us dumping the black water and topping off the Van's water.
We camped down Coconino Rim Rd - I look forward to coming back, camping out here and really deep diving the Grand Canyon. Back in 2020 I was able to hike the Bright Angel trail and this time was just a walking, top of the rim tour. Always worth a visit and I was glad I was able to explore the forest service roads, east of the main south rim visitor center. (35.94787, -111.95237). We had a wonderful night here. We had a fire and while we didn't know it until morning, there was a small watering hole and we were visiting by a few elk buck who were bugling at us in the dark. Unreal.
We continued east along the south rim, stopping in pull off for great views and had the opportunity to see the Desert View Watchtower which was a first for all three of us
Another wild card turn we made when heading south was to detour and check out Wupatki National Monument. One of the coolest archeological sites that I've visited since moving to New Mexico.
Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument was next and this place felt similar to White Sands National Park in New Mexico - it felt wholly unique and I hadn't seen anywhere else like it. The volcanic rock ground cover and towering Ponderosa Pines were staggering. Big fan - highly recommend a visit to both of these monuments.
Cone view side of Sunset Crater Volcano:
Backside with hiking trails:
I hadn't seen the plant before and it was swaying in the wind. I assume it is a weird coincidence that so many desert plants seem to look like the are underwater or belong in a coral reef
Last stop with Mom was the Petrified Forest National Park. My sister and I had another day and after dropping Mom off at the Phoenix airport we spend the afternoon and next day down in my safe place, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. I had done little research on the Petrified Forest and boy was it much better than I expected.
Near Puerco Pueblo
The Tepees
The highlight of this stop - Historic Blue Forest Trail. It seems like most people drive up and around to a paved walking path called Blue Mesa Trailhead. We stopped first at Historic Blue Forest and ended up skipping the Blue Mesa entirely. We saw only a few people and were able to walk up into these alien hills. It felt as close to being on another planet as I'll get unless I get drafted to die on Mars.
We saw our first petrified wood here as well
Crystal Forest
Spotted to of my favorite adventure rigs to date, a classic and something I thought I'd never see!
Final Chapter: Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument
I'm so grateful I was able to bring my sister here. I've gone on and on about what this patch of desert means to me but I was so happy to share it with her. It was the perfect end to a remarkable trip. We just relaxed after a go go go itinerary. The sun was warm and we snagged the best camp spot I've had in all my visits!
We were posted up, not quite in the shadow, of Locomotive Rock
This was also the first time my camp site had organ pipe cacti in it. The national monument seems to encapsulate the vast majority and while there is BLM just north, it is predominantly made up of Saguaro, Cresote, Palo Verde and Mesquite.
We played cards and watched the sky all evening. After spending the first twenty years of our lives attached at the hip, we cherish the time we get to be around each other now.
Attachments
Enthusiast III
Last trip of 2023 - Thanksgiving excursion to Chiricahua National Monument [AZ]
It was a solo trip but with all the pups, do what you'd like with that statement.
Took a half day from work at got to the forest service road I was shooting for in the Coronado National Forest around 8p. The boys got settled in bed before I had the chance to and they are all talented at becoming dense lumps when attempting to rearrange.
Testing out new chair that is far too comfortable for camping. I think we can safely classify what I do with this truck as "glamping"
Big ole Alligator Juniper - if its desert and 7k+ feet elevation they seem to get after it.
Not ready to do the day
I came in from the south east of the monument's entrance and enjoyed starting my journey along forest service road 42 which took me from Portal AZ, to camp to the entrance of the park.
Organ Pipe Rock formations
Views from Massai Point
Otherworldly
My second camp spot I enjoyed as well. Deeply secluded, along a dry creek. After spending the day in the monument driving the scenic roads and run/hiking a few short ones (the pups needed to stay in the truck) I decided to explore down a road off USFSR 42, onto 357. I went as far as I was comfortable, saw some terrain I didn't want to tackled and set up camp.
I had myself a fire and did the monument all over again the next day. I'd love to come back, sans pups, and hike everything.
I felt like taking a new way home and wanted to hit the western side of Gila Wilderness again so I started north up 191 through Safford to Three Way. Someday I'd like to 191 all the way up to Alpine. It is just too squiggly on the map NOT to go see. Heading east on 78 was also a fantastic hill climb littered with views and pull offs. I fed the dogs at the abandoned for the season, Black Jack campground
Back in New Mexico - and if in this neck of the woods, I love stopping here at Leopold Vista
I knew I wanted to spend the night at the Cosmic Campground - dark sky location but I felt like pushing my luck and wandered all the way down 159 to see the town of Mogollon. I took no pictures of town, it felt like I was intruding the entire time I was there and while I'm glad I went, I went through town, turned around and headed out.
I pulled off 180 a number of times as the sky couldn't be ignored. It just kept getting better and yet I would have liked to get to my camp spot pre sun set as I'm sure it would have also been quite the sight...
Charles is always working
It was a solo trip but with all the pups, do what you'd like with that statement.
Took a half day from work at got to the forest service road I was shooting for in the Coronado National Forest around 8p. The boys got settled in bed before I had the chance to and they are all talented at becoming dense lumps when attempting to rearrange.
Testing out new chair that is far too comfortable for camping. I think we can safely classify what I do with this truck as "glamping"
Big ole Alligator Juniper - if its desert and 7k+ feet elevation they seem to get after it.
Not ready to do the day
I came in from the south east of the monument's entrance and enjoyed starting my journey along forest service road 42 which took me from Portal AZ, to camp to the entrance of the park.
Organ Pipe Rock formations
Views from Massai Point
Otherworldly
My second camp spot I enjoyed as well. Deeply secluded, along a dry creek. After spending the day in the monument driving the scenic roads and run/hiking a few short ones (the pups needed to stay in the truck) I decided to explore down a road off USFSR 42, onto 357. I went as far as I was comfortable, saw some terrain I didn't want to tackled and set up camp.
I had myself a fire and did the monument all over again the next day. I'd love to come back, sans pups, and hike everything.
I felt like taking a new way home and wanted to hit the western side of Gila Wilderness again so I started north up 191 through Safford to Three Way. Someday I'd like to 191 all the way up to Alpine. It is just too squiggly on the map NOT to go see. Heading east on 78 was also a fantastic hill climb littered with views and pull offs. I fed the dogs at the abandoned for the season, Black Jack campground
Back in New Mexico - and if in this neck of the woods, I love stopping here at Leopold Vista
I knew I wanted to spend the night at the Cosmic Campground - dark sky location but I felt like pushing my luck and wandered all the way down 159 to see the town of Mogollon. I took no pictures of town, it felt like I was intruding the entire time I was there and while I'm glad I went, I went through town, turned around and headed out.
I pulled off 180 a number of times as the sky couldn't be ignored. It just kept getting better and yet I would have liked to get to my camp spot pre sun set as I'm sure it would have also been quite the sight...
Charles is always working
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Enthusiast III
Rev0 of my "permanent" water storage set up had been an overwhelming success. Then temperatures dropped, water froze and I realized brass might have been a better choice vs plastic. I've since ordered a brass fitting that should directly screw into the green tank. Originally I just went to home depot and used whatever I could find to create the image I had in my head. The Wavian water tank originally came with a plug for the bottom and a flimsy plastic spigot. I know the Dometic water faucet is extra but I snagged a 10 ft tube and I love it. I have a set up for outside and inside and it makes life quick and simple and I've enjoyed not moving the water tank around. I bought a funnel for refilling which can be tedious but overall still net positive in my eyes.
Member III
Beautiful pics man. Love your trip reports.
Ive spent a lot of time exploring AZ and there are some amazing places there.,.
Ive spent a lot of time exploring AZ and there are some amazing places there.,.
Enthusiast III
[April 2024]
I had been feeling the itch to get out into the woods and was frustrated with myself that it was April and I hadn't been camping yet in 2024. I also didn't feel like dealing with the cold of winter camping this year so that is on me. I decided to go on a quick, weekend adventure, slightly south to the Manzano mountains (Cibola National Forest) and then west to explore BLM around Ladron Peak. I took off Friday afternoon, targeting forest rd 422. I had been up this way once before but I wanted to drive the entire road and scout camp spots. I started on the south end, near Mountainair, and found a relaxing drive into somewhat unfamiliar mountains.
Ended up spending more time than I planned driving up and then back down 422. The road itself was smooth sailing but north of Cottonwood Trailhead and FSR 205 (which I camped off of previously [FSR 205A2] - 34.53964, -106.41506) there was a ton of burn scar and I elected to retreat down FSR 205 again. I found an offshoot onto a small knoll and set up a minimal camp so I could cook and enjoy the stars.
First morning, pre coffee
Solo camping but always somehow cooking for three
Previous camp spot from 3/26/2022 (GPS coordinates above)
On the way in, as it was getting dark, FSR 205 was a bit squirrely from a mud, slip n slide situation and was gradually headed down hill. I elected to continue downhill on 205 (referred to as Red Bluff on OnX) rather than attack the mud again, which the truck did great but I was worried / curious if I'd need the traction boards at any point.
The road out I chose was fairly tame and not particularly muddy.
Heading west on route 60, able to see the Sandias in the distance - almost take them for granted living nestled below them.
I followed 60 until I crossed I25 and turned onto county road 12, towards Riley. I didn't make it to the Ghost town as I spent the afternoon exploring the wilderness area that surrounds Ladron Peak.
I am having trouble figuring out what this formation is called but I enjoyed it, my best guess is Mesa Sarca. and I ended up finding an off shoot, slightly uphill so I could camp with views of both the mesa and Ladron Peak.
Ladron Peak
<3
Another of the Peak from camp
This butte right here though
Sunset was solid but a wee bit windy
New Mexico skies are tough to beat
I had been feeling the itch to get out into the woods and was frustrated with myself that it was April and I hadn't been camping yet in 2024. I also didn't feel like dealing with the cold of winter camping this year so that is on me. I decided to go on a quick, weekend adventure, slightly south to the Manzano mountains (Cibola National Forest) and then west to explore BLM around Ladron Peak. I took off Friday afternoon, targeting forest rd 422. I had been up this way once before but I wanted to drive the entire road and scout camp spots. I started on the south end, near Mountainair, and found a relaxing drive into somewhat unfamiliar mountains.
Ended up spending more time than I planned driving up and then back down 422. The road itself was smooth sailing but north of Cottonwood Trailhead and FSR 205 (which I camped off of previously [FSR 205A2] - 34.53964, -106.41506) there was a ton of burn scar and I elected to retreat down FSR 205 again. I found an offshoot onto a small knoll and set up a minimal camp so I could cook and enjoy the stars.
First morning, pre coffee
Solo camping but always somehow cooking for three
Previous camp spot from 3/26/2022 (GPS coordinates above)
On the way in, as it was getting dark, FSR 205 was a bit squirrely from a mud, slip n slide situation and was gradually headed down hill. I elected to continue downhill on 205 (referred to as Red Bluff on OnX) rather than attack the mud again, which the truck did great but I was worried / curious if I'd need the traction boards at any point.
The road out I chose was fairly tame and not particularly muddy.
Heading west on route 60, able to see the Sandias in the distance - almost take them for granted living nestled below them.
I followed 60 until I crossed I25 and turned onto county road 12, towards Riley. I didn't make it to the Ghost town as I spent the afternoon exploring the wilderness area that surrounds Ladron Peak.
I am having trouble figuring out what this formation is called but I enjoyed it, my best guess is Mesa Sarca. and I ended up finding an off shoot, slightly uphill so I could camp with views of both the mesa and Ladron Peak.
Ladron Peak
<3
Another of the Peak from camp
This butte right here though
Sunset was solid but a wee bit windy
New Mexico skies are tough to beat
Member III
Enthusiast III
A few weeks ago turned out to be the last camping trip with Brooks the dog. I went up to Taos on a Saturday morning and we decided to spend the night down FSR 438 west. The short, roughly 6 mile road was well maintained and had a number of other dispersed spots filled by other campers. We drove for awhile without seeing any possible camp spots and, as I normally do, I started to get worried. I wasn't trying to go on a multi road exploration, just wanted to find a quiet spot to ourselves and enjoy the evening. We continued and found a place all to ourselves, right along the creek. The stars and rushing water were beautiful. It wasn't evident to me that Brooks would pass away the following afternoon once we got home but what an absolute treat to spend our last 24 hours together in the woods.
Beautiful rock formation, I can't wait to come back, due to this location's beauty but also it's forever tie to Brooksy boy
Setting up camp before the rain came
We moved inside to play cards and snuggle with bub
We had a small fire in the morning, took our time making coffee and breakfast. We wandered around camp with bubba and I can't help but reflect just how content he seemed. It all feels like a dream
The sweetest companion
Mr. Dishwasher
We plan on going camping for Memorial Day Weekend and I can already feel the knot in my stomach. We've still got the two little goons (beagle mix, poodle mix) but Brooks was my first dog, brought him home April 2011 and I wouldn't be me without him.
A few months after I brought him home
Beautiful rock formation, I can't wait to come back, due to this location's beauty but also it's forever tie to Brooksy boy
Setting up camp before the rain came
We moved inside to play cards and snuggle with bub
We had a small fire in the morning, took our time making coffee and breakfast. We wandered around camp with bubba and I can't help but reflect just how content he seemed. It all feels like a dream
The sweetest companion
Mr. Dishwasher
We plan on going camping for Memorial Day Weekend and I can already feel the knot in my stomach. We've still got the two little goons (beagle mix, poodle mix) but Brooks was my first dog, brought him home April 2011 and I wouldn't be me without him.
A few months after I brought him home
Sequoia04KY
Rank II
Enthusiast I
I was raised in New Mexico. Lived there up until 20years ago. Moved to Colorado and lived there for 12 years......Now I'm in Kentucky. But I traveled every road in NM. Love Mora and Tierra Amarillo, Chama areas. Also like Catron County near Reserve. Went to college in Las Cruces. NMSU. Enjoy the state. Head up to Crested Butte in CO. :0)Although I grew up camping with my family (New England), it wasn't until I moved to New Mexico in May of 2019 that I fell hard for the outdoors and eventually with overlanding and the freedom / sense of peace associated with both.
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Initially I moved out with as much as I could fit in my 2005.5 A4 Avant (6 speed) and I drove this up many forest service roads on my way to trail heads. I kept trying to go further and explore more as I started to cherish the surreal and varied landscapes in the Land of Entrapment. I realized soon that if I got this wagon stuck or it broke down miles down a trail, I'd have to just give the damn thing to the tow company.
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Sometimes I think I miss the Audi but having worked on it myself, I knew there were only more and more expensive and time consuming maintenance ahead. I also knew I wanted to be out exploring this state and not wrenching on an almost 20 year old, over-engineered German car.
On March 20, 2021 I snagged a 2020 Ram Rebel with 27k miles on it (rental truck) with the quad cab and 6'4" bed. Once I determined I was going to need a different vehicle to adventure I spent entirely too much time reading up, on sites like this very one, on the many ways people got themselves out into the backcountry. While exploring in my Audi I generally stayed in camp grounds until the pandemic, until I gave up and discovered what public land was. This solidified my desire / need to get a truck or SUV. I grew enamored with the truck bed camper and settled on a truck. Having never owned a truck before I routinely rented one for the weekend from the Sunport and set out into the woods. I drove a few Ram 1500s, a Silverado, and F-150 Eco Boost.
View attachment 262587
The EcoBoost was FAST, the Silverado I found to be hideous (that front end) and while I fully intended to, never drove the Tundra. I have friends how have had Rams and I blame them for guiding me down this path. I drove a Rebel in ABQ, the first vehicle I test drove, and determined it was too much truck for me and some 6 months later I ended up buying one in Colorado Springs, dealerships in AZ and NM were a pain and I was out the door at $43k and Nirettzy got as much done before I drove up, making it as painless as I could have imagined. I knew going in that I was buying entirely too much truck and spent more than I thought I'd have to (although seeing older Rebels go for more today than what I paid then makes me feel pretty solid).
My plan / dream is to eventually live out of this truck, so I never really considered something smaller than a half ton. The Tacoma sure has incredible aftermarket support but I didn't want to outgrow or overload the truck with my overlanding plans. I dream of putting 500k miles on the Ram and someday putting a flatbed / pop up camper on. It remains to be seen if I'll upgrade to a 3/4 or 1 ton truck. For now the truck is set up, phase 1, for weekend outings and some week long trips but we'll get there
On the way home to ABQ from Colorado Springs, I detoured up to Jemez Mountains and then south to Tijeras to drive a few dirt roads and get acquainted with the Rebel Yell. In the subsequent post I'll march through the changes I've made and outline where I hope to go from here, albeit slowly.
Enthusiast III
Enthusiast III
I did some mountain biking in the Butte a year or two ago, beautiful up there. I've had Black Canyon of the Gunnison on my to do list for some time, looks incredible.
TA and Chama are fantastic - I'd move there in a heartbeat
