Monday, May 23, 2011
My favorite hikes in Colorado
There are so many beautiful natural places in Colorado that this was tough. I'll have to choose though, and I'll go with the Garden of the Gods / Red Rock Canyon. The colorful hues of the rocks, the mountainous backdrop, and the water accents all combine for one spectacular eye candy nature hike.
Friday, May 13, 2011
My favorite hikes in New Mexico
People ask me what my favorite trails are. I recently had a group from Las Cruces contact me for some advice. For New Mexico, my favorite trails are a tossup between Dripping Springs just outside of Las Cruces, and The Catwalk National Scenic trail aways past Silver City, NM. Both are just so lovely that I will rate the two of them.
1. Dripping Springs Natural Area, Las Cruces NM. I was so surprised to find such a wonderful nature trail so close to Las Cruces. It is about 10 miles east of Las Cruces, in the Organ Mountains. Take the Exit 1 off of I-25 (university) and go east, look for the BLM signs. There is a $3 per car fee for this area. Other BLM areas near here do not have fees (will review those later!). The visitor center is clean and pleasant and has a garden area, restrooms, and ranger on duty. Here you can view trail information for the entire area, lots of photos of each area, and see descriptions of local plant and animal life. Be sure you pack plenty of water because it can get VERY hot in this area from spring through fall. Head south from the parking lot and follow the trail signs. This trail is fairly easy to moderate, with easy inclines and a gain of 1000+ feet. You will go from desert views, to gorgeous rocky mountain vistas, shrubbery and even ruins! A short ways into the trail you will be in a high desert meadow. Here you will see the old Cox ranch livery buildings. Further up, you will come across more greenery and pinon pines. There is a "haunted" old resort that was built in the 1870s! All boarded up and not accessible. Look past the old resort building for the springs. Some times of the year the water will be flowing nicely, other times just a trickle. Have a rest by the junipers and oaks. Be on the lookout for squirrels, birds, rabbits, and rarely: fox, skunk, and even mountain lions. Up past the springs you will see the remains of an old fort (be careful exploring by these old crumbling walls). If you have the energy to keep on exploring after you hike back down to the parking area, look for the "la cueva" trail signs. A short walk will get you to a large overhang/cave that is very interesting. Read the story about the murdered frontiersman! Overall: scenery: 9. Difficulty: 2. Advice: research the old base and sanitarium.
2. Catwalk National Scenic Trail, Glenwood NM. This can be somewhat out of the way. You'll have some wide-open country driving to enjoy the scenery of semi-arid hills, mountains and plains. Stop for supplies in Silver City because shopping is limited in Glenwood. We got a room at the Lariat Motel in Glenwood for a reasonable price. The hotel is somewhat shabby and outdated, but we did not spend much time in the hotel room except to sleep. The town is quaint and quiet. Plenty of wildlife in the area... we saw skunks just outside the hotel room at night, and deer during the dusk hours in neighboring fields. We headed early to the catwalk trail. It states it is only 1.1 miles to the top of the trail (2.2 miles round trip), but it felt longer, probably because of some steep areas. I do not recommend this trail for elderly or very young guests due to some parts with no hand rails and steep dropoffs. If you have vertigo, it also is not for you. At the parking area there is lovely picnic tables by the stream and big shade trees. You can choose either the old path or the new path for the beginning of the trail (one is purportedly an easier trail, but we've tried both, and there are some steep spots in both, with cliffs on one side which can cause dizziness in a vertigo-inclined hiker). There are mesh areas on the walkway that are quite sturdy, but a bit frightening. Lots of birds and squirrels to see. Bring your camera because some of the views are stunning. Pic opps include high cliffed areas surrounding the catwalk and lovely flora. Near the top of the trail, there is a high mesh bridge over a gorge that might prove too daunting to some pleasure hikers. Overall: scenery: 8. Difficulty: 4. Advice: Be careful of trails with steep dropoffs.
1. Dripping Springs Natural Area, Las Cruces NM. I was so surprised to find such a wonderful nature trail so close to Las Cruces. It is about 10 miles east of Las Cruces, in the Organ Mountains. Take the Exit 1 off of I-25 (university) and go east, look for the BLM signs. There is a $3 per car fee for this area. Other BLM areas near here do not have fees (will review those later!). The visitor center is clean and pleasant and has a garden area, restrooms, and ranger on duty. Here you can view trail information for the entire area, lots of photos of each area, and see descriptions of local plant and animal life. Be sure you pack plenty of water because it can get VERY hot in this area from spring through fall. Head south from the parking lot and follow the trail signs. This trail is fairly easy to moderate, with easy inclines and a gain of 1000+ feet. You will go from desert views, to gorgeous rocky mountain vistas, shrubbery and even ruins! A short ways into the trail you will be in a high desert meadow. Here you will see the old Cox ranch livery buildings. Further up, you will come across more greenery and pinon pines. There is a "haunted" old resort that was built in the 1870s! All boarded up and not accessible. Look past the old resort building for the springs. Some times of the year the water will be flowing nicely, other times just a trickle. Have a rest by the junipers and oaks. Be on the lookout for squirrels, birds, rabbits, and rarely: fox, skunk, and even mountain lions. Up past the springs you will see the remains of an old fort (be careful exploring by these old crumbling walls). If you have the energy to keep on exploring after you hike back down to the parking area, look for the "la cueva" trail signs. A short walk will get you to a large overhang/cave that is very interesting. Read the story about the murdered frontiersman! Overall: scenery: 9. Difficulty: 2. Advice: research the old base and sanitarium.
2. Catwalk National Scenic Trail, Glenwood NM. This can be somewhat out of the way. You'll have some wide-open country driving to enjoy the scenery of semi-arid hills, mountains and plains. Stop for supplies in Silver City because shopping is limited in Glenwood. We got a room at the Lariat Motel in Glenwood for a reasonable price. The hotel is somewhat shabby and outdated, but we did not spend much time in the hotel room except to sleep. The town is quaint and quiet. Plenty of wildlife in the area... we saw skunks just outside the hotel room at night, and deer during the dusk hours in neighboring fields. We headed early to the catwalk trail. It states it is only 1.1 miles to the top of the trail (2.2 miles round trip), but it felt longer, probably because of some steep areas. I do not recommend this trail for elderly or very young guests due to some parts with no hand rails and steep dropoffs. If you have vertigo, it also is not for you. At the parking area there is lovely picnic tables by the stream and big shade trees. You can choose either the old path or the new path for the beginning of the trail (one is purportedly an easier trail, but we've tried both, and there are some steep spots in both, with cliffs on one side which can cause dizziness in a vertigo-inclined hiker). There are mesh areas on the walkway that are quite sturdy, but a bit frightening. Lots of birds and squirrels to see. Bring your camera because some of the views are stunning. Pic opps include high cliffed areas surrounding the catwalk and lovely flora. Near the top of the trail, there is a high mesh bridge over a gorge that might prove too daunting to some pleasure hikers. Overall: scenery: 8. Difficulty: 4. Advice: Be careful of trails with steep dropoffs.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Issues that female hikers face
As my first posting, I would like to give a little insight into my own experiences as a female hiker and the issues I have faced that may be more gender-specific. I hope this will help other women who love to hit the trails too but may feel daunted by it.
1. People putting fear or doubt in your mind. Let's face it.... women have only recently had "freedom" to do as we wish. For millennia, women were largely used as breeders and slaves and were not allowed to have free will, property, or choice to do much of anything. Sadly, many people still think of women as helpless or inferior creatures. It took a long time to convince my husband I could keep up with him even on the most rigorous trails. He is also military and in exceptional shape, and a marathon runner. I am going to tell all you ladies this: start slow and easy, but you CAN work yourself up to a fitness level to do ANY trails, ANY mountains. Of course, if you are over 35 or have any health issues, talk to your doctor because this is considered an exercise regime. There are safety issues while on the trail like in any sport, but with care it is largely safe and enjoyable! (even addictive ) hehe. Tell your mom or friend or whoever it is that is discouraging you from hiking that you are capable of the trail you are going to tackle. Be prepared, be informed, be ready for anything and you can do any trail.
2. When you gotta go, you gotta go. It is harder for a woman to urinate or defecate out in the wilds than a man.... at least for me it is, even after years of non-privacy such as in a military field environment. A man can unzip while he walks, let loose, without breaking stride. A woman, well, we have to bend, squat, pull those shorts or pants down, then, we don't like to drip dry like the guys. Don't worry, there are solutions for these problems. Want to be as nonchalant as your male hiking partner about unzipping and relieving yourself? Just purchase a female urination funnel! I have never tried these, but the idea of it is intriguing. When it comes time to wipe and dry, you can consider biodegradable toilet paper which you can bury in a cathole. Or, bring some strong ziplock bags or trash bags to tote out the trash with you. I do not really recommend burning toilet paper but some do this.
3. Menstruation. It is inevitable that our monthly cycle will at some time interfere with our hiking plans. If you are planning an epic trip and have regular cycles, you may want to talk to your doctor about birth control that limits your menstrual cycle to a very limited number of times per year. This was also useful to me when in rough field environments while deployed. As with the toilet paper issue, you will need to pack it out, bury or burn your sanitary items. Also keep in mind you may have iron loss during a heavy period and related anemia. If this is a common issue with you, pack up your iron supplements or iron-rich foods and watch for anemia symptoms which can be serious.
4. Hygiene. Most women hate to be dirty. I always either pack a small resealable pack of moist baby wipes, or if it is a short hike, just a damp washrag in a ziplock bag. Long hair easily gets tangled in window mountain passes, so look into braids, ponytails or hair clips. Bangs can also be hot on the forehead after awhile. A combo of sporty ponytail worn with a shady baseball cap works well. Teeth and gums: don't forget your toothbrush and floss. There are nice disposable flossers and even mini preloaded toothbrushes and tongue scrubber you can pick up at any walmart or walgreens. Makeup just wont work on prolonged excursions. If you are used to wearing cosmetics, try to tone it down with just a sheer sunscreen tint base and some chapstick.
5. Feet / shoes / clothing. One of the most important things for any athlete or sportsman to remember, is take care of those feet! If you are used to being in heels, you might go into shock when you have to wear hiking boots or walking tennies all day. Be sure you break in your shoes before you hit a long trail or you will be suffering. I bought a cute pair of leather hiking boots and went on a 2 mile desert trail. I was suffering by the end of it. Most shoes are stiff and have a break-in period. After a few times of wearing my boots, they moulded to my feet and are now perfect. Socks should not be binding on the calf or ankle and padded socks can help with impact absorption. Be sure your socks are not so thick to make your shoes too tight. Getting the feet wet for extended periods of time should be avoided. Fungus issues in the outback is not a pretty thing. Take off your shoes when you rest or for the night and let them dry out. If you can, bring an extra pair of shoes and rotate them daily. Avoid shorts, especially if you will be in a brushy area. Shorts can feel comfortable, but the risk of getting eaten alive by mosquitoes, bushwhacked, and sunburned is not worth it. My favorite hiking outfit: cotton full-coverage panties, sports bra, thick calf-height socks, leather ankle boots, tshirt, jeans, layered shirt or sweater depending on the weather. Layers are always good :)
6. Backpacks and load bearing. Most women do not have the upper body strength that men do. Be sure your pack is not too heavy (do some test loads by marching around your backyard or near your house). Be sure any new pack you buy is suitable for your body frame. Some packs have load bearing straps which make a heavy pack feel much lighter by dispersing weight across your back or waist. Pack everything you need, but do not overpack.
7. Self defense. Consider taking a self defense class. This is useful for the everyday world as well as for your trail safety. Pack pepper spray/bear spray. Use a hefty walking stick. I always hike with a large pocket knife which is handy for making camp, cleaning fish and multiple uses as well as defense if needed.
8. Safety. ALWAYS tell someone where you are going and (though I often do it) you should never hike alone. Find a local hiking group or a friend who wants to go with you. Check in at the ranger station (if any). Let people know what trail you are going on and when you should be back. Be aware of any hazards in the area such as predatory animals, flooded rivers, landslides, disease. Wear sunscreen. Check weather forecasts and have appropriate clothing. Never leave food near your sleeping area.
9. Have fun! enjoy your special trip and all your careful planning. Be sure to take some photos to document your journey
1. People putting fear or doubt in your mind. Let's face it.... women have only recently had "freedom" to do as we wish. For millennia, women were largely used as breeders and slaves and were not allowed to have free will, property, or choice to do much of anything. Sadly, many people still think of women as helpless or inferior creatures. It took a long time to convince my husband I could keep up with him even on the most rigorous trails. He is also military and in exceptional shape, and a marathon runner. I am going to tell all you ladies this: start slow and easy, but you CAN work yourself up to a fitness level to do ANY trails, ANY mountains. Of course, if you are over 35 or have any health issues, talk to your doctor because this is considered an exercise regime. There are safety issues while on the trail like in any sport, but with care it is largely safe and enjoyable! (even addictive ) hehe. Tell your mom or friend or whoever it is that is discouraging you from hiking that you are capable of the trail you are going to tackle. Be prepared, be informed, be ready for anything and you can do any trail.
2. When you gotta go, you gotta go. It is harder for a woman to urinate or defecate out in the wilds than a man.... at least for me it is, even after years of non-privacy such as in a military field environment. A man can unzip while he walks, let loose, without breaking stride. A woman, well, we have to bend, squat, pull those shorts or pants down, then, we don't like to drip dry like the guys. Don't worry, there are solutions for these problems. Want to be as nonchalant as your male hiking partner about unzipping and relieving yourself? Just purchase a female urination funnel! I have never tried these, but the idea of it is intriguing. When it comes time to wipe and dry, you can consider biodegradable toilet paper which you can bury in a cathole. Or, bring some strong ziplock bags or trash bags to tote out the trash with you. I do not really recommend burning toilet paper but some do this.
3. Menstruation. It is inevitable that our monthly cycle will at some time interfere with our hiking plans. If you are planning an epic trip and have regular cycles, you may want to talk to your doctor about birth control that limits your menstrual cycle to a very limited number of times per year. This was also useful to me when in rough field environments while deployed. As with the toilet paper issue, you will need to pack it out, bury or burn your sanitary items. Also keep in mind you may have iron loss during a heavy period and related anemia. If this is a common issue with you, pack up your iron supplements or iron-rich foods and watch for anemia symptoms which can be serious.
4. Hygiene. Most women hate to be dirty. I always either pack a small resealable pack of moist baby wipes, or if it is a short hike, just a damp washrag in a ziplock bag. Long hair easily gets tangled in window mountain passes, so look into braids, ponytails or hair clips. Bangs can also be hot on the forehead after awhile. A combo of sporty ponytail worn with a shady baseball cap works well. Teeth and gums: don't forget your toothbrush and floss. There are nice disposable flossers and even mini preloaded toothbrushes and tongue scrubber you can pick up at any walmart or walgreens. Makeup just wont work on prolonged excursions. If you are used to wearing cosmetics, try to tone it down with just a sheer sunscreen tint base and some chapstick.
5. Feet / shoes / clothing. One of the most important things for any athlete or sportsman to remember, is take care of those feet! If you are used to being in heels, you might go into shock when you have to wear hiking boots or walking tennies all day. Be sure you break in your shoes before you hit a long trail or you will be suffering. I bought a cute pair of leather hiking boots and went on a 2 mile desert trail. I was suffering by the end of it. Most shoes are stiff and have a break-in period. After a few times of wearing my boots, they moulded to my feet and are now perfect. Socks should not be binding on the calf or ankle and padded socks can help with impact absorption. Be sure your socks are not so thick to make your shoes too tight. Getting the feet wet for extended periods of time should be avoided. Fungus issues in the outback is not a pretty thing. Take off your shoes when you rest or for the night and let them dry out. If you can, bring an extra pair of shoes and rotate them daily. Avoid shorts, especially if you will be in a brushy area. Shorts can feel comfortable, but the risk of getting eaten alive by mosquitoes, bushwhacked, and sunburned is not worth it. My favorite hiking outfit: cotton full-coverage panties, sports bra, thick calf-height socks, leather ankle boots, tshirt, jeans, layered shirt or sweater depending on the weather. Layers are always good :)
6. Backpacks and load bearing. Most women do not have the upper body strength that men do. Be sure your pack is not too heavy (do some test loads by marching around your backyard or near your house). Be sure any new pack you buy is suitable for your body frame. Some packs have load bearing straps which make a heavy pack feel much lighter by dispersing weight across your back or waist. Pack everything you need, but do not overpack.
7. Self defense. Consider taking a self defense class. This is useful for the everyday world as well as for your trail safety. Pack pepper spray/bear spray. Use a hefty walking stick. I always hike with a large pocket knife which is handy for making camp, cleaning fish and multiple uses as well as defense if needed.
8. Safety. ALWAYS tell someone where you are going and (though I often do it) you should never hike alone. Find a local hiking group or a friend who wants to go with you. Check in at the ranger station (if any). Let people know what trail you are going on and when you should be back. Be aware of any hazards in the area such as predatory animals, flooded rivers, landslides, disease. Wear sunscreen. Check weather forecasts and have appropriate clothing. Never leave food near your sleeping area.
9. Have fun! enjoy your special trip and all your careful planning. Be sure to take some photos to document your journey
My first post
Hello everyone, I have started this blog on hiking, that will hopefully appeal to everyone who loves to get outdoors and explore. I will include trail reviews, tips, and some specialty information just for ladies :)
About me: I am a stay-at-home mom of three little boys, living in beautiful Colorado. I am a combat veteran, with 8 years active duty service.
Hiking is one of my favorite things to do! I have hit up hundreds of trails within Texas, New Mexico and Colorado
About me: I am a stay-at-home mom of three little boys, living in beautiful Colorado. I am a combat veteran, with 8 years active duty service.
Hiking is one of my favorite things to do! I have hit up hundreds of trails within Texas, New Mexico and Colorado
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