So… planning for the Arizona visit, we acquired gear for Grand Canyon hiking: waffle stompers, wicking shirts, loose shorts, and a camelbackpack for emergency provisions. Also, we did some cursory research looking for a moderate difficulty day-hike, instructions on how to get to the trailhead, and a checklist of what to expect.

The plan was to do the hike, write the Arizona post in the Flagstaff mall food court. After that, give the Colorado Springs peeps a heads up as we were planning to head back to Hays via Grand Junction, Colorado Springs, then the home stretch, with Hays arrival in the last week of October.

Well… as they say about the best laid plans… some minor changes and a couple lessons learned:

LESSON #1: It became apparent the Flagstaff mall was not going to allow overnight parking, so we did some Flagstaff-specific Googlin’ and discovered the wonders of Cracker Barrel. A bit off the beaten path, but OMG, Boondocker’s heaven. We did kinda know that already, but wow, so nice to be able to sleep assured the 2:00am parking lot security knock wasn’t coming. As a gesture of gratitude, we made a point to patronize their business leading to another OMG moment. Cracker Barrel is the MASTER of “comfort food.” And there we have it, another option for 24/5 PF towns.

LESSON #2: The Fila waffle stompers turned out to be stealth “cruel shoes”. He kinda got that notion on the Grand Canyon “Bright Angel” hike, but it all came crashing into awareness like the Kool Aid man on the New Mexico hike. Oh, by the way, the itinerary changed, slightly. We took a detour to New Mexico before heading back to Colorado. Once landing in Albuquerque, we decided to take on an intermediate trail (Embudito) and take it all the way to the peak summit. Did we make it? Hell to the no. Did we give it the ol’ college try? Sure, and this is where Ronnie FIRED the Filas. His pinky toes, both of them, were screaming for 6 of the 8 miles we managed to cover. But no shame… it was a semi-challenging hike, and toward the end, Ronnie’s knees (those whiny little punks) were singing harmony with the pinky toes. He resolved to engage the shoe experts at REI in order to replace the cruel shoes with trail hikers a little less inclined to torture the wearer. We’ll see, but not today… still recovering. 

Anyway… New Mexico, a state known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, offers a unique blend of experiences.

THE GOOD: New Mexico is home to numerous natural hot springs, many of which are publicly accessible. Some of the most popular include Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs, Ten Thousand Waves, and Gila Hot Springs. These geothermal wonders offer relaxation, rejuvenation, and therapeutic benefits. As for higher learning, NM boasts several excellent small to medium-sized colleges, providing quality education and a more intimate learning environment. New Mexico also has a rich literary heritage, with several famous authors and literary landmarks. Georgia O’Keeffe Museum in Santa Fe is a must-visit for art enthusiasts, and the Bandelier National Monument, where author D.H. Lawrence once lived, offers a glimpse into the region’s history and natural beauty.

THE SUPER GOOD: New Mexico is widely praised for its diverse landscapes, including the majestic Rocky Mountains, the arid deserts, and the enchanting forests. The state’s rich cultural heritage, influenced by Native American, Spanish, and Mexican traditions, is also a major draw. Additionally, New Mexico’s friendly and welcoming people, as well as its affordable cost of living, make it an attractive place to live and visit. For example, Carlsbad Caverns National Park is an underground wonderland featuring a vast network of interconnected caves, including the iconic Giant Dome, which is one of the largest stalactite formations in the world. And New Mexico has produced many famous figures throughout history, including artists Georgia O’Keeffe and Billy the Kid. Other notable individuals include author D.H. Lawrence, scientist Albert Einstein, and astronaut Neil Armstrong.

THE BAD & UGLY: Isolation, some parts of New Mexico can be remote, with limited access to amenities and services. This isolation can be a challenge for those seeking a more urban lifestyle. As for the weather, New Mexico enjoys a pleasant climate for most of the year. That said, the state can experience extreme weather conditions, including hot summers and cold winters. Additionally, the state is prone to droughts and wildfires.

And the economy? New Mexico’s economy has historically faced challenges, with a reliance on industries such as oil and gas, tourism, and government. The state has been working to diversify its economy and create more job opportunities. Overall, New Mexico offers a unique and rewarding experience for those seeking adventure, culture, and natural beauty. While the state has its challenges, its many positive aspects make it a desirable place to live and visit.

Onward through the fog… R.H.

You got those speed bumps…
In Albuquerque…
They sneak up on you…
And you’re a turkey…
But please remember…
Browsing Taos Galleries…
Sometimes a rose is just a rose.