We rode along the east bench of the south fork of Avintaquin Creek to Big Draw Spring, then studied map and mountains for a route up to the high ridgeline leading to Grayhead.
It was steep going, but we made the top and continued on to ride the ridge. (Enlarge photo above to see red arrows showing our approximate ascent.)
When we reached the shoulder of Grayhead Peak (9500 ft 2900 m), we traversed around the side, since we were short on time and we'd already been to the peak on another ride. The red line in the photo shows our approximate path. Looks impossible, you say? I said that, too. So did Mischief. But Steve and Boss led the way. We're back, so it must have been okay. (Actually, the footing in the sand/gravel soil wasn't bad, and there was even an old deer trail -- a crazy deer, perhaps.)
what a ride! Mischief seems to be enjoying his day off.
ReplyDeleteWow that was quite a trip! Great shots Janie!
ReplyDeleteWhat an adventure.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great ride! And, yes, Mischief does seem to be making the most of the day! I bet Daisy did, too! Your photos are fabulous as always! Another great look at your world!!
ReplyDeleteRelax and enjoy!
Sylvia
I bet you all did need a rest...beautiful photos...
ReplyDeleteStunning scenery and beautiful photos. I like them all!
ReplyDeleteWOW. I am really impressed with your trail riding.
ReplyDeleteThe scenery is again, gorgeous!!
WHat fun in such beautiful surroudings
ReplyDeleteWow!! You are surrounded by beauty -- the sky is so crisp and clear!!
ReplyDeleteThat is one astounding landscape. The triangular patterns on so many levels are great.
ReplyDeleteYou folks really do make trail. But that crazy deer trail around Grayhead Peak looks like a red computer line to me. Glad you are all safe and enjoying a day of rest.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad the trails were actually better than they look because they look scary to me. The countryside is so lovely I can see why you want to be out in it.
ReplyDeleteLooks like a good workout. And the views are unbeatable.
ReplyDeletewww.ewok1993.wordpress.com
Looks scary to me. You have a lot of confidence in your mounts and they in you. I wouldn't have the nerve to do it on foot.
ReplyDeleteJanie: The beauty of that mountain is outstanding, thanks for sharing the ride and trasverse line.
ReplyDeleteWhat a fun way to spend the day - and gorgeous views!
ReplyDeleteAfter seeing the track of your ride I've come to the conclusion that Boss and Mischief must be part mountain goat. I'm glad you made it back safely. The scenery is fabulous.
ReplyDeleteAnother great post! I really enjoy seeing your treks into the widerness. Beautiful!
ReplyDeleteSounds like a long day, but it must feel good to accomplish these rides! Love that last photo of of the "kids" playing. :)
ReplyDeleteAs always I am in awe of the beauty and how you live! Have a great week Janie! :-)
ReplyDeleteOnly one day of rest? I'd be taking the next year off! Wonderful adventures you have. Thanks for taking us along!
ReplyDeleteWow! 20 miles, what an amazing ride! I especially like how you showed your actual trails from a distance. thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteHi Janie. I am trying to catch up on some blogs. I have read all of yours. Love that "Sick Cow Creek".. Glad Daisy was able to find some water...
ReplyDeleteYour ride to Grayhead Peak looked hard and treacherous. I enlarged some of the pictures---so I saw your 'trail'.... Wow!!!!! How gorgeous.
Glad to be home --after 3 trips back to back!!!
Hugs,
Betsy
That is amazing country, and what an ascent! If I'd been riding on the side of that mountain I think I just would have closed my eyes and tried not to think of sliding to the bottom, lol. Mischief looks very spry after his 20 mile adventure!
ReplyDeleteThe sunset shot is too good...
ReplyDeleteMy Travelogue, Savoir-Faire
I will never tire following your trail. You should us how to love those seemly looking deserted areas. But there's so much beauty to capture there. Your appetite of outdoor would never get sated. And that is very lovely. To me at least!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful, but I would need a month of rest if I made it at all.
ReplyDeleteGreat shots!!Beautiful place!!!!
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Have a great day,Irina
Hi Janie; A wonderful landscape; 3ooo m is very high, is it already cold?
ReplyDeleteThe trail looks steep and wow you made it! I am sure you enjoyed a day of rest as well!!
Wonderful, dramatic - and oh, those gorgeous blue skies!
ReplyDeleteObviously a deer that didn't suffer from a fear of heights!
ReplyDeleteThat was an incredible journey for all of you. I love you funny narration of the harrowing ride, Janie. You always put a smile on my face.
ReplyDeleteThanks for letting me ride double, I promise not to be any trouble :)
At first When looking into the photos, I am wondering if you climb it on foot. And the idea really astounded me. And then I read your notes and understand everything. But I bet you had a wonderful time, I never experience to climb a mountain as open like that that - most of the time, I climb rain forest mountains
ReplyDeleteNice ride! I'm always amazed by where I find mule deer trails--right up in the goat rocks even. I really admire your horses & (even more) your skill with them. So many folks here have horses that end up more or less as moving lawn ornaments.
ReplyDeletewell i like your part of the country better on horse back.. I have to say we don't ever remember the high altitude of climbing when we went to Utah before but then we didn't tow a rig before, definitley new we were climbing
ReplyDeleteIt looks as though Mischief is kicking up his heels at that awesome climb. You sure went UP which I guess means you had to also come DOWN! We are under a winter storm warning here in CO - hope your day has been sunny.
ReplyDeleteThe red line does look scary!
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