The first part was an easy trek along an abandoned two-track.
Then the going got steep and rocky.
And even more so.
Finally, we gave the horses a break and continued on foot.
Steve went all the way down to the pools of water. Unfortunately, he didn't have the camera and provided no photos. But he did say there's no way he'd bring a horse down there, for fear someone, horse or person, would get killed. Although we've heard tell of horsemen riding to the spring, we won't be among them.
Here are some pics from our hike back up:
The light wasn't great for detail, but maybe you can see the indentation and scraped rock indicating decades, perhaps centuries, of travel along this steep trail. The burros are almost certainly using it, and perhaps some cattle make it down to the spring. Deer and antelope could get down easily enough. Smaller creatures, such as a coyote we saw in the area, must be watering there, too.
That wasn't the only steep section.
We had been in Trail Spring Canyon just the day before and could have approached the spring itself that way, which would have been a lot easier.
No doubt the horses were glad to skip the whole spring thing. After all, why bother? They had plenty of water back at the trailer.
You've had a couple of fascinating rides. The scenery is beautiful, but I can see why you did part of this trek on foot rather than on horseback. I like your stylish headgear. I'm sure Daisy is proud to have a spring named after her, but I'll bet she wishes she could have been there to enjoy the water.
ReplyDeletewhat adventures yall have....cool photos...
ReplyDeleteMakes for a nice combination riding and walking.
ReplyDeleteIt is beautiful country. Seeing how Steve is dressed I'm guessing it was a bit on the cool side.
ReplyDeleteNo place to get lost, that is for certain! (City slicker speaking here)
ReplyDeleteCheers,
Jo
That looks really rough.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you both stay on the side of 'caution'....no sense taking any chances.
ReplyDeleteI'm loving your header photo. Not sure if it is new or I just noticed it today; gorgeous.
XO
The climb is so steep you would need more water at the top. I'm glad you had some for the horses without taking any risks. It is beautiful there, though.
ReplyDeleteThat looks plenty steep and scary riding up - can't imagine going down. I see Daisy got to come along this day.
ReplyDeleteLooks like a lot of fun.
ReplyDeleteThe diversity of America's landscapes never cease to amaze and awe me.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing the beauty you two encounter Janie.
That is a steep trail. I think you were wise leaving the horses behind.
ReplyDeletewow - as always- amazing country!
ReplyDelete- The Equestrian Vagabond
That's definitely some rough - but gorgeous - landscape for navigating, be it on foot or horseback!
ReplyDelete~Lindy