Most of our San Rafael Desert rides are cross country, sometimes following the ghost of an old two track for part of the way. Above is a distant view of the Head Spur (a triangular shaped peak) that makes a good landmark. It's about 2 miles away in this photo.
Here's the Head Spur in a closer view. The peak looms 400 feet above the desert floor and is about 1000 feet wide at the base. Up top is a square formation that looks a bit like Stonehenge. The top is unreachable by horse. A climber might be able to get up there.
The going is rough in places.
And very rough in others.
Here's Coco taking a careful look down a break in the rock, 50 feet down the Moqui Creek pour-off. Below is the Spur Fork of Horseshoe Canyon. Believe it or not, we found a way to get down, but NOT in that particular spot!
We stop at an ancient pictograph site that we have visited before. It is located under a rock ledge where it has been protected from sun and weather through the centuries.
The dragonfly art is unique.
Three granaries are nearby, complete with rock lids.
We locate a few pot shards,
and some jaspar chippings. Jaspar was used to make arrow points and other tools. We leave our finds on the closest rocks. Taking anything from an archeological site on public land (BLM in this case) is illegal.
Gathering storm clouds follow us back to camp, but only a few raindrops fall.
What an adventure you had. We used to go camping in the San Rafael desert when I was a kid but we didn't get far from the roads.
ReplyDeleteWonderful that those granaries were still there and you were able to find some small pieces. We used to stick those in our pocket way back when. Different and better ethic now about that kind of thing.
I really need to make a return road trip to Utah.
ReplyDeleteHow wonderful to see the ancient pictographs and pottery shards. Looks like it was a beautiful day!
ReplyDeleteSuch marvelous country to ride. I have more appreciation for it now that I've seen some of the area.
ReplyDeleteI love the Utah landscape, and I appreciate the fact that you are kind enough to take us along with you.
ReplyDeleteWow----how neat to find the Granary and other historical items... Such HISTORY!!!! Love it. I've probably asked you this before but do you carry a GPS so that you won't get lost --or just go by landmarks? When we hike off-trail we mark our car and carry the hiker GPS with us to help us get back if needed.
ReplyDeleteI published a blog post today so check it our if/when you get a chance.
Hugs,
Betsy
You were in a wild place in deed. Hopefully, it's secluded enough to preserve those ancient petroglyphs and Native sites. I love all the rock formations and how you find your way as you explore.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful, as always!!!!!!! just love your adventures.
ReplyDelete- The Equestrian Vagabond