Frolicking at 7340 ft on the Route to Mimbres...

Today we were given the choice of two routes. Think of a triangle, the easy way was 27 miles along the base. The hard, hilly way was up and down the sides, 52 miles. I and 5 of the men chose the harder route. It was beautiful, like the Ross Road but much longer. Tall pine trees through a twisting, turning road. I saw deer, a heron, squirrel and ducks. It was so remote and quiet. We crossed the continental divide at 7340 ft and Todd (Stanley ) said we were 'frolicking along'. This is a lovely valley. 'You sense the quietness of the peaceful headwater of the Gila where the Apache leader Geronimo was born. Hear the voices of the Buffolo Soldiers as they patrol deeper into into the wilderness trying to maintain peace. Walk the paths of the early miner's trying to find the mother lode up the next canyon.' I coped very well with the cycle. It was freezing early morning as we left at sun up. I arrived at camp just slightly behind the men so quite satisfied. I'm glad I chose to go this way as the route had everything. History, few cars, scenery, peace and quiet, sunny. No wonder ...I'm still loving it.....