Wednesday 28 March 2012
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.....
I Love Silver City
It was lovely having a day off after 4 hard days cycling. We went in the van to visit the Gila Cave Dwellings, some felt sick as it was a long winding road of over 30 miles. These dwellings were built over 700 years ago and are the best preserved ancient structures in the area. Think houses built inside high cliff caves. Talked to a couple there and the lady on hearing my accent said she had visited Scotland once on a walking holiday. Said the place was called the Isle of Arran!!!! We had a great chat and photos taken. Silver City, as the name suggests, originated from silver mining. The area is rich in copper and silver ore. Full of history too, Billy the Kid and the Apaches. This was their land and they constantly raided the miners making mining very difficult. Judge McComas and his wife were killed by a band of Geronimo's Apaches in 1883 and there 6 year old son kidnapped and taken to Mexico. Silver City is 6000 ft up but very warm. Great rest day.....Still loving it....
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