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Yes - this is a trail!
At this point, it's not loose rock fortunately. High above
Guadalupe-Coronado, we descend to cross the river. This is but a small part
of a very wide panorama. |
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Over three thousand
feet of descent left both
horses and riders hot, sweaty, and dusty. Although this was the dry season
and the river level was low, a couple of eddies contained deep pools. Andy
needed only gentle coaxing before he was swimming - his rider even less! |
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Above Los Alisos and
Pandito en route to Terreros, we finally hit a level stretch of trail.
Having climbed 500 meters in a steep and relentless grade, our horses eagerly take a
drink. |
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Rocky and steep - this
is a normal trail in the back country. When the weather is hot, an early
start is necessary. Trails like this are common and no attention is paid
to the grade. Laid out in as straight a line as possible, these trails
waste no time in climbing or descending. |
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Leaving the ranch, the
trail climbs for approximately 1500 feet until reaching the rim of the
canyon above Arroyo Hondo. From here it is over a mile down to Urique. The
descent into Arroyo Hondo is steep and potentially dangerous. Local
travelers have erected a cross to look over those who continue on. To
ensure your good luck and safety, you should pick up a rock and contribute
it to the pile. |
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Many of our trips
involve youngsters - particularly those who have some riding experience.
This girl was totally at home as we rode the countryside around the ranch. |
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Above Pandito we pass
a long-abandoned ruin that has mostly succumbed to the elements. Only the
walls and the color of bougambilia suggest that someone once lived here. |
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Below Arroyo Hondo,
this old bridge used to be the only way to cross the streambed during high
water. Now a suspension bridge exists nearby. Cables and cement were
packed in by people and pack animals. |
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On the way back home,
our group stopped by the river to take a break and adjust the loads. A
couple of curious boys had been watching us from across the river. Finally
they overcame their shyness and moved in for a closer look |
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A section of the trail
to Naranjo passes through trees filled with bromeliads. |
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A few hours of riding
followed by a meal and this young rider has had enough - even if the
tarima (bed)
is strung with rawhide and without springs. |
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The rocky condition of
the canyon trails is tough on horseshoes. Shoes quickly wear down and
nail heads are ground off. There is no telling when a light ringing sound
will signal a loose shoe. Wranglers carry spare shoes and nails and deal
with problems on the spot. |
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