Los Alamos MTB

Sunday, 3 July 2016

Drove about 50 miles north of Santa Fe to Los Alamos to ride today.  At 7K - 8K elevation, the air was thin, but he trails were beautiful.  Mostly flowy singletrack with some fun (and not so fun) rock obstacles scattered throughout, almost all through Ponderosa Pine.  Even though it was in the low 80s, the air was so dry and thin that it just didn't feel much more than 70.  Absolutely gorgeous weather, no bugs, no humidity, beautiful trails, and the earthy smell of pine trees throughout the swoopy fun ride.  Doug did his research beforehand, of course, and had a cute little brewery lined up for post-ride refreshments.  It was more of a beer co-op than a brewery - local homebrewers and macrobreweries had taps.  We enjoyed re-hydrating out on a deck with hand carved furniture made from local pine logs.  Another beautiful road trip day in the southwest!

Diablo Canyon, New Mexico

Saturday, 2 July 2016

Took the pups for a hike into Diablo Canyon on the north side of Santa Fe.  Total of 6.7 miles, but less than a 500 ft elevation gain for the whole hike.  Started by climbing through towering canyons, listening to birdsong echoing through the canyon.  Then it opened up into a wide sandy wash where we followed it all the way to the banks of the Rio Grande.  Pups were surprised to find a swimmin' spot at the end of a long, dry, dusty hike, and boy were they excited!  After much splashing, swimming, jumping, and herding in the cool river, we hiked back out of the canyon and to the car.  Of course, all that hot dusty hiking made us really really thirsty, and of course, our RV park is just down the road from Santa Fe Brewing Co, so of course we stopped to re-hydrate.  Ended the day grilling dinner at the RV and taking the pups bunny-hunting.  Great day!

Colorado to New Mexico

Thursday - Friday, 30 June - 1 July

Both days were rainy and cold.  Thursday was our last day in Colorado Springs, so Jen took the pups to the Best Dog Park in the World and then we just did laundry and trip planning the rest of the day.  Friday we drove from Colorado Springs to Santa Fe.  Beautiful drive, easy, no traffic.  Love the southwest!!  RV Park in Santa Fe is beautiful - the owner is an eccentric little artist type, so there are metal sculputres throughout the park and lots of natural landscaping.  The best part for us:  no kids!!!  no pool!!!  no playground!!!  Just a bunch of old people enjoying the scenery. :)  The best part for the dogs:  a 3/4 mile walk around the outside of the park that is literally overflowing with wild bunnies.  They can't keep up with chasing them all.  Pure entertainment.