Two nights were arranged at the Pine Canyon Campsite #4 which sits at 4200' in the Chisos Mountains under the shadow of Lost Mine Peak. Two miles of an uphill hike lead to the trailhead to the Pine Canyon Trail, a 2 mi climb of 1000ft elevation up to an intermittent waterfall and pine forest. I spend an afternoon reading and relaxing around camp, happy I bought another jug of water for the three day stay. A hike up the road to the trailhead takes about 45 minutes and climbs 800 feet or more in 2 miles. A great way to end the day. I am treated to the primal scene of two bucks sparring with a clash of antlers at the base of the mountain during sunset. The continuing clash and movement disappears easily, figures camoflaged against the desert landscape. The morning sunshine casts the mountains in colors of red and pink beyond my tent. Preparing a cup of Big Bend Roasters "Texas Wild Fire Blend", I prepare for the day, exercise, then begin the morning hike. The forest environment was taxing on my senses! I felt so overwhelmed with the familiar musk of wet soil, the sound of cool water sluicing down a slick rock. Oak leaves cracked beneath my feet and birds squaked through the canopy of madrone and pinyon pine overhead. The last few months spent in the arid climates of California, Mexico and the desert southwest have taken their toll on me more than I could tell. The appreciation of trees and the density of a forest make me feel at home, as if the surroundings mountains are giving me a big hug. I look forward to the prospect of more trees and vegetated areas greeting me as I soon travel east across Texas. I gave myself a haircut with a 99 cent pair of pink handled child safety scissors in the reflection of my scooter mirror. Not too shabby! One last evening spent in the park on the north end before heading toward Marathon then Hwy90 east. Where I travel from here remains unknown, just how I like it.
4 Comments
Dad
2/7/2015 11:45:39 am
Was just about to ask if you'd seen any wildlife out there as you haven't mentioned it. Now I know.
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Tracy
2/7/2015 11:36:25 pm
What a wonderful run of Photos Mike...
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DCrider
2/9/2015 08:02:51 am
Looking a lot warmer now!
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Steve R
2/12/2015 02:49:22 am
Hi Mike, we're still holding down the fort here at Arlington. Enjoying your travels through blog and pics! Recommend a stop in Galveston to celebrate Mardi Gras on 2/17 to get a flavor of the south.
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Mike SaundersIn May 2014 I quit my job to ride a Honda Ruckus over 69'000 mi and counting. Wild camping most nights and cooking most of my own meals, I keep the costs low and the landscape changing. Archives
April 2018
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