- NNML 2026 Day 13, June 30, Tuesday
- Start: get a ride back to Cumbres Pass, S3A mile 17
- End S4 mile 4
- Miles walked: 21
I had planned to take the historic Cumbres and Toltec coal-fueled train to Ossier Station, enjoy an all- you- can- eat buffet, and then walk a short 8 miles back to my trail, but when booking my ticket I was met with this notice:
Due to forecasted weather conditions and elevated fire danger, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad has canceled all scheduled train operations on Tuesday, June 30, and Wednesday, July 1.
Well, fudge. I had put in big miles a couple of days ago just to arrive today, since the train is currently going from Chama to Ossier every other day, and Ossier to Chama the other days. Oh, well.
There is no activity at Chama Station this morning, since operations are canceled.
I get a ride back to Cumbres Pass with trail angel George. The ridge from the pass is much less windy than yesterday, and scattered clouds help the day stay cool.
After 17 miles, I am back to the NNML, ready for new trail, as the route leaves the CDT and enters the Cruces Basin Wilderness.
I go cross-country down to Beaver Creek (no beavers), where lange rock formations are scattered along the drainage.
I follow fragments of user trail and game trail. The area seems to have plenty of water, with frequent seeps and bogs. Elk are visible at every turn of the creek, and I hear their odd whistling yips from my tent at dusk.
Finished audiobook The Falcons of Narabedla, by Marion Zimmer Bradley.