Tuesday, May 23, 2016
Grand Enchantment Trail section-hike Polvadera NM to Tijeras NM, starting here
Day 3
Start waypoint north of 33470 Section 33 mile 39.6, a few miles south of US60
Stop waypoint 35030 Segment 35 mile 2.3, on Pine Shadow Trail a few miles from the summit of Manzano Peak
Miles walked [Segment 33] 42.5 – 39.6 + [Segment 34] 15.3 + [Segment 35] 2.3 = 20.5
In a few miles I reach US60, where a food cache was hidden under a tree. I had taken a photo when hiding to remember which tree.
Water bottles and goodies were included in the cache box to offer as a surprise treat for other hikers, known as “trail magic”.
I had tested when hiding the cache how far down US60 until a cell signal could be found, so I could signal Base Support of my continued health.
But after walking much further down the highway, more than a mile, I still not send a text, even with several bars.moral of the story: don’t rely on a signal meter to test for cell reception, but instead actually place a test call or text to see if it goes through!
The trail follows a rocky arroyo for several miles, enclosed enough to provide some shade.
Surrounding cliffs become tall and rugged.
When the arroyo joins another larger arroyo, pools of water were found, welcome since all seasonal springs along the route have dried up.
The arroyo passes under train trestles.
Leaving the wash, the route goes along a two-track road which climbs for a number of miles.
Formidable rocky mountain faces start to appear in the distance.
After going on a forest service road, one arrives at the trailhead for Pine Shadow Trail, going up Manzano Peak, the first actual man-made trail of this trip.
I find a rare flat spot a few miles down from the peak, to escape wind and exposure, and rest up for good climbs and scenic views expected tomorrow.
[completed audiobook The Wizard That Wasn’t, by Ben Rovik]
