Tag: GET

GET 2017 Day 24, May 19, Friday.

Start Lower Scorpion Campground at Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, Section 22 mile zero

End just past only ford of East Fork of Gila River, Section 22 mile 9.1

Miles walked: 9.1

This morning I was the first civilian to enter the Gila Cliff Dwelling after its 9AM opening.( I had toured in previous years with family, and always enjoy the experience.) You wind along a wooded path near a creek and cliff face, with birds chirping and lizards watching. Suddenly you walk out to see several rooms built of stone and mortar built into a huge overhang of a cliff.

These dwellings were built around 1280AD, about the same time as other cliff dwellings in the southwest USA. This structure was only occupied for a generation. Why? There are theories, but the answer is not settled.

In this series of photos, look at craftsmanship, and details such as steps, windows, and vigas.

Continue reading “Cliff Dwelling”

GET 2017 Day 23, May 18, Thursday.

Start terminus of Trail 152 at junction with Trail 151, Section 20 mile 34.6 of 36.6

End Lower Scorpion Campground at Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, Section 21 mile 17.2

Miles walked: 19.2

As Trail 151 descends down to the Gila, one already sees cliffs that are a preview of the day.

The water of the Gila runs clear and cool, with wet-foot crossings typically coming up to knees, but sometimes mid-thigh.

Continue reading “Gila Splash”

GET 2017 Day 22, May 17, Wednesday.

Start Silver Creek Divide on Bursum Road, Section 20 mile 12

End terminus of Trail 152 at junction with Trail 151, Section 20 mile 34.6

Miles walked: 22.6

At the start of the Crest Trail one must cross a number of deadfalls.

All day the trail tends to go near the tops of ridges with gentle slopes on well-constructed pathway.

The ground scrunches under feet, wet from yesterday’s rain and then frozen overnight.

The frozen ground gives way to fresh snow as the trail climbs higher, over 10k feet elevation.

Continue reading “Mogollon Crest Trail”