- NNML day 26, October 14, Wednesday
- Start S8 mile 75.4, trailhead near Aspen Basin
- End S8 mile 92.0 Santa Fe Plaza
- Miles walked: 16.6
After several months I finally return to finish my hike. Yesterday I took the Rail Runner train to Santa Fe, and the free Blue Bus 255 up to the ski area, and camped overnight at the no-fee Aspen Basin campground.
Aspens are in full fall color, and fallen leaves make a golden trail.
I encounter no mountain bikes on this popular downhill biking section of Winsor Trail, due to the late season and being a weekday. Later, on Saddleback Trail, the tread has a deep V-groove in places from bike use.
On La Piedra Trail, the rocks are small, so to build switchbacks wire cages are used, filled with stone.
Tesuque Creek has plenty of water this month.
From La Piedra Trail I can just make out Santa Fe and colorful tribal lands in the distance.
The Dale Ball trail networks and narrow Gonzales Road take me to Santa Fe River Park along Alameda Road, with scattered artwork.
The Santa Fe River has plenty of water, replenished from recent rains.
Nearing Santa Fe Plaza, the route goes past a museum, cathedral, and historic hotel.
Finally, I reach the Plaza, at trail’s end. What a trip! Celebratory enchies follow.
Finished audiobook Radicalized, by Cory Doctorow. This collection of novellas has one of my favorite: “Unauthorized Bread”.