Portal, AZ - Rodeo, NM

Report and photos by Eskild

Pies by Al

Ice cream by Elaine

On yet another Red Flag Day in Portal, 6 hikers, 1 gorilla and 2 dogs ventured out to conquer the trail that follows the Whitetail Creek and proceeds to join the National Monument. Despite the wind it was a very pleasant day. We started the hike near the vineyards in Whitetail and followed the mostly washed-out road through Al’s property in Indian Creek and Blumberg Canyon. The usual spectacular waterfall in Blumberg had ceded to exist with only small puddles apparent here and there. 

This is the driest season most of us have experienced in this part of Arizona. The scenery was still fantastic and the hike itself about 8.3 miles and 900 feet elevation gain very enjoyable. When the remnants of road totally disappeared, we followed the creek bottom. Many turkeys were seen including several in flight! On the National Park land a gorilla was captured on the game camera put in place for documenting jaguars in the area. The 2 person that were monitoring the camera came by that same day and were surprised by this unusual animal. They were appeased by joining us for the pies later.

At the Monument we paid pilgrimage to grave site of Mary Bridger who died in 1902. She was so well liked by her neighbors that a gravestone was imported at great expense and effort. The site is close to the road but hidden and rarely visited except by the Portal-Rodeo hiking club.

We then retraced our steps back to Barbara’s place.  We felt we had earned the delicious pies that Al had prepared. They tasted even better with the ice cream that Elaine supplied. Thanks to both of you. We can easily get used to this treat at every outing.

Group Photo

Next week 4/22/21 there is a Community Meeting on the Trails in the Chiricahua Mountains at 3:30 PM at the Visitor Center in Cave Creek that should be very informative and important for us to attend. Thus, our plan is for a hike that makes it possible for returning to Silver Peak Trailhead in time for this event.

Next week hiking 4/22/21 The Basin Trail.

 Meet at Silver Peak Trail Head at 8AM – AZ or 9AM – NM. 

We will decide there which end to hike – from Herb Martyr or North Falls area, cars in both ends etc.

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