We covered almost 8 miles in about 2 hours, not counting the times we were stopped in our tracks to marvel at the views.
Thanks to the work of many, especially the Santa Fe County Horse Coalition, there are over 3 miles of new multi-use trails going in on the west side of the preserve. This is in addition to Annie’s Amble built last fall. Many people have probably never ventured out this far west on foot, but it is a worthwhile trip.
This new trail – as yet unnamed – will connect from Cowboy Shack, traveling along a ridge between two arroyos, then winding up the front side of the hill dropping over the hill to the west onto Leona’s Loop and turning south. After working to trail build this section, a few of us decided to ride the entire loop to see how it felt.
There are magnificent vistas, colorful arroyos, banks of tan sandstone and red clay, and waving fields of Bluestem grass that are knee high for the first time in many years.
Reaching the top, we are stunned by the majestic views to the west, south and east. The Ortiz and Sandia mountains are off in the distance completing a picturesque loop on a very interesting meandering trail. The trail bobs and weaves to follow the contours of the land to minimize erosion and capitalize on the views that are so special throughout Galisteo Basin.
This is the longest multi-use trail loop at the Galisteo Basin Preserve. Beginning at Cowboy Shack, the loop includes Leona’s Loop, the unnamed trail, Annie’s Amble (which was built last year with funds raised from individuals), Andorra Valley Wagon Trail which is one of the old Thornton Ranch roads, returning via Candid Crossing to Cowboy Shack.
Reaching the top, we are stunned by the majestic views to the west, south and east. The Ortiz and Sandia mountains are off in the distance completing a picturesque loop on a very interesting meandering trail. The trail bobs and weaves to follow the contours of the land to minimize erosion and capitalize on the views that are so special throughout Galisteo Basin.
This is the longest multi-use trail loop at the Galisteo Basin Preserve. Beginning at Cowboy Shack, the loop includes Leona’s Loop, the unnamed trail, Annie’s Amble (which was built last year with funds raised from individuals), Andorra Valley Wagon Trail which is one of the old Thornton Ranch roads, returning via Candid Crossing to Cowboy Shack.
Upcoming Event: To continue to build more exciting trails requires more funding. The Santa Fe County Horse Coalition has chosen Saturday, October 17th, to host another event to promote the development of more multi-use trails.
This year’s ride will have a lower suggested donation, and the SFCHC will be initiating a 3-year pledge fund. With the funding from these oaths, more trails can be planned out going forward. Instead of riding any of the trails, perhaps everyone will want to see this fabulous new trail that their money has built. It is anticipated that the ride will include a lunch break – perhaps out west on the trail.
For more information, to participate or donate, contact Julia at jvj@cybermesa.com