An out and back hike of 10 miles is possible with solitude in abundance! This little cactus grew readily in a rock crack in the middle of the trail.
Water and lush vegetation is common and we lamented not exploring in summer when we could have dipped into these pools...
Many birds find this watery retreat a good home.
Steep rock faces surround the canyon...
interspersed with more and more pools!
Crazy rock. Did you know this area used to be covered in water? An ancient sea! WOW.
A nice look into the canyon. We hiked in via the canyon then followed the trail as it climbed and skirted along a contour in the limestone mountain giving us nice views from above.
Nearing the end of the trail we spotted these rock shelves in the stream and thought it a spectacular place for lunch.
Water in front and behind...not too many places to enjoy such as this.
Happy people...
Looking for a little adventure, we decided to return in the canyon (rather than above) by rock hopping, some bouldering and some chimneying. Fun times. :)
Speleothem growth?
Beautiful water...
Beautiful spires...
A little, or perhaps large, spring is evidenced by the lush growth of sedges out of this rock face.
Willow buds! Spring is here folks!
We think this pool is the coolest ever.
Almost near the end we spotted this deer skull. The markings are incredible.
Last Chance Canyon - a spectacular place to hike!
This looks incredible - the pools of water, the rock formations, the deer skull. . .I am in awe.
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad you got to visit us here for a short trip. We have to go back! :)
DeleteHey folks! My name is Brent Goodman, and I have tread in many of the same places.....I am a former ranger out at CAVE, and my wife and I did a ton of exploring throughout the Guadalupe Mountains, including the Lincoln National Forest, so I understand where you are coming from. Good times! We plan on returning soon, so you never know, maybe I could turn you on to a couple of "secret" places that I have discovered. Cheers!
ReplyDeleteHey Brent! A new comment brought me back to this place. How are you two??
DeleteHi Jennifer and Steve,
ReplyDeleteIt's your friend over here in NH. I had a really rough day yesterday and then I sat down and took a look at your blog and it helped me put it all in perspective. What a lovely hike you had, really soul filling, I can tell. Thanks for the lovely respite. ~Vonnie, NH
Vonnie!!!! We've lost track of you over the years and hope you are so well. Big hugs.
DeleteNext time you are up Last Chance take a small detour into Baker Pen Draw. You will not be disappointed.
ReplyDeleteGreat to know! Thank you so much. The Guadalupes are calling for a revisit. :)
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