Wednesday, February 10, 2010

Last Chance Canyon - Lincoln National Forest, NM

A recent hike to Last Chance Canyon in Lincoln National Forest took us here...

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!