Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Grapevine Hills Trail and Lost Mines

Monday March 2nd John and Lyle left in the morning for scenic hikes in the Park. You need to get there in the morning as the sun will be hot today (29C) and there is limited shade in the desert.

Dorothy and I have a day off.......to do Laundry....hum?

Their first hike was Grapevine Hills Trail a 2.2 miles roundtrip An easy hike up a sandy wash surrounded by massive boulders. After 1 mile the trail ascends to a low saddle at the end of the drainage. The exposed granite has weathered into wonderful rock formations, pinnacles, granite boulders, and a natural stone arch. You will see the giant "window" of boulders that was on their trail. John captured some great pictures on these two hikes. Look closely at the pictures and maybe you too will wonder: what is Lyle doing?

Their second hike at The Lost Mine Trail is 4.8 miles roundtrip This moderately difficult trail begins at mile marker 5 along the Basin Road. With it's accompanying trail guide (available at the trailhead), this is an excellent introduction to the plants and animals of the Chisos Mountains. The trail starts at an elevation of 5,600' and steadily climbs to the top of a 6,850' promontory overlooking Pine and Juniper Canyons.

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