Since Joe and I returned to New Mexico we’ve enjoyed taking day trips and hiking trails that are new to us. This year we were determined to see some of the fall colors around the state. We spent 3 weekends in October exploring different areas, each one offering a distinctive experience. The first weekend we went north to the ski valley near Santa Fe to hike the Aspen Vista Trail which is about 11 miles round trip. And no we didn’t make it the entire way but we did walk about 7 of the 11 miles. The Aspens are plentiful and they are spectacular! The golden yellow leaves at times look as if they are on fire. The early morning hours are the quiet times when the trails are less traveled and we can take our time to enjoy the view. With Covid 19 spiking again and nothing to do it seemed like everyone had the same idea to get away and enjoy the beautiful leaf tour. By driving to the trails early, we could easily get a parking spot and enjoy the trails with a handful of early birds. By lunchtime it’s a different story, many more folks just getting started as we wind our way back. We always pack a picnic lunch and find a spot to enjoy the view. It’s a serene time to get away in this year 2020. We are fortunate to be able to travel an hour or two to a beautiful haven in which to get away and forget the worries of the world if only for one day!
This is the view from the parking lot, with only a few pine trees dotted here and there.
This trail was a steady climb uphill with different point of view along the way. In between the Aspens you can see a hazy sky. There have been so many forest fires in and around New Mexico and our skies have been smoky a good part of the summer and fall.
I don’t know what type of plant this is but it is interesting!
It looks a little bit like a dandelion that has blown in the wind.
A tiny creek that we passed by.
Josh’s words of wisdom: Always look up!
Off the beaten path we discovered this teepee.
I love the colors as they turn, some green, some bright yellow and some golden tones.
This little fella flew down at my feet begging for a cracker. However he didn’t stay long enough for a close up. But he did pose for me on a limb nearby.
Lookout between Aspen Vista Trail and the Santa Fe Ski Basin.
An Inspired Cook 