Went for a solo overnighter to Manzana Narrows and from there a day hike up past Big Cone Spruce up to McKinley Fire Road for an upcoming article on Manzana Creek and the San Rafael Wilderness. No one out on the trails or at any of the camps, including Nira and Davy Brown. Lots of fresh tracks from bear, mountain lion, coyote, bobcat and fox, and even some fresh bear scat. No water along the trail until halfway between Manzana Camp and Manzana Narrows, and then intermittent pools and flows. Standing water only at the Narrows, but good water just below camp. Water in two of the crossings towards Big Cone Spruce, but only standing water at the crossing at Big Cone Spruce Camp #1. The spring is flowing at the camp and lots of evidence of bear activity at the muddy, wet hillside where the springs is. Water in the creek just past Big Cone Spruce Camp #2. The trail up to the top of the San Rafael Mountains is very much in need of some switchbacks, can’t believe I hiked up in this heat. There’s nothing like hiking in 90 degree weather to make you appreciate not hiking in 90 degree weather. Still, extremely peaceful out there...except for the stellar jays, very animated and excited about folk visiting their quiet alder groves. Did managed to even get a shot of one of them, although admittedly it was at Davy Brown where they’re probably more used to people tromping around.
Posted on: Tue, 07 Oct 2014 03:04:49 +0000
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