In February, I decided to go on a road trip and explore the trails at La Tierra Trails in Santa Fe. It had been on my list-of-places-to-ride for about a year, and the weather had been pretty great, so, with maps in hand, I decided to head up there. I invited my riding companion, Judith to join me and we met in Santa Fe at a gas station and she followed me to the trailhead.
The Frijoles Trailhead horse trailer parking area was pretty nice.
Below, you can see Apache waiting behind my horse trailer as there wasn't much space in between trailers to saddle up. Judith even pulled over past the railroad tie that delineated the actual parking space, just to give me some more room.
There is a lot of helpful signage and thoughtfully built horse gates at La Tierra Trails.
Just beyond the horse gate, was a very nice gazebo that would make a great lunch spot after a ride.
Apache and I led all day since we had maps and had a good idea of where we were going since I had done a lot of research before coming to the park. But there were signs at almost every intersection.
The Sangre de Cristo Mountains were beautiful with the snow dusting their crests.
Apache and I happy to be out exploring new trails together!
Gorgeous vistas towards the west.
Me reading the map and navigating, while Apache drives. I'm Apache's co-pilot.
I'm in love with trails that don't travel straight....notice the Sandia Mountains in the distance.....over 50 miles away.
Judith and her horse, Pinturo. Today we were both riding our pintos.
Between the ears views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
Trail Selfie!
I always love curvy, winding trails. It's easier to take photos of folks I'm riding with.
Apache and I leading the way.
Taking a rest along the trail...I have no idea what I was thinking about. I think Apache my One Eye Wonder Horse was thinking about finding some grass to eat.
Pretty cool arroyo beside the trail.
And inside that arroyo was a very old, abandoned car.
Apache and I checking out the old rusted car.
Like I said, the trails are well marked and there are signs at every intersection.
A couple times, Judith took turns out in front, even though I was still the navigator/map reader. It's good for the horses to take turns leading and following.
Like I said, I love trails that don't travel straight. The trail builders did a great job at La Tierra making the trails fun to ride.
Even traveling through a long meadow, the trail still has a bit of bend to it.
Soon, we were back at the trailer parking area and I didn't get us lost!
What an awesome day we had!
The End........
Oh yeah!!!
Life is Good!!
