The Spring Trail

I was advised that a short hike that would familiarize me with the area would go up the Spring Trail from Hwy 152. It was a pleasant hike along a spring fed stream into moderately sized pines. I was escorted by small finches along the stream. Crossings were easy. There was a lushness to the area. Though very arid at lower elevations down in the desert, as you climbed into the hills the radiant greens expanded before you. I stopped for lunch and a drink of water. I was starting to feel the peace in this new area. It was similar to Big Bend in a sense. As you gained elevation, you got into the rain enhanced forests of strong pines and crisp air. And as in Texas, as you went down into the desert the air and the land dried out. New Mexico was certainly cooler by day and also by night. I'd be coming into temperatures in the 30s before long.