Piedra Lumbre Spire
Details
Please read the entire event description: Updated 05/08.
Hike the Colorado Plateau adjacent to Ghost Ranch to a land mark spire high above it all with great 360 degree views.
DISTANCE/ASCENT/TERRAIN/COMMITMENT/TYPE: Between 5 to 6 miles and 1064 feet total ascent. This is primarily a cross country route with shot bits of trail and arroyo walking. There are significant sections of scrambling where hands and feet will be required. There area areas of perceived exposure and one very short section where a misstep could be catastrophic. Commitment is moderate and it is an out and back route.
RED TAPE/HAZARDS: We will park at the rest area along Highway 84. Cars locked and valuables out of sight. We will be travel in an area sandwiched between public and private land. We must stay within boundaries though out. The private property has recently been signed with new "No Trespassing" signs.
HIKE LOCATION: USFS land adjacent to Ghost Ranch
PETS: No pets.
EFFORT/HIKE TIME: Very strenuous due to frequent ups and downs and rough terrain. Estimated hike time is 5 to 6 hours. All attendees in the past were over in the age range of 65 to 82 years old but anyone uncomfortable with scrambling and exposure to falls should not attend this event.
Hikers should be able to hike Picacho Peak in 140 minutes.
Picacho Peak
Event and hike times are estimates. It is wise to not schedule anything important or set a time limit due to other commitments.
HISTORY: The host has hiked this route 4 times between 2018 and 2026.
GEAR:
-2 liters of water is considered a minimum. More food than you expect to need.
-Light, quick drying, warmth layers, extra pair of socks.
-Good and tested rain gear.
-Headlamp and spare batteries, whistle or noise making device.
-Phone with optional mapping software or a paper map and compass.
-Optional personal locater beacon or InReach device.
-Long pants and hiking poles are recommended.
HIKER RESPONSIBILITY: Hikers are responsible for reading and understanding the entire trip description and getting clarification if needed. Hikers have total responsibility for their safety and well being and assign no liability to the host or any other participant. Passengers assume risk of transport to and from the trailhead. Drivers assume responsibility for safe practice behind the wheel. Do not sign onto this hike if you are not capable of meeting minimum requirements. If any hiker at any time feels that they cannot continue for any reason, they should say so. In that case the hike will be modified but distance and climb may increase based on commitment. Treat hiking companions with respect and keep belongings close at all times.
The hosts advises hikers to keep phone numbers of emergency contacts available.
HOW WE HIKE: Stay together. Be within sight or earshot at all times. If hikers need to stop for anything please say so and the group stops also. Stop at all junctions or any place that looks like one. The hike host provides the route. If travel is cross country, please take your own line where needed. In loose or rough terrain we keep a distance between each other to avoid debris from falling on us. All follow the host and and can provide collaborative input but the route will not be changed unless there is need as determined by conditions or discomfort of participants. Note that any route change may result in longer distances and/or climbs for everyone.
TRANSPORTATION: 116 miles and 2 hours round trip. Bring $17.00 to pay your driver.
Driving Map
CONDITIONS Required: 24 hours dry weather and 40% or less chance of precipitation required, High winds forecasted may modify or cancel.
CANCELLATION or CHANGES: The trip could be modified or cancelled at short notice. Check this description 12 and 2 hours before meet time.