Not So Early: Ghost Ranch 360
Details
Please read the entire event description:
RSVP: This is a waitlisted event. Participants may be queried regarding their experience before approval.
DESCRIPTION:
This is an exploratory hike to re-establish the route and observe any terrain changes since the last time the host traveled it. It will listed again in an open format at a later date. It is a loop around the red rock canyons and mesas that starts on USFS land and loops through Ghost Ranch back to the start.
Gallery One
Gallery Two
Gallery Three
DISTANCE/ASCENT/TERRAIN/COMMITMENT/TYPE:
Between 7.97 to 10.15 miles. It is expected to be in the middle of that estimate. 1340 feet accurate, total ascent. Arroyo walk, Class II scramble, one steep climb of 580 feet with moderate exposure, one Class IV descent with moderate exposure. (thousands of people do this climb/descent per year) and short bits of established trail.
RED TAPE: We are supposed to pay a $12.00 fee per person to hike on Ghost Ranch property but the office will be closed when are there.
HAZARDS: Valuables out of sight at the trailhead. We will be parking just off the highway. There are a couple of steep climbs and descents. Falls are always the primary hazard.
HIKE LOCATION: Ghost Ranch and USFS land in vicinity.
PETS: No
EFFORT/HIKE TIME: Strenuous. Hike time estimated 5 to 6 hours.
Hikers should be able to complete a climb and descent of Picacho Peak in 2 hours 40 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 hiked this route in March of 2019.
GEAR NOTE: Bring a good headlamp for the dawn portion of this hike.
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: 118 miles and 2 hours 10 minutes round trip. Bring $18.00 to pay your driver. The cost will be split amongst passengers.
Driving Map
CONDITIONS REQUIRED: 40% or less chance of precipitation required. Winds forecasted greater than 20mph may cancel due to falling hazard. Predicted dangerous driving conditions will cancel.
CANCELLATION or CHANGES: The trip could be modified or cancelled at short notice. Check this description 12 and 2 hours before meet time.