Cryptobiotic Canyon Cerro La Seta Loop

Please read the entire event description.

DESCRIPTION: Hike up an unnamed arroyo to an unnamed ridge to an optional climb of Cerro El Seta (my name because it looks like a mushroom). The actual and unimaginative name is Peak 6848. We follow that ridge then hike down to self named Cryptobiotic Canyon because it is loaded with 1000 year old or more cryptobiotic soil which we and any pets in attendance will stay off of. The canyon also features Abiquiu Formation hoodoos. We eventually empty out on to the highway with a short walk back to the cars.

Photo Gallery

DISTANCE/ASCENT/TERRAIN/COMMITMENT/TYPE: 6.33 miles and 794 feet ascent. Arroyo walk with some moderate rocky passages, ridge walk on cross country and social trail route, gradual descent off the ridge on maximum slope angle of 20%, sandy wash, and a short class III scramble. Loop. Commitment is low to moderate. We will be within 3 miles of the highway.

RED TAPE/HAZARDS: Trailhead is a along the highway. Falls are the primary hazard. No one has failed on the Class III scramble including sedentary people in their mid to late 70's.

HIKE LOCATION: Abiquiu area. Hike begins off of Highway 84.

PETS: 1 well behaved dog that responds to commands. All humans and animals stay off the cryptobiotic soil. Let the host know you are bringing your dog. You may need to provide your own transportation.

EFFORT/HIKE TIME: Moderate+ 4 hours hike time minus the optional climb to Cerro El Seta. Hikers should be able to hike round trip to Sun Mountain in 90 minutes.

Sun Mountain

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 location multiple times.

GEAR NOTE: Carrying traction devices in your pack are highly recommended. There is a shady section where any foot traffic will generate ice.

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: The drive is 100 miles and 2 hours miles round trip. Bring $10.00 for gas. We will meet at De Vargas Mall next to Dr. Melton's office. The trailhead is near the Cenzo's Hay Sign.
Driving Map

CONDITIONS: Little shade. 48 hours dry weather required. Light preciptation on hike is okay. Temperatures below freezing with wind chill in the forecast will cancel. Air quality index of 45 or less is required.
Forecast
Current Conditions

CANCELLATION or CHANGES: The trip could be modified or cancelled at short notice. Check this description 12 and 2 hours before meet time.