FR269 Pueblo Loop

Please read the entire event description.

ATTENTION: Hike to a pueblo ruin near the village of Ponderosa. This is NOT Bolasatqua.

DESCRIPTION: We will hike from the locked gate of Forest Service Road cross country then down and across a canyon and across to the closed FR269 with a stop at the ruin, then down to the trailhead.

DISTANCE/ASCENT/TERRAIN/COMMITMENT/TYPE: Approximately 6.5 miles and 894 feet ascent. 1.75 miles will be on a closed forest road. Most of the cross country is reasonable with short rough sections. We will stay high above the surrounding terrain to keep the views spectacular. We will eventually cross a major canyon (where it's shallow) then gain FR269 with a side trip to the pueblo then finish up at the gate. Moderate commitment, loop.

RED TAPE/HAZARDS: Care is required when crossing canyons, falls are always the primary hazard.

HIKE LOCATION: Near Ponderosa, NM off of Forest Road 269.

PETS: 1 well behaved dog that responds to commands. You may need to provide your own transportation. Let the host know.

EFFORT/HIKE TIME: Moderate+ 4 to 5 hours hike 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 several times but the last was in 2019.

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 156 miles and 3 hours miles round trip. Bring $16.00 for gas. We will meet at Java Joe's on Rodeo Road (not Siler). See the driving map. Any vehicle works.

Driving Map

CONDITIONS: Little shade. 48 hours dry weather and dry on hike day. The terrain tends to be slippery when wet. Air Quality Index of 45 or less. Temperatures above freezing with wind chill.
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.