After a restless night we got up at 6am, took the puppies out and loaded up the Jeep in preparation for our big hike.

We got away by 7am and arrived at the Chisos Trail Head just before 8am. We set off on the 15-mile hike with overall elevation gain of over 3,000 feet and the corresponding descent of over 3,000 feet. It is classified as a strenuous hike and that is the truth.

The trail was well marked, but very icy in places. The ice was the most treacherous part of the hike and added a lot of time as we carefully navigated the icy trail sections. We slipped dozens of times, but luckily never fell. Regardless of the ice, the trail was every bit as challenging as we had hoped.

Jana and I had an incredible time. The views ranged from spectacular to majestic. The flora shifted significantly as we changed elevations and we saw some amazing birds, deer and even a Road Runner. 

We arrived back at the trailhead at 3pm and were tired, sore and elated! It was probably the best hike both Jana and I have been on together, or independently. So worth the effort!

We headed back to the RV, got there at 4pm and took the puppies back to the dry gulch for one more romp.