I agree, trek selection should be a crew decision with the primary voice
from the youth. However, the adults should have some input since they are part
of the crew and likely have a more realistic awareness of their limitations as
opposed to the "I can do anything" youth self-perspective. Don't want to
start a big issue there. MHO.
Speaking to the plea from "Mom" Susan......on the discussion of trek 30 vs
35 and the Valle. I believe 30 is overall more strenuous than 35. I had the
pleasure of doing trek 27, which is primarily all in the Valle, in 2005, and
have done 30 several years back when it was 21.
The 2005 treks book rates both treks within 2 miles of each other, so
distance should not be a big decision factor. Obviously you can add whatever
side-hikes you want to change the mileage. However, Trek 30 has more significant
elevation changes than 35, which can be a decision factor. Trek 30 includes
Baldy, Phillips, with possibilities for Bear and Black, with Shaefers Peak and
The Tooth thrown in for good measure. Trek 35 includes only Shaefers and The
Tooth. An extremely fit crew should have no problem with either itinerary.
As for the Valle itself on trek 35, expect no major climbs. I believe the
biggest climb will be 400' coming out of Seally Canyon headed for Whiteman
Vega. Make sure you detour through Ring Place, it is a food pick-up for you.
Serious climbing does not start until after Old Camp when you traverse Hart Peak
into Ponil and points beyond. You will see significant fire damage from Dean
Cutoff via Ponil, Sioux, Bent and up to the Dan Beard area. The trees look
like lots of black toothpicks, and shade is limited. The undergrowth is coming
back beautifully, water should not be a problem. From Dan Beard to Seally
fire damage is minimal and is not a factor after Seally. The search & rescue,
wilderness first aid program at Seally is top-drawer. Whiteman Vega is a large
meadow with limited shade, but has an excellent mountain biking program. The
Valle has lots of wide open vistas with great views of Baldy and Little
Costilla. Wildlife is abundant. Seally, Ring Place and Whiteman are served from
water buffalos, so plan accordingly.
The hike from Whiteman to Old Camp is approx. 11-12 miles long, and follows
the gentle down-slope of the North Ponil Creek from 8100' to 7100' through
the X-A ranch. A 1000' drop over 11-12 miles is real easy! You will pass
through the ruins of Ponil Park just north of the trail to Seally Canyon. It is a
great place for a packs off break to explore the ruins and the cemetery.
Once your into Old Camp your back on Philmont property and many people have
shared their experiences of the trip from Old Camp to Ponil and on to your
last night at Upper Clarks Fork.
If you like less strenuous "vertical" hiking, with good distances, fewer
people, good programs, wide open spaces, and the possibility of seeing Elk and
Buffalo, the Valle is the place.
Darn, just read this post, and I sound like a Travel agent. Sorry, but I
could spend an entire trek in the Valle, if you haven't guessed. We all have our
special places. <grin>
Feel free to contact me off-line for more info.
D. Tadsen
St. Charles, MO
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Received on Tue Feb 28 22:16:05 2006
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