My sister's friend, Carol (middle) took us out on the trail in Alto, a canyon near Ruidoso. We convinced my sister (on the left) to join us--it has been 30 years since she last rode. What Courage!!
The view through Freddy's ears..... The canyons have more moisture and therefore the trees get bigger and look more like the ones we have at home.
Prickly Pear Cactus--you can look, but better not touch.....
This part of the trail was pretty level. Our ride on the following day was more strenuous and the climb got serious...we went up...and up....and up.... I think the horses were beginning to wonder if it would ever stop.
On top at last!! at 9100 feet
The fence is to protect a large spring at the height of land.
Carol wears a wide brimmed hat to protect herself from the sun. I wouldn't give up my helmet, but was very glad to have the protection from the little bit of brim on the helment, and the sun glasses. The sun is VERY strong at these altitudes.
Even at the top of the world, there were some trail signs to help us find our way.....good thing! I wouldn't want to get lost up here.
We stopped for a bit to admire the scenery and give the horses a breather. The horses did extremely well and did not seem bothered by the altitude. We're looking down into the Tularosa Valley and White Sands.
Ted climbed up above us to get this photograph. The altitude is around 9100 feet.
Sadly we must move on to Silver City via White Sands