We’ll leave El Paso early Saturday morning and drive to the trailhead at Bald Hill on the eastern slope of the scenic Black Range. We’ll hike past a large cave to Las Animas Creek, where we’ll set up camp for the night. We should have a chance to visit the graves of a group of Buffalo Soldiers who, in September 1879, were led into a trap in Massacre Canyon and killed by a band of Apaches led by Chief Victorio. Sunday we’ll hike back out the same way we came in.

Essentially none

Don’t miss the fall foliage colors at our nearest National Park! We’ll leave early for the 2-1/2-hour drive east from El Paso through Guadalupe Pass and around to McKittrick Canyon. After an orientation briefing, we’ll take a leisurely walk up to the Grotto, enjoying the fall colors and pristine riparian areas along the way. Bring some snacks, a lunch and plenty of water. Our friends at GMNP really take great care of this magical park. 

October 27, 2007 (Saturday)

The cool fall weather is a perfect time to hike this great multi-use trail, which wanders through impressive Chihuahuan desert ecosystems in the foothills west of the majestic Franklin Mountains. FMSP is the largest urban wilderness park in the nation.