I set out to hike the south fork of the Whitewater Creek up to Camp Creek Saddle, down to Dry Creek, up Black Mountain to Apache Spring, and down to Little Dry Creek via Windy Gap, a 45-50 mile hike through gorgeous mountains and fall sceneries. On day two, I took a wrong turn and got stuck in a narrow canyon. I had to climb 2,000' up the steepest and scariest slope so far to rejoin the trail at Apache Creek. I again seriously strained my ankle in the rough climb and had to rest for half a day before resuming my hike. This Northwest side of the Gila is incredibly beautiful and the variety of landscapes and trees is truly amazing. I did not see much wildlife on this last hike, but boy, did I relish the fall colors, the crispy nights and the still quite balmy days. I came down to the valley to visit the San Francisco Hotsprings but went the wrong way when I got to the river. Not for no reason apparently, as after walking in the river for a quarter mile to avoid the terribly thorny vegetation, I ran into a young couple and their daughter also looking for these elusive springs. The fellow turns out to be from my hometown Lyon and she from Germany. I instantly fell in love with the gang and camped with them that night. They drove me to Silver City the next day as they were heading to Mexico and beyond, also in search of sustainable community. Knowing this was to be my last hike for a while (yes, I've got to get back to some form of work...) I really soaked it in-the fresh air, the quietness, the beauty and this incredible opportunity to walk places that so few humans ever get to see. I thanked the Spirits for protecting me during this harduous two months journey through some of the most beautiful nature I had ever visited. I did not have any big vision during this walkabout. I spent a lot of time digesting difficult events of the past, often struggling to maintain my focus in the present. I had to challenge myself to endure incredible pain in my left foot as if purging my body of some old poisons. I endured thirst at time like I never had, walking in 85 degree weather for miles without water, dreaming of a cool beer when I would reach a town. I had a glimpse of a bear, a wolf and a fox, had a close encounter with a very big rattle snake, drank filthy water from cattle ponds and did not eat any fresh food for days on end. I got to deeply appreciate the strength of early explorers and settlers, who traveled through this part of the country without maps, roads or sophisticated light gear like we now have. And I got to sleep close to the Earth night after night, listening to the sounds of the desert, mountains and forest, filling myself with a music that I know will ring in my heart for the rest of my life. For my first big wilderness hiking adventure, it has truly been amazing. I survived it for one (I haven't stepped on a scale yet but I haven't got an ounce of lard left on my body!) and met some incredible people along the way. I can't wait to heal my troubled ankle and get back into some other wild unspoiled place. I have been short of words to describe what I have experienced. It will take me a while to integrate it all, and bring the magic of the wild into my daily existence. Back in Silver City now, I am going to look for work in the next couple weeks...maybe seek a job with the Forest Service clearing the trails...See slide show
