Living Our Dream: Hiking the Osha Trail No. 10

Wanted to hike up in Cloudcroft and chose yesterday to do it. We read up on the various trails that run along in the Sacramento Mountains. And, we knew we would be in a forested land, the sun should not be able to bake us as bad.

Climbing up again into the Sacramento Mountains

Did the climb back up to Cloudcroft along Route 82. Through the tunnel again and this time stayed in Cloudcroft where we found the trailhead for our walk. Temperature was 64, lovely! Donned our boots and walking sticks, snacks and water, and off we went. The trail is named for the Osha flower which is abundant throughout the walk.

The Osha flower

Benches were space at intervals throughout the trail

We had to climb up about 200 feet to get to the ridge line, not bad but we took our time since we were hiking in 8700 feet elevation. Stopped and saw the Mexican Canyon Trestle from the other day, took some pics and continued on. Found the spur where Osha Trail No.10 comes in and continued along. The smells of the forest, the birds singing, the wind rustling the trees, so many different kinds of tress and firs, the coolness of the forest, sunlight streaming through the trees, butterflies dancing around. Interpretive signs along the way to show us what we were looking at.

Mexican Canyon Trestle from Osha Trail

And up and up we climbed

Maps along the way to show you where you are

Got to the top of the mountain, then swung around to the back side and dropped down into a meadow. Saw a very old road which was covered over in new growth - we think it was a logging trail. Had to climb back up to the top of the ridge again, but took our time, stopped many times to drink water, listen to the wind and hear the birds. Just a lovely walk.

Another bench - beautiful setting for a snack

Fall just starting - love the colors

How I miss the fall season in Ohio

Still climbing up

Looking out to White Sands, about 25 miles away

Large white fir tree, some of them were immense!

The contrast in colors was stunning

Wondered if these holes were from prairie dogs, moles, voles?

This bad boy Douglas Fir was over 400 years old

Large meadow on top of the mountain

Found the connector trail back to the parking lot and got back to the car, tired, but very satisfied that we did it. My Fitbit said we walked 3 miles. The trail was rated moderate to severe due to the altitude but taking time and stopping to let ourselves be acclimated, we did fine. If we lived in the area we would certainly do this trail again. Wonderful day in the mountains.