So it seems like all my time has been in the Cochiti area lately--pre-ride 2 weeks ago, NMES last weekend and again yesterday. However this last time was work related. Several co-workers and I headed up to the Dome Wilderness to do some sampling in Capulin Creek. Capulin Creek incorporates the historic range for Rio Grande Cutthroat trout, and last year we hiked in, in order to stock New Mexico's native cutthroat You can read the press release on the NM Game and Fish website. Anyway this time we were in there to see if any of the fish survived.
The tough part of this sampling event is the hike. While not long (only 1 1/2 miles), the trail is tricky in spots because of the 1996 Dome Fire. Lots of blown down trees, sketchy loose trail along edges and the heat. 90% of the trail has absolutely no cover from the sun! Oh yeah we were each carrying about 45 pounds of gear as well. It was a tough day for sure, but well worth it. We saw 1 year old RGCT! What does that mean? It's means that the trout we stocked last year, not only survived, but they also spawned. Yeah!
Ok time to leave (it's Friday and we are still working at 6 o'clock) and I lead the crew down Rd 289. Yes the same 13.5 mile road I climbed last weekend as part of the New Mexico Endurance Series. Damn, I knew it was steep while riding it, but the drive down reiterated the inclines. My co-workers thought I, as well as the others who took part in the climb were nuts! I might have to agree with them.
Hike data:
6 miles,
1100 ft in climbing each trip (we made two trips)
9 hours
Sore feet and hip flexors
5 nalgenes of water.
It's Saturday and time to recover.......
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