White Mesa

(nr San Ysidro NM)
I had heard that the White Mesa mountain biking trails provided some easy hiking and nice views, with Cabezon Peak in the distance. It was a good ways off the main highway; so, it provided the seclusion I like.

Cliffs and ridge

White Mesa

The trails were indeed easy, and provided just the right distance for my legs. Hills, mesas, cliffs, and trees provided nice scenery. A rabbit and a pronghorn provided additional excitement.

Mesa, ravine, distant peak

Cabezon Peak in the Distance

whitemesaravine

Ravine at White Mesa

The first night I camped at the trailhead. A gravel lot with picnic tables and trash bins made the choice obvious. No one else around made it a quiet spot. An internet signal was a plus. And, an occasional local visitor.

whitemesavisitor

Visitor to Camp

whitemesapillars

White Pillars at Camp

Afterward, I found another camp next to some white pillars down a side road. By the amount of litter and ammo shells there, it appeared to be a popular spot for locals. Still, I only saw one pick-up truck come through while I was there.

Camp: Cabezon Rd – BLM boondock
Scene: Mesa, rocks, sand, trails

4 Responses to White Mesa

  1. gumo June 4, 2015 at 12:50 pm #

    You sure do find some very nice and quiet boon docking spots. I was wondering what resource you use to find these government lands to camp on. Is a map book or online resources? Thanks.

    Also, my community is hosting it’s 2nd annual en plain AIR Texas event in October. Here is a link in case you may be interested in attending:

    http://www.gosanangelo.com/news/local-news/artists-selected-for-en-plein-air-texas_10739783

    Thanks for taking us along on your travels. Your photos and reports are helpful and enjoyable.

    • Pleinguy June 5, 2015 at 1:13 pm #

      I use several resources Norm; internet, apps, maps, Benchmark Atlases, local info, other blogs, and of course the Shunpiker Guides shown below. Thanks for the plein air invite. Not sure I’ll be in the area then.

  2. Barney Ward June 4, 2015 at 8:37 pm #

    That looks like a wonderful area. thanks for the photos and narrative.

    • Pleinguy June 5, 2015 at 1:14 pm #

      Thanks Barney. I think this is an area you could manage to hike or use SS. Relatively easy to find, and not much elevation.

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