(nr Hopewell Lake NM)
Going over the pass on US-64, through the Carson National Forest, there were three rest areas with views. One of them provided a good look at, what I believe, was Jawbone Mountain standing 10,601ft high.
Jawbone Mountain
Some have said they are the Brazos Cliffs. But, those are clearly visible at one of the other pull-outs, far away and across a wide expanse. Plus, I know what they look like. What I saw was much closer.
Looking Further to the Left
Wider View of Jawbone
This rock face has always intrigued me. I remember stopping to gaze and marvel on a trip decades ago. Just thought I’d share one of the great scenes found in New Mexico.
Camp: Heron Lake SP-Brushy Point CG drycamp
Scene: Mountain, cliffs
Thanks for another adventure report.
And, thank you for commenting.
Gorgeous! Now I want to go view it with my own eyes. Would love to sit and do a painting of Jawbone. That photo is a perfectly beautiful composition.
You’re welcome to come at anytime; but, in the winter the road could be closed due to snow. Hope all is well with you.
What a beautiful photo of Jawbone Mtn. I have always loved New Mexico, but could never live there because of the climate and terrain.
The terrain is what makes New Mexico special. Anything from desert sand dunes to canyons, farm valley and mesas to high mountain meadows; take your pick. I control the climate simply by changing elevation; stay low in the winter, and go high in the summer. That keeps me at 75-80° all the time.
Just “ball park” figures would be fine: How high does one need to go in the summer to stay at 75 – 80 degrees in New Mexico?
Probably 8,000ft plus. Figure 3 1/2 degrees per 1,000ft change. This is true pretty much anywhere in the west. It can vary somewhat depending on the terrain. The good news is the higher you go, the more tall trees, water features, and cool breezes you are likely to find. In New Mexico, there are plenty of places that meet these criteria.
Are there many bugs at that altitude?
Very few bugs. It seems the higher you go, the fewer the bugs.