Chiricahua Sky Island, Rodeo

Hiking Club Went To Horseshoe Canyon, Chiricahua Mountains

2012-02-23T16:28:00.001-08:00

Panorama View In Horseshoe Canyon

Rainbow Cactus

Painted Lady

Hiking Club

The Portal Rodeo Hiking Club went to Horseshoe Canyon in the Coronado National Forest including a dog and 13 people all enjoyed a beautiful day with temperatures about 71 degrees. Saw a painted lady butterfly (vanessa cardui) and a rainbow cactus on our 5 to 6 mile hike. We saw poppies along side the road up to Horseshoe canyon. No one had a G.P.S. so I do not know the elevation climb or exact miles we went.

Chiricahua Mountain Snow

2012-02-17T17:13:00.000-08:00

Chiricahua Mountain Snow

On February 17th as I went outside in the morning and looked at the Chiricahua Mountains this was a beautiful site, with the snow in the mountain and .06 of rain in Rodeo, New Mexico.

Portal Arizona 16th Annual Fundraiser

2012-02-17T11:10:00.000-08:00

Portal Rescue Fundraiser

Breads And Deserts

Delicious Soups

Portal Rescue had a 16th annual fundraiser this past week the pictures show soups, breads, deserts made by local residents also a table of tea, water and lemonade. This goes on for 3 days for lunch, every day there are many different varieties to choose from. Portal rescue is a organization that supports the community through the voluntary efforts of dedicated individuals, in both firefighters and emergency medical technicians.

Boot Heel Is Starting To Bloom

2012-02-15T15:06:00.000-08:00

The flowers are starting to bloom in the Peloncillo Mountains. Seems to be early this year, as we had winter rain in the boot heel. So hopefully this will be a spectacular spring of colors in the desert.

Whitetail Canyon to Hands Pass To Kasper Tunnel In The Chiricahua Mountains

2012-02-03T14:01:00.000-08:00

Portal Rodeo Hiking Club

Kasper Tunnel

Balancing tree

Fossils

Cochise Head

This week the Portal Rodeo Hiking Club of 25 people (most people maybe ever) and 6 dogs drove to Whitetail Canyon and started the hike from Blumburg Canyon and headed to Hands Pass which the Bench Marker said 6649 foot elevation. We had our lunch then broke into several smaller groups. Eleven of us headed to Kasper Tunnel which is 3,000 feet long and some people just went in a short way. We went past Hilltop mine and found out that there was a town in that area when they were working on the mine. We hiked in a area where there were many fossils in great condition, some hiked 101/2 miles and some less.

Friends Of Cave Creek Canyon Work Day

2012-01-31T13:01:00.000-08:00

Friends Of Cave Creek Canyon

Portal Ranger Station

New Sign

Forest service of 1 person and 9 people that are members of Friends of cave creek canyon had a work day on Saturday. Project included one team to put signs at the camp sites showing which way Cave Creek Canyon Natural Trails begin and where they go.. The other team replaced signs at the Portal ranger station for information using cement to hold in the ground and several small sign around the ranger station.

Gray Mountain, Peloncillo Mountains, Pictographs

2012-01-27T13:11:00.000-08:00

Grinding Holes

Pictographs

Rock Art

pictographs

These are pictures I took during the hike at Gray Mountain in the Peloncillo Mountains, these pictographs were in great shape as a rock ledge protected them. They were in colors of white, black, red and green. We also found many grinding holes that they used.

Gray Mountain, Peloncillo Mountains

2012-01-27T12:48:00.000-08:00

View from the top

Looks like a face

Looking threw a window

This week the Portal Rodeo hiking club had permission from a rancher to enter from his property to hike Gray Mountain the highest peak in the Peloncillo Mountains. The 17 hikers hiked about 6 miles and climbed to the top about 2,000 foot elevation climb to the peak which is 6,928 feet high. Our weather was perfect, the views were 360 degrees and seeing all the ranges from this point were outstanding! We all ate our lunch at the top and knew our hike down would be easier.

Boot Heel Social Club went to Polomas, Mexico

2012-01-25T18:39:00.000-08:00

Pink Store

Polomas, Mexico

El Rodeo Bar Polomas, Mexico

The Boot heel social club from Rodeo,NM and Portal, AZ. went to Polomas, Mexico for a day outing of shopping, get glasses, eating and a Margarita's at the Pink Store. Great food and company for a day of fun with friends.

Roadrunner At Mountain Valley Lodge

2012-01-23T14:06:00.000-08:00

Greater Roadrunner

Today a Greater Roadrunner came into the yard at Mountain Valley Lodge, in Rodeo, New Mexico. It speeds across the desert on long, strong legs. The Roadrunner is New Mexico's state bird.

Rucker Canyon, Chiricahua Mountains

2012-01-20T16:07:00.000-08:00

Water falls

Rucker Canyon

Rucker Canyon,Chiricahua Mountains

Portal Rodeo hiking club of 20 people and 2 dogs went to Rucker Canyon in the Chiricahua Mountains this week. We hiked just over 8 miles and had a 1500 foot elevation climb and had lunch at 7500 foot in the sunshine and T shirts on. At the start of of hike we had several layers on walking along the water running and enjoying the view of rhyolite cliffs. We hiked up switch backs to the top as this is the first hike since horse show 2 fire and not that bad at this location.

Poppies Will Be Beautiful This Spring

2012-01-18T14:59:00.000-08:00

Beautiful Desert

Poppies in the Chiricahua Mountains

These are pictures I found from a few years ago but we have had winter rains and snow so this will be a gorgeous end of March and first of April this year. It will be great hiking, birding and seeing all the flowers in the boot heel, Chiricahua Mountains and Peloncillo Mountains this spring.

Arizona Coues Whitetail

2012-01-14T07:39:00.000-08:00

Az. Coues Whitetail

Two deer hunters staying at Mountain Valley Lodge in Rodeo, New Mexico are enjoying the time deer hunting. The Chiricahua Mountains are having bow hunting season this month, Julio is a happy hunter as he will be taking this one home.

Hiking Club Enjoyed A Cloudy Day

2012-01-12T14:44:00.000-08:00

What are we doing?

Portal Az. Rodeo N.M. Hiking Club

This week the Portal Az. Rodeo N.M. hiking club of 23 people and 6 dogs went to route 9 parked the automobiles and headed up on private land with permission. We hiked the San Simon wash part of the hike onto BLM land and the way everyone is dressed you can tell it was a cool 60 degree day and cloudy. Some hiked 6 miles and some 8 miles, it was a great time to visit and enjoy the views.
A couple who hike with us live in the area and had the hiking club to there home for a snack and great lunch, by then the group was up to 28 people and more dogs. This was a real treat to have so much good food for our lunch!

Leslie Canyon National Wildlife Refuge and Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area

2012-01-08T11:06:00.000-08:00

Panorama of Leslie Canyon

Leslie Canyon

Yellow-headed blackbirds

Sandhill Cranes

Portal and Rodeo hiking club continued on with Leslie Canyon National Wildlife Refuge that is 2765 acres established in 1988. This is to protect habitat for endangered Yaqui chub, Yaqui topminnow and rare velvet ash-cottonwood-black willow gallery forest.
Whitewater Draw Wildlife area that is managed by Arizona game and fish, was our last stop for the day. We seen thousands of sandhill cranes and yellow-headed blackbirds. Many other birds were in the many ponds and grasses in this wildlife area.

San Bernardino Wildlife Refuge And Slaughter Ranch

2012-01-06T16:29:00.000-08:00

San Bernardino Wildlife Refuge

Hiking Club

John and Viola Slaughter Home

Slaughter Pond

John Slaughter

This week the Portal Rodeo Hiking group traveled to San Bernardino National Wildlife Refuge and Slaughter Ranch. The 22 people hiking with Richard Webster for a guide. The refuge is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. There are many ponds for endangered or threatened fish. Many bird in the ponds as we viewed the area.

This is on the U.S. and Mexican border along with the Slaughter Ranch which some hikers went to see. In 1884 John Slaughter, former Texas Ranger and soon to be sheriff of Cochise County brought the vast verdant valley in southeastern Arizona known as the San Bernardino Ranch. Over the next 30 years, he developed the fertile grasslands into the Quintessential southwestern cattle ranch.

The hiking club went to two other places but will blog that in a few days.

Happy New Year

2011-12-31T08:52:00.000-08:00

Harris Hawk

Last evening a Harris Hawk visited Mountain Valley Lodge and RV Park in Rodeo, New Mexico. He is sitting in a Pecan tree above the Koi pond.

East Turkey Creek And Harris Mountain Hike

2011-12-29T17:14:00.000-08:00

View From Harris Mountain

Grave In The Chiricahuas

Hiking Club

Walking in Snow

This week the Portal Rodeo Hiking Club hiked East Turkey Creek and around Harris Mountain in the Chiricahua Mountains. There were 16 hikers and 7 dogs this week and hiked about 6 1/2 miles, with so many people we went in different directions. We hiked in some snow from last week storm, the weather was very nice today so took off layers. We came across an old grave the stone was hard to read but said killed by Indians, the date and name not sure what it said.

Christmas Songfest In Portal, Arizona

2011-12-24T12:46:00.000-08:00

Schaughen Park

Singing around the Christmas tree

Chiricahua Mountains

Today Portal Arizona had a Christmas singing songfest around the Christmas tree in Schaughency Park.

Rodeo, New Mexico Has Snow

2011-12-23T09:04:00.000-08:00

Snow in Rodeo, New Mexico

Koi Pond at Mountain Valley Lodge

Rodeo New Mexico is getting snow this morning it is December 23rd so Santa will have a nice arrival this year! Now the question is how long will it be on the ground?

Santa Comes To Rodeo New Mexico

2011-12-18T07:12:00.000-08:00

Gifts for everyone

Santa Claus and Mrs. Santa Claus

Christmas Carols

Rodeo community center

The 4th annual Christmas dinner that is put on by Anna May and Frank of Rodeo, New Mexico this year near 200 people were at the community center. There were laughs by Howard, singing Christmas carols and great food! Great community gathering from Portal, Paradise and Rodeo. Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus arrived had gifts for everyone!

Happy Holiday's

2011-12-17T09:44:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays from Mountain Valley Lodge and RV Park in Rodeo, New Mexico

Round Valley, Chiricahua Mountains

2011-12-16T15:33:00.000-08:00

Round Valley, Chiricahua Mountains

May's Grave Sites

Old Mine


Round Valley, Chiricahua Mountains

Portal Rodeo hiking club of 10 people and 2 dogs went to Round Valley, in the Chiricahua Mountains and had to get permission to enter through private property. It was a nice day to hike clouds came as we hiked all most 8 miles and no elevation changes. We had our lunch at the grave sites of 3 family members. Their homestead that was made of stones and not much left one of the graves dates was 1910 for the son who was killed in a shoot out. May memorial wildlife area for information click on link.

Ring-Billed Gull in Rodeo, New Mexico

2011-12-03T09:49:00.000-08:00

Snow On The Chiricahua Mountains

Ring-billed Gull in Rodeo, New Mexico

Ring-billed Gull at the Lost Arcade today in Rodeo, New Mexico. The top picture if you click on it for a larger view you will see the Ring-billed Gull flying. The snow in the Chiricahua Mountains are a great view from Rodeo today!

Owl Canyon, Peloncillo Mountains

2011-12-02T06:57:00.000-08:00

Dogs enjoying a water pool

Hiking Club in Owl Canyon

Panorama entering Owl Canyon, Peloncillo Mountains

Portal Rodeo Hiking Club went to Owl Canyon in the Peloncillo Mountains this week. We entered through private land that the owner lets hikers, and horse riders go to enjoy the canyon. There were 17 people and 2 dogs and went about 5 miles and 1,000 foot elevation change.

Sulphur Canyon, Chiricahua Mountains

2011-11-25T14:40:00.000-08:00

Sulphur Canyon, Chiricahua Mountains

12 feet high log in tree


Sulphur Canyon

I went for a stroll with a friend and her dog on Thanksgiving morning in Sulphur Canyon in the Chiricahua Mountains. It was a beautiful walk in the canyon before the rains started. The first picture was taken at the entrance of the canyon south of Portal peak. The second and third picture shows the power of the water coming out of Sulphur Canyon after horseshoe 2 fire with a log in a tree about 12 feet above the ground. You can click on the pictures to make larger.

Items From The Past

2011-11-23T18:22:00.000-08:00

Old Hat & Typewriter

Old tools

1916 National Geographic
I seen a library so big they have rooms of magazines and books, this National Geographic issue is just one, they have all of them to date. This Hat was worn by Bob Scholes and used this typewriter for reports. The tools are all repainted and look like new sure takes a person back in time. This was in the Post Office Canyon road at The Bioresearch Ranch Inc. Click on the picture to see it larger.

The Bioresearch Ranch Inc. Peloncillo Mountains

2011-11-23T17:02:00.000-08:00

Water Tank For Animals

Post Office Canyon

Delia and Ed

The Bioresearch Ranch

I was invited to visit the Bioresearch Ranch Inc. This is owned by friends of mine to have a tour and enjoy lunch with them. Central Peloncillo Research National Area is located up Post Office Canyon many gates to open and close but it a very beautiful area and the 360 degree views are breath taking. The last picture you can see the buildings in the background, there is a water tank that collects rain water for all the wild animals, and they have many birds and wildlife at there place.

South Fork Hike, Coronado National Forest

2011-11-18T10:16:00.000-08:00

Panorama At Red Rock

Looking out of Cave

Hikers in Cave

Fall Colors

Red Rock Lunch Spot

This week the hiking club went to South Fork, in the Chiricahua Mountains and enjoyed the fall colors and great temperature. We went in two different directions, the group I was in there were 4 hikers and 1 dog, the other group had 8 hikers and 2 dogs. We ate our lunch at Red Rock and enjoyed the view as we hiked 5 miles. We found a cave and sat in it for a while visiting.

Walking And Hitchhiking Across The U.S.A.

2011-11-16T15:54:00.000-08:00

Dave Strege

Dave Strege is walking and hitchhiking across the United States, 12,000 miles in a two year period. Reason is for a novel he recently finished (Beggarman Bob) and 100% of all proceeds goes to needy children in Africa, Hatti and the United States. Dave has a web site walking 4 kids.com. Dave plans on writing a book every 3,000 miles during and about his travels. Dave has a tent and is writing his adventures this evening.

Deer Hunting In The Peloncillo Mountains

2011-11-14T16:47:00.000-08:00

Nice Deer Rack

This deer was shot in the Peloncillo Mountains this week, the hunter is from California and drew a special tag. He used a 7 M M Browning and the rack is 5X4 with eye guards. They are staying at Mountain Valley Lodge and RV Park and I have all that Venison in my freezer for them till they leave!

Granite Gap, Peloncillo Mountains Hike

2011-11-13T15:55:00.000-08:00


Snow in The Chiricahua Mountains

Tree through a window

Hiking towards Granite Peak

This weeks hike there were 2 different directions one group of 7 went early to view the Steam Engine that was the last one Union Pacific built. We were at Steins, New Mexico at 8:00 A.M. to view it as it rolled by. The morning was windy and cold so we drove to Granite Gap in the peloncillo Mountains to hike. We were hiking and met up with the other hiking club of 8 people and went 2 different direction. My group hiked 5 miles and enjoyed the panoramic views in all directions and great rock formations. The other hiking club hiked 7.6 miles.

Steins New Mexico Start of Hike

2011-11-11T07:25:00.000-08:00

Heading to Arizona

Union Pacific 844

Portal Rodeo hiking club started there hike by meeting at 7:30 A.M. on Thursday morning and driving to Steins, New Mexico. The hiking club watched the Union Pacific 844 go by at about 60 miles per hour as it is going into Arizona for the centennial.

Union Pacific's Steam Locomative No. 844

2011-11-10T13:41:00.000-08:00

Do not see this any more

Union Pacific 844 Steam Engine

Check out the big wheels!

The Union Pacific 844 Centennial Steam Engine arrived in Lordsburg, New Mexico on November 9,2011. I talked with the engineer he told me that this December it will be 68 years old. It uses drain oil, and weights almost 1,000,000 lbs. it will leave Lordsburg at 8:00 A.M. on November 10th. The steam whistle sounds wonderful and tomorrow he will blow it when he passes Steins, New Mexico as I told him there would be several people there watching it go by. Click on pictures to enlarge.

Crest Trail Hike In The Chiricahua Wilderness

2011-11-04T10:12:00.000-07:00

Longpark, Chiricahua Mountains
The Portal Rodeo Hiking Club drove up to Rustler Park and hiked the Crest Trail #270 to Centella Ridge where we had a break and looked at the views of the Chiricahua Wilderness, we could see and hiked in the burnt areas from the fire this last year. There were 11 hikers and 2 dogs, 3 people hiked 51/2 miles and the rest of us hiked 9 miles and a 1400 elevation climb. We then hiked to Bear Wallow Spring, Round Park to Long Park trail. The day started off cold but warmed up to be a very nice day for everyone to enjoy, this will be the last hike for the high elevation till spring.

Union Pacific's Steam Locomative No. 844

2011-10-31T16:24:00.000-07:00

Land of Enchantment Centennial Special
Coming to Lordsburg!

Union Pacific's Steam Locomotive No. 844 will be steaming through New Mexico November 4-9 in honor of the state's Centennial. Visitors can view the train at events and whistle stops in Tucumcari, Santa Rosa, Vaughn, Carrizozo, Alamogordo, Santa Teresa, Deming and Lordsburg.

On November 4, Tucumcari will host the event FIRED UP! in the rail district of downtown Tucumcari with music, food and exhibits open to the public. On November 6, Alamogordo will host special public events throughout the day. For information and schedule details visit the NM Centennial website.

No. 844, also known as the "Living Legend," was the last steam locomotive built for Union Pacific Railroad. It was delivered in 1944 and pulled such widely known trains as the Overland Limited, Los Angeles Limited, Portland Rose and Challenger. It returned to service in 2005 after one of the most extensive steam locomotive overhauls in the United States since regular steam service ended.

The work, which started in 2000, included overhauling the locomotive's running gear, pumps, piping, valves and springs, along with replacement of its firebox and extensive boiler work. The cab interior also was refurbished. The engine has run hundreds of thousands of miles as Union Pacific's ambassador of goodwill.

One of the rail cars that travels with No. 844 has a Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) transmitter. The GPS system is integrated with a map on UP's website. Enter the word "Steam" in the search box on the homepage for a shortcut to the map.

Website visitors will be able to access route maps with varying amounts of detail. The GPS system will update the map every five minutes showing No. 844's location. GPS updates are also available at the UP Steam twitter page

Stroll along Crest Trail to Barfoot Look out

2011-10-28T14:37:00.000-07:00

Portal Rodeo Hiking Club

U.S. Geological Survey Marker

Tree With A View

Bunch Grass Lizard

Portal Rodeo Hiking club went on a stroll this week along Crest Trail in the Chiricahua Mountains starting at Rustler Park. There were 10 people and 3 dogs this week and we had a 600 foot elevation climb and went 4 miles. We had a snack at Barfoot Park then went on to Barfoot look out, the picture of the Bunch grass lizard (sceloropus slevina) is not found in many places in Arizona.The morning was a bit cold to start the hike and warmed up very nice for all to enjoy the views.

Halloween In The Boot Heel

2011-10-25T14:34:00.000-07:00

The Lost Arcade in Rodeo, New Mexico is having a Halloween party on Saturday night, October 29th at 6:00 P.M. New Mexico time. Free punch, prizes for best costume and win prizes. Located next to Mountain Valley Lodge and RV Park. On Friday night The Portal Peak Lodge and Cafe in Portal, Arizona are having The Gypsy Carpenter's play at 5:00 P.M. Arizona time. This is a costume party also.

A Walk in Barfoot Park, Chiricahua Mountains

2011-10-21T09:19:00.000-07:00

Barfoot Helispot

Walking in the grass

Cochise's Head

Portal Rodeo hiking club went on a walk at Barfoot Park in the Chiricahua Mountains. There were 7 people and 4 dogs and we went 3 miles and a 1,000 foot elevation climb. We started at the old boy's scout camp and went to Barfoot Peak. We had beautiful views and enjoyed the great weather. I always enjoying Cochise's head while hiking.

Portal Irish Concert

2011-10-16T07:57:00.000-07:00

Enjoying the evening

Irish Music

Susan and Burt

Fajitas and Beer

Portal Peak Lodge has guests all week having a Irish music week and Saturday night had a concert for all to enjoy. They served Fajitas, beverages and dessert while listening to the great music. Dancing was enjoyed by many folks, visiting with friends and making new friends.

San Felipe, Mexico on a Beach Vacation

2011-10-15T07:16:00.000-07:00

Snowman on the Beach

Sunrise

Bar Mareno

San Felipe, Mexico


San Felipe, Mexico

The last of my vacations for awhile I went to San Felipe, Mexico. Amy and Lynn have a beach house there, we had 3 days of fun. Lynn stayed in San Diego so Amy and I had time for a good visit, swam in the Sea of Cortez, walked the beach and out into the sea when the tide was out. We ate very good, fresh catch from the ocean fixed many different ways, we spent some time in town. The weather was beautiful and the moon was almost full that made sitting on the beach after dark perfect.

My Vacation in San Diego, California

2011-10-13T15:20:00.000-07:00

Belmont Park, Ca.

Mission Beach, California

Standing Rocks

I went to San Diego, California to visit my friends Lynn and Amy they showed me all the good places to eat and great ocean sites. The first picture is Amy by Belmont Park that is Ace roller coaster landmark that opened on July 4, 1925, this is a beachfront park and entertainment center. The second picture is at Mission Beach 2 miles of ocean front with boardwalk runs along the beaches on the ocean and the bay sides of San Diego. The last picture was a man putting the rocks on top each other and balancing rocks so perfect. I took 300 pictures so it was hard to pick just a few!

Elderon Wisconsin Vacation

2011-10-03T07:24:00.000-07:00

Lily lake

Mom at the Park

Evergreen Rest Cemetery

My family vacation while in Elderon, Wisconsin, had nice weather. The colors were changing while there.

Elderon, Wisconsin Colors

2011-10-02T11:54:00.000-07:00

Tunnel of trees in the Woods

Doe's in the Woods

Wisconsin Fall Colors

I was in Elderon, Wisconsin on a 10 day vacation, seen relatives and had a great time. There was rain all most everyday guess that is why every thing is so green. The deer and the turkeys are out in the fields together enjoying the grass. The fall colors were all most 50% in color, I sure did enjoy my vacation.

Snowshed Trail #246

2011-09-20T17:08:00.000-07:00

Cave Creek Canyon

Nais Metalmark

Chiricahua Mountains

Portal Rodeo Hiking Club

Desert Paintbrush

The Portal Rodeo Hiking Club went hiking on September 15th on Snowshed trail in the Chiricahua Mountains. Some of the group went to Pine Park that had a 3000 foot elevation and a 10 mile hike and the group went 5 miles that I was in. We seen a Sceloporus Slevinil Lizard and a Nais Metalmark butterfly. The hiking club that went to Pine Park felt some rain on the way down but were prepared for it. We seen many different flowers on the trail and was a very nice hike.

Chiricahua Mountain Opening To Public September 24, 2011

2011-09-19T20:10:00.000-07:00

Chiricahua Mountains

Friends of Cave Creek Canyon (FOCCC)

It is OFFICIAL, US Forest Service lands of the Chiricahuas will be open to the public in time for National Public Lands Day, Sept. 24th. Rustler's Park Campground will remain closed. We are thrilled to access the high country and we are impressed with the work to keep roads and trails open - its a huge effort for which we are most appreciative. Join us at 8:00AM at the Visitor's Center, Sept. 24th if you wish to help with projects to rejuvenate some of our favorite areas of Cave Creek Canyon.

Chiricahua Gallery Community Art Show

2011-09-17T16:42:00.000-07:00

A Community Art Show sponsored by the Chiricahua Gallery started today September 17th and goes through October 7th. in Rodeo New Mexico. The gallery is also a official destination point on the New Mexico Fiber Arts Trail. Showcases the talents of local world class artists.Some of the showcases are oil, mixed media,jewelry, wood crafts, books by local authors, stained glass and many other items. Jackie made wonderful appetizers for everyone to enjoy.

Chiricahua-Peloncillo Heritage Days

2011-09-12T11:56:00.000-07:00

Kim Vacaria held the 3rd annual Chiricahua-Peloncillo Heritage Days, it was held at the Event Center in Rodeo, New Mexico this past weekend. Many topics such as future climate, wildlife tracking, our mountain springs, geologist history, Friends of Cave Creek Canyon, Southwestern research station history and many more topic's. A Farmers Market was on site, a nursery if anyone needed plants, and a kids program this year. La Buena Vida Farms served a very good buffet lunch both days.

This Week Hike, Mount Graham, Arizona

2011-09-09T11:59:00.000-07:00

Paradise, Arizona and Herb Martyr Dam tour for Guests

2011-09-06T12:59:00.000-07:00

Herb Martyr Dam

Mountain Valley Lodge in Rodeo, New Mexico had guests this past weekend and I drove them to the Chiricahua Mountains which is only 7 miles away. We went to Paradise, Arizona, and town that boomed in 1901 when a vein of ore was discovered. The town of Paradise had a post office, general store,and saloon's. The town of Paradise has 5 permanent residents, and is listed as a ghost town in Cochise County. We went to Herb Martyr Dam and is a great place to have a picnic lunch, or hike the area. During the construction of the dam in 1935 a man was killed his name was Herb Martyr which it was named after.

Southwestern Research Station Hike to Basin Trail

2011-09-01T18:55:00.001-07:00

Chiricahua Mountains

The Portal Rodeo Hiking Club started their hike at the Southwestern Research Station near Portal Arizona.. The hiking club of 3 dogs and 12 people enjoyed the hike as many different flowers and tall green grass. We hiked the Basin Trail #246 and had a lunch at Ash Springs, we hiked about 7 miles today. Seen a Greater Short-Horned Lizard (Phrynosoma hernandesi) the first I have seen this summer, that is the 2nd picture and Al is holding it for all to see. The top picture is the view near the Southwestern Research Station., in the Chiricahua Mountains, click on pictures to view larger.

Zola and Nate's Wedding

2011-08-28T15:19:00.000-07:00

Zola before her Marriage

click on poem to read


Zola and Nate

Zola and Nate were married on August 27th at Silver Creek Church. This happy couple had a beautiful wedding, with many friends and family who attended. Jackie Lewis made a beautiful Wedding cake, Kip and Dale sang and played nice music and there was a lot of good food for everyone to enjoy. My batteries went dead so I have the wedding picture of Zola and Nate that was taken from Paul Hirt's camera. Zola lives in Portal Arizona and is a friend. It was wonderful to help celebrate this very happy event.

Hiking Club at granary,Caves, Pictographs

2011-08-25T16:18:00.000-07:00

Panoramic of the Chiricahua Mountains click on picture to enlarge

Pictographs in The Chiricahua Mountains

In Granary Looking Out


Chiricahua Mountains


Miss Piggy Kissing Kermit the Frog

The Portal Rodeo Hiking Club went into the Chiricahua Mountains and went to a old Indian Granary, found caves and many pictographs in 4 different areas. There were eight people and 1 dog and hiked about 4 miles, there was no trail and we climbed a lot of elevation on this hike. We started this hike on private land and there were many flowers, green grass and the color of the Chiricahua Mountains were very colorful today. The third picture I went into the old granary and took a picture of some of the hikers and you can see the Peloncillo Mountains in the background. The last picture to me looks like Miss Piggy kissing Kermit the Frog.

New Mexico Visitor Information Center

2011-08-24T06:54:00.000-07:00

Front side of new rack card

back side of new rack card


Lordsburg New Mexico Visitor Center

This is the New Mexico Visitor Information Center, that is on Interstate 10 in Lordsburg on exit 20, land of enchantment. I have made a new Rack cards for Mountain Valley Lodge and RV Park, for Rodeo New Mexico's most western town. They put them in the building and I took pictures this place is very beautiful, and offers free internet to travelers.

Pictographs In The Chiricahua Mountains

2011-08-18T16:53:00.000-07:00

Rock Art

I found these Pictographs in the Chiricahua Mountains some people call this Rock art or Indian art. They are beautiful and in very good shape. There were several other pictures on the rocks, and it is always wonderful finding them.

Cave Creek Canyon to Mc Cord Trail

2011-08-18T16:43:00.000-07:00

Cholla

Walking Bridge

The Portal Rodeo hiking club walked from the Portal Post office, to Cave Creek Ranch then on to the Mc Cord Trail in the Chiricahua Mountains for the hike this week. Thirteen people and 1 dog enjoyed the short hike as the humidity and temperatures were high. The water was running in the creek, as you can see we had a walk on the bridge, lots of green and beautiful flowers.

Basin Trail # 246 Chiricahua Mountains

2011-08-12T18:23:00.000-07:00

Day Hike

Portal Rodeo Hiking Club

Mexican Star

Rock rattlesnake

The Portal Rodeo Hiking Club of 13 people and 1 dog, went hiking at the Basin Trail in the Chiricahua Mountains.Ash Springs had water in and little water fall.We seen a Rock rattlesnake, and a spiny lizard along the trail. I hiked with a few others 5.1 miles and some hiked further about 9 miles. There were several varieties of flowers and green along the way. Most of the hike was under cloud cover, as that made the hike very comfortable.

Hummingbirds

2011-08-05T09:24:00.000-07:00

Hummingbirds

Mountain Valley Lodge in Rodeo New Mexico has been having 3 different Humming Birds At the feeders. The Costa's Hummingbird, Rufous Hummingbird and the Black-chinned Hummingbird.

Vinegaroon &Trachula Visiting Mountain Valley Lodge

2011-07-22T14:52:00.000-07:00

Giant Vinegaroon

Tarchula-Mountain Valley Lodge

As the monsoon has arrived so has other good sights, here at Mountain Valley Lodge. Last night in Rodeo, New Mexico I had a 1/2 inch of rain and hail came along with it.We lost power for about 4 hours, It was great to light the candles and watch the rain fall. These are pictures of a Tarchula, and a giant vinegaroon that have arrived this time of year.

Basin Trail #246 Chiricahua Mountains

2011-07-22T07:00:00.000-07:00

Portal Rodeo Hiking Club-First Hike Since Horseshoe 2 Fire

2011-07-15T14:50:00.000-07:00

Portal Rodeo Hiking Club went on there first hike since Horseshoe 2 fire started. We started our hike at the Ranger Station in Portal, Arizona and hiked in cave Creek Canyon to Southfork Picnic area. Then hiked to the Research Station, most of us usually drive up the canyon and do notice all the colorful mountains. There were 14 people and 8 dogs we hiked from 5 1/2 miles for some and 6 1/2 for others. Peg from Naturalist Journeys said she seen 2 Trogons the day before in Southfork Canyon.

Monsoon Is Starting in Rodeo, New Mexico

2011-07-13T14:10:00.000-07:00

Looking towards Chiricahua Mountains

View towards the West from Mountain Valley Lodge

View to East over Mountain Valley Lodge

Monsoon is starting in the bootheel of New Mexico in the San Simon Valley. Rodeo received a few 10ths of a inch of rain from this storm which brought in lightning, thunder it was wonderful. Living here you can watch it rain in different direction waiting to see where it goes next.

After Horseshoe 2 fire, Chiricahua Mountains

2011-07-12T17:25:00.000-07:00

Rustler Park, Chiricahua Mountains

There were 7 business people who had a escorted tour by the current incident command, these are pictures I took while on the tour. The closure of the roads will be open on July 13th,2011, and a public meeting at the Rodeo Community Center at 7:00 New Mexico time, on the 13th of July. The main corridors of South fork and Herb Martyr roads will be open and the road to Onion Saddle. Some trails, roads and campgrounds will remain closed for now.

Rodeo New Mexico had July 4th Celebration

2011-07-07T15:19:00.000-07:00

Rodeo New Mexico Fire Rescue Truck

Uncle Sam

4 H Float

In Memory of Lonnie

Rodeo New Mexico had there July 4th 33rd annual celebration starting with a parade. The parade started on US Highway 80 on the south end of town heading north for 7 blocks. Following the parade is a cake auction money goes towards scholarships. There is a beef barbecue and a dance at the Rodeo community center. This was the the only parade in the bootheel of New Mexico which is in the San Simon Valley.

Heritage Day's in Rodeo, New Mexico

2011-06-25T16:01:00.000-07:00


Chiricahua-Peloncillo Mountains Heritage Days

Chiricahua-Peloncillo Mountains is having the 3rd Heritage Day's at the Chiricahua Event Center 3 miles north of Rodeo, New Mexico, in the bootheel. On September 9th, 10th and 11th, 2011. Expert presentation, great food, farmers market and more.

Mountain Valley Lodge & RV Park in Rodeo, New Mexico

2011-06-17T09:58:00.000-07:00

Mountain Valley Lodge & RV Park

I have had a new business card made, Mountain Valley Lodge and RV Park , in Rodeo New Mexico in the bootheel. I had my web site added and my new phone number put on if. How about the color as I had that changed, it matches the buildings now. The picture is one from the Rodeo taverns in the dinning room. When the Horseshoe 2 fire first started in the Chiricahua Mountains I put some friends up when they had to leave there homes and one of the guests helped me change my card, thanks Narca!

Horseshoe in form of a cloud

2011-06-15T17:22:00.000-07:00

Horseshoe in the sky

This was taken from Mountain Valley Lodge and RV Park in Rodeo, the bootheel of New Mexico. Interesting cloud formation, now we have a fire in the Chiricahua Mountains called Horseshoe 2 fire.

Horeseshoe 2 Fire

2011-06-09T15:55:00.000-07:00

Horseshoe 2 Fire

This picture was taken from Mountain Valley Lodge and RV Park in Rodeo New Mexico. This fire started on May 8th, and still burning as we are having a lot of wind this year. The Portal Rodeo hiking club has put hiking on hold for awhile it will interesting hiking again to watch the forest regrow. For information on the fire here is a link to check the daily news. http://www.inciweb.org/incident/2225/

Adopt a Highway

2011-06-06T15:51:00.000-07:00

Granite Gap on US Highway 80

Mountain Valley Lodge and RV Park in Rodeo New Mexico has adopted a road on US Highway 80 at Granite Gap. The top picture is facing north at Granite Gap and the second one faces south looking towards Chiricahua Mountains. This is located in the bootheel of New Mexico.

The Lost Arcade relocated in Rodeo New Mexico

2011-05-27T19:09:00.000-07:00

The Lost Arcade has relocated to bustling downtown Rodeo New Mexico in the bootheel and is now open (Saturday May 28th). The arcade is in the Rodeo RV Park and Country Store. Owner Chris Talbot is offering free popcorn on Memorial Day Weekend, gas and diesel are now also available. The arcade features Vintage arcade games such as Pac-Man, etc. Now has pizza by the slice or a whole pizza for your family.

Portal, Arizona Irish Music Week

2011-05-25T12:40:00.000-07:00

Chiricahua Mountains

Portal Arizona is having a Irish music festival on October 13-18, 2011.The staff will be Brian Conway on the fiddle, Paddy O'Brien on the accordion. Turlach Boylan on the flute. Matt Heaton with guitar/bouzouki. Marla Fibish on the mandolin, Will Harmon on the Fiddle. Dain Forsyth with bodhran and Pete Strickler on tenor banjo. Register on line and get all the details such as lodging, classes and activities and photos.

WesternTanager at Mountain Valley Lodge

2011-05-19T15:51:00.000-07:00

Western Tanager

Western Tanager had a few drinks of water at the water fall at Mountain Valley Lodge in Rodeo, the bootheel of New Mexico. Lots of birds here this year as there is not a lot of water around for them this year, the birds are sure enjoying the Koi pond and water fall.

Guest at Mountain Valley Lodge & RV Park

2011-05-18T19:49:00.000-07:00


Scott's Oriole

Mountain Valley Lodge in Rodeo, New Mexico has been having a lot of birds this Scott's Oriole was having fun drinking out of the humming bird feeder today. It was fun watching him in all his positions. He also sat by the Koi pond and washed himself by the waterfall.

Horseshoe 2 Fire

2011-05-18T13:00:00.000-07:00

Horseshoe 2 Fire

Horseshoe 2 fire started on May 8, 2011, near Portal Arizona and 2 miles west of Rodeo, New Mexico. To date it has burnt approximately 30,758 acres with 25 % containment. There are approximately 773 people for resources for the fire in the Coronado National Forest. No structures have been lost. For a map and incident information website.

Howards Hat Birthday Party

2011-05-10T16:49:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Howard

Some of the guests with there hats

Peg & Pat with there hats on

Howard in Portal Arizona had a Hat birthday party on Saturday and everyone there had to have a crazy hat on. It was a great party for everyone with plenty of food, drinks, friends and entertainment. The weather was just right and a lot of fun.

Rustles Park to Centella Ridge,Coronado National Forest

2011-05-06T16:56:00.000-07:00

Flowers in the Chiricahua Mountains

Coronado National Forest

Portal Rodeo Hiking Club of 8 people went to Rustler Park trail # 270 and hiked to Centella Ridge and ate lunch at a beautiful overlook. We went onto 2 groups and I was in the group that went 7 miles and we were at a elevation of 9500 feet.

Birds at Mountain Valley Lodge, Rodeo New Mexico

2011-05-03T17:15:00.000-07:00

Gambel's Qual                                                    Curved-billed Thrasher
Inca Dove                                                           Phainopepla
Black-chinned Humming Bird                              Yellow-rumped Warbler
Gila Woodpecker                                                Townsend's Warbler
Sapsucker                                                           Wilson's Warbler
Barn Swallow                                                      Northern Cardinal
Cactus Wren                                                        Pyrrhuloxia
Western Kingbird                                                 Black-headed Grosbeak
Green-tailed Towhee                                            Brown Towhee
Lazuli Bunting                                                       Great-tailed Grackle
Yellow-headed Blackbird                                     Hooded Oriole
Scott's Oriole                                                       Lesser Goldfinch
Pine Siskin                                                           House Finch
American Goldfinch                                             Northern Oriole
Lincoln's Sparrow                                                Morning Dove
Rufous Hummingbird                                            Costa's Hummingbird
Bird Check List in Arizona

Bird Check List for New Mexico

Cinco de Mayo Hot Air Balloon Festival

2011-05-01T14:12:00.000-07:00

The 1st. Hot Air Balloon Festival was held in Douglas, Arizona this last weekend. I received a ride in one and the second picture is from inside getting a ride, and the flame does get warm. There was alot of wind but were able to get up in the air for awhile, not a very good attendance at the event.

Price Canyon, Chiricahua Mountains

2011-04-29T14:11:00.000-07:00

Where does this go!

Price Canyon, Chiricahua Wilderness

Portal Rodeo hiking club went to Price Canyon in the Coronado National Forest, this week for the hike there were 7 people and 3 dogs who enjoyed the day. I hiked 6 miles to Baker Canyon some hiked further and some less.

Cinco de Mayo Balloon Festival

2011-04-27T14:13:00.000-07:00

GATES OPEN AT 500 AM DAILY

Cochise County Fair Association
First Annual Cinco de Mayo
Hot Air Balloon Festival

       April 30 – May 1, 2011 Cochise County Fairgrounds-Douglas, AZ

                                                  Saturday, April 30^th

5:00 AM         Gates open. Adults $5; Children under 17 $2
5:00-6:00      Balloon Flight Preparation
6:00 AM        Balloon Departure (weather permitting) Saturday, April 30^th and Sunday, May 1^st.
                        Rotary Pancake Breakfast, Food, Vendors
10:00 AM       Come and fly a kite: Kids of all Ages Compete for most artistic kite. Onsite registration.
                        Music, Food, Beverages
6:00 PM         Evening Glow
                        Dancing Under the Stars, musical performance with XM Band

                                                     Sunday, May 1^st

5:00 AM         Gates open. Adults $5; Children under 17 $2
5:00-6:00      Balloon Flight Preparation
6:00 AM        Balloon Departure (weather permitting) Saturday, April 30^th and Sunday, May 1^st.
                        Rotary Pancake Breakfast, Food, Vendors

For further information, please visit: www.cochisecountyfair.org
Schedule of events subject to change; Strong winds will prevent balloon flights

Lazuli Bunting visiting Mountain Valley Lodge

2011-04-26T11:13:00.000-07:00

Mountain Valley Lodge in Rodeo, the bootheel of New Mexico is having guests at the bird feeder and the pond. The Lazuli Bunting and the Black- headed Grosbeak are enjoying there days here and entertaining the other guests on the property.

Arrow head found near Rodeo, New Mexico

2011-04-24T12:18:00.000-07:00

I was at a friends ranch north of Rodeo, New Mexico on Thursday and found 2 arrow heads and they let me keep this one. We found some pottery shards and had a great day.

Dennis playing at Portal Lodge in Portal, Arizona

2011-04-20T20:05:00.000-07:00

Dennis Hanisch is staying at Mountain Valley Lodge in Rodeo, New Mexico is playing at the Portal Lodge in Portal, Arizona on Saturday night April 23rd. I am enjoying the practice Dennis is doing in the RV Park in the evenings. Dennis starts playing at 6:00 P.M. New Mexico time and 5:00 P.M. Arizona time.

Allegretto Duet

2011-04-13T14:30:00.000-07:00

Allegretto Duet Concert
DMD Heart and Hooves had a concert on Saturday night performing was Allegretto Duet. The performance was at the Chiricahua Desert Museum, in Rodeo, New Mexico. Heart and Hooves are miniature horses trained to provide therapy at nursing homes and hospitals. There was also drinks, and lots of food to eat while enjoying the great music and visiting with neighbors.

Girls day in Palomas, Mexico

2011-04-11T21:25:00.000-07:00

Rodeo New Mexico gals

Pink Store, Palomas, Mexico

The gals from the bootheel went for a day to Palomas, Mexico for some visiting, shopping, Margaretta's, and some good food at the Pink Store! Thanks Chris I had a great time.

Rustler Park to Pine Canyon, Chiricahua Wilderness

2011-04-09T08:54:00.000-07:00

Methodist Camp

Rattlesnake Peak

Bootlegger Trail #257

Portal Rodeo Hiking Club Hiked from Rustler Park to Pine Canyon this week, it was a drop in elevation of 2,800 feet and mostly all down hill. The Methodist Camp the Apple blossoms are in full bloom, spring in the Chiricahua Mountains. We walked several trails including Crest Trail, Bootleggers trail #257 and Rattlesnake trail #275, second picture is Rattlesnake peak. Some walked 6 miles and others walked 7 1/2 miles depending on retrieving our trucks to return down the mountain.

Southfork Trail #243 to Crest Trail, Chiricahua Wilderness

2011-04-02T17:28:00.000-07:00

Chiricahua Wilderness

South Fork Trail #243

Chiricahua Wilderness

Portal Rodeo Hiking Club did a 16 mile hike on Thursday, we hiked South Fork Trail #243 to Crest Trail to Finnicum Peak in the Chiricahua Wilderness. My first time hiking that far and first time there it was a specular view, felt like we were on top of the world. We hiked a elevation climb of 3,700 feet, and made it back to the parking lot just before dark.

Coast to Coast Bicycle Ride in Rodeo, New Mexico

2011-03-25T14:59:00.000-07:00

Border Patrol talking about his job in the Rodeo, New Mexico area

Bubba and DiAnn


Tents around the Koi Pond

Coast to Coast Bicycle riders going from San Diego, Ca. to St. Augustine Beach, Florida, stayed a night at Mountain Valley Lodge in Rodeo, New Mexico. They will arrive in Florida on May 2, 2011, and will be doing it next year again, they have there own cooks, a crew setting up tents, and a message therapist who travel along. They see a lot of country and really enjoy Arizona and New Mexico as one person did this last year on bicycle and going only 1/2 way this year. They call themselves crazy guy on a bike, with Bubba Bee in charge.

Verizon Wireless in Rodeo New Mexico

2011-03-25T13:23:00.000-07:00

Verizon Wireless now working at Mountain Valley Lodge in Rodeo New Mexico. This will help travelers that stay and would like Verizon cell phone coverage. We are located on US Hwy, 80.

Full Moon March 19,2011

2011-03-20T16:48:00.000-07:00

This was taken at Mountain Valley Lodge and RV Park in Rodeo New Mexico on March 19,2011. It was a beautiful site watching the full moon rise over the Peloncillo Mountains.

Ray Brooks talk on Fukushima Nuclear accident

2011-03-20T16:34:00.000-07:00

Ray Brooks a retired Nuclear engineer, gave a talk to inform area residents about the Japan Nuclear accident and potential effects for Arizona. Ray said worst nuclear disaster 5,000 dead in Chernobyl, all so said it was like having a nuclear reactor in a car port, very poorly built. Japan could have built a Tsunami wall right after earthquake and Tsunami from Indonesia not that many years ago. If the wall would have been higher the 2011 Tsunami would not have damaged the cooling units. Fukushima Nuclear accident is a sight to check out once a day for updates

St Patrick's Day Parade in Portal Arizona

2011-03-20T07:40:00.000-07:00

St Patrick's Day Parade was held in Portal Arizona on March 19th instead of the 17th. The 1st. picture is the marching band, then is Pat and her dog Mopsy, the Arizona Sky Village people had a nice float, then there is the mascot Brandi.Cookies and green punch were served to everyone at the Portal Library and Jean played the piano to entertain everyone.

Mouser Canyon, Peloncillo Mountains, Rodeo New Mexico,

2011-03-10T14:07:00.000-08:00

March 3 rd the Portal Rodeo hiking club went hiking in the Peloncillo Mountains, in Rodeo New Mexico, to Mouser Canyon, behind the Rodeo Cemetery. We entered threw private land and hiked into BLM Land and Forest land we had lunch at the saddle and 6 hikers went further to a peak. The group I was in had a elevation climb of 1336 feet and hiked 6 miles, we had great weather. The first two pictures are taken in the Peloncillo Mountains looking at the Chiricahua Mountains.

Chiricahua Desert Museum in Rodeo New Mexico

2011-02-25T17:08:00.000-08:00

Tell Hicks is at the Chiricahua Desert Museum making a art sculpture of a 15 foot Rattlesnake tail. This is located in Rodeo, New Mexico.

Chiricahua National Monument, Arizona

2011-02-25T15:39:00.000-08:00

Portal Rodeo Hiking Club went to Whitetail Canyon, then Indian Creek took a trail into the Chiricahua National Monument. There were 12 hikers and the first time I did this hike, we hiked 8 miles. It was great as we entered form the East side and after hiking 2 1/2 miles we were by the road at the park. We had a lunch at King of Lead mine outside the monument. You can see the cave and hikers by one of these picture.

Indian Cave, East White tail Creek, Chiricahua Mountains

2011-02-18T09:58:00.000-08:00

The Portal Rodeo Hiking Club went to White Tail Canyon, did trail cleaning and hiked to the cave and had lunch. All 10 people hiked 6 miles and enjoyed the beautiful day in the Chiricahua Mountains.

Pizza in Rodeo, New Mexico

2011-02-16T13:37:00.000-08:00

Pizza by the slice

Rodeo RV and Country Store in Rodeo, New Mexico is now serving deep dish and thin crust pizza. Home baked Deli-sandwiches, various fillings. Breakfast Burritos coming soon. You can call 557-2510 with your order and carry out. Gas available on weekends.

Basin Trail, Chiricahua Mountains

2011-02-13T18:29:00.000-08:00

Portal Rodeo Hiking Club, hiked the Basin Trail, in the Chiricahua Mountains on Feb. 10th. We ate our lunch at Ash Spring, in the sun. We broke into 2 groups some hiked 5 1/2 miles and the group I was in went 8 1/2 miles.

Cinco de Mayo Balloon Festival

2011-02-08T12:50:00.000-08:00

Cinco de Mayo Balloon Festival in Douglas, Arizona April 29th - May 1st at Cochise County Fair Grounds, this is the first annual. There will be the traditional evening "glow" event, a favorite for Photographers, will take place after sundown, when balloons remain aglow creating an awesome sight. This weekend is the big event in Douglas,Az.

New Sign

2011-02-07T17:20:00.000-08:00

This is Lonnie who built the sign for Mountain Valley Lodge and RV Park! How do you like the rock? I bought that rock and a few more from Lonnie.