Portal, AZ - Rodeo, NM

Ash Spring & Cliffrose Trail Hike Report for 7/3/25:

Well, this was another week where we were all hopeful for rain, but (some of us) were worried about bumping all the way up to the crest, then lurching up the Long Park road, then having to turn around after a short time because of lightning.  

 

 

We probably could have hiked Centella today!   The storms didn’t seem to get over here this time (beautiful clouds, though).  

However, we wove together several nice lower elevation hikes:  first, the Ash Spring loop (from the Greenhouse road around to Herb Martyr campground).  It is a beautiful, hike (3.5 miles) and we enjoyed the green, green forest and healthy agaves.  

 

 

We finished early enough to drive down to the Research Station and hike up the Cliffrose Trail, which is steep and short, but has a wonderful view from the top, where we had lunch.

 

  

After lunch, we spent some time around the Research Station for Leopard Frogs and ice cream, then drove back down.  Not epic, but a very nice day!

 

 

Next week we again plan to go up to the crest and hike out to Centella point (weather permitting).  Meet at the Silver Peak trailhead at 8AM AZ time, 9AM NM.  Bring a raincoat just in case, lunch, and plenty of water.

 

Hike report and photos from Elaine