Reach The Peak, the Rogue's notebook.

"For the world is hollow, and I have touched the sky." -S3E8 Star Trek
Trek to touch the sky. Red Rocks Canyon in the shadow of Pyramid Rock. Pillar elevation 7487ft. 
Zuni Mountains. Gallup, NM. 11/11/24

     New Mexico mission. Can't talk about it. Otherwise this post will self destruct. So, out there for weeks at a time. Gallup. American Indian capital of the world. No matter where I went, I don't think I met a single irate American. Native or otherwise. Not a lot to the town. But au' naturale... very striking. Early AM, mid-20's, medium to light snow- inch or three.

Local.

Downtown Gallup.

Famous. Authentic. Good stuff!

Jerry's Chile Rellenos Christmas style-
with red and green chile sauce.

Courtesy JW.

The Duke's hangout circa 1950's.

     Afternoon sun, mid 50's F. Dry. Not humid. Pretty much an everyday thing. Perfect for hiking. Hiking. Pyramid Rock trail head. A 1.7 mile trek...each way. Stoke? Really? What can I say? Stoked after completing this trail head for sure. Stoked for the connection with nature. 

Cairns...native trail markers...everywhere.

Touching the sky. Pyramid Rock, NM.
Elevation: 7487ft. 11/11/2024.

Mt. Washington, NM.

Great cardiovascular workout. A chance to clear the mind and reduce stress. Each step- a new perspective. Got to the 1/4 mile and thought, "I'll go to the 3/4 mark and turn," then I figured, "what the hell, let's get to the 1-mile marker." By that time, "f*#k it, to the top!" Indian cairns for navigation. Stairs carved into the stone walls. Trail markers etched into the rock paths. A sense of exploration, perseverance, and accomplishment that inspired. To reach the peak of the Pyramid. Felt like I could touch the sky. Stoked. Made the walk back that much more gratifying.

     La Cumbre Brewing. Elevated IPA. Fit the bill. Intense flavors of resinous pine and tropical citrus. Mango, pineapple, grapefruit, etc. Super dry finish. 7.2% ABV meant not finishing the 4-pack in one night. 100 IBUs gave an idea of just how much of a hop punch this one threw. Relaxing sip after the hike...trek...whatever. Enjoyed this local brew. Rated a B+/A-.