Serpent Lake

Aug. 28, 2011  Today I drove to the northern border of the Pecos Wilderness.  I was on a dirt road trying to get to the trailhead to Serpent Lake when I came to a downed tree blocking my way.  It was either turn around and go back or park my truck and add 3 miles to my hike.  My hike would increase from 7 miles to 10.  It would be worth it.  I made sure I had plenty of water, a tofurky sandwich and a powerbar.  I checked for my camera, glasses, compass and topo map.  I was ready so off I went.  After the 1 1/2 miles of road hiking I came to the trailhead.

I hardly hike 30 feet before I find the first stream crossing, I could practically step across it but why not walk on boards over water when I have the chance.

After about 1/2 mile I came to the first crossroads and a sign pointing me in the right direction.

I continued on.  As the trail entered the woods it was still wide enough for two people to hike side by side.

At about the 1 mile mark I came to the second stream crossing.  It was pretty small but I still had to be careful since the bridge was 3 logs each only a few inches wide.

I next came to the sign marking the boundary to the Pecos Wilderness,  one of the wildest places in the country.  There are bears and mountain lions living here and you have to be careful not to upset them.

Finally, 4.5 miles from my truck I come to the sign saying "Serpent Lake" and it's only 1/2 mile to my destination.

I have peaked at 11,850 ft elevation and have gained 1,800 ft since leaving my truck.  As I enter the last stretch I can't help but notice that these trees and roots remind me of the trees on the yellow brick road in the Wizard of Oz.  I remember how mean they were and hurry a little.

As I headed on to the lake I couldn't help but admire the view to the north where Taos is about 15 miles distant.

As I approach the south corner of Serpent Lake you can see that I am at tree line.  No trees grow above this point.

While exploring the area I come across some really cool wild flowers.

I also find a future campsite for a backpacking trip.

I can't resist a self portrait with Serpent Lake and 12,850 ft Jicarita Peak.

I spend a couple of hours just enjoying the scenery and solitude and watching the clouds roll in.

When I finally head back on the 5 mile hike to my truck I notice the trees all have moss hanging down from them which makes for a beautiful picture.

It's been a great hike. 10 miles with an elevation gain of 1,800 ft to a peak of 11,850 ft above sea level and a very scenic lake.