Slot City Exploration

October 8, 2021

It was our first time in the area, so of course we did everything wrong. It was still a pretty great hike.

We dropped into the canyon at an oblique angle, which made for greater elevation loss and a more difficult down climb.

Finally at the canyon bottom, where there was easier walking. For a while.

The canyon suddenly narrowed and became choked with brush. We scrambled up the east side, seeking a way around the multiple side canyons.

It was a poor choice which nevertheless provided some great views.

The crenellated cliffs of Slot City.

At a confluence with a major side canyon, we eased back into the canyon along the nose of a ridge, making our way back on the west side.

And there we stumbled onto the well-cairned trail. Doh!

The mesa top looked like the surface of the moon!

A trickle of water in the creek.

The most significant wildlife of the day was these clouds of Reakerts Blue moths fluttering around seeps in the canyon wall.

Limboing under some low-hanging branches.

Our crazy track. Oh well, next time we'll know!

Looking north toward the Piños Altos Range. So much beauty all around us!