Cebolla Canyon Hike – 10/23/2017

Introduction

Cebolla Canyon, the site of my first foray into the Jemez Mountains, with Jay in 2014. And subsequently on the Oat-Hay Canyons hike.  It is a beautiful canyon with the Rio Cebolla stream running through it.  ‘Tis a perfect setting for an autumn hike with Pat.

The Drive In

The road in from the Fish Hatchery is a bit rough, better with high-clearance vehicle. 

The Hike In

Cebolla Canyon Hike.Pat.2017-10-23

One can follow a two-track from the first 2-3 miles, but we found it much more interesting to follow the stream itself.  We crossed over to the east side of the canyon and learned that there are a few springs creating wet ground.  One spring, at the mouth of Oat Canyon, creates a very marshy area that is difficult to cross without getting wet feet. 

The river is a protected stream where New Mexico Cutthroat Trout are being protected – ’tis a catch-and-release stream.  It is frequented by fishermen – this day we saw two at the lake and encountered two others leaving.  Otherwise, one isn’t likely to see many other folks.  Highlight ‘Tis a beautiful place, ease to access, and the hiking is easy.

Statistics

Total Distance:  4.89 miles
Elevation: start 8,055 ft, maximum 8,236 ft,  minimum 8,055 ft
Gross gain: 181 ft.  Aggregate ascending 882 ft, descending 884 ft
Maximum slope: 30% ascending, 30% descending, 5.2% average
Duration: 3:53

I urge you to explore our hiking tracks with Google Earth. With the virtual 3-dimensional presentation, achieved by panning and tilting the view, you can get a much better idea of the hikes and terrain than you can get from the 2-dimensional screenshot above. For assistance: Using Google Earth Track Files.