A couple weeks ago, or so, Michael ("Newdad") suggested the possibility running this trail near Grand Junction. I knew there wouldn't be many, if any, other takers to make the road trip to the far western end of the state, and I'm usually up for a drive, so I had to take him up on this offer. The trail description sounded enticing, and this route would be new for both of us. According to the BLM maps at the trailhead, it looks like the official name is the Tabeguache Trail. Michael's wife and 2.5 year-old son came along as well. We ran this yesterday, and I know I really enjoyed what this trail had to offer, both in terms of scenery, and optional obstacles.

Michael, feel free to post your set of pictures. I'm anxious to see what you got. Thanks for the trip, it was a good one!



Airing down at the trailhead. The fog was so thick before we arrived, we were wondering if we were even going to see the sign on the side of the road. It gradually subsided.




The driver had to get out to shoot this scene




This was actually on the road to nearby Billings Canyon, which is the next canyon to the north




Driving along the rim of Bangs Canyon near its start








Looking off toward Grand Junction to the east
















Looking back up Bangs Canyon from which we came




A good spot for a lunch break




Myself on one of the many optional steps

 

Nice pics as always.

 

Darren, Hope you had a good drive home. It was snowing hard from New Castle on for us. I'll post a couple more images tonight. It's back to the grind for now.
Edit- I just realized I can't upload pictures right now. Darren's pictures are always better anyway.
-Michael

 

Nice run. Good job for finding that trail and going for it. Those optional obsticles and remotness get me interested.

 

The one thing we haven't mentioned yet about this trail is the mud. Just after lunch, it began to rain and snow. It only lasted about 5 minutes but it raised the difficulty rating a notch or two. The soil there has a lot of clay in it which makes it very sticky and slick when wet. It turns the tires to balls of mud. Things can get dicy in a hurry (or fun, depending on your view) so be careful if the weather is wet. I have family in GJ so let me know if you head out there, I may be able to meet you.
-Michael

 

Yea, I know that mud, it's nasty. Thanks for the invite.
Scott

 

also be cautious of the mud in the cochetopa hills area of south-central colorado, for instance west of saguache. i about went off the road going 3 mph -- total lack of traction, like driving on butter.

 

Looks sweet guys. Those are some good pictures, maybe someday when my rig is in off-roading conditions I'll join you on one of these long distance runs.
Austin