GET Day 26: Maple Peak & Down to Alma NM

Daily Miles: 16.8, Total Miles: 351.5

I got an early start with hopes that the Alma Grill would be open when I arrived.

The day started with a continued climb around the south flank of Maple Peak.

Largely due to numerous cow paths, I lost the trail several times today. This increased my battle with low hanging tree limbs and shrubs. Now starting to get hazy views of the Mogollon Mountains in New Mexico – must be a fire nearby.

The trail took me to a steep rocky road, eventually joining Sunflower Mesa Road that led me all the way to Alma.

I felt a bit dehydrated so immediately bought two bottles of Gatorade at the Alma Store. Unfortunately the Alma Grill had closed 15 minutes before I arrived and is closed tomorrow. So I stocked up at the store for dinner tonight and called Marianna at the Whitewater Motel in nearby Glenwood and she came and got me. She informed me that the only tavern in Glenwood was closed on Wednesays.

I was my usual filthy self so washed up some clothes in the sink and took a wonderful shower. Now for rest, relaxation and to enjoy some fresh burritos!

I sure enjoyed the scenery and vistas along the AZ/NM border country. It’s no wonder it was a hideout for outlaws back in the day.