Safe Exploring-Trails

Kids Home? Get Out!

Unless you were already homeschooling your children, the kids being at home is something new. Many of us are at home with our kids because of the pandemic. Schools will be figuring out how to keep the children learning by taking courses online, video chats, or some other technology that brings schoolwork into your home. That means we will not only be parenting but will also become their parttime teacher. Well, I definitely remember my favorite class,

Physical Education.

With malls and most retail outlets shut down, along with city parks that restrict the number of visitors, that means you will need to get creative. It is important to get outside and take a break from schoolwork, electronics, or just being cooped up inside.

Luckily, we live in an area that has a vast number of outdoor opportunities. The next pages are going to guide you to three trails where you will be able to avoid crowds and easily keep to social distancing recommendations.

All three of the trails require a quick car drive; remember to take liquids. Hopefully, we will be back to normal soon.

Maybe when that happens, we will remember how nice it was to get outside and enjoy our amazing trails. Hikes might just become your new normal.

North Hogback Trail

On the north side of town, we have the Off-Highway Vehicle Park (OHV), and on the other side of the motocross, you will find the trailhead to the North Hogback Trail. This is an awesome trail that no one really seems to know about. You start with an immediate uphill switchback that turns into an easy climb to the south end of the hogback. From here you can see great views of Gallup and I-40. On the return trip, you will climb over the peak and make your way back on the other side of the hogback. 2.0 mile loop Singletrack Difficult Elevation Ascent: 386' Descent: -401' High: 7,071' Low: 6,693' Grade Avg Grade: 8% (4°) Max Grade: 38% (21°) Dogs Unknown

3.5 mile point to point Singletrack Intermediate Elevation Ascent: 514' Descent: -20' High: 8,067' Low: 7,572' Grade Avg Grade: 3% (2°) Max Grade: 7% (4°) Dogs Off-leash

Quaking Aspen

This requires a little longer drive than the other two trails, but definitely worth the effort. You will find the trailhead at mile marker 3 on your way to McGaffey Lake, a great multiuse trail for hiking or biking. The trail will take you right through aspens and onto a creek bed that is surrounded by beautiful nature. You will find the trail system in McGaffey developed and you will have a number of options to take alternate routes. It is about a three mile hike to the top of the trail so make sure to bring snacks, water, and the right clothing in case weather changes.

Pyramid Peak and Churchrock Trails

Pyramid Peak trail is really popular and the reason is because the trail is amazing. You just feel a great sense of accomplishment when you get to the peak and can see forever in all four directions. Remember, this trail is a big climb and make sure to take breaks and drink plenty of water. Churchrock trail is to the east of Pyramid Peak and offers incredible views of Red Rock Park. It is not as demanding as Pyramid Peak but can be a little more adventurous.

Both of these trails can be accessed at Red Rock Park. For Pyramid Peak pass the horse stables, and Churchrock, turn into the RV Park. 1.5 mile point to point Difficult Elevation Ascent: 682' Descent: -7' High: 7,371' Low: 6,696' Grade Avg Grade: 8% (5°) Max Grade: 27% (15°) Dogs Unknown

Exciting News For Historical Land, Fort Wingate

A resolution supporting a land transfer of 500 acres, the site formally occupied by Wingate Boarding School, from the Bureau of Indian Affairs to the National Park Service, with the express designation as a National Monument; and with the purpose devoted to the history of Fort Wingate, along with its relationship to the military, social, economic, and cultural history of the region with a focus on the Native people of the region.

Now, therefore, be it resolved by the governing body of the City of Gallup, New Mexico, that: 1. The City of Gallup, Mayor and City Councilors do hereby support the transfer of 500 acres as mentioned herein, from the Bureau of Indian Affairs to the National Park Service with the express designation as a National Monument, with its primary purpose devoted to the history of Fort Wingate including its relationship to the military, social, economic, and cultural history of the region with a focus on the Native people of the region.2. The City of Gallup, Mayor and City Councilors urge the New Mexico Congressional delegation to support the efforts in this matter initiated and proposed by the Old Fort Wingate Task Force, an Affiliate of the Plateau Sciences Society.

Adopted this 12th day of November, 2019

Jackie McKinney, Mayor

Alfred Abeita II, City Clerk