Sunday, November 1, 2020

Traction Benchmark Overlook - Burro Trail 1 - 10/24/20

Burro Skeleton (Skull at Kay's Feet)

There are a lot of clearly worn burro trails in the lower elevations of Lee Canyon. The burros travel to and from the Cold Creek area over to Lee and Kyle Canyon. These trails can usually be easily followed but, beware, as any game trails, they tend to criss cross. The most used burro trails in this area will take the hiker for a mile or so before possibly disappearing into another trail or canyon wash.

The first burro trail we explored, Traction Benchmark Overlook, goes at least 3 miles before confusing the hiker. It is, also, one of the main thoroughfares for the burros between Cold Creek and Lee Canyon. Three of us went for that stroll in the desert and really enjoyed the early morning light rising on the mountains and rolling desert terrain.

During the hike, we saw seven burros. The white burro snorted and snorted. Then we saw 3 pairs of Mama and babies. We tried not to startle any of them but they were in no mood to stick around for very long. 

We also passed by a few old shooting targets. Then we came upon a recently deceased burro that was already skeletonized. (Good for Halloween season!) Although we stopped and took our break on the Overlook Ledge, the trail continues down and up to another small ridge that overlooks Traction Benchmark Peak a little closer. Out and back to the close-up overlook is just over 6 miles. It was a beautiful and relaxing hike.

On the way back to the cars, we stopped to clean up Fleabane Road and the trailhead. This area is used for camping and the trash has been discarded without care. Hopefully, we made a dent in its appearance for the better!

Old Shooting Target - Traction Benchmark in Background



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