We made another steep and strenuous descent into the Rio Grande Gorge on Sunday, October 25.

The La Junta trail began at 7400 or so feet of elevation, and dropped 800 feet in a bit over a mile. It was very rocky, and even treacherous in places, with precipitous dropoffs and many switchbacks. The beginning of it is visible at the left. In one area, metal steps and railings had been anchored into the rock, as there was no other way to get down.

Looking back up at the trail.

The trail followed the Red River gorge, and led to its confluence with the Rio Grande. Two views of the confluence from above, and another at the bottom of the gorge.

From the confluence, a mostly easy and pleasant walk north for 2-1/2 miles took us to the Little Arsenic trail, which we ascended back to the rim.

As in our first hike into the gorge, the vastness of the landscape is inspiring and deeply moving. It feels completely unspoiled, untouched by humans, and one can easily attune with spirit, Nature and the elements in all their glory.