Big Bend National Park 1

 Today we hiked the Mule Ears trail out towards the Mule Ear Mountains. They are two ancient volcanic plugs side by side resembling their namesakes.  We’ve been there before, a couple times, and it is a favorite hike. A flat four mile round trip to Mule Ear Spring, it makes a great hike to break back into hiking after sitting around a lot after deer season. Carlene hiked more than me in late December so she has less need for break-in than me. There were a few cars in the lot but we didn’t see any of them.  On our way back we saw one young woman headed out at a quick pace.  As we neared the truck we met another couple headed out without a pack,  no supplies at all.  Not even one water bottle.  If they were counting on the spring I hope they like frogs.  At the parking we met a couple from Boise ID. Bob and Renee know a nurse at UVMMC, Ned Getchell. I don’t know him but I know that last name from somewhere.  IIRC Dave Getchell was the ranger at Basin Pond when we did Mt Katahdin in the winter in 1984.   That’s a good story all by itself.

 Back at camp we had to take Skye for a walk too.  She had to stay in the camper because dogs are rarely allowed off pavement in national parks.  We have made a long loop of near a mile out behind the campground   It has no trespassing signs where we come back but hardly any signs where we go out. 

Today was in the mid 60s, last night 39°.  Got more propane when we got back.  That was lucky, we didn’t know there was only 20 minutes left before they closed propane sales for the weekend.  We would have made it, but not happily.  We’re plugged in to power so we have the electric space heater until bed time.  And a spare 25 lb tank. 

The Mule Ears a couple miles away

The front yard view from camp

You left me today 

You owe me!