Jay Richards

The past week Jonell and I went down south to Santa Fe and Taos New Mexico. We have gone to Mexico maybe the last 10 years but decided to try something different this year. The past few times to Mexico has been a little unsettling and the heat last year in Mexico was too much for me coming from the coolness of MN. From the border states of the south, we decided on NM. Didn't really do much research but thought would be a fun area to check out.

The town sits at 7000ft and the winters are cold with some snow that will melt off but sticks in the high country of course. The Santa Fe alpine area is 16 miles away and the base is 10k and high point over 12k. It wasn't very green when we were there but many trees and some flowers were starting to bloom. The weather was very pleasant most days. The sun is intense this time of year and even though the temp was in the mid 60's, you could sit poolside in a suit. Personally, I thought the weather was perfect. One morning Jonell got a little sunburn and that afternoon it clouded over and was looking for a coat and boots!

Driving from ABQ to SF. The ranch definitely kicked some ass to whoever lived here.
Similar geological features as the Badlands of ND.

The eating and restaurants probably top of the list. Unbelievable amount of food options. Top of the list is the Shed. Authentic New Mexican food. Very distinct flavors.
I brought the mountain bike along and got out every morning for a hour or two. There is a trail system called Dale Ball trails that features around 30 miles of singletrack. Pretty awesome for being a few miles out of town. First week really riding so no big rides. Altitude got me a bit the second day after climbing up to 7800ft but fine rest of the time. I posted a report on the riding on the Maplelag team site with more photos. All in all the riding was much better than I expected. The trails were much more technical than I expected and the scenery was beautiful.
Jonell checking out some rabbit and fox in a non PETA friendly store.
New Mexican smores.

Senor Diego.
Santa Fe all the way.
Jonell looked for a pair of cowboy boots for Jake since his girlfriend is a cowgirl and well but Santa Fe maybe not the best place.
The mysterious stairwell.

Next to the oldest church structure in the USA is the oldest house in USA. Foundation going back to 1210!

Fun city, great time just being with Jonell. Definitely would go back here. Feel like we only scratched the surface on the restaurants and the riding.