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Pioneer Creek Am - Goose Lake Pm-Red River

Sat May 19, 2018 9:00AM     RIDE COMPLETED

This ride is a go!!! Pioneer creek is now clear of 7 trees across the trail and Goose lake water crossing is only 2-3 foot deep. I got within 1/4 mile of goose lake yesterday so by 19 should be able to make it all the way.

 

In the Am will will do Pioneer Creek

Highlights: Pioneer Creek - Red River, New Mexico

Highlight of this trail is Water, this Jeep trail is for those who like to splash through the water. Situated adjacent to the Red River Ski Resort, the trail will treat you to the benefits of all the snow melt. It is not a long trail but allows you to play in the water, in fact the trail forces you to play in the water! Pioneer Creek steps up the water play by having the creek run directly down the trail for more than a quarter of the length of the trail. With the trailhead located in downtown Red River and being relatively short, it is a perfect trail for those with a tight schedule but a desire to explore the Carson National Forest.

 

Technical rating: (3) Easy

Dirt road. Rutted, washes, or gulches. Water crossings up to 6" depth. Passable mud. Grades up to 10 degrees. Small rocks or holes. 4WD recommended but 2WD possible under good conditions and with adequate ground clearance and skill. No width problems for any normal vehicle. Vehicle passing spots frequently available if less than two vehicles wide.

After lunch we will do Goose Lake.

Highlights: Goose Lake - Red River, New Mexico

Goose Lake is the best known trail in the Red River, NM area. The trail can be full of surprises that can take a seemingly easy trail and offer you challenges. Seasonal changes create fun adventures ranging from easy family favorite water crossings to adrenaline junkie snow wheeling. Immediately you are faced with a drive through the river with depths that have ended more than one adventure before it could start. From the river the trail climbs the mountain which leads to a shelf road with plenty of room for one vehicle, but will make for creative parking when you pass opposing traffic. A "cave" and remnants of mining cabins from the late 1800s and smaller water crossings further the adventure. Reaching the crystal clear lake provides photo opportunities as well as fishing, hiking, or primitive camping. Wildlife like Marmots and Rams can often be seen on the ridge surrounding the lake.

 

Technical rating: (4-6) Easy-Moderate

Quite rocky or deep ruts. Rocks to 12" and frequent. Water crossings may exceed hub depth with strong currents. Shelves to 6". Mud may require checking before proceeding. Moderate grades to 20 degrees. Side hill may approach 30 degrees. 4WD necessary and second attempts may be required with stock vehicles. Caution may be required with wider vehicles. Lower stock vehicle could have trouble with the water crossing at entrance to the trail. Caution should be  had when doing this depending on weather and season.

Meeting will be 09:00 at fishing ponds by ski valley entrance we will roll out at 09:15 sharp!

We will do Pioneer in the am and come back to meeting spot for lunch. Please bring plenty of water and your lunch. You can also grab a bite at the local places that are close. we will depart after an hour to go to Goose Lake. Both trails are easy to moderate so stock 31/33" tires are ok. please have front and rear anchor points. Please remember this is the mountains be prepared for all weather. Dress in layers and bring a light coat.

Notice: Off-highway travel is by its very nature potentially dangerous and could result in property damage, injury, or even death.   You are the final judge as to whether a trail is safe to drive, whether your vehicle is capable of the journey, and whether your skills are up to the challenge.  To the best of my knowledge, the information contained on this page was accurate as of the time I road this trail during the Fall of 2017.   However, things change over time.  And portions of this trail may no longer be legally accessible to motorized vehicles or could have gotten rougher.  Therefore, please be good stewards of our sport--always stay on designated trails . . . and always, always remember to Tread Lightly!