We started onto dirt roads directly out of the VLA heading south on 52. I can send you a .gpx of the route we took which you can drop into Google Earth, if you're interested. PM me an e-mail address. Because of the deeper snow than expected at higher altitudes, and because of a problem with my tent (okay, it's actually a long story, but it was my fault that while the tent was in NM, the poles were in OK, LOL), we ended up changing our itinerary and spent less time in the backcountry than we wanted. We had also planned to drive through Monticello Canyon, but didn't make it. And on the last night forecast was for snow, and since three of the folks had to get back to work in Texas the day after, several of our group didn't want to risk getting stuck in the backcountry that last night.

Here are a few more pictures ...





Yep, this is me ...

 

Beautiful countryside. Nice looking rig. How useful are you finding the awning? That is, are you actually using it? My trips tend to be lots of travel with little time spent at a camp--arrive just in time to get dinner going, and off right after breakfast. But, still, if it's raining ...

 

If I don't get this question answered ASAP, PM me and remind me. Right now it's dark and windy out and I'm still in my bathrobe, but later this morning I hope to remember to get your answer and post it (said the same thing to myself yesterday and then promptly forgot).

 

Good guess: 21.5". This is from the section of the removable floor panel immediately behind and slightly higher than the lip that slips under the rear door. It includes the height of the 3/16" aluminum baseplate to which I have everything screwed, as well as the Tembo Tusk fridge slide.

 

I'm remiss in not answering that question: The USFS Gila National Forest map. Very large. Made of vinyl. The trip planner also uses the state Gazetteers when putting together trips like this.

http://www.amazon.com/Map-Gila-National-Forest-Service/dp/B005N3A42I/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1395152587&sr=8-1-fkmr0&keywords=usfs+gila+national+forest+map

http://www.amazon.com/New-Mexico-Atlas-Gazetteer-Delorme/dp/0899333176/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1395152615&sr=8-1&keywords=new+mexico+state+gazetteer

 

Amazing photos Mark! I always thought I'd love to do road trips west ward and through some of those places, but after seeing your photos and following your travels for a while, I'm sold.

 

Mark, thanks, look like I will need to go 22-23" off the deck

 

Got something like #1 from the USFS

got # 2, carry NM & CO in the Jeep at all times, got Alaska for my trip this summer


I think learning what others use is a good idea for future trips and planning them

 

I love the sunset in White Sands, must of been there a dozen times or more

 

FYI, the Adventure Trailer rack that I have is height adjustable--three different settings. I have it at the lowest.