Hiking with Lauren

Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt. — John Muir

Trails abound on the Ghost Ranch property that allow for a range of walking and hiking from early morning and evening strolls (on your own) to multi-mile hikes (as a group or on your own). Possible hikes at the Ranch include: Chimney Rock (2.5 miles round trip, 633 feet elevation gain), Box Canyon (2.6 miles, 337 feet elevation gain), and Kitchen Mesa (3.7 miles, 718 feet elevation gain). Hiking options in Piedra Lumbre Valley include a portion of the Continental Divide Trail (up to 13 miles, 1918 feet elevation gain), as well as a much shorter 2 mile hike to a slot canyon near the Monastery of Christ in the Desert. Finally, Plaza Blanca (The White Place) is a unique area a few miles from Ghost Ranch featuring white and grey sandstone cliffs and hoodoos and various hiking trails.

All walkers and hikers of all fitness levels (and non-hiking knitters) are welcome on this retreat. If you are not an active hiker or walker, you can stroll comfortably around the Ranch at your own pace, enjoy stunning views and scenery, and find numerous quiet spots to sit and knit or simply enjoy the landscape. Much of the Ranch (including the rooms and meeting space) also is accessible by vehicle or golf cart (available on the property) for anyone with a disability or who is unable to walk more than short distances.

We will plan hikes according to the group’s experience and fitness levels. You will be asked to provide information about your hiking experience and fitness in the registration process. In addition, if you are traveling from sea level or lower than 5000 feet elevation, be aware that you will need to allow for the elevation change. Ghost Ranch is at 6500 feet and you may find yourself hiking more slowly and for shorter periods at this elevation.