Thunder In The Pines

Above, some of the "locals" keeping a watchful eye on me. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

This afternoon, I decided to take a drive up to the McGaffey Recreation Area in the Cibola National Forest. It had been a few months since I was last there in the Jeep. This time, I took the main roads over in the Mustang.

Above, some old ranch buildings. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

McGaffey Lake is more like a pond (about 2-3 feet deep at best) now. It'll be replenished once we get some snow storms.

Above, another cattle ranch in the Zuni Mountains. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

I headed out of the recreation area to the east. I went part way there in the Jeep a few months ago. I went in a few miles further. It was a mix of national forest land, cattle ranches and open range. While there, I received a few rain sprinkles and heard one rumble of thunder. It is a beautiful area.

Above, this ranch building looks like it's been around awhile. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The cattle ranch I saw a few months ago that's for sale is still for sale. If I had the money and were a few years younger...

Above, the first guest ranch sign I saw. It was next to the ranch that's for sale. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

I took a side road next to that ranch and saw a sign for a guest ranch that was four and a half miles away (at that point) and another one a half mile down the road. It is called the "Z Lazy B" Guest Ranch. I didn't go to it, but I looked online and they do have a website. 

Above, the second guest ranch sign. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

According to their website:

Get away from the busyness of life, and relax in your own personal cabin under the cool pine trees in the mountains of New Mexico. 3 Bed/1 Bath cabins are available for nightly, weekly, and monthly rental! 

We are hidden away in the mountains outside Gallup. If you would like to find us, here's a map and our approximate address. Please also keep in mind there's little to no service up here, so please download your map/directions in advance.  

 Four Corners Geotourism Stewardship Council posted:

Z Lazy B Mountain Retreat and Guest Ranch centered in the heart of the pristine Zuni Mountains offers a visitor experience like no where else in the Four Corners. The Ranch offers spacious cabins with downhome country cooking. You can hunt, fish, ride horse, mountain bike, hike or just enjoy the great out doors. Our facilities can be used for corporate, social, group and social events. Come enjoy delicious food with an incredible back drop.

 

Above, a windmill in an open range area. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

After driving around for about an hour and a half, I headed back home for dinner (just in case the dark clouds decide to really open up). It was an enjoyable drive.