Nancy and I stayed in the Wilderness Casita for several days in June 2009. People aren't kidding when they say New Mexico is a powerful place, the "Land of Enchantment". Well, this goes doubly for the Gallina Canyon Ranch. After arriving, we promptly fell dead asleep for 3 hours, then awoke to the magical late afternoon light in the canyon. I spent the next 10 hours on the front deck laying on the comfortable lounge gazing at the sunset on the cliffs, then the transition to night with countless stars above. During the next couple days we explored. First, a hike down the canyon, fording the beautiful Chama River for a visit to the Christ in the Desert Monastery.
Next, we hiked up the enchanting Gallina Canyon, easily crossing the Gallina River 14 times to the Wilderness Jacal (this would be a great place to stay!). Beyond lay more canyon, the mesa, ruins, and more, but our time was limited. Elizabeth and Andrew were quite thoughtful and stopped by to offer us a ride back down the valley. They are good folk- they leave you alone (this place is quiet!), are ready to give assistance when needed, are informative and easy-going: the perfect hosts. If you are flexible and like a little adventure in your vacation, this is definitely the place to visit. Just don't book it when we want to return! |
Back to the ranch.