Looking west toward the Sandias along the bosque trail. Photo by Jim Schnur
Just a few miles from home, I have the perfect escape that combines mountains, riverfront, nature, and great views. The Willow Creek trailhead is open space that runs along the western side of the Rio Grande, in Rio Rancho, across from the Sandia Pueblo. The first hint of some leaves changing color made the walk on September 15, 2024 very pleasant.
A forested area along a river in the American Southwest is often known as a bosque. A word of Spanish origin that means "forest," the bosque is a place that attracts a variety of birds, wildlife, and plants in a region that generally has arid or semi-arid characteristics.
Let's stroll through the bosque near my home. Here are some images for you to enjoy.
Walking along the loop path. Photo by Jim Schnur
Colors and flowers vary throughout the year. Late summer blooms are common. Photo by Jim Schnur
The first "fall" colors have appeared as leaves turn yellow. Photo by Jim Schnur
Not all yellow is due to leaves changing. Here, the bright yellow illustrates the sunset on the forest across from the Rio Grande, on the grounds of the Sandia Pueblo. Photo by Jim Schnur
Within a few minutes, the sunset moves to the Sandias. Sandía in Spanish means "watermelon" in English. As the western sun hits the mountains, they appear in a bright red color. Photo by Jim Schnur
As the Sandias become bright red, a nearly full moon ascends on the horizon. Photo by Jim Schnur
A westward view reveals the colors of the sky and leaves beginning to change. Photo by Jim Schnur
More beauty as the sun begins to set along the Rio Grande. Photo by Jim Schnur
A peaceful place to enjoy sunsets, with others joining me. Photo by Jim Schnur
The bosque is a place where people regularly enjoy the Rio Grande. Photo by Jim Schnur
Walking along the bosque path as the last light of day diminishes. Photo by Jim Schnur
Driving up the hill, back home. Photo by Jim Schnur
I certainly miss sunsets in Pinellas County, Florida, especially at Redington Beach. However, the bosque offers some of the most impressive sunsets I have witnessed in my life. More pictures will be shared as the colors continue to change and, in the winter, when the snow occasionally covers the mountains.
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