{"id":13739,"date":"2021-02-06T05:40:31","date_gmt":"2021-02-06T12:40:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/mywalkabout.net\/?p=13739"},"modified":"2021-12-03T05:38:15","modified_gmt":"2021-12-03T12:38:15","slug":"the-blue-ridge-res","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/mywalkabout.net\/?p=13739","title":{"rendered":"The Blue Ridge Res"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Seven days<\/strong> have passed by since my failed attempt to reach Blue Ridge Reservoir<\/a>. True to form though, I stick with my goal of exploring the Mogollon Rim as much as I can until the snow flies. I did a little more research online, and believe I have found the true route to get to this lake, albeit along a dusty road that makes me glad I have four wheel drive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n

Sunday morning finds me<\/strong>, finally, at Blue Ridge. There are only few parking spaces at the launch ramp, and even with it being 7:30 a.m. there is only one space left. I snag it and work on pumping up my paddleboard as a crow caws loudly, breaking up the silence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Even though there is a picture of the lake<\/strong> right in front of me, I somehow have it stuck in my brain that this lake is one big loop. This lack of paying attention will end up testing me physically later, but early on all I want to do is get out onto the water and paddle. The water is deep, dark and still as I head out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The steep canyon walls<\/strong> that protect the lake from wind also prevent people from making it down to the water’s edge. The two fisherman I see are at least fifteen feet above the water, casting long lines into the lake from a rocky precipice. I can’t wave hello though, as 100% of my concentration is on maneuvering around rocks and blockades of downed trees that are congesting the waterway.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The bluebird morning<\/strong> slips away as large puffy white clouds roll in. At least they don’t appear to be bringing any rain with them. After a couple of hours I’m feeling pretty good, arms aren’t too sore, and the beauty out here is unparalleled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The flashing image of a black bear moving through the forest is caught in my periphery, as well as that of a snake quickly gliding through the water, then disappearing out of sight. A few more miles in and I see a lone kayak docked against the rocks, and a tent higher up in the trees. A man is sleeping in a hammock, with only socks on his feet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The skies are starting to darken<\/strong>, and the wind picks up, this time strong enough to penetrate the canyon walls that usually protect all that are on the water. I think I’ve almost reached the end, having circled all of Blue Ridge, when suddenly my paddleboard hits the bottom of the lake.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I turn around, and find a lady with her son and ask about the lake being a loop. She lets me know that I have to go back the way I came, as Blue Ridge Reservoir is not a circle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I look at my phone and see that I’ve already been paddling for 4 and a 1\/2 hours. The wind gets stronger and rain hits my face. I’m going to need to dig deep to get back before the weather turns potentially deadly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It is in these moments<\/strong> that one truly finds out how strong they are, how much grit, determination and ability is in both your body and mind. I focus solely on my paddle, feeling each stroke in my arms, my back, everywhere…..<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rain is falling harder now, but at least the wind has dissipated. Eventually I turn a corner and see that I’ve made it back to the launch ramp. Legs feel like jelly as I stumble back to the truck, deflate the SUP, and make the slow journey back home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The adrenaline is helping with the pain in my muscles, and the feeling of conquering Blue Ridge satisfies my soul as only a solo adventure that is done successfully can do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n