Gueribo Trip Report #1: Mules

Just returned from a wonderful trip to Loreto for my 50th birthday. No better present than Baja. I'll post a few reports in the coming days, and here's the first: mule ride through La Sierra de La Giganta.

Day One –

The first day in Loreto, I went to Trudi Angell’s house and prepared for an afternoon mule ride in the sierras. Was happy to re-unite with Chema, a friend and guide I’ve ridden with in the past. Chema calls me “chapulina,” a nickname and a play on words. Literally it means grasshopper, but Trudi thought it fitting because of my work as a jail chaplain. Ever after, I became la chapulina.

At the house, Trudi and her film crew were working to edit the footage from the upcoming documentary, “Dario’s Dream.” We were able to see a sneak preview of the story of Dario, a man who wished to re-create the burro-train journeys of old. It’s going to be outstanding. More about the film here.

From Trudi’s house, we drove the beautiful winding road that leads to Mission San Javier, stopping at Rancho Nuevo for the animals. Out front there’s a sign reading “Bule’s Mules.”

Years ago, Graham Mackintosh rode with El Bule, and shared some stories of his ranch and a dead mountain lion in his book, “Journey with a Baja Burro.” At the time of the writing, El Bule and his wife lived at Rancho Viejo, the original site of Mission San Javier. Now they are elderly, and living at Rancho Nuevo. A beautiful, hospitable couple.

Chema and Bule readied the animals. There were some familiar friends: The big mule Dulce (sweet), Coco the white burro, and Hormiga (ant). Mules can live to be over 45 years old—and some of these have been around a while. They do enjoy a good scratch, and an orange. We all like to be rewarded for our efforts.

We set out, crossing the road and following the arroyo along dark cliffs to a scenic water hole. It’s hard to beat a day riding through La Giganta. Dipúa, viznaga, pega-pega (“sticks-sticks”), lomboy, palo chino, palo blanco, mesquite, huizache, estafiate, pitahaya agria & dulce, towering cardón, and the “bearded” old man cactus (garambullo). The mules nibbled at plants as we passed. Mules seek out certain plants when they need specific nutrients or medicinal properties. Today, it was mostly snacking.

Trudi sang along the way. She’s a gracious, kind person, respected by all who know her. If you haven’t ridden with Trudi before, do contact her. There’s no better way to see the backcountry of Baja.

Along the way, we passed the grave of Lucky, Trudi’s wonder-dog. Lucky would run alongside the mules until he got tired, and then dash up a rise and leap onto the back of Trudi’s saddle when she passed by. Here’s a picture of Lucky, Trudi, and Chema from 2012:

Sadly, we didn’t have time on this trip to do a multi-day trip, and the ride was over much too soon. Of course, on the drive back, we had to take the obligatory “sunset reflecting on the gulf” photo. Tomorrow . . . headed for the historic ruins of San Bruno.

Quote: Originally posted by 4x4abc

any San Bruno pics?

Quote: Originally posted by 4x4abc

any San Bruno pics?