A Riverside Retreat, Leasburg Dam State Park
June 2021
History and Shade along the Rio Grande
We followed the Mogollon Trail, which meanders along the river. The trail honors the Jornada Mogollon people, who inhabited this region over a thousand years ago. We were protected from the hot sun by a natural shield, a cover of cottonwoods and willows. These cool, shaded trees and shrubs were full of twittering birds, seeking the same escape from the heat as we were
A Dutch Connection and an American Escape
While enjoying the hike, we met a park ranger. After mentioning we were from the Netherlands, she excitedly insisted on introducing us to her friend, whose husband was also Dutch. As we continued chatting, the tone of our conversation shifted slightly when they posed the inevitable question: “So, what do you think about America?” Sensing our hesitation, they answered for us with a smile: “It’s probably a mixed bag for you, too!’’
Wanting to keep the mood light, we guided the discussion back to a neutral topic by expressing our sincere admiration for the State and National Parks. Given the current political climate, it is best to avoid this topic with strangers and instead focus on finding common ground, in our situation, the beauty of the wilderness.