Adventure Ministry - Mineral Creek - September 2024
When most people think of New Mexico, their minds drift to the adobe architecture of Santa Fe, the vibrant arts scene in Taos, or the alien intrigue of Roswell. But tucked away in the lesser-trodden landscapes of the Gila National Forest is Alma, NM—a tiny town that offers big adventures, unexpected wildlife, and some unforgettable views. This September, we packed up our gear, hit the road, and made Alma our weekend home.
Day 1: The Journey and a Taste of Alma
Our drive to Alma felt like a journey back in time. The scenery unfolded in wide expanses of rugged desert and twisting mountain roads that hinted at the wilderness awaiting us. There’s something almost cinematic about those dusty roads under a cerulean sky, dotted by craggy cliffs.
Our first stop? The Alma Grill, a rustic eatery that’s as much a part of the town’s fabric as the rolling hills around it. The grill’s wooden interior held that small-town charm that makes strangers into friends. We feasted on hearty, no-nonsense food that fueled us for the day ahead. A big, juicy burger for me, loaded with caramelized onions and dripping with tangy sauce, and a plate of classic country fries that were nothing short of heavenly. My buddies opted for the baked goods for dessert, and after one bite, I knew why it was the local favorite. The flavors warmed us from the inside out—perfect for a day of outdoor adventures.
Day 1 Afternoon: Into the Wilds of Mineral Creek Trail
Full from lunch, we set out for the Mineral Creek Trail. Described as “easy but technical,” this trail wasn’t quite like anything we’d done before. It was less about grueling uphill climbs and more about finding your way, with the creek as both a guide and an obstacle. Almost immediately, we encountered our first creek crossing. The water shimmered under the early afternoon sun, and balancing on the uneven stones was like a dance between control and surrender.
What makes Mineral Creek Trail so memorable is the sheer number of times it requires you to cross the water—over 40 crossings! Each one brought a fresh thrill, as we scrambled over stones or teetered across narrow logs, the sound of rushing water keeping time with our steps. The trail was gentle enough for easy hiking, but the technical aspects kept our senses fully engaged. The babble of Mineral Creek and the whisper of the wind in the trees created an immersive, almost otherworldly atmosphere.
Toward the end of our trek, as the sunlight softened, we had our first wildlife encounter of the trip. Coiled beneath the shade of a rock, a rattlesnake had made itself known, rattling its tail in warning. We gave it a wide berth, reminded once again of the untamed spirit of Alma’s wilderness.
Evenings Under the Stars: Campfire Stories and Shared Memories
Our campsite was nestled in a quiet nook, surrounded by the tall, whispering pines of the Gila Forest. As twilight settled, we built a small campfire, the smell of smoke mingling with the fresh, piney air. Over the next two nights, we made our temporary home in the wilderness, lit only by the glow of the fire and a brilliant tapestry of stars above.
Sitting by the fire has a way of pulling stories from us, tales tucked away like old keepsakes. We shared memories of our childhoods—the reckless freedom of summers, the secret hideouts, and our earliest dreams. Conversation drifted from lighthearted to deeply personal, and that shared vulnerability turned the evening into one of quiet magic. Every so often, the silence around us would deepen, filled only with the gentle crackling of the fire or the distant call of a night bird.
Day 2: The Waterfall Cave and a Close Encounter
The next morning, we set off on a new adventure to a hidden gem in the area: a waterfall cave. The hike was lush and scenic, winding through dense patches of trees and around jagged rock formations that seemed sculpted by the passage of time. The air cooled noticeably as we approached the cave, and the sound of falling water grew louder until it became a roar that echoed from the cave walls.
Inside, the waterfall cascaded in a silvery ribbon, pooling at our feet in a natural basin. But the thrill of the day was a giant scorpion we spotted nearby. Its dark body gleamed as it moved across the damp rock, and we watched, equal parts fascinated and cautious, as it disappeared into a crevice. The moment left us both in awe and in quiet respect for the wildness around us.
As we hiked back, we encountered yet another rattlesnake, this one stretched across our path. It felt like Alma’s way of reminding us that this land was alive, in constant motion, and unpredictable.
Day 3: The Hike Out & The Drive Home
We processed the weekend and shared about how we longed for God to be a co-creator of our personal narratives.
Final Thoughts
Alma may be small and understated, but its landscape is a canvas for those willing to step off the beaten path. Mineral Creek’s winding trail, the rush of waterfall caves, the warmth of campfire reflections, and even the two rattlesnakes and a scorpion made this weekend a collage of beauty and rawness. Our journey to Alma left us refreshed, inspired, and just a little more in tune with the wildness of the world—and maybe even our own untamed spirits.
So, here’s to Alma, NM—a reminder that some of the best places don’t need to be found on a map; they just need to be felt in the heart.
