Lazarow World-Hike-About

Looking hot and dry...it was actually cool and misty and very beautiful. We moved from Boulder City a week ago, stopping for a further week in Henderson, some twelve miles north. After hiking almost without a break for three weeks, we decided to leave 'home' at 5am one morning to watch the sun rise over both Lake Mead and Las Vegas. Above the city, the light-show was spectacular but rather low-key over the water. Sadly, both of us have had bad falls while running down Red and Black Mountains, one each. The poor editor split her lip open and received a few bumps and bruises. These trips were a little different from previous as there was no opportunity to 'pull oneself out of the fall'—it just happened and on each occasion we found ourselves grounded and sliding—losing skin, getting additional holes in the body and on one occasion, torn pants. However, the hike, including the run, is really superb. There's a lot we'll do for some action and fun...it seems. ...

Jenni returned for the Henderson Black Mountain trail which is a great day-hike, one to be repeated and often. When we got to the trailhead, a couple had returned from a short walk along the trail—many locals use the initial, relatively gentle beginning slope for exercise without going to the awesome and extremely steep peak. The fellow looked at us, made an internal calculation and asked, "How far up are you going?" He took a look at Jenni's expression and added, "You going the whole way?" Smart comment, saving him the wrath of our dear editor. I know I often say it but this is another of those hiking experiences not to be missed. It reaches an elevation gain of 2,200 feet, a sizeable portion in the last third. It has wonderful views of the valley, other mountains and of course, Las Vegas. Interesting flora on which to feast the eyes is in abundance, bighorn sheep wonder about although we missed them and best of all, some great physical challenges includi...