Parque Nacional El Chico, Hidalgo //
It’s not the first time in Mexico that we’re fooled into believing it’s going to be a peaceful night. At 3am I wake to a noisy group of campers whose party has just begun. For a couple of hours I lay in bed awake and listen to their music and dog, whose bark has no off switch.
At 8am we emerge from the camper to a bright blue sky and sunshine beginning to make its way through the pine trees and to our trucks. Lining the edge of the grass here at Valle el Churro campground are a handful of small wooden structures that look like cabins but turn out to be little food stands. They are soon opened up, awnings are erected in front of them, and chairs and tables are brought out creating a makeshift patio. It’s Saturday and we’re beginning to realize this must be a popular destination.
Midday Mark, Adam, and myself set out on a hike that conveniently begins here at the campground. We make our way through the forest along a gently descending path and arrive a mile later at a small lake lined with pine trees. Having seen no signs of civilization along the way, it surprises us to find a couple living in a small, primitive cabin on the lakeshore. There is a man there corralling his goats & sheep away from picnicking hikers and a woman scrubbing her laundry against the long, flat edge of a large stone. I try not to stare but am fascinated. How long have they lived here? How far away is the nearest road? Have they ever used the internet? These are the questions I wish I knew how to ask.
The two mile long trail leads us around a loop and back to camp where many families and friends have gathered to enjoy the beautiful day. People are playing frisbee, kids are running around with kites, dogs of all kinds accompany their companions, and families sit at each food stand enjoying a meal. We exchange friendly smiles and holas and many people admire our trucks. It’s a festive atmosphere that, given the number of people around, is delightfully calm and laid-back.
An interesting observation we make today is the handful of small airplanes out flying around. Given Mark and I’s aviation backgrounds, our ears are finely-tuned to aircraft and we’ve always noticed how quiet the skies are in Mexico. Between the airplanes flying overhead, newer vehicles being driven, and modern attire that is worn, our proximity to more developed areas of Mexico is noticeable.
We’re now only a two hour drive from Mexico City. However, due to our dislike of navigating large cities along with the fact that we’re simply not allowed because our trucks are diesel, means tomorrow we’ll be making our way around the outskirts of the city. The state of Hidalgo has been good to us. It’s time to move on to Puebla and find out what’s in store for us next.
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What an interesting campground. I like the little cabins that turn into food stands! The dog looks like he is waiting patiently for some food. What a beautiful hiking trail through the forest!
I’m the same as you Michele. I’ve so many questions to ask about their lives, history and the area. And I’d think it’s just the same on their side. Cool place to experience I bet. Safe travels to you all.
Thanks Rick!