Cindy Loop

Dogs Leashed

Features Wildflowers · Wildlife

Rising from Del Sol Valley to the center of the Lost Dog area, Cindy Loop passes through a veritable arboretum, filled with almost every type of plant that can be found in the Chihuahuan desert.

From the west side, take a quick right turn off of Del Sol Valley just before reaching the creek bed; as the path cut through the next five miles is new and not visible on satellite maps, you may need the GPS track to help you locate it. Cross and continue east along the creek bed. The higher concentration of rain which collects in this low area contributes to the ocotillos, lechugillas, agave plants, desert grasses and other plant life surrounding the trail.

After climbing a short hill, the trail meanders back and forth, with a few brief forks, until it reaches Mayberry. Connections can be made here to the northern trails via Lechugilla Trail and Brujos, or continue east to the views on Broke Back.

The Franklins are filled with desert wildlife and you'll have the chance to see all sorts of plants and animals on trail. Vegetation is best during the rainy months around summer when the desert blooms and the plants turn green. Jackrabbits, lizards and roadrunners are common, occasionally snakes will be on or near the trail. Watch for rattlers and give them a wild berth. If you get caught out past sundown, you may hear a few coyotes. Their howls are unnerving, but they generally leave people alone.