Copper State Trail Riders
2nd Anniversary Celebration
& Octoberfest Ride Report
By Jodie Franklin
O
n September 26th we
all gathered at Mormon
Lake Lodge, our hosts
for the weekend. Despite the
weatherman’s dire warnings
of wet and stormy days ahead
we had a great turn out. The
staff at the lodge went out of
their way to make sure we
had everything we needed.
Friday was a mix of sun
and clouds and as people
arrived they wanted to take advantage of the weather
and ride. By late morning we rode out south on the
Arizona Trail via the Navaho Springs Trail. Where the
Arizona Trail meets with the old railroad “trail” there
is a picturesque large pond and a good place to refresh
the horses and dogs. We rode along the trail for a total
of 7 miles before turning around and heading to camp
before our good luck with the weather ran out.
That evening the promised storm came in raining
off and on through the night and into the morning.
Walking through camp in the morning smells of coffee
and bacon wafted through the air. Everyone taking
time to cook breakfast while we all kept an eye on the
sky. As the storm washed through camp it took with it
all hopes of having the planned poker ride. When the
clouds parted later in the morning blankets came off
the horses while they were saddled and made ready to
ride. Some people chose to ride close to camp while
others used the arena. A few dared to venture further
out from camp. Using forest roads, some cross country
and the Arizona trail we rode a loop north of camp;
returning a few hours later just in time to stay dry.
With the rain once again upon us happy hour at the
lodge bar sounded like a great plan.
We had reservations with the lodge for a buffet dinner
at 7pm and until then we enjoyed drinks and visiting
in the bar. Lots of laughter and fun, the rain didn’t
dampen our spirits. The buffet dinner that the lodge
prepared for us was mouth watering goo