News & Upcoming Events
Exciting News: Gilman and Cañón Neighborhoods Added to JemezVillage.com!
We are thrilled to announce that the Gilman and Cañón neighborhoods have been added to…
Welcome to Thompson Ridge Estates
Nestled in the serene beauty of the Jemez Mountains, Thompson Ridge Estates offers a tranquil and picturesque living experience. Surrounded by nature and breathtaking views, our community is a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern convenience. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or seeking a peaceful retreat, Thompson Ridge Estates is the ideal place to call home.
🌟 Neighborhood Features:
- Scenic Views: Enjoy stunning views of the Jemez Mountains and lush forests right from your doorstep.
- Outdoor Recreation: With easy access to hiking trails, fishing spots, and outdoor activities, adventure is always just around the corner.
- Community Spirit: Our friendly and welcoming neighborhood fosters a strong sense of community and togetherness.
- Modern Amenities: Thompson Ridge Estates offers modern amenities to enhance your quality of life, including well-maintained roads and utilities.
The Mushroom Basin Slash Pit
The Mushroom Basin Slash Pit originated as a communal effort, where locals would bring their slash—the remnants of tree branches, brush, and other vegetation—from their properties to an old gravel pit located in Mushroom Basin. The Thompson Ridge community organized an annual burning event, turning it into a social gathering where the slash was burned in a controlled environment, reducing the risk of forest fires. The volunteer fire department would be present with their trucks, ensuring safety in case of any incidents.
Over time, as word spread about the convenient disposal site, more residents from all over the valley began to contribute their slash to the pit. Due to increasing fire restrictions, the accumulated slash could not be burned as frequently, leading to a significant buildup. Year after year, the pit became filled to capacity, with piles of slash extending across an area the size of two football fields. This raised concerns among the Thompson Ridge residents and the forest service, prompting the locals to keep a vigilant eye on the pit.
Today, residents from the broader community continue to bring their slash to Mushroom Basin, where the forest service attempts to conduct burns whenever conditions allow. Although no trash is permitted, some still find its way into the pit. When disposing of slash in this area, please be considerate, remembering that this is not a dump, and people live nearby. Properly managing slash is crucial to preventing forest fires, as dried vegetation poses a significant fire hazard, especially during the dry summer months.
Rules & Regulations:
Here are the general rules and regulations for the Mushroom Basin Slash Pit:
- Vegetative Material Only: The slash pit is designated for vegetative materials such as tree branches, brush, and other plant debris. No household trash, used tires, metal roofing, or building materials are allowed.
- Fire Safety: The slash pit is monitored by the local Thompson Ridge community and the forest service. Burning of the slash is conducted when conditions allow.
- No Trash: It is crucial to keep the slash pit free of any non-vegetative materials. Trash can create hazards for fire personnel and negatively impact the environment.
- Respect the Area: When dumping slash, be considerate of the nearby residents and the natural surroundings. This is not a dump, and proper disposal practices should be followed.
- Fire Hazard Awareness: Dried slash can pose a significant fire risk, especially during the dry summer months. Proper management and disposal of slash are essential to prevent forest fires and protect the community.
- Community Involvement: Residents are encouraged to participate in monitoring and maintaining the slash pit. Your cooperation helps ensure the safety and effectiveness of this communal resource.
Schedule:
See the Events Page of After the Thunder For Schedule
The Hike from Thompson Ridge to San Antonio Hot Springs
Over the years, the hike from Thompson Ridge to San Antonio Hot Springs has grown in popularity. The trail offers stunning views of the Jemez Mountains and provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature. However, the increased foot traffic has brought some challenges that both visitors and residents should be aware of.
Winter Precautions
During the winter months, caution is advised as the trail can become treacherous. The parking area where most cars are parked becomes slick during snowstorms, causing many vehicles to get stuck. Ensure your vehicle is equipped for winter travel and come prepared for snowy conditions.
Summer Fire Risks
In the summer, the area can become very dry, significantly increasing the risk of wildfires. There is only one way out of Thompson Ridge Estates now that the forest roads have been closed off due to environmental damage from campers and the threat of forest fires. These closures mean the area can no longer be maintained by the local community and is difficult to access if a fire breaks out.
Fire Threats and Safety
The dry conditions in the summer make the area highly susceptible to forest fires, which could put hundreds of homes at risk. Visitors are urged to be vigilant and take all necessary precautions to prevent fires.
“Pack It In, Pack It Out” Philosophy
When visiting the Thompson Ridge to San Antonio Hot Springs trail, please adhere to the “pack it in, pack it out” philosophy. This means taking all your trash and belongings with you when you leave. Respect the environment and the local community by keeping the area clean and free of debris.