Baylor Peak

This is the first video I have ever used my own music (and wrote new material) to score the entire project. It added over an extra week's worth of work. Doing so presented it's own challenges and frustrations, but I'm excited to deliver this video to you (the viewer) now in its completed form! I really hope you enjoy this one.

Baylor Peak is a peak on the northern most section of the Organ Mountains.

You can approach this mountain from either the East or the West. I originally planned on doing it from the East via Aguirre Springs bc I was supposed to go with friends, but when they canceled I opted for the longer route since I was on my own time (West via Baylor Canyon).

Getting there is straight forward, and there's parking right off the main road (Baylor Canyon Rd). It appears that it is frequented by hikers pretty regularly. I went on a Sunday and encountered a handful of hikers. I linked up, by mere chance, with an older gentlemen in his 70s that apparently is still kicking ass, named Robert. I enjoyed my conversation and hike with him as we explored the trail. We parted ways at the saddle. He was kinda bummed and so was I when we went our separate ways. He was really cool! Robert, I hope you get to enjoy this video!

The trail itself is defined and well maintained. At the saddle, you encounter a large pile of rocks. This is your mark to break off the main path and work your way North towards the mountains. Much to my surprise there's still a lesser maintained trail for a portion of the actual ascent. It does get pretty steep and there is loose rocks so bear that in mind on both your ascent and descent. It isn't too bad. Some mild scrambling here and there, but I really didn't encounter anything that would exceed Class II. One might argue one tiny section as a super easy Class III near the top.

Once you're on the ridgeline just follow it to the top. Don't get your hopes up with the false summit! Once at the real summit there's another rock pile with a registry in it, and an outstanding view of the Organs looking south and San Augustine Mountains looking north. I lingered up there longer than I should have as usual, and found myself racing the sunset for my descent.

I found the cairns very helpful going down as I kept wandering off track. I made it to the saddle just before sunset, and made haste the rest of the way. I still got to my car after dark. Overall, a good time! You'll want to be somewhat physically fit if you intend on doing this one. As always, be safe and stay wild!


Soundtrack:

"Side By Side (Baylor Improvised Variant)" by
Alexander F. O'Connor

"Baylor Side-Advant Bridge" by Alexander F. O'Connor

"The Advant Of Summiting (Baylor Peak Variant)" by Alexander F. O'Connor

"Side By Side (B Theme Expanded For Baylor)" by Alexander F. O'Connor

"Side By Side & The Advant Of Summiting (Baylor Peak's End)" by Alexander F. O'Connor


Audio recorded on a Yamaha Clavinova CVP 701 Digital Piano.


Audio mixing and editing made possible using Music Maker (Version 28.0.2.47) by MAGIX Software GmbH.


Video produced using Movie Maker (Version 2012) by Microsoft Corporation.


Special thanks to Robert for sharing this experience with me on the trail. It was a serendipitous pleasure meeting you!

"Keep moving and using it, or you'll lose it!" - Robert


Thanks for watching! :)