tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33600013222429037152024-03-18T01:07:38.599-07:00Arizona HikingWe got lost, so you don't have to.
800+ TRAILS.
Search for hikes using the TRAIL INDEX on the left side of my blog roll.Marehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15128367085408432589noreply@blogger.comBlogger1148125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3360001322242903715.post-70922351323577688972024-02-29T12:09:00.000-08:002024-03-06T07:27:37.994-08:00Big Rock Canyon Circuit<p><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>BIG ROCK
CANYON</b></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiydhhubRY45_ovtN2U4QXasbhO4-AXj3mD_S9g156bOPM3xRHCoPHemzbIXU9YtlFV9Dggn1PHyEAYgC2tV-zM7zQ2pZmRIfLb1B9Guzxd0qgeWf45BFDMmqFAm_Sq2QVIDKaecCsb2mVrsPaCT3CHoTFmfcHI-9jdnk64EztKVM2e20x6pvUO8uKzqMBj/s6016/BigRockCanyon34.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiydhhubRY45_ovtN2U4QXasbhO4-AXj3mD_S9g156bOPM3xRHCoPHemzbIXU9YtlFV9Dggn1PHyEAYgC2tV-zM7zQ2pZmRIfLb1B9Guzxd0qgeWf45BFDMmqFAm_Sq2QVIDKaecCsb2mVrsPaCT3CHoTFmfcHI-9jdnk64EztKVM2e20x6pvUO8uKzqMBj/s320/BigRockCanyon34.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Billion-year-old stone in Big Rock Canyon<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b><br /></b></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Some
trails have a way of rousing long buried memories.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whether it’s the trail name, location or
ambience that rustles the cranial recesses, the results can have surprising impacts
on the hike experience. Consider the Big Rock Canyon trail in Prescott’s
granite dells.</span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf3xnQU1xvKatfTqKYKaQQnzMxZpiRCJ4w_pDx8N6whsaSWWRCsHQa1RFcf3B1ZV623v5zEIOGKgFAPvNeW2A5FvieBF2MAsXmBXL3UFmHUgqyG7xjNogYyEdHgxOStoQLVPS16KNZ5q6kVwjwCZR9oLT4aREEGUFgxfeItE6M-bCqoZ38YC_xwXxZ6n68/s6016/CaptsTrail29.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf3xnQU1xvKatfTqKYKaQQnzMxZpiRCJ4w_pDx8N6whsaSWWRCsHQa1RFcf3B1ZV623v5zEIOGKgFAPvNeW2A5FvieBF2MAsXmBXL3UFmHUgqyG7xjNogYyEdHgxOStoQLVPS16KNZ5q6kVwjwCZR9oLT4aREEGUFgxfeItE6M-bCqoZ38YC_xwXxZ6n68/s320/CaptsTrail29.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of Watson Lake from Capts Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /> Its name conjures sweetness and an ear worm. Grown up
kids of a certain age might remember a tooth-rotting confection called rock
candy—word play on rock canyon. It was—and still is, if you can find it—pure
sugar. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZMzDoaCMCO7oo0jSB2XHpchJuHEqyJmuJx-MYCdcQLG0hLGz9sTpBI_etJ5m4QgVp3BK4KR2N0RwiPkqCRtXK-FciJbdnFJf77dRTHqPTO0vH41F2b1WGmP_XD9LYS_Acv-mIbgZqvsjLa5eY1kMPEoyHBl_Z4RxWWIej6zmasvp6aBQ8zw0qR9siNwHF/s6016/BigRockCanyonBoulderCreek.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZMzDoaCMCO7oo0jSB2XHpchJuHEqyJmuJx-MYCdcQLG0hLGz9sTpBI_etJ5m4QgVp3BK4KR2N0RwiPkqCRtXK-FciJbdnFJf77dRTHqPTO0vH41F2b1WGmP_XD9LYS_Acv-mIbgZqvsjLa5eY1kMPEoyHBl_Z4RxWWIej6zmasvp6aBQ8zw0qR9siNwHF/s320/BigRockCanyonBoulderCreek.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The route crosses Boulder Creek<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>Rock candy Classic had no color
or added flavor, just 100% nutritionally void carbohydrate manufactured to
resemble quartz crystals. Sometimes, it came embedded on strings. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNinHhoNYvuj19dBnZySv8Uv_sp4mDe_4ETxQS9RGoWfG-AI-BsktWG-LdsGE8NCI3dIXLQAq9VdnBJBF-r7Ag0MDiLhHDTgb2taPUENjd1MGP5cSyK1zV2vSQJ5RDweXwY0_tAkzrtmd-odPyRN8n9Ed09M4ahHxhNPYGqf0FCS3oGLIU5qAtcAc9f-CA/s6016/PeavineNRT8.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNinHhoNYvuj19dBnZySv8Uv_sp4mDe_4ETxQS9RGoWfG-AI-BsktWG-LdsGE8NCI3dIXLQAq9VdnBJBF-r7Ag0MDiLhHDTgb2taPUENjd1MGP5cSyK1zV2vSQJ5RDweXwY0_tAkzrtmd-odPyRN8n9Ed09M4ahHxhNPYGqf0FCS3oGLIU5qAtcAc9f-CA/s320/PeavineNRT8.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hike begins on the Peavine NRT<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />While the
treat was a step up from the chalky candy cigarettes and wax lips frequently
bought together, it never made it off the dentist’s no-no list. Other than providing
a brief energy rush, it has no redeeming qualities. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs1VxOR9iylSpetk2Wv0wj5g2z2fNvOMbX6mMOcyXW2WB9fDrS39xJKUp65ADxN8okpiXT-c2Mar1U1nl7fG9GWDMbQQrEdwW3cBRtJqq4k50QoPnmhnOH__FhCFW_Ww88izUwDEZGQNEsgaCuvP8E1ZhvtU0lX-KR2mV3lkFvoXuRxzWn9b0JBbPEHenf/s6016/WatsonWoods6.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs1VxOR9iylSpetk2Wv0wj5g2z2fNvOMbX6mMOcyXW2WB9fDrS39xJKUp65ADxN8okpiXT-c2Mar1U1nl7fG9GWDMbQQrEdwW3cBRtJqq4k50QoPnmhnOH__FhCFW_Ww88izUwDEZGQNEsgaCuvP8E1ZhvtU0lX-KR2mV3lkFvoXuRxzWn9b0JBbPEHenf/s320/WatsonWoods6.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peavine NRT passes by Watson Woods Riparian Preserve<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />There’s also a ditty about
hiking in an imaginary paradise called <i>Big Rock Candy Mountain</i> (evidently
located somewhere beyond the scope Google Maps), that can commandeer the brain with
a continuous loop of <i>“Where the lemonade springs and the bluebird sings in
that Big Rock Candy Mountain.”</i></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Even with a
candy song banging around in the skull, the treat’s word-play trail is the
opposite of empty calories. Replete in healthful elements all wrapped in a
fantastical landscape of rocks of the volcanic sort, the trail delivers a steady
stream of serotonin without the junk propellant. It could easily be the rock
paradise imagined in the 1928 ballad. </span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqfpH8RJJsRmpSlHukHwmUSbiKyHJ9Ckqk3hUBfPiA-12wF1qMy-j0gpWxsFhKJCzp3YmycIpLqfL9-egc6H2gRFIuQ7AwThpnhL_NiqnAV3LA8hDsmvDw143QlJ-z7rJGaijF6SGrD_5McO44DavcnhFE5jCtWhfnjoI1-EO3FDCIjIn4_6bBISP-luMH/s6016/BigRockCanyon48.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqfpH8RJJsRmpSlHukHwmUSbiKyHJ9Ckqk3hUBfPiA-12wF1qMy-j0gpWxsFhKJCzp3YmycIpLqfL9-egc6H2gRFIuQ7AwThpnhL_NiqnAV3LA8hDsmvDw143QlJ-z7rJGaijF6SGrD_5McO44DavcnhFE5jCtWhfnjoI1-EO3FDCIjIn4_6bBISP-luMH/s320/BigRockCanyon48.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from Big Rock Canyon trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Big Rock
Canyon trail is located east of Watson Lake in the heart of a maze of routes
collectively called the Storm Trails.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
City of Prescott owned property spans the other-worldly innards of the granite
dells—a landscape of weathered billion-year-old granite formations. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fractured and rounded by years of geological
upheavals and exposure to the sculpting effects of weather, the dells are a
cluster of nooks, crannies and blind curves interrupted by the course of
Boulder Creek. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGhtd4I5ZMRhyphenhyphenGTPDRoqBeYooaaaHr1WVtSUAAlTYhlICpPEjOdkA7HRE-pZ9DD7_yfRGhkLybopiNGJZ8pXuM7KDHl8k52SPqs9u1n4E6jppbcGcrcYzMWumnGNqcCgI8Aj5FYzi4Vkcf_Q2GGlPMRu3l1p_GhrxePfBFVvNdPm0RiU8mer1lyxZbb5uJ/s6016/WatsonLakeCove9.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGhtd4I5ZMRhyphenhyphenGTPDRoqBeYooaaaHr1WVtSUAAlTYhlICpPEjOdkA7HRE-pZ9DD7_yfRGhkLybopiNGJZ8pXuM7KDHl8k52SPqs9u1n4E6jppbcGcrcYzMWumnGNqcCgI8Aj5FYzi4Vkcf_Q2GGlPMRu3l1p_GhrxePfBFVvNdPm0RiU8mer1lyxZbb5uJ/s320/WatsonLakeCove9.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Watson Lake seen from Capts Trail junction<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span>There are several ways to
get to Big Rock Canyon, but the quick way begins at the Peavine-Watson Woods
trailhead with a mile-long hike on the Peavine National Recreation Trail. At
the Capts Trail junction, located across from a scenic view of the lake, the
route heads inland and is quickly absorbed into stony corridors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh84E_N8KnJ6b_gDb88a0Om9WJrE76u3gX18Tvf-vNgHPNqx_XuoUIQkzNoVYQMdlKdX8Pib3WmknjmYef9paoQeMzL26kqWSNaFb23Cdiuown9JpKCUaa3mpfWdcoOVGsFg6KS5fODmfrvjI4vkYzfc9ePBvv5bQKYSNQHL_sWMO1rbQ9QRtovc2YpC3uO/s6016/BigRockCanyon43.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh84E_N8KnJ6b_gDb88a0Om9WJrE76u3gX18Tvf-vNgHPNqx_XuoUIQkzNoVYQMdlKdX8Pib3WmknjmYef9paoQeMzL26kqWSNaFb23Cdiuown9JpKCUaa3mpfWdcoOVGsFg6KS5fODmfrvjI4vkYzfc9ePBvv5bQKYSNQHL_sWMO1rbQ9QRtovc2YpC3uO/s320/BigRockCanyon43.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big Rock Canyon Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Map signs
are posted at all junctions. Here are the breadcrumbs for this hike: </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">• Peavine
National Recreation Trail to Capts Trail.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">• Capts
Trail (sometimes called Captain’s Trail on apps) to Easter Island Trail</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">• Easter
Island Trail to Big Rock Canyon Trail</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">• Big Rock
Canyon Trail to Big Piney Trail</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">• Big
Piney to Boulder Creek Trail</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">• Boulder
Creek back to Peavine for the return leg. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Where the
trails pass over slickrock, white dots painted on the russet stone show the
way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s very much a game of connect-the-dots
and follow-the-signs. A hop over Boulder Creek signals the entry to the canyon.
Once inside, the route ducks among vertical escarpments, oddly balanced rocks
and contorted pillars.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Highpoint vistas
showcase a fringe of mountains including iconic Granite Mountain, Glassford
Hill and the peaks of Prescott National Forest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The Storm Trails feel purpose-built for those with adventurous
proclivities. </span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSk35Nbi26whN_YwLs57fXU10g8u9ceUCZ32Vfsh1GQIzusDRbyFmTehxE482DbOCFhjStWs9-P9b0HVcjOQDZ_3HRGJvXgV2T0rLJn93ZBptz2ECeJXnE3dOQPS0jeKZk5fnB277r8lyauhGlkPZL-TN45b_OjQ6TEylWXDnGtA6GgpMAwYuHmWjo8_H7/s6016/BigRockCanyon19.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSk35Nbi26whN_YwLs57fXU10g8u9ceUCZ32Vfsh1GQIzusDRbyFmTehxE482DbOCFhjStWs9-P9b0HVcjOQDZ_3HRGJvXgV2T0rLJn93ZBptz2ECeJXnE3dOQPS0jeKZk5fnB277r8lyauhGlkPZL-TN45b_OjQ6TEylWXDnGtA6GgpMAwYuHmWjo8_H7/s320/BigRockCanyon19.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Map signs are posted at all trail junctions<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWyKQfZvSwg3Ecf-fzc5UKwbU3r7IlBPAVkdlsOOkc9STEyWBCI_Ymd1kBWw-9FRiJpxI8bqN1Lp1XAh5QjT7BI3toLjKY2d4z6tCSpv4rB146UJtAtF9mCwVSq1ok6lOP_sFzFSski2O2LGpMyHUtJSD1UvYyOMSu48GXwCrJtAP0KbUKscu2iD_lMclI/s6016/BlasterTrail87.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWyKQfZvSwg3Ecf-fzc5UKwbU3r7IlBPAVkdlsOOkc9STEyWBCI_Ymd1kBWw-9FRiJpxI8bqN1Lp1XAh5QjT7BI3toLjKY2d4z6tCSpv4rB146UJtAtF9mCwVSq1ok6lOP_sFzFSski2O2LGpMyHUtJSD1UvYyOMSu48GXwCrJtAP0KbUKscu2iD_lMclI/s320/BlasterTrail87.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Side trip on the Blaster Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Many are short loops and connectors, so there’s a natural magnetism
for impulsive side trips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Surprises
emerge around every bend in the forms of oak thickets, quartz deposits, errant water
birds and lakeside riparian vegetation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>North
of Big Rock Canyon, there’s a trail called Candy. Really, there is. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s new, so trail signs may not yet be in
place. But like a folksy ear worm, the urge to find it within this wilderness of
rock might be hard to shake. </span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>LENGTH:</b> 8
miles roundtrip</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>RATING:</b>
moderate</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>ELEVATION:</b>
5,166 – 5,340 feet</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>GETTING
THERE:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Peavine-Watson
Woods Riparian Preserve trailhead.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">From State
Route 169 in Prescott, turn right (north) on Prescott Lakes Pkwy and continue
1.7 miles to Sundog Ranch Road, turn right and go 0.2-mile to Peavine
Trail/Watson Woods Riparian Preserve parking area. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>FEE:</b>
There’s a $3 per vehicle daily parking fee. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>FACILITIES:</b>
restroom</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>INFO &
MAPS:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="http://prescott-az.gov/rec-services/recreation-areas-prescott/trails/mile-high-trail/">prescott-az.gov/rec-services/recreation-areas-prescott/trails/mile-high-trail/</a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
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{page:WordSection1;}</style></p>Marehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15128367085408432589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3360001322242903715.post-79060061268368188742024-02-19T11:46:00.000-08:002024-03-06T07:34:49.987-08:00Rockin' River Ranch State Park<p><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>ROCKIN’
RIVER RANCH STATE PARK</b></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheq76Ir_4UbOyNTBr5Q_wGNwEHBc8Mq-K_SqKFeWYmhlLD-OzPbokiktTy6a441ztQ3eAvnATQ-HA_P5x1bm8MP9ivEZmP8nZjTCAxmpo9PE7PaQNEwVf4kzTa4LTLwi0blJc1fkkkKaT9-RPBPGms22UdeINaA5kseq6eNBsMIbUwzXPGM1C6XCYnfZtB/s6016/WhiteCliffsWater.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheq76Ir_4UbOyNTBr5Q_wGNwEHBc8Mq-K_SqKFeWYmhlLD-OzPbokiktTy6a441ztQ3eAvnATQ-HA_P5x1bm8MP9ivEZmP8nZjTCAxmpo9PE7PaQNEwVf4kzTa4LTLwi0blJc1fkkkKaT9-RPBPGms22UdeINaA5kseq6eNBsMIbUwzXPGM1C6XCYnfZtB/s320/WhiteCliffsWater.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Verde River from the White Cliffs Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b><br /></b></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">The
thickets shock the eye. Massive tangles of sycamore, cottonwoods, ash, and
willows quake with the rustlings of birds making a sweet living above perennial
waters at the confluence of West Clear Creek and the Verde River. </span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpr0QUj4UQGFbwvWR0XLjXlUay8IkgHj1SFyyxD5Fgx6UhFOuuXLH7khJswMZcOR-QqyArI5Hu1QMUZVfIzU8dW0lbXhm5MCYgGhyphenhyphenSRZ4yGNZPaz3TS_wq5Kk3mfKPaomyVTQqTkK1R2frla4cYA6gSl2pKxFo6ewGM5VeXWlzrfCV9BczDiJDrmX1EXJs/s6016/BuckarooMtnView.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpr0QUj4UQGFbwvWR0XLjXlUay8IkgHj1SFyyxD5Fgx6UhFOuuXLH7khJswMZcOR-QqyArI5Hu1QMUZVfIzU8dW0lbXhm5MCYgGhyphenhyphenSRZ4yGNZPaz3TS_wq5Kk3mfKPaomyVTQqTkK1R2frla4cYA6gSl2pKxFo6ewGM5VeXWlzrfCV9BczDiJDrmX1EXJs/s320/BuckarooMtnView.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mountain vista on the Buckaroo Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br />A small slice
of this watery, woodsy paradise surrounded by mountains at the end of a narrow
dirt road is now the domain of Rockin’ River Ranch State Park which opened to
the public in February.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrurUVgwG-iG3w97CpRlREnHw_2a0xLQOBqxW35WO4ylR0goSvvobo2KqbZRNOEkZm6Y_-OCzNUKo6non0gv2GHmVxmnAYgzSIUarc6KSispSTZU8mmIZRAoUjGwR_Gs8at1bpNQdcDmJQBoUZrnnWJcDBMmuxy-6t_zoDCoWgJtMTNxVewkvpS3RZKTfq/s6016/SycamoreTwist2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrurUVgwG-iG3w97CpRlREnHw_2a0xLQOBqxW35WO4ylR0goSvvobo2KqbZRNOEkZm6Y_-OCzNUKo6non0gv2GHmVxmnAYgzSIUarc6KSispSTZU8mmIZRAoUjGwR_Gs8at1bpNQdcDmJQBoUZrnnWJcDBMmuxy-6t_zoDCoWgJtMTNxVewkvpS3RZKTfq/s320/SycamoreTwist2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Riparian forest along the Verde River<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Located
about 90 miles north of Phoenix and 7 miles southeast of Camp Verde, the
209.4-acre site includes a mile of the Verde River, one of only two Arizona
waterways designated as part of the National Wild & Scenic <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rivers System (the other is Fossil Creek,
learn more here: <a href="http://rivers.gov/arizona">rivers.gov/arizona</a>). <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLSkI0AJzb-6-CeSfohPJGONn1dMRA0hew3BJ0ie-qzXDpLonC6XAFLcCiDGS8Fa4gTEfd1w3cDc3SBJv5WnK_i1d05CuexnT6Lcwdhivigj0LctMDFJm1uV0NFVS8CDK-oNPwn6nUNRIHY1JIxTG1eVpeas1-JInOf6GDd8mja9hZ24tD2M3ZLXNqgQGT/s6016/WhiteCliffsClose.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLSkI0AJzb-6-CeSfohPJGONn1dMRA0hew3BJ0ie-qzXDpLonC6XAFLcCiDGS8Fa4gTEfd1w3cDc3SBJv5WnK_i1d05CuexnT6Lcwdhivigj0LctMDFJm1uV0NFVS8CDK-oNPwn6nUNRIHY1JIxTG1eVpeas1-JInOf6GDd8mja9hZ24tD2M3ZLXNqgQGT/s320/WhiteCliffsClose.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cottonwoods on the White Cliffs Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span>The
irregularly shaped waterfront property abuts private lands and both the
Coconino and Prescott National Forests. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJQoCqcgH4iRf1N2bYleO9zebghOG9SUSGl4Jsjq_4BoHfj-I4d9KKPtyXxFa70_ixPUF9SPkzHLeVuJB2TdDsy-xr5TH28-6ov_Vc-dAXBz5pXfpuabnfvQy9vMA2Fk8LtjI2VAHwS5n2nw2ceReAKEgOWEXxv_kAp5FZM36ZC5uUO7LDwUhQkqfrTLhk/s6016/WhiteCliffsView7.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJQoCqcgH4iRf1N2bYleO9zebghOG9SUSGl4Jsjq_4BoHfj-I4d9KKPtyXxFa70_ixPUF9SPkzHLeVuJB2TdDsy-xr5TH28-6ov_Vc-dAXBz5pXfpuabnfvQy9vMA2Fk8LtjI2VAHwS5n2nw2ceReAKEgOWEXxv_kAp5FZM36ZC5uUO7LDwUhQkqfrTLhk/s320/WhiteCliffsView7.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pastoral view on the Outlaw Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The rich landscape has a long history
of human habitation stretching back thousands of years when indigenous hunters
and farmers lived off the area’s natural resources. More recently, the property
had been a private guest ranch replete with corrals, pastures, living quarters
and critical historic water rights. </span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">The new
park is physically and intellectually engaging. Its appeal begins with its “out
there” territorial atmosphere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Amenities
are delightfully sparse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Simple trails,
a few picnic tables, and benches placed in shady alcoves provide just enough
structure for safety and comfort without sullying the wild and scenic spirit. </span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFQnabyTC5J4AniEB75QC62NPEBA3HuGNgjT715qR0NOcc3fAbUb8NwY2N4TRaK5Siq9t2MJHShUPKjoT_cC4UfblJY4sPjktPY_0x0mDlYdeqLMByIc-gtMjQdnSCDFRjOJ0hDyh6PO9QW6DjctVlFdkGbAONiDXhpCcMtwKV2cGauDudXDiGokTKpSb9/s6016/VerdeRiverEdge.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFQnabyTC5J4AniEB75QC62NPEBA3HuGNgjT715qR0NOcc3fAbUb8NwY2N4TRaK5Siq9t2MJHShUPKjoT_cC4UfblJY4sPjktPY_0x0mDlYdeqLMByIc-gtMjQdnSCDFRjOJ0hDyh6PO9QW6DjctVlFdkGbAONiDXhpCcMtwKV2cGauDudXDiGokTKpSb9/s320/VerdeRiverEdge.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winter scene on the Verde River<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">The day
use park is open only on weekends for hiking, picnicking, and fishing. Four
miles of wide, well-groomed trails loop through pastures, mesquite bosques and
riverside riparian forests. </span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh445zqWXznBStxezLppNomTdT58pJekImvz25OR3bTI5fP8t7TQkuKxPnnAzLQp4O_pPzBZkUqhUD-uAOe6C9KofSH9rsvuCSqFyJPxALa5LnBTPiAOHgmuN6zlVGGM_Y4liHcWh9BPkvCXmdDsKvDr_lh4sUqANxFQ8CHC2I9NFBs2v5ZHdMU1ZOH0IDq/s6016/VerdeRiverBelow5.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh445zqWXznBStxezLppNomTdT58pJekImvz25OR3bTI5fP8t7TQkuKxPnnAzLQp4O_pPzBZkUqhUD-uAOe6C9KofSH9rsvuCSqFyJPxALa5LnBTPiAOHgmuN6zlVGGM_Y4liHcWh9BPkvCXmdDsKvDr_lh4sUqANxFQ8CHC2I9NFBs2v5ZHdMU1ZOH0IDq/s320/VerdeRiverBelow5.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The park includes a mile of the Verde River<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">The park’s
Central Arizona location means seasonal changes put perpetual spins on the
landscape. Summer may be too hot to venture here, but the rest of the year is
amazing.</span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkvzllNf00Qx7tUx_er_Nvjai7qGtjc5OcqMGqBrCy9B2D5K1zgHZwcGIvGmuDA4Ug2WomyLitEqT4hGMy1TV4Q0uPkXYI09n-UCobCI4Yte4q4jqCPwnnIbEYVOlZh5uWHjXjoogHG1H58Xu2xZifkEQzd7VDJhYUz1O0UoxXsBGT6k18tO2mK3hMKhQG/s6016/trailhead69.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkvzllNf00Qx7tUx_er_Nvjai7qGtjc5OcqMGqBrCy9B2D5K1zgHZwcGIvGmuDA4Ug2WomyLitEqT4hGMy1TV4Q0uPkXYI09n-UCobCI4Yte4q4jqCPwnnIbEYVOlZh5uWHjXjoogHG1H58Xu2xZifkEQzd7VDJhYUz1O0UoxXsBGT6k18tO2mK3hMKhQG/s320/trailhead69.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old building near the White Cliffs trailhead<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /> The bare-branched beauty of winter exposes the arboreal bones of the
place backed by snowy mountain vistas. Spring sprouts a pastel palette as
cottonwoods and sycamores shower the trail in soft catkins before leafing out
in thick green canopies that wind down in autumn with a showy display of golden
foliage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whatever the season, water
remains the park’s central draw and the 1.7-mile White Cliffs Trail, the
longest and most diverse of the park’s 6-trail hiking menu, is the best way to
explore along the Verde. Beginning near an old ranch building that now serves
as a maintenance office, the trail heads straight for the Verde River and
follows it for about half of its length.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The jungle-like approach to the river crackles with an avian cacophony.
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBCHf99fgmF7uPo6bLE6RV4wRKCpuZCytU1J1yCz9jlGZYS81zhGRxrYuSB91MX_Ao5iMWi6X5w2hd01RGGefSgqQa5VbfWotqoqLzFRuvJHbyg22ivgtES0FWVHbRSd9H4uU9zu7duLekGt7CskIXpbpK0_QA1pdv5Es6lSEwJAfQq7eg7Wp6vVorOiFO/s6016/SnowMtns872.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBCHf99fgmF7uPo6bLE6RV4wRKCpuZCytU1J1yCz9jlGZYS81zhGRxrYuSB91MX_Ao5iMWi6X5w2hd01RGGefSgqQa5VbfWotqoqLzFRuvJHbyg22ivgtES0FWVHbRSd9H4uU9zu7duLekGt7CskIXpbpK0_QA1pdv5Es6lSEwJAfQq7eg7Wp6vVorOiFO/s320/SnowMtns872.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mountain vista on the Outlaw Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The cries of blue herons, egrets, ducks, and swarms of tiny sparrows add random
top notes to the steady baseline of tumbling water. First up-close glimpses of
the river come about a quarter mile in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The ducks are generally visible, but the supporting cast of elusive
river otters and beavers are rare sightings for those willing to make use of
one of the strategically placed benches and a pair of binoculars. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih2yihB6r6dQajRte9wf7V5mPZT7XQWMAKI_v-Nw5zjydpH2MQVPl25Y0OLQfPZskK1o-L0K9NEWXb1T3sF1BBDGMRg46NFJioH9XjFkzjK0MNfgjtcBMS64Z3ugxfhG_1uoolkXTswI0uJgx4zhqWFXk-3zt587DNfuWlYW6PBR8ujONH3n9bHVz7e5b6/s6016/VerdeRiverWoods12.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih2yihB6r6dQajRte9wf7V5mPZT7XQWMAKI_v-Nw5zjydpH2MQVPl25Y0OLQfPZskK1o-L0K9NEWXb1T3sF1BBDGMRg46NFJioH9XjFkzjK0MNfgjtcBMS64Z3ugxfhG_1uoolkXTswI0uJgx4zhqWFXk-3zt587DNfuWlYW6PBR8ujONH3n9bHVz7e5b6/s320/VerdeRiverWoods12.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thickets of cottonwoods, ash and sycamores<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </span>The eponymous White Cliffs show up around a
half-mile in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The vertical, buff-colored
walls of flood-scoured sediments contain the river’s northeast banks
casting long shadows over the waterway that vacillates from raging to trickle
with the seasons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2rzmsoieHsDa_aTTBBRJQX6uXXvqOkYtTv5Wo9bVvRxwmy3AOByOV_ybTv7fawHadYUbrt5VyVOyDPx_lxmiD97N_huXYIT0BtLJI9i6tukgqFhQqXv49RKGn5jfbNp0172uZOOUuAX82fEUFvltopaT1BAHs8oOFmVj9aE_0UAfB_MLX9V0r_om-VEFv/s6016/WhiteCliffsRiver3.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2rzmsoieHsDa_aTTBBRJQX6uXXvqOkYtTv5Wo9bVvRxwmy3AOByOV_ybTv7fawHadYUbrt5VyVOyDPx_lxmiD97N_huXYIT0BtLJI9i6tukgqFhQqXv49RKGn5jfbNp0172uZOOUuAX82fEUFvltopaT1BAHs8oOFmVj9aE_0UAfB_MLX9V0r_om-VEFv/s320/WhiteCliffsRiver3.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White Cliffs on the Verde River<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>Beyond the cliffs, the
trail enters semi-arid terrain dominated by prickly stands of catclaw and
mesquite.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The White Cliffs Trail
connects with most of the park’s trails for easy customization.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKF__fyYF_9qIhGeiqs4FoJB1ISbIfWzUNP0A-vAEmQ0XHm0IEKggAk_FryRc67rg-vpDmrrbTpGK5xoIchK1YGQ_3phD8PSi5oxlKuPQWtjMjxJ5srz2h9gz97pOsUnLhFuk_snSLqhaSOK5-z8eThBnoPQ8ESUg86s6bcSOEkFBPrAqiRu28p5AND9Fb/s6016/WillowsWhiteCliffsTrail.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKF__fyYF_9qIhGeiqs4FoJB1ISbIfWzUNP0A-vAEmQ0XHm0IEKggAk_FryRc67rg-vpDmrrbTpGK5xoIchK1YGQ_3phD8PSi5oxlKuPQWtjMjxJ5srz2h9gz97pOsUnLhFuk_snSLqhaSOK5-z8eThBnoPQ8ESUg86s6bcSOEkFBPrAqiRu28p5AND9Fb/s320/WillowsWhiteCliffsTrail.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Park trails are wide and mostly flat<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />All trails are largely flat, simple to
navigate, unique in theme and replete with wildlife, mountain vistas and the
kind of solitude that comes with a former ranch at the far end of a dirt road. </span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>LENGTH:</b>
4 miles of trails</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>RATING:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>easy</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>ELEVATION:</b>
2,962 – 3,016 feet</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>GETTING
THERE:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">4513 S.
Salt Mine Road, Camp Verde</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">From
Interstate 17 exit 287 in Camp Verde, go 1.6 miles east (toward Payson)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>on State Route 260 to Oasis Road on the right
just past milepost 220. Follow Oasis around a bend to a stop sign and turn right
onto S. Salt Mine Road (not signed) and continue 5 miles to the park. Roads are
paved up to the park access road which is maintained dirt and passable by all
vehicles.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>HOURS:</b> Day
use only. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (last entry at 4 p.m.). Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Holiday hours vary.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>FEE:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>$7 daily fee per vehicle or $3 per person for
walk/bike-in </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>FACILITIES:</b>
Visitor center, picnic areas, restrooms, fishing. There’s no public drinking
water, but water bottles are sold in the gift shop. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>INFO &
MAPS:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="http://azstateparks.com/rockin-river">azstateparks.com/rockin-river</a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
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{page:WordSection1;}</style></p>Marehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15128367085408432589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3360001322242903715.post-52021956388498319782024-01-31T09:55:00.000-08:002024-01-31T10:03:02.542-08:00The Devil in Devil's Bridge<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>DEVIL’S
BRIDGE</b></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHzqfaVW2tNT6nuUJXoHuFx__QmgbDq5HyChDJc2XGH95RVc1pQtWyxxLMuYM7ZZpMJ3H2FZotDYVchtxAgtOfS96tkjycgdIMzn3OpaGNFWZNfUxiZj8AbYEhBDuqqFBRqK3YhkSubrd3wg1IUz3q1kBEb3wC69ttmBG-MqntIr7wkxL2ZNgQJHR4a8g6/s6016/HikersSilhouette2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHzqfaVW2tNT6nuUJXoHuFx__QmgbDq5HyChDJc2XGH95RVc1pQtWyxxLMuYM7ZZpMJ3H2FZotDYVchtxAgtOfS96tkjycgdIMzn3OpaGNFWZNfUxiZj8AbYEhBDuqqFBRqK3YhkSubrd3wg1IUz3q1kBEb3wC69ttmBG-MqntIr7wkxL2ZNgQJHR4a8g6/s320/HikersSilhouette2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hikers on the way to Devil's Bridge<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b><br /></b></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Hiking has
many benefits.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Beyond the healthy perks
of physical activity, being in the outdoors boosts mental well being, fosters an
appreciation for nature and builds a sense of stewardship for our public lands.
It’s also a great way to meet people with similar interests. </span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6UKnKEjLHVcWLzuWQMeo5IxRTwJg116fbufMjW5diSmed8sabxASucYR_YZZ8-0l4BWsVYJ1l91aOSaznWZpUmKSmiLVbklzMvmNJt1j3AJo7liwBRFeVVu7smiANezWFnvWTKnH5vHP92I1xPXqYD7nHelozeNvV9CTJELC6GZxUnHDr0nvqcoYfF0uG/s6016/ChuckwagonTrailCrowd2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6UKnKEjLHVcWLzuWQMeo5IxRTwJg116fbufMjW5diSmed8sabxASucYR_YZZ8-0l4BWsVYJ1l91aOSaznWZpUmKSmiLVbklzMvmNJt1j3AJo7liwBRFeVVu7smiANezWFnvWTKnH5vHP92I1xPXqYD7nHelozeNvV9CTJELC6GZxUnHDr0nvqcoYfF0uG/s320/ChuckwagonTrailCrowd2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pilgrimage on the Chuckwagon trail to Devils' Bridge<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br />And with recent reports
on the negative impacts of loneliness, it would seem hitting the trails would be
a win-win.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The trick is to pick trails that
attract crowds of people more in the game for the social aspects than for an isolated
backcountry experience. Enter Devil’s Bridge--one of the busiest hiking destinations in Arizona. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJpnhxUBuVrHXzzvOFJs8VyMkUxxvqb6Yl6kGcybPx6OHN_RqXadVuu3M8ui8z9zf_MU-BbOypxQGKL_y3SMRL8Xe1GyRvJqHoQgq-Xq6ZbL6NTPWK8BKWp1-edMrcIVop52cFWR9FpgYnYJuxoG0LSPaNxAGHynHDN-kk1l1RZOpo4sPczpkeltW4F5ky/s6016/DryCreek67.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJpnhxUBuVrHXzzvOFJs8VyMkUxxvqb6Yl6kGcybPx6OHN_RqXadVuu3M8ui8z9zf_MU-BbOypxQGKL_y3SMRL8Xe1GyRvJqHoQgq-Xq6ZbL6NTPWK8BKWp1-edMrcIVop52cFWR9FpgYnYJuxoG0LSPaNxAGHynHDN-kk1l1RZOpo4sPczpkeltW4F5ky/s320/DryCreek67.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mescal trail crosses Dry Creek<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">The iconic
Sedona trail that leads to a scenic natural sandstone arch has been a big draw
for ages. Its popularity is bolstered by several factors--easy access, relatively
short distance with only moderate difficulty, and a huge ooh-ahh punch at the end.
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzBuyhaHzGAxg-mK6rwoSEJLgXOLmI71rMuF-Vd8ufbM4P8dPRgJqlwBqI88WcKBww_47B4RkTVJUGQau_fm8eaADvFwj06QMFWy0oDSPCzjuE5ZKemY5q51w77MMLUjij4Cx6HLlN-FUU67C4w5HV-OLa1MGx77xY9vvBu4B2egsXN8laJ9CX3JN94j4Y/s6016/JunctionSign93.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzBuyhaHzGAxg-mK6rwoSEJLgXOLmI71rMuF-Vd8ufbM4P8dPRgJqlwBqI88WcKBww_47B4RkTVJUGQau_fm8eaADvFwj06QMFWy0oDSPCzjuE5ZKemY5q51w77MMLUjij4Cx6HLlN-FUU67C4w5HV-OLa1MGx77xY9vvBu4B2egsXN8laJ9CX3JN94j4Y/s320/JunctionSign93.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trails to Devil's Bridge are well signed<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span>Thousands make the pilgrimage each year
to queue up for a photo atop the 50-foot-high arching formation in Red Rock Secret
Mountain Wilderness in Coconino National Forest just a few miles from Uptown
Sedona. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh32QuNvkQCDcaSIy6wYCNDKNIXU6wlP_61a_W31DZIiMh9S2F2lvGHqHCSLjqSUOPTb3mDn3xcuh53sdy6GCS6bmHGv9CKAa42-r4UJ6awi9pDEY7blkxfiHPdec9ojl4z8RZjU2yUtFJNt9eSltf3Qjb19KBZ29OVVyovDwzgUAehPzfbuospJQgxcaal/s6016/MescalMountain7.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh32QuNvkQCDcaSIy6wYCNDKNIXU6wlP_61a_W31DZIiMh9S2F2lvGHqHCSLjqSUOPTb3mDn3xcuh53sdy6GCS6bmHGv9CKAa42-r4UJ6awi9pDEY7blkxfiHPdec9ojl4z8RZjU2yUtFJNt9eSltf3Qjb19KBZ29OVVyovDwzgUAehPzfbuospJQgxcaal/s320/MescalMountain7.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mescal Mountain (center) from Chuckwagon<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>Based on personal experience,
many of the visitors have limited time and or experience and want to get the most
bang per hiking mile. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A survey of license
plates in the trailhead parking area belays the nationwide fame of Devil’s
Bridge. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMbvlXaexb9OwKwYX3vd8LTxJbDZ4815S6txU9ldh_cSWcDM8SfAFWL22U16HXUMes35M2jwEGUqfBMRmk0iSB433JJG7kVPnJASns0uM_LA3Jt2yHDCBXlW12JvFG2FiRpGd3jePUGgncjMDO6msLU1Z0vn8r7QHJNPByj9dCLVlPyqseOnrpF93wxfb6/s6016/DoeMtnSnag.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMbvlXaexb9OwKwYX3vd8LTxJbDZ4815S6txU9ldh_cSWcDM8SfAFWL22U16HXUMes35M2jwEGUqfBMRmk0iSB433JJG7kVPnJASns0uM_LA3Jt2yHDCBXlW12JvFG2FiRpGd3jePUGgncjMDO6msLU1Z0vn8r7QHJNPByj9dCLVlPyqseOnrpF93wxfb6/s320/DoeMtnSnag.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Doe Mountain and juniper snag <br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Montana, Utah, Massachusetts, Iowa, Texas, Illinois, South Carolina, California,
California, California. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>People on the
trail are generally courteous, eager to talk and more than happy to snap a
photo of you and your group. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some have inspiring
stores. Others just want to know the names of surrounding rock formations
(Mescal Mountain, Doe Mountain, Bear Mountain and Cockscomb on this hike).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Either way, striking up a conversation is effortless.
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZjP9jDdMIMQNhNJVXV-H892UUj0bxnj3A_JgOMneztoWmbdP3zed7xCIUcR-1m4isL-7hXwIov6uYvqu04q3wf04RVI8E4TJ10aCbDyHW3njIcfYhTop-T5eTQ-7GCwkykFKhnm48E3fcpfnLq0vTuActufmolov2fj1xsL-dH9lTFITZTcgxCUhjSpt2/s6016/DevilsBridgeTrail26.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZjP9jDdMIMQNhNJVXV-H892UUj0bxnj3A_JgOMneztoWmbdP3zed7xCIUcR-1m4isL-7hXwIov6uYvqu04q3wf04RVI8E4TJ10aCbDyHW3njIcfYhTop-T5eTQ-7GCwkykFKhnm48E3fcpfnLq0vTuActufmolov2fj1xsL-dH9lTFITZTcgxCUhjSpt2/s320/DevilsBridgeTrail26.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Devil's Bridge is in a wilderness area<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Anybody
who has read my blog over the years, knows I prefer more off-the-wall, less
crowded trails over the hyper popular kind. So, what the heck was I doing there
on a recent weekend after avoiding it for 18 years?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Entertaining winter visitors with a gnawing
need to check this off their bucket list.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0bmijuphXWlarDAr647DVy1rB-peepE5aF4178lmR1fThM8lj6p9yomUhgJVe9XhKNNJHoPbl5E0hn6vFUaAJqEcOTvnSamhMCHdqsjPr6rbxjhTxu-nxMTGusEMDN-15fLJ1jZbGw4purN6HxBFoj8VfeEknXAxgU2DWJ6fH9FoLHW5mkpsWiVjXOwyv/s6016/AgaveView.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0bmijuphXWlarDAr647DVy1rB-peepE5aF4178lmR1fThM8lj6p9yomUhgJVe9XhKNNJHoPbl5E0hn6vFUaAJqEcOTvnSamhMCHdqsjPr6rbxjhTxu-nxMTGusEMDN-15fLJ1jZbGw4purN6HxBFoj8VfeEknXAxgU2DWJ6fH9FoLHW5mkpsWiVjXOwyv/s320/AgaveView.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mountain vista on Chuckwagon trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span>Since my guests were fit but not really hikers, we took the short route
beginning at the Mescal trailhead one of the four best ways to access the trail
including the free Sedona Shuttle service. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPwPuu6DsST_G97zGwsm_kpoL4Jjz7G4TrE8x-YJqur8-w4tZMIFcWfb2dRov80QRkKe1gR0B1kZA5lRGW62JE44MDHEL6vxz67p2HMC_a3K2Rk3vHnbNu0EcIh4YG7LNuTCElJe9rIevfYKk9ZiOd-OKnwZC7sKL2lUuiWj8GwvFPXNgp9z6lIvqVsBsm/s6016/DoeMtn72.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPwPuu6DsST_G97zGwsm_kpoL4Jjz7G4TrE8x-YJqur8-w4tZMIFcWfb2dRov80QRkKe1gR0B1kZA5lRGW62JE44MDHEL6vxz67p2HMC_a3K2Rk3vHnbNu0EcIh4YG7LNuTCElJe9rIevfYKk9ZiOd-OKnwZC7sKL2lUuiWj8GwvFPXNgp9z6lIvqVsBsm/s320/DoeMtn72.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cockscomb (L) and Doe Mountain<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />We arrived at 7:30 a.m. and scored one of the
last open parking spaces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Trail traffic along
the first well-signed mile which follows the Mescal and Chuckwagon trails was constant,
often coming in fits and spurts of small groups.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bottlenecks begin where the route gets steeper,
ascending uphill on rough cut sandstone staircases. About 0.2-miles before the
bridge where the route crosses into the wilderness area, traffic slows to a
near standstill as hikers meet a fork with one leg heading to the space below the
arch and the other to the final stairs to the top.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVOzZcWVIwsefQXRWDHbP3wsb8ew9eAh-aA7rIO63oTCP-0aG2k4sKdX-RvYkNh9tM4xxI14NM35CP0H8Q-gVULVkNH3YINfPgSLis8Zm2vE-m8lRwUmg9s03sqoiryxb__Eig7CT0Bo94t8QgKrtrnp6DJiCA8E2L3Tg774EFXXiUJVmPnI5jY8YlaFH_/s3264/bridgeview8%20copy.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="3264" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVOzZcWVIwsefQXRWDHbP3wsb8ew9eAh-aA7rIO63oTCP-0aG2k4sKdX-RvYkNh9tM4xxI14NM35CP0H8Q-gVULVkNH3YINfPgSLis8Zm2vE-m8lRwUmg9s03sqoiryxb__Eig7CT0Bo94t8QgKrtrnp6DJiCA8E2L3Tg774EFXXiUJVmPnI5jY8YlaFH_/s320/bridgeview8%20copy.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crowd-free Devil's Bridge--18 years ago. <br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>On weekends, we’re talking an elbow-to-elbow scenario
of chatty, awestruck hikers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s not
the ideal experience for some, but anybody who ventures here ought to know that
and shouldn’t expect solitude.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Having
been there and done that, I decided to opt out of the line that was <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>tantamount to those at major theme parks but without
the turnstiles. I waited in a cypress-shaded alcove with a nice family visiting
from Europe while my friends earned their check mark, some fabulous photos, and
a couple of new friends. </span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>LENGTH:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">From the
Mescal Trailhead: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>4 miles roundtrip </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">From the
Dry Creek Vista Trailhead: 5.8 miles round trip</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">From
Devils Bridge Trailhead:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1.8 miles
roundtrip</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>RATING:</b>
moderate</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>ELEVATION:</b>
4,500 – 4,910 feet</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b> </b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>GETTING
THERE:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>SEDONA
SHUTTLE--preferred method!</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Service to Mescal and Dry Creek trailheads.<br /></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="https://sedonashuttle.com/">https://sedonashuttle.com/</a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>DEVIL’S
BRIDGE TRAILHEAD: </b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">From the
State Route 179/89A traffic circle in Sedona, go 3.2 miles west (toward
Cottonwood) on SR 89A <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>to Dry Creek Road.
Turn right and continue 2 miles to the turn off for Forest Road 152 on the
right. Follow FR152 past the Dry Creek Vista trailhead for about a mile to the
signed Devils Bridge parking area. The road beyond Dry Creek Vista is very
rough. <b><i>A high clearance/4x4 vehicle is required.</i></b> There are no facilities or
fees. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">DRY CREEK VISTA
TRAILHEAD:</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">From the
State Route 179/89A traffic circle in Sedona, go 3.2 miles west (toward
Cottonwood) on SR 89A <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>to Dry Creek Road.
Turn right and continue 2 miles to the turn off for Forest Road 152/Dry Creek
trailhead on the right and continue a short distance to the parking area. There’s
a restroom at the trailhead. No fees. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>MESCAL DAY
USE TRAILHEAD:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">From the
State Route179 /US89A traffic circle in Sedona, go 3 miles west on 89A (left,
toward Cottonwood) to Dry Creek Road (Forest Road 152C), turn right and
continue 2.9 miles to Long Canyon Road (Forest Road 152D), turn right and go 0.2
mile to the trailhead on the left. There’s a restroom at the trailhead. No
fees.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>INFO &
MAP:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Coconino
National Forest</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recarea/?recid=55292">https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recarea/?recid=55292</a></span></p>
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{page:WordSection1;}</style></p>Marehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15128367085408432589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3360001322242903715.post-29099570355349300202024-01-09T13:10:00.000-08:002024-01-11T08:48:30.779-08:00Vulture Mountain Ruins<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>VULTURE
MOUNTAIN RUINS</b></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHj3iCY5fHtyKJ1Mpyiext8sgks3eq75H7myAtQ2qYQ9c_2O2GLTLxAi0V-a1Gd1vU2wm_ACWvSeF4wM3-ojvE_2zXKmStG0kLiey-zW-5f_lG8Q473ZFxnj-_kNdvB7vCXn1pq76BBu2_NHg-V4jzBL2LVhYATsH1RVejaHk4-JzG6BHiQw0dAAL3BCNu/s6016/VulturePeakSaguaros1.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHj3iCY5fHtyKJ1Mpyiext8sgks3eq75H7myAtQ2qYQ9c_2O2GLTLxAi0V-a1Gd1vU2wm_ACWvSeF4wM3-ojvE_2zXKmStG0kLiey-zW-5f_lG8Q473ZFxnj-_kNdvB7vCXn1pq76BBu2_NHg-V4jzBL2LVhYATsH1RVejaHk4-JzG6BHiQw0dAAL3BCNu/s320/VulturePeakSaguaros1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vulture Peak viewed from BLM 9052<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b><br /></b></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Surrounded
by an eclectic sampling of Arizona’s 194 named mountain ranges, The Vulture
Mountains occupy a space rich in natural resources and human history.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinadFdryTo1GOs1FDyD8mr5I_fVCS49piCxrggWI6Hv_XhgNSNryWJEv6-WijbidQlJr7KfKGAEzq8u53A_5xwm4ueojmSYS_7ZqYmAw_rDPMZOa7fYNFCHpxlsXO6mTfokZCJd_G7lErBlC97KSw5fFFCMIVD-E9w77NYFmQtzYSgOoZCoubhGqUyZ42L/s6016/HeiroglyphicMtns.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinadFdryTo1GOs1FDyD8mr5I_fVCS49piCxrggWI6Hv_XhgNSNryWJEv6-WijbidQlJr7KfKGAEzq8u53A_5xwm4ueojmSYS_7ZqYmAw_rDPMZOa7fYNFCHpxlsXO6mTfokZCJd_G7lErBlC97KSw5fFFCMIVD-E9w77NYFmQtzYSgOoZCoubhGqUyZ42L/s320/HeiroglyphicMtns.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hieroglyphic and Wickenburg Mountains view<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br />The crescent-shaped range is comprised of a
string of mounds 29 miles long and 13 miles wide located a dozen miles southwest
of Wickenburg at the edge of Maricopa County. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8d_y5QCLOhdi5GhSuEfn2hRuzVGN9REAd0DKuZt83qzIjg9lxjXEjp3Idt1DOUn1ad_uxeTzWpmR4um0HAcm6r5yn3_Ok2OjFoSEwkqU7GNuHty2JTJOR_qAR3m1LIRJZDnB3IjcL3_spOob8Hc_y9cB3ztlXzNTFdwFFmUKFs83wGV7sK9n_6f5NZX9W/s6016/SaguaroLori8.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8d_y5QCLOhdi5GhSuEfn2hRuzVGN9REAd0DKuZt83qzIjg9lxjXEjp3Idt1DOUn1ad_uxeTzWpmR4um0HAcm6r5yn3_Ok2OjFoSEwkqU7GNuHty2JTJOR_qAR3m1LIRJZDnB3IjcL3_spOob8Hc_y9cB3ztlXzNTFdwFFmUKFs83wGV7sK9n_6f5NZX9W/s320/SaguaroLori8.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hikers admire a twisted saguaro on BLM 9052<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>The Hassayampa River, a roughly 100-mile-long
desert waterway that originates near Prescott and flows south, mostly
underground, to merge with the Gila River, marks the eastern extent of the
range.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE8ZRWJ-xqOFpjWFUssCuH8zCNB8ypLNVCpyUM8RE6rLBTXQNnWEFY-5s99-voD5xT9JtxvOyud1nln3mUFWcYGJQWuu_Vxb392ZEMyHBvv-JEijqwcwl7NI8yrl0i6ZwdlR8KkQno2Gudk-tV6HhdlDjqpTVFguadjPEa-nlAdCU7__Vd0h-6wkP1DcY9/s6016/SaguaroVista2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE8ZRWJ-xqOFpjWFUssCuH8zCNB8ypLNVCpyUM8RE6rLBTXQNnWEFY-5s99-voD5xT9JtxvOyud1nln3mUFWcYGJQWuu_Vxb392ZEMyHBvv-JEijqwcwl7NI8yrl0i6ZwdlR8KkQno2Gudk-tV6HhdlDjqpTVFguadjPEa-nlAdCU7__Vd0h-6wkP1DcY9/s320/SaguaroVista2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saguaros dot a ravine in the Vulture Mountains<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </span>Its highpoint, 3,658-foot Vulture
Peak, serves as Wickenburg’s most iconic land feature and the axis around which
a cluster of defunct mining operations orbit. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8y0rBZG2xvFfLCAOS8xncoETtpae00AmP3uQVGUy9cZvfF67xfmiu5s1s3hHQDx2dkoh7TUPiIe4IgDqs9h8ti2_TyB6a0dS50rNSWWnumUe6PIZLHButULc4kF75Ex3PKnOFW-qaUojFLddqIzaHDHNGzxxWRv-p-iR8lLXGrO9G6DFNamtYoidLgLPT/s6016/HassayampaRiverCross306.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8y0rBZG2xvFfLCAOS8xncoETtpae00AmP3uQVGUy9cZvfF67xfmiu5s1s3hHQDx2dkoh7TUPiIe4IgDqs9h8ti2_TyB6a0dS50rNSWWnumUe6PIZLHButULc4kF75Ex3PKnOFW-qaUojFLddqIzaHDHNGzxxWRv-p-iR8lLXGrO9G6DFNamtYoidLgLPT/s320/HassayampaRiverCross306.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hike begins with a crossing of the Hassayampa River<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>A network of Bureau of Land Management roads that
are open to hikers, equestrians, and motorized use, provide access to the
mineral-rich backcountry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOmUGNYysVIQLQgWn4KrRHNf6Yi8T2Ulidjflb9vZYgxu4Khp4YXEH1KvVMqmDdoZBm9AyPHDvJhyphenhyphenCg_-CRlOkjmDCHTjSlU-Rg_Pl8Nsnsa95LHlOh_Afj_mDGiRYfjlr7DBHs3F8VhDcqCBI6cBidtinoMJT234_3981U_qwBeSW23yTvFRxfZPQ-AkG/s6016/BLM9052Cans98.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOmUGNYysVIQLQgWn4KrRHNf6Yi8T2Ulidjflb9vZYgxu4Khp4YXEH1KvVMqmDdoZBm9AyPHDvJhyphenhyphenCg_-CRlOkjmDCHTjSlU-Rg_Pl8Nsnsa95LHlOh_Afj_mDGiRYfjlr7DBHs3F8VhDcqCBI6cBidtinoMJT234_3981U_qwBeSW23yTvFRxfZPQ-AkG/s320/BLM9052Cans98.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Relics of mine ops in the Vulture Mountains<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>The main access
point for exploratory adventures is by way of Gates Road in the community of
Morristown.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The paved part of the road
dead ends where Little San Domino Wash spills into the Hassayampa River. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhawFpEdAQsc8IuiB-UBTPE6LH4Z36n6bC8Hj3mG_Ma1Urtf8PDtN18Pe6b0JtxJmKwUJGItwctBj5NxIuWd-JsqUWVi3gQnbPCegglYsMzXP6C-r-pPKsfC7Yvc5xQCOijKcsBd0XlZlVmsw2P2rdlICtGyEWce2hnoBd4yv7xXw294kh-PLw9wLPJOeyA/s6016/BLM9052Ruins20.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhawFpEdAQsc8IuiB-UBTPE6LH4Z36n6bC8Hj3mG_Ma1Urtf8PDtN18Pe6b0JtxJmKwUJGItwctBj5NxIuWd-JsqUWVi3gQnbPCegglYsMzXP6C-r-pPKsfC7Yvc5xQCOijKcsBd0XlZlVmsw2P2rdlICtGyEWce2hnoBd4yv7xXw294kh-PLw9wLPJOeyA/s320/BLM9052Ruins20.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Relics protected by the Antiquities Act<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /> </p><p>From there, trail users may hike or drive across
the usually dry floodplain to a gate where BLM road 9054 serves as entree to miles
of dirt roads. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3mf-Bi1PRJkLqqVIOfzFxz8o94Jbvtlw7_NbHWlgCllqdRcNbEv1eBAdLHU6YmWIAcZ3eb5xUV6kaLV5V6ysovFtYj_NdAAwkDK-Bu9379BKrC4W8wmY3srPjtBmUxK18LEuiA3F5sOeBj2esYVKyPc6aK20nWUa9djmUpTLJV3Avk5YT1Ped1TD0KXDk/s6016/PackRat11.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3mf-Bi1PRJkLqqVIOfzFxz8o94Jbvtlw7_NbHWlgCllqdRcNbEv1eBAdLHU6YmWIAcZ3eb5xUV6kaLV5V6ysovFtYj_NdAAwkDK-Bu9379BKrC4W8wmY3srPjtBmUxK18LEuiA3F5sOeBj2esYVKyPc6aK20nWUa9djmUpTLJV3Avk5YT1Ped1TD0KXDk/s320/PackRat11.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Packrat middens are plentiful along BLM 9054<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The best thing about hiking
here is the joy of discovery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Every road
and side trail holds new vistas, natural arches, and points of interest, so there’s
no bad plan. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just pick a road and
go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One outing to try uses the clearly
signed roads 9054 and 9052.<p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">From the entry
gate at the river, 9054 heads uphill, passing by the first of many optional
side trips to an old mine site. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mountain
vistas make their first appearance at the top of a knoll with jaw-dropping
looks at the Hieroglyphic and Wickenburg Mountains to the east, the Date Creek
and Weaver Mountains to the north and the Bradshaw Mountains on the far northern
horizon.</span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS_83tgFom6bi0SWxjPwQtYj51qqR0UNtou0PV3dZj4qwVKNEDg1RmOKKaQdfeBjF-Bq_qRqnlsy70XxS3axQ48MwWEH-NGf4KZD3mppfy-HcPziYjRQ3LNLjLsNT-lcqy20BPMrnciafcMAOzltSOgc5nl83vH09FggYSjvEb_Hy7xsq2ddIaTP3xV9et/s6016/WashCross212.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS_83tgFom6bi0SWxjPwQtYj51qqR0UNtou0PV3dZj4qwVKNEDg1RmOKKaQdfeBjF-Bq_qRqnlsy70XxS3axQ48MwWEH-NGf4KZD3mppfy-HcPziYjRQ3LNLjLsNT-lcqy20BPMrnciafcMAOzltSOgc5nl83vH09FggYSjvEb_Hy7xsq2ddIaTP3xV9et/s320/WashCross212.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Washes feed into the Hassayampa River<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUPx_kh68RwIunIOkDeGe27KNqxi4Uf1h1orCN1ELPWd-Yy5-83kVy13HkcZsw43zjIbZeL4CJICrJeAkIVh1PB9EXSZw05mpwOKCyC-ieG9M1-S0ntsh24naNuySirQpkfU5FiIthcjFlYi577z8s8ZPXhtjoeSPtK_6dP01QFYRLDa7icp0_xL_4z48X/s6016/BLM9052Hikers45.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUPx_kh68RwIunIOkDeGe27KNqxi4Uf1h1orCN1ELPWd-Yy5-83kVy13HkcZsw43zjIbZeL4CJICrJeAkIVh1PB9EXSZw05mpwOKCyC-ieG9M1-S0ntsh24naNuySirQpkfU5FiIthcjFlYi577z8s8ZPXhtjoeSPtK_6dP01QFYRLDa7icp0_xL_4z48X/s320/BLM9052Hikers45.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hikers trek BLM 9052<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">As the
undulating route delves deeper into the boondocks, the distinctive forms of
Vulture Peak and 3,044-foot Caballeros Peaks stand out to the northwest
standing high above a cholla and saguaro studded landscape.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE58eBjcCGvc6SP_6qq1s3huaAPiWxfQFll5MH_R1UJTkw9Z7P15Et6A2ZEHPnSXpivUkfSf1TIx3jQEjM9abUZjd7M0XHnMbevlAVeeMTlYdC1nqfQUFU7yyVA1rtjAfB6IivTBpz81iMLBcp9FtzcWDeLcAqG640hOL4opC8cVLg4tUdPb62jg0pyQgZ/s6016/WeaverDateCreekMtns94.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE58eBjcCGvc6SP_6qq1s3huaAPiWxfQFll5MH_R1UJTkw9Z7P15Et6A2ZEHPnSXpivUkfSf1TIx3jQEjM9abUZjd7M0XHnMbevlAVeeMTlYdC1nqfQUFU7yyVA1rtjAfB6IivTBpz81iMLBcp9FtzcWDeLcAqG640hOL4opC8cVLg4tUdPb62jg0pyQgZ/s320/WeaverDateCreekMtns94.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Date Creek and Weaver Mountains to the north<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br />At the two-mile point, this trip heads left
onto road 9052, gaining and loosing elevation steadily.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the 2.9-mile point, road 9052 veers left
at a large white tank, then heads downhill and crosses a couple of washes before
heading up yet again to meet an array of roadside mining detritus. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These minor prospects might have been the spawn
of a nearby major mine operation. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
Vulture Mine and its companion Vulture City community was the hub of gold and
silver extraction from 1863-1942. The core operation and a smattering of pick-and-shovel
prospects mined the surface gold that was easily extracted by hand from exposed
late Cretaceous pluton of quartz porphyry that shed bits of precious minerals
in flakes, nuggets, and dust.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Serial misfortunes
including mismanagement, low gold prices, and high overhead caused sporadic
closures and ownership changes until production in the area dribbled to a halt 1942.
Some residual mineral extraction happened during World War II and limped into
the 1960s when lingering deposits of copper, gold and lead were pulled from
tailings and open shafts.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">The
abandoned Vulture Mountain mine sites had names that underpin their mysterious pasts.
Details of the yields and histories of the Newsboy Mine, Montezuma Mine, Queen
of Sheba Mine, El Tigre Mine, et al are buried in dusty boxes full of decades
old claims. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWlT0FIGZ5lg538aSum1LVIDfwYUcW5IU4gYXOrRdXfJSmGTYwKpw5uo9V37XPppYludAaj4TaHKxvszPT3_QaFvYtyiIpFEafflHhz0JWn8_tIf7W3Cpj7CjPguVVDtjl0ReuE-l95WN7lu64K59hlNXXdQ2D8o4tJO9CUyCSvuGxwKmKVlCVn1_q9DLx/s6016/BLM9052Ruins231.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWlT0FIGZ5lg538aSum1LVIDfwYUcW5IU4gYXOrRdXfJSmGTYwKpw5uo9V37XPppYludAaj4TaHKxvszPT3_QaFvYtyiIpFEafflHhz0JWn8_tIf7W3Cpj7CjPguVVDtjl0ReuE-l95WN7lu64K59hlNXXdQ2D8o4tJO9CUyCSvuGxwKmKVlCVn1_q9DLx/s320/BLM9052Ruins231.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Artifacts near a mine prospect<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span>Only the </span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Vulture Mine
retains a semblance of its former glory. The site is now a privately owned tourist
venue that preserves the dream of pulling riches from the desert. The lesser wildcat
strikes live in comparative obscurity along ragged dirt roads in the hills
above the Hassayampa River.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There’s
little left to mark many of the small prospects.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Discarded cans, rotting wood planks, rusty
nails and tailings scattered among chunks of quartz and metamorphic rocks crusted
with brilliant blue green chrysocolla, a soft mineral associated with copper
ore.</span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq_oVeee2Lw0TmmZpGrhCl3Rwa8FF6at9tjq8JAXA89AbRuoEqQNsTn4nUiezm6Cx4uZJPJp655UTy9XzpAHo-FlJ7YsNncblMa0eZ58Zg0SPT0DFPiZ_aKygwHH7QB2A4jFv3LmJ0VvwgErXBHryNXXCfNpshGumo5KK7cqjc7yUF86cjsVLcqgzftbOG/s6016/gate6.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq_oVeee2Lw0TmmZpGrhCl3Rwa8FF6at9tjq8JAXA89AbRuoEqQNsTn4nUiezm6Cx4uZJPJp655UTy9XzpAHo-FlJ7YsNncblMa0eZ58Zg0SPT0DFPiZ_aKygwHH7QB2A4jFv3LmJ0VvwgErXBHryNXXCfNpshGumo5KK7cqjc7yUF86cjsVLcqgzftbOG/s320/gate6.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gate at the Hassayampa River<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">When
visiting historic sites, it’s important to help protect them. Federal law
states that it is illegal to remove any artifact 50 years-old or older from
public lands <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(36 CFR 800,Title 18: Theft
and Destruction of Government Property, the 1906 Antiquities Act, and the
National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) of 1966). An artifact is defined as anything
made, modified, or used by humans. That would include cans, bottles, bricks,
nails, tools, weapons, etc. When in doubt--leave it! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The historic artifacts link below helps
identify common sightings.</span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwdro68U9rls3bTJrE7MdQGo424PFTuaJjy0heE2mbg6J9ilcHkBtS0R5kT4GEulrky1TTIBg8mCba1X5-hKLouyYmHHVHPJMUCwfJ6qeuRxUUCmel8Kzz8P6qvDXYViJDm2M2U0Yumb9rWEP9tqQsDd6nJUTIi1CDnFoIADf8Dvq0KRIcIPBE7Utj5fBu/s6016/OcotilloHills.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwdro68U9rls3bTJrE7MdQGo424PFTuaJjy0heE2mbg6J9ilcHkBtS0R5kT4GEulrky1TTIBg8mCba1X5-hKLouyYmHHVHPJMUCwfJ6qeuRxUUCmel8Kzz8P6qvDXYViJDm2M2U0Yumb9rWEP9tqQsDd6nJUTIi1CDnFoIADf8Dvq0KRIcIPBE7Utj5fBu/s320/OcotilloHills.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vulture Mountain scene on BLM 9054<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">At a spot along
road 9052 that was probably a favorite lunch break hangout, dozens of rusted
cans, crumpled metal, and sun-bleached wood litter a hillock overlooking the expanse
of the Hassayampa Basin. To the southwest, the silhouette of the Harquahala
Mountains rise to 5,681 feet above the flatlands filling the skyline. </span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-JK0BJ68PRMWPK7p7j54HgEBbsjKEgtKZDLYis7WriO91wawTZ7O4uRO89RhZO8PWnuzPSZlLkRrqz7A87wGrkdRN6DHe_bOdNedIcOpUkWkIg10EpN9UZak6Arx1Btx66bTfGkkWxWePnbISOy_l_aGYmsR8Qn_GqaVa7MJ-0aVlN_jbDwamiYAywZpi/s6016/BLM9052Cans6.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-JK0BJ68PRMWPK7p7j54HgEBbsjKEgtKZDLYis7WriO91wawTZ7O4uRO89RhZO8PWnuzPSZlLkRrqz7A87wGrkdRN6DHe_bOdNedIcOpUkWkIg10EpN9UZak6Arx1Btx66bTfGkkWxWePnbISOy_l_aGYmsR8Qn_GqaVa7MJ-0aVlN_jbDwamiYAywZpi/s320/BLM9052Cans6.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoy the discovery, but leave as is. <br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br />It’s easy
to see why work wary miners would choose this serene locale to kick back with a
can of beans after a long day of digging leaving behind relics for us to
ponder. </span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>LENGTH:
</b>8.3 miles (to the lunch miner lunch spot and back)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>RATING:</b>
moderate</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>ELEVATION:</b>
1,767– 2,229 feet (1,225 feet of accumulated elevation change)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>GETTING
THERE:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">From
Phoenix, go north on Interstate 17 to State Route 74 (Carefree
Highway). Take SR 74 west (toward Wickenburg) for 30 miles to U.S.
60. Turn left and go 0.8-mile on U.S. 60 to Gates Road at milepost 121, turn
right and continue 2.3 miles to the trailhead at Little Domingo Wash. Do not
park within a quarter mile of the livestock water tank and respect private
property in the area. Access roads are paved.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>FUN
HISTORY & SCIENCE:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="http://docs.azgs.az.gov/OnlineAccessMineFiles/S-Z/VultureMaricopa273-2.pdf">http://docs.azgs.az.gov/OnlineAccessMineFiles/S-Z/VultureMaricopa273-2.pdf</a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>HISTORIC ARTIFACT
IDENTIFICATION GUIDE:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="https://www.ntc.blm.gov/krc/system/files?file=legacy/uploads/22015/HistoricArtifactIDGuide.pdf">https://www.ntc.blm.gov/krc/system/files?file=legacy/uploads/22015/HistoricArtifactIDGuide.pdf</a></span></p>
<p><style>@font-face
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{page:WordSection1;}</style></p><br />Marehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15128367085408432589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3360001322242903715.post-23303720103838550802023-12-11T13:07:00.000-08:002023-12-11T13:07:28.501-08:00Elmore Wash<p>
</p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">ELMORE WASH</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">Wickiup Mesa Trail
System</span></b></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI7yCxrkFuG2idmqy3MXtnTwJplo4yc5LEFD6L1EuP2DLN9sJh4MSWu4zygcbCzF3XJ-6AwA1nk6Vn57gF9oZLDsbLtsBkHacPIf8cWeeU7ibeITXyVQDLEFAXsEPi5L7UcZ4ijCjf5AjzVg_BH2e3S-eb_TP7oIjQPNuIYdyJnfX1WvT3A9fbrx4HG-wr/s6016/ElmoreWashCross84.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI7yCxrkFuG2idmqy3MXtnTwJplo4yc5LEFD6L1EuP2DLN9sJh4MSWu4zygcbCzF3XJ-6AwA1nk6Vn57gF9oZLDsbLtsBkHacPIf8cWeeU7ibeITXyVQDLEFAXsEPi5L7UcZ4ijCjf5AjzVg_BH2e3S-eb_TP7oIjQPNuIYdyJnfX1WvT3A9fbrx4HG-wr/s320/ElmoreWashCross84.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elmore Wash trail in Coconino National Forest<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><br /></span></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">Access to Arizona
wilderness areas is a mixed bag of easy walk-ins from paved suburban roads. (Munds
Mountain Wilderness in Sedona) to miles of driving on white knuckle two tracks
in the middle of nowhere (Bear Wallow Wilderness near Hannagan Meadow). There’s
also a middle ground.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXPfOHt-iwpb43wNAXzkUFhuLb2FwqlK4cIC2y17Vc6-rX_IoKZq_O5VLc86ui8UFgsGB0-ISNHbD_FaKekMbKcARvsExs8aP5kGt8L3L8JyzEg3nwdSGFWIRGd9-ahLNjh1eOJevWvlFVW7rzsOyufLXW-K9vPZ2TsSqlom8UariPBmSJQHBMPqKmFHb/s6016/ElmoreWashTrailPosts3.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXPfOHt-iwpb43wNAXzkUFhuLb2FwqlK4cIC2y17Vc6-rX_IoKZq_O5VLc86ui8UFgsGB0-ISNHbD_FaKekMbKcARvsExs8aP5kGt8L3L8JyzEg3nwdSGFWIRGd9-ahLNjh1eOJevWvlFVW7rzsOyufLXW-K9vPZ2TsSqlom8UariPBmSJQHBMPqKmFHb/s320/ElmoreWashTrailPosts3.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elmore Wash trail is well signed<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /> </span>The Wickiup Mesa
Trail System located in the adjacent communities of Rimrock, McGuireville and
Montezuma Lake offers a hikeable link between Interstate 17 and two of Central
Arizona’s most popular wilderness destinations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkvxGZ2D7nyePO1YRhIDJ6WN456jpxIiSxQE4DCgdks6r-RNfeVzukX7GJad0aDsENTDfEY0Mj1vNIbineEwtvpV2yX36-YHVzVaPWiI3dHTJnj0aw8_JKbx2EkweVfTEna4Dr_3tvo33jHA4X95dWyZd3ZaQG3mOB7o7fRH07R8FB-brxEsojRt8eaoUq/s6016/WalkerBasinTH6.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkvxGZ2D7nyePO1YRhIDJ6WN456jpxIiSxQE4DCgdks6r-RNfeVzukX7GJad0aDsENTDfEY0Mj1vNIbineEwtvpV2yX36-YHVzVaPWiI3dHTJnj0aw8_JKbx2EkweVfTEna4Dr_3tvo33jHA4X95dWyZd3ZaQG3mOB7o7fRH07R8FB-brxEsojRt8eaoUq/s320/WalkerBasinTH6.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trailhead on Forest Road 618<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>The 6.5-mile, non-motorized trail system in Coconino National Forest east
of Sedona opened in 2018 through a partnership with the forest service, Yavapai
County and the Beaver Creek Trails Coalition. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Situated on 700 acres of thorny grasslands and
juniper woodlands the system provides seamless access to the Wet Beaver and
West Clear Creek Wilderness areas. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9WLW6OxqstStocsAnI1P-P_z9BMT0DfKYZMX3xbtP6dBNFqo9nuC5tiV5M1jCM3I4rAL3dsv9Z6BYPOZGZ5OQfswjuMSlSh6eZ9y-Y7VjHtNEL5vUGSNOozskfZ_X6crS0tqJY9XUSYb8rOvmGZk_3aMNzpNGOjCNRknDunp0ASufmIdbPZPBbguF3iy2/s6016/CedarKnoll43.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9WLW6OxqstStocsAnI1P-P_z9BMT0DfKYZMX3xbtP6dBNFqo9nuC5tiV5M1jCM3I4rAL3dsv9Z6BYPOZGZ5OQfswjuMSlSh6eZ9y-Y7VjHtNEL5vUGSNOozskfZ_X6crS0tqJY9XUSYb8rOvmGZk_3aMNzpNGOjCNRknDunp0ASufmIdbPZPBbguF3iy2/s320/CedarKnoll43.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cedar Knoll trail grasslands<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">The singletrack trail
system is anchored by the 2-mile Sunset Loop. Tendril spurs connect to
community access points, OHV trails, a scenic ledge overlooking the Montezuma
Well heritage site and the Elmore Wash trail which makes a straight shot toward
the wilderness.</span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1827GwgJL8O2CDt0jqFCKFfM-oqX5ldfwGC5iMYWFRVgsgr3hE4uVCtFD9XGqPifFfNBkopFJJWS3L8naXkh1c0KvpvH0wPugq5u3Jk8RFs1fKDX44xIyBZLZgEmHMz627FCWwVtpFkcVtGnB-YYd6b5CcjFbQxuzxCCO6yvMryv6yW5_IgogF-IPy6bn/s6016/SunsetLoop18.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1827GwgJL8O2CDt0jqFCKFfM-oqX5ldfwGC5iMYWFRVgsgr3hE4uVCtFD9XGqPifFfNBkopFJJWS3L8naXkh1c0KvpvH0wPugq5u3Jk8RFs1fKDX44xIyBZLZgEmHMz627FCWwVtpFkcVtGnB-YYd6b5CcjFbQxuzxCCO6yvMryv6yW5_IgogF-IPy6bn/s320/SunsetLoop18.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset Loop anchors Wickiup Mesa Trails<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><br /> </span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">Trailheads in the
Rimrock community and along Forest Road 618 make it easy to plan out-and-back day
hikes or longer trips by connecting with the Bell, Walker Basin or West Clear
Creek trails.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From the Forestglen
trailhead at the south end of the Rimrock community, the hike begins on the
Cedar Knoll trail. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This easy-rated 0.6-mile
segment twists through sunny pastures dotted with yucca and junipers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYN_3xVZYKof1hztPrjtgGOYfAJFfhrnn7ItL58xa_3Bhny7tj04o82ofX6_0KYk-Bz1cBXrIFp-nSQKKawFgTEgmgD49CPJ75NLuTyz075Zd6x6Ke_ckTpgWXw65y5iX6Kq_Tn8MkLqiXPMupJ-zwyRlaeHeLXH6QqLcopl282QWFuAkY2dLdPkuj5B7y/s6016/ElmoreWashMesquite15.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYN_3xVZYKof1hztPrjtgGOYfAJFfhrnn7ItL58xa_3Bhny7tj04o82ofX6_0KYk-Bz1cBXrIFp-nSQKKawFgTEgmgD49CPJ75NLuTyz075Zd6x6Ke_ckTpgWXw65y5iX6Kq_Tn8MkLqiXPMupJ-zwyRlaeHeLXH6QqLcopl282QWFuAkY2dLdPkuj5B7y/s320/ElmoreWashMesquite15.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mesquite trees clutter around Elmore Wash trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /> </span>Big views of the Munds Mountain Wilderness
and Sedona’s red rocks front barely-there glimpses of the San Francisco Peaks
to the north.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnnfUljsoKwevziDGNEotf9xePJpt4zjKmCDvZRLDu2W_O2Pwm5C3vUGz0GTswhoXSGNedYkUK92SYIUp49iqSmcgP2wfsojsn7nzQTf3EzbcPoZjk0-lx6d4CrXkNlZ_b-RUwcw9s3bAH50saGTe5ydThxXoVfbparYXaI3cUy2nrw-Ps9qi3ycMnj0if/s6016/ForestglenTrailhead809.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnnfUljsoKwevziDGNEotf9xePJpt4zjKmCDvZRLDu2W_O2Pwm5C3vUGz0GTswhoXSGNedYkUK92SYIUp49iqSmcgP2wfsojsn7nzQTf3EzbcPoZjk0-lx6d4CrXkNlZ_b-RUwcw9s3bAH50saGTe5ydThxXoVfbparYXaI3cUy2nrw-Ps9qi3ycMnj0if/s320/ForestglenTrailhead809.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Forestglen trailhead in Rimrock<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>At the Sunset Loop
junction, the route veers east (go right) taking on a slightly more rugged
character as it gradually leaves the open terrain behind and ascends between
tree-covered knolls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3_gqZm7ouKy9tzCGByU0jaexn-5W6OlrTOSzSioeJP53Qj6OUh9__SSfNChBoFga4n_QbVYoX0XBX_R47GU_5m6S3IViPdDLxvsgQQ8b6Z8_ziQKe2VTpUOguQekPiyC8AoNDui1V_IRvWyHc9Qt47ZpckBgXIS_gyLX-BWBva9kTC4J7gC4ThQsVx-gi/s6016/ElmoreWashGrassLight.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3_gqZm7ouKy9tzCGByU0jaexn-5W6OlrTOSzSioeJP53Qj6OUh9__SSfNChBoFga4n_QbVYoX0XBX_R47GU_5m6S3IViPdDLxvsgQQ8b6Z8_ziQKe2VTpUOguQekPiyC8AoNDui1V_IRvWyHc9Qt47ZpckBgXIS_gyLX-BWBva9kTC4J7gC4ThQsVx-gi/s320/ElmoreWashGrassLight.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking west on Elmore Wash trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>The 0.8-mile leg
ends at the Elmore Wash trail junction where wilderness mountains hover over
the gorge of Walker Basin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although it’s
rated moderate in difficulty, the Elmore Wash trail delivers a decent workout
with a rollercoaster series of ups-and-downs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha-zwBMY72LYlRdvyIF2JywFzMa_tX2emm-xATF_YgFdEMH0gmrBWn3Tu4YGIOGL8OhWFtXY6BLPtYnuIDwWM89w_ExJZAlz357DYLkyZ9OhkrwvM9l8PDK0Zew02Y3wOTK-FBvAmNyE9srVzsKy80gAzjbSZaWAE9RNhZWC8jyeGKwu2EqIec1L2qt1SN/s6016/WalkerBasinTHSign2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha-zwBMY72LYlRdvyIF2JywFzMa_tX2emm-xATF_YgFdEMH0gmrBWn3Tu4YGIOGL8OhWFtXY6BLPtYnuIDwWM89w_ExJZAlz357DYLkyZ9OhkrwvM9l8PDK0Zew02Y3wOTK-FBvAmNyE9srVzsKy80gAzjbSZaWAE9RNhZWC8jyeGKwu2EqIec1L2qt1SN/s320/WalkerBasinTHSign2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sign with historical info at the trailhead<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>The trail alternates between dips and crosses of the eponymous wash and
highpoint vistas of the Bradshaw Mountains to the west.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_PH7Mn7MbUGpQuRwVU3bsW__tMEU59zvOgPER6FLMrlmv8WRTbhw11L8oibtCHLPnxJYWHgS3ZwAKVPURe0-62ROTEi51Y36M5kuG4tDZ1tY7A7U3lpRermZlS57yeksg1ARyL9KtVfBDdQqeh6FQzeJUBqRXQ9esFPV4sZzqzFvt1UNMIV-CBOaAW_uC/s6016/ElmoreWashBradshaws70.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_PH7Mn7MbUGpQuRwVU3bsW__tMEU59zvOgPER6FLMrlmv8WRTbhw11L8oibtCHLPnxJYWHgS3ZwAKVPURe0-62ROTEi51Y36M5kuG4tDZ1tY7A7U3lpRermZlS57yeksg1ARyL9KtVfBDdQqeh6FQzeJUBqRXQ9esFPV4sZzqzFvt1UNMIV-CBOaAW_uC/s320/ElmoreWashBradshaws70.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of Bradshaw Mountains from Elmore Wash<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The hike in an immersive experience into the
Middle Verde Watershed that’s part of a 4.2-million-acre ecosystem that
includes roughly 500 miles of perennial streams that feed into the Verde River
which provides a substantial amount of the surface water delivered to the Metro
Phoenix area.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-uz55Trldh0Is3-nGMUrXoE0lrHTeyl-QvUqYgHFMzlE9B5bE1b9gPrV55X6k24Bhw9_N7zEkPcLUIgDyWE6K2uUJA5qa3ygN7_Wk8X8-7ug25SiP5RJy4jQRLdgojQJY0vvEUVIwrvA2Ylkwa3xrcTNJiIkM1GLg5IP48kLheS8YoscrXDQ75qaTtlOD/s6016/CedarKnollPeaks802.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-uz55Trldh0Is3-nGMUrXoE0lrHTeyl-QvUqYgHFMzlE9B5bE1b9gPrV55X6k24Bhw9_N7zEkPcLUIgDyWE6K2uUJA5qa3ygN7_Wk8X8-7ug25SiP5RJy4jQRLdgojQJY0vvEUVIwrvA2Ylkwa3xrcTNJiIkM1GLg5IP48kLheS8YoscrXDQ75qaTtlOD/s320/CedarKnollPeaks802.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snow-capped peaks seen from Cedar Knoll<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">As the trail nears
its terminus at Forest Road 618, tree cover increases with a dusting of pinyon
pine joining the mix of mesquite, scrub oak and sharp-spined Crucifixion-thorn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the 3.3-mile point, a kiosk with map and
historical information marks the border of the Wickiup Mesa Trail System.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Across the road, though, the hike may be
extended with a mile-long walk on Forest Road 9201C that leads to the Walker
Basin Trail, a difficult 8-mile primitive route into the drainages between Wet
Beaver Creek and West Clear Creek. For an easier add on, the 11-mile Bell Trail,
which leads to swimming holes and amazing geology, begins 3 miles north on FR 618.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>About 4.5 south of the FR9201C turnoff for
Walker Basin, the West Clear Creek Trail may be accessed by following signs to
the Bullpen Ranch trailhead.</span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaiEFOjL9lzG6EE2_5KBQLPQ9D1On9epcA6vE5LdfgOIQT956CWCDIOodxSbjplynvvYw_p008TTQYySJY_q8vqE7tYHZ1xngl5t9-bQsmjPGRPaSAOL_K2z4j9qNSI_lVUAuKy0OSjsy_Cm_oB_DwU4yDg0UzHYQJBiqTYAL20MfTDPttEjc6EO8xi_Tx/s6016/ElmoreWashJunction50.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaiEFOjL9lzG6EE2_5KBQLPQ9D1On9epcA6vE5LdfgOIQT956CWCDIOodxSbjplynvvYw_p008TTQYySJY_q8vqE7tYHZ1xngl5t9-bQsmjPGRPaSAOL_K2z4j9qNSI_lVUAuKy0OSjsy_Cm_oB_DwU4yDg0UzHYQJBiqTYAL20MfTDPttEjc6EO8xi_Tx/s320/ElmoreWashJunction50.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Junctions feature map signs<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaM8X8ifi-ZaKLDbiVNVM1LQsC3vrXHx00C-vu2scIbIWjqLyk9-bPujhKKLechc0QN33h-039CQiAOiz7dY4dE2Elyd47PT7dzuwjetSScBYBh5dp0ZjEttfdUyofWFI5DhzMxT-_buq45LopBannjKa40MvyNX998BYAEIW9JzYLUKCHitP9tzP9jK2U/s6016/ElmoreWashTrough6.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaM8X8ifi-ZaKLDbiVNVM1LQsC3vrXHx00C-vu2scIbIWjqLyk9-bPujhKKLechc0QN33h-039CQiAOiz7dY4dE2Elyd47PT7dzuwjetSScBYBh5dp0ZjEttfdUyofWFI5DhzMxT-_buq45LopBannjKa40MvyNX998BYAEIW9JzYLUKCHitP9tzP9jK2U/s320/ElmoreWashTrough6.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old trough on Elmore Wash trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><b>LENGTH:</b> 6.6 miles
roundtrip (out-and-back hike)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><b>RATING:</b> moderate</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><b>ELEVATION:</b> 3,631 –
3,853 feet (731 feet of accumulated elevation change)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><b>GETTING THERE:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><b>FORESTGLEN
TRAILHEAD</b>:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">From Interstate 17
north of Camp Verde, take the McGuireville exit 293 and veer east (right) onto
Beaver Creek Road (County Road 77). Continue 1.8 miles and veer right onto
Montezuma Ave. Go 1.3 miles to Cliffside Trail, turn left and follow the
winding road 0.9 mile to Geronimo Road, turn right and drive 0.4 mile to
Forestglen Road. Turn right and continue 0.3 mile to the trailhead at the
intersection of Redrock Road. Roads are paved.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><b>FOREST ROAD 618
TRAILHEAD:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">From Interstate 17
north of Camp Verde, take the Sedona-Oak Creek exit 298 for State Route 179.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Turn east (right) at the bottom of the ramp
and continue 4.5 miles on Forest Road 618 to the Walker Basin TH sign and the trailhead
on the right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is limited parking
along the road and on adjacent FR 9201C. Roads are maintained dirt and gravel.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">There are no fees or
facilities at either trailhead. </span><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-ligatures: none;"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
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{page:WordSection1;}</style> <br /></p>Marehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15128367085408432589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3360001322242903715.post-90695032720026071092023-12-05T07:46:00.000-08:002024-02-27T11:35:18.830-08:00Maricopa Trail to Camp Creek Falls<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">MARICOPA
TRAIL SEGMENT 22</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">BARTLETT
DAM ROAD to CAMP CREEK FALLS</span></b></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZwOaAAr9SF-Tn9Jk9Z_zurLQzC1az7OBhAymuwGiCMC8tcY9k60lXbyppqtUGJgVIm69gZcU5ibzg7p_bY4hVwHHcjyqfyaF-38RhldQc3gwkBEN4WitovKrhaIgqgX4_HDmvTiCu-yDGkATp8NoXCvUNMfKkUSvl7YwV_F9MuHw0_VkTpitK07S0Fqal/s6016/CampCreek7.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZwOaAAr9SF-Tn9Jk9Z_zurLQzC1az7OBhAymuwGiCMC8tcY9k60lXbyppqtUGJgVIm69gZcU5ibzg7p_bY4hVwHHcjyqfyaF-38RhldQc3gwkBEN4WitovKrhaIgqgX4_HDmvTiCu-yDGkATp8NoXCvUNMfKkUSvl7YwV_F9MuHw0_VkTpitK07S0Fqal/s320/CampCreek7.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Camp Creek in Tonto National Forest<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Over its
315+-mile course, the Maricopa Trail unfurls its tendrils to link county
regional parks, suburbs, urban public spaces, canals, historic paths, and
remote stretches of national forest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To
hike the full loop is tantamount to a walking tour of the Valley’s
multi-faceted landscape.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggKEYGVGdZt5hyHuon3QwMoEqpYQnZXgFN1ofX_dU-99o622rwtM3N9odd6aRlilrFN19S2MsfggK5iHxK9Qvo51twqDglt1VoYr8UnzorRNcQ5I4_hk_cbwSDHQogc6-PnCyUZNll1mx3cGBedGFit6LNuuTtPYCr0bxE6xtV4LRRTpVmUiPSjyjrwlv_/s6016/SaddleMountain2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggKEYGVGdZt5hyHuon3QwMoEqpYQnZXgFN1ofX_dU-99o622rwtM3N9odd6aRlilrFN19S2MsfggK5iHxK9Qvo51twqDglt1VoYr8UnzorRNcQ5I4_hk_cbwSDHQogc6-PnCyUZNll1mx3cGBedGFit6LNuuTtPYCr0bxE6xtV4LRRTpVmUiPSjyjrwlv_/s320/SaddleMountain2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mountain vistas on the Maricopa Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br />The epic non-motorized
route that circles the Valley broke ground in 2007 in the Spur Cross Ranch
Conservation Area, and the main loop was completed in 2018.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLxBmDJYRvkPn82N0Ltgohex8Hnbo3IYuQeAzLUkCF324WW-HecPfrZ68zNijHcrtmIdABYCcOo65AbWT65id9MI_e2x3w8v1Mq1OvglpznIc9zyDp00bwsbrocm33OvdL1o_pZC364UDhwFgRFODPvFbdFfShYAA4y4-8TJnV8YSfLhGEsc6_kCgywGOC/s6016/CampCreekFallsGrottoLoriCraig403.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLxBmDJYRvkPn82N0Ltgohex8Hnbo3IYuQeAzLUkCF324WW-HecPfrZ68zNijHcrtmIdABYCcOo65AbWT65id9MI_e2x3w8v1Mq1OvglpznIc9zyDp00bwsbrocm33OvdL1o_pZC364UDhwFgRFODPvFbdFfShYAA4y4-8TJnV8YSfLhGEsc6_kCgywGOC/s320/CampCreekFallsGrottoLoriCraig403.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hikers in the Camp Creek Falls grotto<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </span>The trail continues to improve, evolve, build
connectivity, and add length as it adapts to accommodate growing community
interest and enthusiastic hiker, biker, and equestrian users. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Built to encourage hikers of every ilk to get
outdoors, the route’s many trailheads and neighborhood access points make it
simple to hop on and off the trail from anywhere in the Valley, with two
notable exceptions: the Spur Cross to Bronco and Bronco to Granite Mountain
segments.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB2qP-98pcM78CWAWk-69YKVfHygVmmLXnYNTlMNQr0PvPtAKBDMeXFs3M4Cawsgdk34hh6dYrvv4DqmMcEED3DvJpbUTbMWMU4fvR0eqHL1xM2xaTNW5CEeIAERHpyB7vD5qW5ozvTCEB5nZuN8fRBKrUxheKaQddbafwaAexkAr2Cxg73fbuyqwqyz_4/s6016/HorizonCraig2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB2qP-98pcM78CWAWk-69YKVfHygVmmLXnYNTlMNQr0PvPtAKBDMeXFs3M4Cawsgdk34hh6dYrvv4DqmMcEED3DvJpbUTbMWMU4fvR0eqHL1xM2xaTNW5CEeIAERHpyB7vD5qW5ozvTCEB5nZuN8fRBKrUxheKaQddbafwaAexkAr2Cxg73fbuyqwqyz_4/s320/HorizonCraig2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Segment 22 of the MT is wide and well signed<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>Where the northernmost
segments of the trail pass through Tonto National Forest, there’s an average of
13 miles between drive up trailheads. And, for seasoned, well-prepared trail
users, that’s where the best stuff resides.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Segment 22 which runs for 16-miles from the north border of Scottsdale’s
McDowell Sonoran Preserve to the Bronco trailhead in Tonto National Forest was
among the last passages to be completed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy34weEpZsrDxTGwkbaauPveB0e21pC-iQ1JDZ-Fo09ci5UYaolgbZLs8N0Aiz0SSmcbmK62jITmAFA1uEbU60vpQ4jr4HGc92hx98waDLAKilKxZEprtvItkHPfC7AKgaXzkN1bXyyRa5boIjHb3Ps5A3xFFGScRRciHWRllk8jqliBnos8IrYiawI9sN/s6016/SaguaroVista37.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy34weEpZsrDxTGwkbaauPveB0e21pC-iQ1JDZ-Fo09ci5UYaolgbZLs8N0Aiz0SSmcbmK62jITmAFA1uEbU60vpQ4jr4HGc92hx98waDLAKilKxZEprtvItkHPfC7AKgaXzkN1bXyyRa5boIjHb3Ps5A3xFFGScRRciHWRllk8jqliBnos8IrYiawI9sN/s320/SaguaroVista37.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The trail heads downhill on brushy foothills<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Rugged terrain, scoured washes, nasty back roads and stubborn rock
contributed the difficulty encountered by trail construction crews. Then, in
September and October 2020, the 15,000+-acre Sears Fire took a toll on several
miles of the segment located roughly 20 miles northeast of Cave Creek. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip8IGjTb1jNnM0XOeB0ZJ2YlQ6rsdLV5f17Q8mBvdOIfCWshRWx7sEzjn0futzRSO-l_RIfjBCKhjrZCv2qtBXrs5Pfb6zuhfTTMNwmPrsMu1NllKeNEuwGOgkolz5AWGXW-BJreWupHp2Pumxyfp-Paz2abL8k0LVhOXDcg7EI_LW7JWdg0qkHjojEGi1/s6016/MountainVista462.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip8IGjTb1jNnM0XOeB0ZJ2YlQ6rsdLV5f17Q8mBvdOIfCWshRWx7sEzjn0futzRSO-l_RIfjBCKhjrZCv2qtBXrs5Pfb6zuhfTTMNwmPrsMu1NllKeNEuwGOgkolz5AWGXW-BJreWupHp2Pumxyfp-Paz2abL8k0LVhOXDcg7EI_LW7JWdg0qkHjojEGi1/s320/MountainVista462.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hazy Mt. Ord (center horizon) viewed from the trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>Within months, work crews restored the damaged
trail, fixing drainages and stabilizing eroded slopes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While the moderately difficult entire
12.6-mile Segment 22 hike can sound intimidating for some, there’s an option
for an out-and-back day hike that includes a visit to one of the Valley’s most
beloved natural wonders.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU_juX8XL7DB0T6h2V3mq_rMH7K73GJVJ7mFcJZSA9QiKUoNTyyjpHMcPivJHcNP0Loz1Gsu9zC-j1mcTnXQLY2eBQEd_8H4bCCC8g0hMNUQvkJUVDOJIygyjd5njhgGW2wjt3zrZdnUzt0o6pjMNM6VSrNUxizGdkbY6IcYEDnlHYCC5UPV-NL6STEklF/s6016/CraigView2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU_juX8XL7DB0T6h2V3mq_rMH7K73GJVJ7mFcJZSA9QiKUoNTyyjpHMcPivJHcNP0Loz1Gsu9zC-j1mcTnXQLY2eBQEd_8H4bCCC8g0hMNUQvkJUVDOJIygyjd5njhgGW2wjt3zrZdnUzt0o6pjMNM6VSrNUxizGdkbY6IcYEDnlHYCC5UPV-NL6STEklF/s320/CraigView2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Morning vista on the Maricopa Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Beginning
along Bartlett Dam Road, Segment 22 heads north through a shadeless expanse of
catclaw and saguaros.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The path briefly
traces a powerline, but then veers east into wash-riddled backcountry with
unobstructed mountain views.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The rocky
domes of Kentuck Mountain (5,013 feet), Maverick Butte (4,870 feet), Humboldt
Mountain (5, 204 feet)and St, Clair Mountain (3,252 feet) populate foreground
with Mount Ord (7,128 feet) and the cloud bumping Mazatzal Range standing high
over the Verde River Basin in the distance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPFBKQ6uvW7Pb1xH-qwXvvKtnIrlYsRDwg76cGkpnyuNs1azAy2mZlu0eReXGGYxYzppt30xi__TvgD0SvqleTtFtAurqupQKlaqs0r5qZyRAjUu7noL0lH3e7_t7veQDTt-PzxJEAcQDF3Fl1b97NdJVP6wlszD4wv2hY4NYh18erCP4ZdwLSmapIsXyZ/s6016/BlueWashEntry419.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPFBKQ6uvW7Pb1xH-qwXvvKtnIrlYsRDwg76cGkpnyuNs1azAy2mZlu0eReXGGYxYzppt30xi__TvgD0SvqleTtFtAurqupQKlaqs0r5qZyRAjUu7noL0lH3e7_t7veQDTt-PzxJEAcQDF3Fl1b97NdJVP6wlszD4wv2hY4NYh18erCP4ZdwLSmapIsXyZ/s320/BlueWashEntry419.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Maricopa Trail crosses sandy Blue Wash<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br />
</span>The trail twists downhill, clinging to foothills and stony edges landing
hikers at the sandy corridor of Blue Wash at the 3.4-mile point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUzTNEf3nZwE_T0pGr3iTxNpnaaBuGQ0HAgZCIe8ZMm3E9gU2l_eE6vTrIzu-Q6RVeOLGUTD4VB9jaqbG7x_srOOTL4SiUpwFTCn3ssyyKcDuK64dlFlVSDskbyXSjY1L7V_37dNtIiDuM4uFyyJc-laxiQulKfrfpXncXwnjQJx72HWyY-m-BhTjmcRhB/s6016/BartletDamRoadSign3.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUzTNEf3nZwE_T0pGr3iTxNpnaaBuGQ0HAgZCIe8ZMm3E9gU2l_eE6vTrIzu-Q6RVeOLGUTD4VB9jaqbG7x_srOOTL4SiUpwFTCn3ssyyKcDuK64dlFlVSDskbyXSjY1L7V_37dNtIiDuM4uFyyJc-laxiQulKfrfpXncXwnjQJx72HWyY-m-BhTjmcRhB/s320/BartletDamRoadSign3.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Where the MT crosses Bartlett Dam Road<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />From a barbed wire and wood gate, an American
flag planted on a prominent knoll with a Fresco Mines claim sign across the
wash marks the beginning of a side trip to Camp Creek Falls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsCSOWmzstWv3zyEkFYJA97pS8w2I1Pp50uPkF2WKkoTPmA7_Zy3V3yVLi05bT-LXpUV9qV1OJ_14Ys2XVegq8nxRyx2XFongkhJiv588PjaQRmwl-WrGcMvz9cO7PfyFroc48q0UcWNVzKcGK1-65WYRh4b1MliyhCaCBMfRx92rvFVRB7dbSVN98hd_n/s6016/BalancedRock.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsCSOWmzstWv3zyEkFYJA97pS8w2I1Pp50uPkF2WKkoTPmA7_Zy3V3yVLi05bT-LXpUV9qV1OJ_14Ys2XVegq8nxRyx2XFongkhJiv588PjaQRmwl-WrGcMvz9cO7PfyFroc48q0UcWNVzKcGK1-65WYRh4b1MliyhCaCBMfRx92rvFVRB7dbSVN98hd_n/s320/BalancedRock.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Interesting rock formations throughout the hike<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The side trip veers left from the Maricopa
Trail and follows the glassy slip of Camp Creek to a box canyon where a
perennial stream of water spills about 20 feet over solid rock into a shallow
plunge pool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Desert waterfalls are rare
enough, but this one in its tiny grotto fringed by cottonwoods, willows and
reeds is a real gem.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwasYS_5oAFt4FfnQjIJmyre2tk1fSqfendYqyrdIfklTzrVg6ktpvNvyUYU12Lj1R4UUHmbyk9GFzeqXVwcedpVaJWiaECaLcaUxiH6EUdMcw4tO1OMS-OPv4yinxpVqwy_EVmwDw4ScJphf3GclfJAD3GVyU6z0iyxssmc5pz0mGcXSSYA1Wi6qkeGJC/s6016/CampCreekCraig414.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwasYS_5oAFt4FfnQjIJmyre2tk1fSqfendYqyrdIfklTzrVg6ktpvNvyUYU12Lj1R4UUHmbyk9GFzeqXVwcedpVaJWiaECaLcaUxiH6EUdMcw4tO1OMS-OPv4yinxpVqwy_EVmwDw4ScJphf3GclfJAD3GVyU6z0iyxssmc5pz0mGcXSSYA1Wi6qkeGJC/s320/CampCreekCraig414.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Camp Creek leads to a desert waterfall<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI1o_6DnSF7a8KPx4ih2FQhccPqIs5QWhR9VrLVksaUhpqK_XTUHbxVlyM8eSyeToPaeX-UROOJ16z0IWVYWL_6-ssAIgRlTvotzl-lSshaHDDCzIe2NZWPVDNwgZuSXiZSYW56Xk-_5UZskweTPr8w1L_zDvvCg7Ak9AwH8DgQxajBdGK3Xe3cyxEZmBm/s6016/BlueWashEntry15.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI1o_6DnSF7a8KPx4ih2FQhccPqIs5QWhR9VrLVksaUhpqK_XTUHbxVlyM8eSyeToPaeX-UROOJ16z0IWVYWL_6-ssAIgRlTvotzl-lSshaHDDCzIe2NZWPVDNwgZuSXiZSYW56Xk-_5UZskweTPr8w1L_zDvvCg7Ak9AwH8DgQxajBdGK3Xe3cyxEZmBm/s320/BlueWashEntry15.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flag (center) on knoll marks the falls side trip<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>The spring-fed
fount is a critical water source for the deer, javelina and myriad little
critters that live in the surrounding desert and makes for a scenic stop over
for both long-distance treks and short day hikes on the Maricopa Trail. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii_RjPm8F_Kif40NERU-AxXNE5ocXSvQjomL7KSEesbEWZn69UakE55wybgVt3cNl9hd8i6D9zk6TunXATPdfPbZKXQOx8zUChwC_S1ONjfN2CxhbUTWqhyphenhyphenL9iUV68n5OmKyu2PxRPmw8DTJPNLufY7KKdaYajTbPztefK_j-vbOi7Vinl3ywX4ClNZ7rG/s6016/CampCreekFallsClose99.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii_RjPm8F_Kif40NERU-AxXNE5ocXSvQjomL7KSEesbEWZn69UakE55wybgVt3cNl9hd8i6D9zk6TunXATPdfPbZKXQOx8zUChwC_S1ONjfN2CxhbUTWqhyphenhyphenL9iUV68n5OmKyu2PxRPmw8DTJPNLufY7KKdaYajTbPztefK_j-vbOi7Vinl3ywX4ClNZ7rG/s320/CampCreekFallsClose99.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The spring-fed waters of Camp Creek Falls<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>SUPPORT
THE TRAIL:</b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji-U9rDGJxy8PExQpEbNPiLxOX23W-82yuXm2GijlvWQDgIl_ECHZRnI5xAzekRjMNQvxxjgeSFwd0v33U7ODoSpx02gUGF1jUOvwKQ_SmQs2jriHYu5FNbMMznVNH8IOD2mlqwQM3OuKbean5mUWCHXQE87VZw_IrQq_fYCOIbZlKuPMEJd6VFT7-v9AQ/s3300/PricklyPedal2024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3300" data-original-width="2550" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji-U9rDGJxy8PExQpEbNPiLxOX23W-82yuXm2GijlvWQDgIl_ECHZRnI5xAzekRjMNQvxxjgeSFwd0v33U7ODoSpx02gUGF1jUOvwKQ_SmQs2jriHYu5FNbMMznVNH8IOD2mlqwQM3OuKbean5mUWCHXQE87VZw_IrQq_fYCOIbZlKuPMEJd6VFT7-v9AQ/s320/PricklyPedal2024.jpg" width="247" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b><br /></b></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">If this
wild and wonderful segment of the Maricopa Trail has inspired you, please
consider supporting the effort by attending the <b>Prickly Pedal Bike Race</b>, the
trail’s main fund-raising event.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Prickly
Pedal on the Maricopa Trail will run 36 miles from Cave Creek to Lake Pleasant
in Peoria.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">The annual
event is produced by Aravaipa Rides to benefit the Maricopa Trail + Park
Foundation which funds trail building and maintenance projects.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Heads up
that trail closures will be in effect along the racecourse. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>RACE:</b> 8:30
(pre-registration required)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>EXPO &
AFTER PARTY:</b> 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Public is
invited to enjoy the finish line party with beer garden, exhibitors, music, and
fun.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="https://pricklypedal.com/">https://pricklypedal.com/</a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>LENGTH:</b> 7
miles round trip, out-and back to the falls</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>RATING:</b>
moderate</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>ELEVATION:</b>
2,833 – 3,303 feet (793 feet of elevation change)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>GETTING THERE:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">SOUTH
TRAILHEAD </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">BARTLETT
DAM ROAD-WILDCAT HILL OHV PARKING:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">From Loop
101 in Scottsdale, take the Pima/Princess Drive exit 36 and go 13 miles north
on Pima and turn right on Cave Creek Road.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Continue 4.1 miles to Bartlett Dam Road, turn right and go 0.4-mile to a
dirt road on the right 0.1-mile past the Tonto National Forest ranger
station.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Turn right and park along the
dirt turn outs. Follow the Maricopa Trail signs to cross Bartlett Dam Road and
continue north. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">TONTO
NATIONAL FOREST CAVE CREEK RANGER STATION:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">40202 N.
Cave Creek Road, Scottsdale.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">May be
closed on weekends and holidays.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Use the
0.2-mile connector that starts at the big Maricopa Trail kiosk. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>INFO &
MAPS:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="https://www.maricopacountyparks.net/park-locator/maricopa-trail/">https://www.maricopacountyparks.net/park-locator/maricopa-trail/</a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
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{page:WordSection1;}</style></p>Marehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15128367085408432589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3360001322242903715.post-71570958253017364152023-11-27T13:12:00.000-08:002023-12-20T09:26:44.418-08:00Cloudburst-Cone Mountain Loop<p>
</p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>CLOUDBURST-CONE
MOUNTAIN LOOP</b></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb6woE9kk_f4yBIY0t-xGb1Acc7fK-yhC3ZV4Ow6SvKZUhXtD30sJ7VX6GUoZTzYSc6n0aAfRqG4axLCCNN3GFFWizr5-S-K2RS6mHxjG2xlrDYh743sgywK_DxnmQ6ASJuebcVetUKkb4KRZ-vM9Rl4Gr0cZFZT2lJu2psLkhkbmcqppyZxSiEv5M9_1l/s6016/CloudburstSaguaroMtns.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb6woE9kk_f4yBIY0t-xGb1Acc7fK-yhC3ZV4Ow6SvKZUhXtD30sJ7VX6GUoZTzYSc6n0aAfRqG4axLCCNN3GFFWizr5-S-K2RS6mHxjG2xlrDYh743sgywK_DxnmQ6ASJuebcVetUKkb4KRZ-vM9Rl4Gr0cZFZT2lJu2psLkhkbmcqppyZxSiEv5M9_1l/s320/CloudburstSaguaroMtns.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Storm view from the Cloudburst trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b><br /></b></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b><span style="color: red;">IMPORTANT NOTE: Please stay off wet trails to avoid damaging them. These photos were taken before the storms hit --on dry trails. </span></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b> </b>Funny
thing about mountains; they’re rain makers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The phenomenon isn’t unusual or magic, it’s something called orographic
precipitation which is basically rain produced when warm moist air rises and
cools over mountain ranges.</span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4TEQjc4EIQg7VPLVPUh8pZ4g-et-iTC7H13M6QPlTmv7d6ro-fuNon1GrqyZZ_WDI8tKBV2fV9-C77NhybC1_EnTEDwDb-gwEexJKSym7BfzYV2RqRHgEhGjVrAFxWamgFHo0lZ925GZvKrRUxoL_ZZE1wnYAqFiQYTdpsGd8n6z4Ksa34w_s67WIfewq/s6016/ConeMtnBoulders5.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4TEQjc4EIQg7VPLVPUh8pZ4g-et-iTC7H13M6QPlTmv7d6ro-fuNon1GrqyZZ_WDI8tKBV2fV9-C77NhybC1_EnTEDwDb-gwEexJKSym7BfzYV2RqRHgEhGjVrAFxWamgFHo0lZ925GZvKrRUxoL_ZZE1wnYAqFiQYTdpsGd8n6z4Ksa34w_s67WIfewq/s320/ConeMtnBoulders5.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Granite boulders on the Cone Mountain trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /> The process is fascinating to watch, it rolls out
as if trapped in a sort of real-time time-lapse. Clouds rapidly build over
peaks to the break point when they drop their payloads. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOskTEy8Kikl9Y8r0zlMF4IgDC4c98dVJlKEW5dQhVdRIhRdxdbSLua66UKDcg2jhLRMSSUD8gsvkuMWxQQIjMmQzm6Z_aj4CLu8q6M8DNCArrP5GLZqRSmKyNdkXTjMwxtLuGzM33UsMffBzv-WP4MzO-KO6eeUiGFQy48FtbbkR8AfK8xcTaymj33s4J/s6016/HackamoreGranite7.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOskTEy8Kikl9Y8r0zlMF4IgDC4c98dVJlKEW5dQhVdRIhRdxdbSLua66UKDcg2jhLRMSSUD8gsvkuMWxQQIjMmQzm6Z_aj4CLu8q6M8DNCArrP5GLZqRSmKyNdkXTjMwxtLuGzM33UsMffBzv-WP4MzO-KO6eeUiGFQy48FtbbkR8AfK8xcTaymj33s4J/s320/HackamoreGranite7.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Granite sculpture on the Hackamore trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />This amazing weather event is easily observed in
the mountain ranges that circle the Valley where the massif-borne rain flows down
foothills into ephemeral streams and washes in gentle sheets or roiling deluges.
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjftWcunz_qBWQOwZo2LoPKlV5KiYI-Jzdb0bKiwnpEQeLT8w2Vz97g8x46fTbtT6Jan-GYBCEAXwwiKCpu81-kFUpE1dSBl0XPdGUIIkN-tXX-yLoBNxXyxw5wd8sQvNtORxUKmBjAD_X9ZzLNYYDlZeJUrIUXEs052sMU_1VLFDX2C4vb7uuLHb385iu1/s6016/CloudburstCholla.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjftWcunz_qBWQOwZo2LoPKlV5KiYI-Jzdb0bKiwnpEQeLT8w2Vz97g8x46fTbtT6Jan-GYBCEAXwwiKCpu81-kFUpE1dSBl0XPdGUIIkN-tXX-yLoBNxXyxw5wd8sQvNtORxUKmBjAD_X9ZzLNYYDlZeJUrIUXEs052sMU_1VLFDX2C4vb7uuLHb385iu1/s320/CloudburstCholla.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Storm brewing over the Cloudburst trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>Higher elevations around the Valley like
in North Scottsdale and Cave Creek where mountains reach to a cloud-summoning 4,000+feet
get the lion’s share of water. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtjGda804l8pX17_J-8vr4k1ZQ6ZKrG6M83k8BsVTkDqLmZFEX0noNM1x-N4EWlL9IIeoPktsyt5q83Knyhs8ybWnBAdk0g8xA7SES7ji29D024ZLhoh4zFqeV-mRGMmXW-59sv-IWd3rgVBF5u2oEiZsoZtZFDSRW42wJc4ogZgLHy4DRx8DjqbNOVyjg/s6016/JunctionSign11.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtjGda804l8pX17_J-8vr4k1ZQ6ZKrG6M83k8BsVTkDqLmZFEX0noNM1x-N4EWlL9IIeoPktsyt5q83Knyhs8ybWnBAdk0g8xA7SES7ji29D024ZLhoh4zFqeV-mRGMmXW-59sv-IWd3rgVBF5u2oEiZsoZtZFDSRW42wJc4ogZgLHy4DRx8DjqbNOVyjg/s320/JunctionSign11.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Preserve trails are well marked and maintained<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </span>Phoenix
gets the dregs. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While Phoenix is situated
at around 1,100 feet, north Valley locations like Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran
Preserve rise to over 2,500 feet, and that makes all the difference in terms of
taking the edge off city heat islands and soaking up residual mountain rain. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWcyTefJTpQ1DFnhjR4FVhzhXa2zwXZcb0u2n1uyBwRpfSHl-9upUFLbY6BnbwlsmnzsNi5woRqdnI7QLxJi0R9z3rMjlJjoRlm7bu4BRvtWYRaeDylgIcPB0tPu9NOLNYkgdF15fQAKgrbkGl0J_MmFYN6zIFtXTFEvEtmg5cdCf_jWp7tGFEa4UT4HEi/s6016/UpperRanchCholla40.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWcyTefJTpQ1DFnhjR4FVhzhXa2zwXZcb0u2n1uyBwRpfSHl-9upUFLbY6BnbwlsmnzsNi5woRqdnI7QLxJi0R9z3rMjlJjoRlm7bu4BRvtWYRaeDylgIcPB0tPu9NOLNYkgdF15fQAKgrbkGl0J_MmFYN6zIFtXTFEvEtmg5cdCf_jWp7tGFEa4UT4HEi/s320/UpperRanchCholla40.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brown's Mountain viewed from Upper Ranch trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The extra height also accounts for the occasional
coating of winter snow that frosts saguaros in picture postcard splendor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The fascinating workings of elevation and
mountains on the desert landscape beg to be ogled, and the Cloudburst Trail
feels like a purpose-built platform for the mission. </span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">The aptly
named hiking trail in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve gives front-row-style
access to the spectacle of rain-making mountains in action.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXHKIc1NHH5qbL7dFNj6krgCuX9WH73MNi4-HCBQmhXh-Iy7_4kQ63mZP8cmRhfWCmOi5kcZXmd6nHmbSCBdAl8QS24TFmTGtDfE1ZjLIrNtBGb3nrDpNhW9vh9leQO8jNKXw_rZ-8g04tHLKzjQYNVdZ-a20ClxZFv5SeqAEDBNJhEEqBPEannRhUdPnr/s6016/UpperRanchBoulders2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXHKIc1NHH5qbL7dFNj6krgCuX9WH73MNi4-HCBQmhXh-Iy7_4kQ63mZP8cmRhfWCmOi5kcZXmd6nHmbSCBdAl8QS24TFmTGtDfE1ZjLIrNtBGb3nrDpNhW9vh9leQO8jNKXw_rZ-8g04tHLKzjQYNVdZ-a20ClxZFv5SeqAEDBNJhEEqBPEannRhUdPnr/s320/UpperRanchBoulders2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early morning sun on Upper Ranch trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /> </span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">The
0.9-mile trail coils along the base of 3,061-foot Cone Mountain with flat
topped Brown’s Mountain standing at 3,253 feet high to the east.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The twisting singletrack in the preserve’s
north region overlooks a gorgeous expanse of desert that abuts the hilly
terrain of Tonto National Forest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguJj79ZJwSwSJFlQqZlzAUiCGNhm0yrfUzd3WyRj5Yvt3QfxA_lojxMFWXuBTaNmWd1idPP5_tuBR-maiHQclRvkb4GsyThP635NepGQvmQUK_QdW-W2YXAXi9lgAAGApX1IZWOZzKbv0aaM2pZoxR0m82o6czmIRYgF5aKD9wQFA_1KahYNtsqH_H2LnQ/s6016/CloudburstSaguaroSun4.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguJj79ZJwSwSJFlQqZlzAUiCGNhm0yrfUzd3WyRj5Yvt3QfxA_lojxMFWXuBTaNmWd1idPP5_tuBR-maiHQclRvkb4GsyThP635NepGQvmQUK_QdW-W2YXAXi9lgAAGApX1IZWOZzKbv0aaM2pZoxR0m82o6czmIRYgF5aKD9wQFA_1KahYNtsqH_H2LnQ/s320/CloudburstSaguaroSun4.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stunning skyscape on the Cloudburst trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /> </span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">There are
numerous ways to access the route but using it as leg in a loop around Cone
Mountain adds panoramic vistas and interesting geology to the mix. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Maps
available online and at the trailhead show multiple ways to weave the Cloudburst
trail into a day hike.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ6q9uFHIg014Vpa1iSCuDj_d7r0q7IRiowDtomTflYLb39e2kuYZuSs-r7YWWGqP4Oe-tuEcRW4dLrKtX57gFJ43xjF38cigiad79lDrQJvuCey6TskHZnlw2ItH6R2lczCpqDqVOcLRY5PlLfrK2JJpo1-dpuNE2H78d3ohPZPqRecvRutfxHEd8jpIj/s6016/CloudburstSaguaroValley2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ6q9uFHIg014Vpa1iSCuDj_d7r0q7IRiowDtomTflYLb39e2kuYZuSs-r7YWWGqP4Oe-tuEcRW4dLrKtX57gFJ43xjF38cigiad79lDrQJvuCey6TskHZnlw2ItH6R2lczCpqDqVOcLRY5PlLfrK2JJpo1-dpuNE2H78d3ohPZPqRecvRutfxHEd8jpIj/s320/CloudburstSaguaroValley2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unobstructed views on the Cloudburst trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br />One option is to
create a loop hike using Upper Ranch, Cone Mountain, Hawksnest, and West
Express trails for a moderate 5.3-mile trek.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Each leg of the route works a different facet of the preserve’s many
characters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The West Express and
Hackamore trails bump up against bizarre granite formations and cross paths
with powerlines that oddly mimic wiry tendrils of ocotillo cactus. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfLjkjCXL7xAK9qGeZdJrOm4747kLSkeuykfSLMDh79j6gzLy-fABGjGArgTyuEL1VOcVDA4ougkFB3ixpaG1B8JifEgQZ9dBirAPu-TA1OCt3f1eCHa106ZWNXE_RntpnynuAxzsfpBKvMx7mGEBr8N-3Mng7XNitJQJvewNYF83c7FhzW60DduhKX_bP/s6016/UpperRanchConeMtn.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfLjkjCXL7xAK9qGeZdJrOm4747kLSkeuykfSLMDh79j6gzLy-fABGjGArgTyuEL1VOcVDA4ougkFB3ixpaG1B8JifEgQZ9dBirAPu-TA1OCt3f1eCHa106ZWNXE_RntpnynuAxzsfpBKvMx7mGEBr8N-3Mng7XNitJQJvewNYF83c7FhzW60DduhKX_bP/s320/UpperRanchConeMtn.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loop hike circles Cone Mountain <br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The Upper
Ranch and Cone Mountain trails showcase the preserve’s two distinct peaks and
views of iconic Pinnacle Peak and western ranges.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy-40Y2I3O8WWDdA03VdezGyhoeLR0vxdQVsiOrRAePaFOoNKMtcw9LipJhR367iUuHn13P74dEGiMtQJ-eakJ3fhGH94esyo4ib4sEikHRnGIFp8pXlYrA6KzwB430Qc14-MAJOCmEXQvEGJYXy-KS3mDuujGAaTEzA3xrsC-txmJTSZiuQ2m1moDCA-9/s6016/ConeMtnValley11.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy-40Y2I3O8WWDdA03VdezGyhoeLR0vxdQVsiOrRAePaFOoNKMtcw9LipJhR367iUuHn13P74dEGiMtQJ-eakJ3fhGH94esyo4ib4sEikHRnGIFp8pXlYrA6KzwB430Qc14-MAJOCmEXQvEGJYXy-KS3mDuujGAaTEzA3xrsC-txmJTSZiuQ2m1moDCA-9/s320/ConeMtnValley11.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking west from Cone Mountain trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />But, on days when rain is in the forecast, it’s
Cloudburst that outdoes itself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Traversing
a shelf-like edge hanging over acres of saguaros, the trail has unobstructed
views of churning clouds rising among layers of misted ridges and peaks.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHpugIOyKgDlWOMx1F7Ki12gvgoIUc9nAFaYjGM-AwUEy8RMm73rqN0m4C6SdPLRs2EsuIb9yrgZ4kzoX73AnBro6hzfnpjTCyvYTYg0OE2CIKLL8Yw1icXzLM4_mZn9-KrSFWydFI8q3l-RuXNiS1p52KSKV6IhxeWPc-UVMNL0sFITS5P7d4_y9c1d2n/s6016/WestExpressPowerline2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHpugIOyKgDlWOMx1F7Ki12gvgoIUc9nAFaYjGM-AwUEy8RMm73rqN0m4C6SdPLRs2EsuIb9yrgZ4kzoX73AnBro6hzfnpjTCyvYTYg0OE2CIKLL8Yw1icXzLM4_mZn9-KrSFWydFI8q3l-RuXNiS1p52KSKV6IhxeWPc-UVMNL0sFITS5P7d4_y9c1d2n/s320/WestExpressPowerline2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Powerlines flank the West Express trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">The route
is easy to pick out or customize using maps available online or at the trailhead.
Here’s one option. From the Brown’s Ranch trailhead, begins with a short walk
on Brown’s Ranch Road to the Upper Ranch Trail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Follow Upper Ranch 1.2 miles to emergency marker UR5 and turn left at
the Cone Mountain connector.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /> </span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2gx06oW-s_vCTDJByCHy4U3HO69fvsUho1R5qFJR_4VetM-sN7xGUKcfbnEOPmp3YyCD67__EXp-Fx3lp7ppxbcMurGIhbkgiZtrS6JYw6AMVds3SSgTodfmEaHOLmAJeuy2nPM0aq5-k3bKcpxb0OYQAwkm68UM8bF_w-fHNUYyBylECEvDmPhsLkGZe/s6016/UpperRanchSaguaroRidge29.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2gx06oW-s_vCTDJByCHy4U3HO69fvsUho1R5qFJR_4VetM-sN7xGUKcfbnEOPmp3YyCD67__EXp-Fx3lp7ppxbcMurGIhbkgiZtrS6JYw6AMVds3SSgTodfmEaHOLmAJeuy2nPM0aq5-k3bKcpxb0OYQAwkm68UM8bF_w-fHNUYyBylECEvDmPhsLkGZe/s320/UpperRanchSaguaroRidge29.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gathering storm on Upper Ranch trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /> </span>Hike
0.2-mile, turn right onto Cloudburst at emergency marker CN3. Follow Cloudburst
to emergency marker HW33 and continue 0.1-mile to West Express at emergency
marker HW35. Follow West Express 0.4-mile to emergency marker WE17 and turn
onto Hackamore. Follow Hackamore to the Cone Mountain junction at CN5, hike back
to Upper Ranch and backtrack to the trailhead. </span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>CHEAT
SHEET emergency marker breadcrumbs:</b> TRAILHEAD, UR1, UR2, UR3, UR4, UR5, CN3,
HW33, HW35, WE17, HT3, CN5, UR4, UR3, UR1, TRAILHEAD.</span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-h2M-iWw001oc6VLOeSlcVh1xX3elN1Zp52DC3jKT3f0YxHs6Qq3stzIm7Gj1RnSGp64903Ts8_7uzcBz2KvYynGrb7D4eGaH2MNWE-EsDKOlq2aVnYyiZlluG4al7KBp4yb3ni4si64SqvsdmE9rrUrdvZ47XKi2HsXmdqOBY0wAMTCjZVvPSnNUaUOi/s6016/RainRefrainSign2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-h2M-iWw001oc6VLOeSlcVh1xX3elN1Zp52DC3jKT3f0YxHs6Qq3stzIm7Gj1RnSGp64903Ts8_7uzcBz2KvYynGrb7D4eGaH2MNWE-EsDKOlq2aVnYyiZlluG4al7KBp4yb3ni4si64SqvsdmE9rrUrdvZ47XKi2HsXmdqOBY0wAMTCjZVvPSnNUaUOi/s320/RainRefrainSign2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">REMINDER: Please stay off wet trails.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>LENGTH:</b>
5.3 miles</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>RATING:</b>
moderate</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>ELEVATION:</b>
2,508 – 2,713 feet</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>GETTING
THERE:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Brown’s
Ranch Trailhead</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">30301 N.
Alma School Pkwy., Scottsdale.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">From Loop
101 in Scottsdale, take the Pima/Princess exit 36 and go 6.5 miles north on
Pima to Dynamite Road.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Turn right and
continue 2.7 miles to Alma School Pkwy., turn left and drive 1 mile to the
trailhead. The preserve is open sunrise to sunset daily. There are restrooms at
the trailhead.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>INFO:</b><br />
McDowell Sonoran Preserve</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="https://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/preserve">https://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/preserve</a></span></p>
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{page:WordSection1;}</style> <br /></p>Marehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15128367085408432589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3360001322242903715.post-36804053734860896272023-11-14T07:18:00.000-08:002023-11-14T08:47:06.438-08:00Black Canyon Trail: Biscuit Flat Segment<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">BLACK
CANYON NATIONAL RECREATION TRAIL:</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">BISCUIT
FLAT SEGMENT</span></b></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdagiNfbdwyFUGHRKH8Ma7Z5N-KsVoWSCkKZA4LdlTA0QQ254yTerqhZWluPh4-4BwDq4MwPh69b44sCw-vUlmwAJoOzmG57pCoGzS-ABQ9Kqeq5KrFvj-LiNKf5W9mQX0-TR2I4_pP-b5tDdPiZqnxsedHyPV-YiwwH3XzW5OhYVqU9yNr9wksxVxIYL0/s6016/BurrosClose.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdagiNfbdwyFUGHRKH8Ma7Z5N-KsVoWSCkKZA4LdlTA0QQ254yTerqhZWluPh4-4BwDq4MwPh69b44sCw-vUlmwAJoOzmG57pCoGzS-ABQ9Kqeq5KrFvj-LiNKf5W9mQX0-TR2I4_pP-b5tDdPiZqnxsedHyPV-YiwwH3XzW5OhYVqU9yNr9wksxVxIYL0/s320/BurrosClose.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wild burros on Biscuit Flat<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Wild burros
make lots of tracks--and lots of little burros.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>That’s a concern for hikers and land managers because overpopulation can
lead to problems like overgrazing, negative impacts on native wildlife, and
public safety issues around roadways.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS7cHPMtI2uprux_9TyWXSlrSG_zdEmapMIoR_xhOtsCvXsI7Makeqm37Jz_MxOA8NPT9A3CMR2_wa1MhxzQ60k2Pzxr8mAOqYegLT4X6r1F-hrcbwGt4iTjqZwbIELkmRJFlfnIJMLXya3OhRc2460aOC3VkDHVX6ZS6pPmOVavyzIihExto165sAyDm2/s6016/SaguarosNewRiverMesa1.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS7cHPMtI2uprux_9TyWXSlrSG_zdEmapMIoR_xhOtsCvXsI7Makeqm37Jz_MxOA8NPT9A3CMR2_wa1MhxzQ60k2Pzxr8mAOqYegLT4X6r1F-hrcbwGt4iTjqZwbIELkmRJFlfnIJMLXya3OhRc2460aOC3VkDHVX6ZS6pPmOVavyzIihExto165sAyDm2/s320/SaguarosNewRiverMesa1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New River Mesa viewed from Biscuit Flat<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /> </span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">With few natural
predators and a law that protects them from human hunters, the sturdy African imports
that are the descendants of escaped or released pack beasts used by the military,
ranchers, Spanish explorers, and miners dating back to the 1500s, the herds can
become hordes. </span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigwtPAA90Kf_La0B3sTtFCEW8TlDSVCK8uJ_5V05DxArP8-CCHPioV58kPti_u4VmOe0L8MCt7WCFvTlJFV13iukMk_ANZmg5Hj91xJeGoDstyL6lDtlxnk_qr3S-DZKvYdnMPUCmL4EU0v7ceujpckt4_iiqizwDgMaXQPDqw4zBVQ2iHcd0l7xNMFXpB/s6016/TwoTrackCholla6.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigwtPAA90Kf_La0B3sTtFCEW8TlDSVCK8uJ_5V05DxArP8-CCHPioV58kPti_u4VmOe0L8MCt7WCFvTlJFV13iukMk_ANZmg5Hj91xJeGoDstyL6lDtlxnk_qr3S-DZKvYdnMPUCmL4EU0v7ceujpckt4_iiqizwDgMaXQPDqw4zBVQ2iHcd0l7xNMFXpB/s320/TwoTrackCholla6.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The route follows single and double track paths<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">The free-roaming,
prolific breeders adapted to the Sonoran Desert and other areas in the Western
states. Herds quickly grew to the point where they exceed the land’s capacity
to support them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The 1971 Wild-Free
Roaming Horses and Burros Act states that the Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
and the U.S. Forest Service are responsible for managing and protecting herds
and their rangelands as “living symbols of the historic and pioneer spirit of the
West.” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh82XI5dnSR1rdhkZcd__wY204wUA1K0FeMXL6xe2mYttFfIHLmjer6e9es0dnupwJHKt0f2sFrek5KYlTKn3daFvF4f97e41vbDnUCBFcAF_fkgMYX4nL6C-UJHmefuLntPHFO3meU2iMWWiyfFlfuuQrB3V3gxNKDZeLbtpJT_97z7bDJjDTRDQouxLtp/s6016/BurrosTrailCross8.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh82XI5dnSR1rdhkZcd__wY204wUA1K0FeMXL6xe2mYttFfIHLmjer6e9es0dnupwJHKt0f2sFrek5KYlTKn3daFvF4f97e41vbDnUCBFcAF_fkgMYX4nL6C-UJHmefuLntPHFO3meU2iMWWiyfFlfuuQrB3V3gxNKDZeLbtpJT_97z7bDJjDTRDQouxLtp/s320/BurrosTrailCross8.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wild burros cross the Black Canyon NRT<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span>To thin the herds and maintain their
health here in Arizona, the BLM uses fertility control and vaccine programs
along with periodic “gathers” where burros are helicoptered out of congested public
lands and either put up for adoption or transferred to Midwest off-range private
pastures where they are taken care of for the rest of their lives.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFddtppR0onHbMxo6NrlPBGhW351d4ImqXkPzN_X6TDx0sStwlGQDPgBUR-3_MQStCGJaTT9YsW7WKY1JKtB4OzpLO-9vk71Xuln_BJy7MoTbeECC_D5auyBLTsjlDEWtOLb1xZfPevdBqSFJYugncEJhAZy4KZ-AG_01heMMle7kkKJrElHAHfH9OGOey/s6016/LoneSaguaro0.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFddtppR0onHbMxo6NrlPBGhW351d4ImqXkPzN_X6TDx0sStwlGQDPgBUR-3_MQStCGJaTT9YsW7WKY1JKtB4OzpLO-9vk71Xuln_BJy7MoTbeECC_D5auyBLTsjlDEWtOLb1xZfPevdBqSFJYugncEJhAZy4KZ-AG_01heMMle7kkKJrElHAHfH9OGOey/s320/LoneSaguaro0.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Biscuit Flat is surrounded by mountains<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4IZQLpN_CWP3yKo7MU9rdqx1_bK1AtbeBuO7bKf8VLyPaYJYM_r9zAydTwps4Y78HMYiqw5fSCXEYqMHuvXhoJ7kIcN1g-J9c9C64jazDqdB1QDnepOPg05WUvp-SwUFmbZ-uTmAUal8XtkTa0F8zZfJ6pmHEAkMdod0KNlQjU9COSeOj9Iok9HdDoziS/s6016/ChollaTrail65.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4IZQLpN_CWP3yKo7MU9rdqx1_bK1AtbeBuO7bKf8VLyPaYJYM_r9zAydTwps4Y78HMYiqw5fSCXEYqMHuvXhoJ7kIcN1g-J9c9C64jazDqdB1QDnepOPg05WUvp-SwUFmbZ-uTmAUal8XtkTa0F8zZfJ6pmHEAkMdod0KNlQjU9COSeOj9Iok9HdDoziS/s320/ChollaTrail65.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cholla line the Black Canyon NRT<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">The four-legged
“spirits of the West” can be observed wandering in several Arizona ranges
including the Lake Pleasant Herd Management Area, a 103,000-acre space located
25 miles northwest of Phoenix. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Biscuit
Flat segment of the Black Canyon National Recreation Trail provides non-motorized
access into the heart of burro country.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhMguC4H3zIR52dBC_lNEYkChMJpoLAiPtQgJoqoo60zIF_q5lI3q1dxG2-x6m4meSIb3qD63rws0PZlCaetLGIv9fu10PJVdZjd8Uz_iHXgLbfkxCeho_3Pdi1iBD0oh_9l2-dT0nZIOZss5iwOOU8ouAm9Zp_Eg6rtYTmwIDyd0c3RoxIUbBIKgPQcIZ/s6016/SandyTrail5.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhMguC4H3zIR52dBC_lNEYkChMJpoLAiPtQgJoqoo60zIF_q5lI3q1dxG2-x6m4meSIb3qD63rws0PZlCaetLGIv9fu10PJVdZjd8Uz_iHXgLbfkxCeho_3Pdi1iBD0oh_9l2-dT0nZIOZss5iwOOU8ouAm9Zp_Eg6rtYTmwIDyd0c3RoxIUbBIKgPQcIZ/s320/SandyTrail5.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sandy floodplain of New River<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /> </span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Like the
burros that average 400 pounds and 48-inches high, the roughly 100-mile-long historic
trail is very much a spirit of Western heritage.</span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4aaH3Ersn1S3JtBy9ASTbMNXnDvyy1bUlqq9iRmyZEgI_hnA7psJ76wnywCTthGj74qETshvDLHWDIlP8L5MLu4j3BwxfU0i87eos9g8f7K2wLe0DTm6f1caz1ViRFScS2mbd2xxwFN10YoO8LNGaazlNU1oWfR67kYoXH3K8ja68Y8uQJusLej8okigt/s6016/NewRiverCrossSignBird2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4aaH3Ersn1S3JtBy9ASTbMNXnDvyy1bUlqq9iRmyZEgI_hnA7psJ76wnywCTthGj74qETshvDLHWDIlP8L5MLu4j3BwxfU0i87eos9g8f7K2wLe0DTm6f1caz1ViRFScS2mbd2xxwFN10YoO8LNGaazlNU1oWfR67kYoXH3K8ja68Y8uQJusLej8okigt/s320/NewRiverCrossSignBird2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A cactus wren alights on a BCT sign post<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">It runs
from Carefree Highway in Phoenix to the Town of Mayer and has recently been
extended into the Verde Valley with new construction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Following a mashup of ancient travel corridors,
wagon roads and livestock tracks that pre-date Interstate 17, the route traverses
mountain passes, valleys, sprawling rangelands, defunct mining operations and heritage
sites that date back thousands of years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The 5.9-mile Biscuit Flat segment is, well--flat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3NQnagdxF8M6wV4B9IC1AFkAAlynBarl7-KbFKNvq6jJXEyJAK_-CEfnRi_iCA4iR-O-PwxZikWcWechr3bgWi9C90TNXifbv8kyBB094fyziw9m9-Ay6c5hMp8uG5Z5ytbtC_eRZx9DwR_cDjSGqbHU9Ws-94LdSxL1RWQ3OixhLnF9rRM_FJAnCWBx5/s6016/NewRiverCrossSign37.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3NQnagdxF8M6wV4B9IC1AFkAAlynBarl7-KbFKNvq6jJXEyJAK_-CEfnRi_iCA4iR-O-PwxZikWcWechr3bgWi9C90TNXifbv8kyBB094fyziw9m9-Ay6c5hMp8uG5Z5ytbtC_eRZx9DwR_cDjSGqbHU9Ws-94LdSxL1RWQ3OixhLnF9rRM_FJAnCWBx5/s320/NewRiverCrossSign37.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Signs guide hikers through the New River channel<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span>It’s the first stretch of the route that
begins at Carefree Highway and makes a straight shot north to the Emery
Henderson trailhead on New River Road just 3 miles west of Interstate 17. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmIYPs-GkoxoX-oGYzeZNzCu_nrh5QqX5MhKxDjQ8HGrWFFI1_HHArDNW8XGCEod0-mGjNzsd1dhBZ7tiZNC3ySHswLGbAPQcWM9bctqZpoJZmpG86KsYzNyxIT-gDl3apUjQ60HpFL_6uwgR1Yx9BTmHQ5_0f4n-xixIEJB001oN02TCUR1lXQS-35aNZ/s6016/NewRiverCrossSign38.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmIYPs-GkoxoX-oGYzeZNzCu_nrh5QqX5MhKxDjQ8HGrWFFI1_HHArDNW8XGCEod0-mGjNzsd1dhBZ7tiZNC3ySHswLGbAPQcWM9bctqZpoJZmpG86KsYzNyxIT-gDl3apUjQ60HpFL_6uwgR1Yx9BTmHQ5_0f4n-xixIEJB001oN02TCUR1lXQS-35aNZ/s320/NewRiverCrossSign38.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crossing the New River channel<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </span>The utterly pancake-level expanse registers
like a mood board for a Martian landscape--that is if Mars had cactus,
creosote and an ephemeral river running through it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Resembling images sent back from Mars
landers, the place is a massive basin surround by volcanic mountain ranges. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNEiJDqyrREl8Ar9N61Sx4_Eccdy9z_tqmgc2dPUrq3YCBHm5HZcI6buSsAN5NUnQ20e0HoJCcaLcuviBKr6xoTYkFhITJcflIi0X3ZycPrjnhBBwMMyMHkvL63uhyphenhyphenUC8LrTOfKaiFfFAnwADyLfjiGUcsxj13pCTmC-8eDUdufIkTlvnQR0h7mPSe-iX2/s6016/GavilanPeak2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNEiJDqyrREl8Ar9N61Sx4_Eccdy9z_tqmgc2dPUrq3YCBHm5HZcI6buSsAN5NUnQ20e0HoJCcaLcuviBKr6xoTYkFhITJcflIi0X3ZycPrjnhBBwMMyMHkvL63uhyphenhyphenUC8LrTOfKaiFfFAnwADyLfjiGUcsxj13pCTmC-8eDUdufIkTlvnQR0h7mPSe-iX2/s320/GavilanPeak2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gavilan Peak (2,980 feet) on near horizon<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">The thorny
plain is dressed in scuffed shades of green muddled with dusty earth and course,
dried forbs. Like the Native inhabitants and pioneers that wandered through,
this place cut its teeth on surviving in the unforgiving spillway of a desert
river. </span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKaSAFppVmmqD7fO0NdjB60rv-l_fP1G81QoaZzwYJhXPsl7fv9HZe7BLIb6q2FHJEmureHGcCmhFrKFLB0LFSTZHPB4MooDcdV2i-5UwuxBk3x_LGmqn8i9nVb72KPWVcAQ_DHkES1LfoxIMYvwl5g1zxuGjJw8mTRIaSC1slt9cSRPiEEhdD2wHmFjm0/s6016/NewRiverGateSign.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKaSAFppVmmqD7fO0NdjB60rv-l_fP1G81QoaZzwYJhXPsl7fv9HZe7BLIb6q2FHJEmureHGcCmhFrKFLB0LFSTZHPB4MooDcdV2i-5UwuxBk3x_LGmqn8i9nVb72KPWVcAQ_DHkES1LfoxIMYvwl5g1zxuGjJw8mTRIaSC1slt9cSRPiEEhdD2wHmFjm0/s320/NewRiverGateSign.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Green sign posts mark the trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnxyEA-yR3VePZpkVuEFPoYIuGZg72lUXBvkLAmLDXYw2Nc87I2ecn-k2xPwsFrgcs6cycscYxaqrl4RAvcuYNRerq9ydxxY4EbSLrIBI2i0ZTx0l5_eK7Sqk6SD0ynHxGy5XWch9FlppNXntE2_mo7eWVn9yXPgh0HyaYjmdt7MlDG9ETKlgB43n4sagR/s6016/TrailheadSign2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnxyEA-yR3VePZpkVuEFPoYIuGZg72lUXBvkLAmLDXYw2Nc87I2ecn-k2xPwsFrgcs6cycscYxaqrl4RAvcuYNRerq9ydxxY4EbSLrIBI2i0ZTx0l5_eK7Sqk6SD0ynHxGy5XWch9FlppNXntE2_mo7eWVn9yXPgh0HyaYjmdt7MlDG9ETKlgB43n4sagR/s320/TrailheadSign2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Emery Henderson trailhead on New River Road<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Without obvious
lures, the vultures come anyway. Riding up drafts, the carrion-eating
scavengers make lazy loops and investigative swoops often enough to suggest,
something below is dead. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe a
javelina, rabbit or coyote.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj36aDEo5L2A_T2eXbea2R1NVKQSL7DpERBWnbfh3CXAI5qV_Wk5lT_iMa9sscsvbTm-Pw-cLneoJUPKvpFtyqz2vo0GXg7w2ndrN5hleOIZlmYRDpP14LiJp10xI5Nk9F_91jG9O0nf00dyyf0-4csjmm4J_45UAI_qwouGgcMd8pdfeE4KkTLDQwxQZnL/s6016/BurrosWhite.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj36aDEo5L2A_T2eXbea2R1NVKQSL7DpERBWnbfh3CXAI5qV_Wk5lT_iMa9sscsvbTm-Pw-cLneoJUPKvpFtyqz2vo0GXg7w2ndrN5hleOIZlmYRDpP14LiJp10xI5Nk9F_91jG9O0nf00dyyf0-4csjmm4J_45UAI_qwouGgcMd8pdfeE4KkTLDQwxQZnL/s320/BurrosWhite.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An uncommon white burro on Biscuit Flat<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /> </span>What’s alive
are the burros, expanding suburbs, a widening interstate, shooting range, prison
complex, fairways, a municipal transfer station and the massive semiconductor
manufacturing plant rising from desert that surrounds the dusty trail and its
relics of the past. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYI5dvwgp_7SDNncA4jg17qtmutIoUhVkEsvR-5ZrGrxUoZkKxk6kwUAvmJhjV_3VWElLbqRn-JZcoVh6cwgxOILZN3HRk6pAuGwVx3uCjxTfGKVTrzWtKeL0RPX7aOoOpRqpsU5BjCxnY5Dk7MfjWq_xJWX4YXbxiqpNeJ-6Zvzcp4acRqmL6KFIU2JG3/s6016/TrailSignDown2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYI5dvwgp_7SDNncA4jg17qtmutIoUhVkEsvR-5ZrGrxUoZkKxk6kwUAvmJhjV_3VWElLbqRn-JZcoVh6cwgxOILZN3HRk6pAuGwVx3uCjxTfGKVTrzWtKeL0RPX7aOoOpRqpsU5BjCxnY5Dk7MfjWq_xJWX4YXbxiqpNeJ-6Zvzcp4acRqmL6KFIU2JG3/s320/TrailSignDown2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hikers must watch for toppled signs<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Beginning
at the north end of the segment at the Emery Henderson trailhead, the path
heads south on a mix of singletrack, two-track and dirt roads. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The trail is signed throughout but is crisscrossed
with trampled paths made by the burros and fading dirt roads that can be
confusing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAH-J7ZmbatdVywIPU14wnlxBNlO4nSsYCaSkVGh3fH0sARVhie7oqP9MDnK1vumDPOr9v1LrK6GD2gJaFUconJ3y5Bbrt_FKK1DyQd7Jt9ww5njfZ5EMUjD_6hqv3wjQyfhZOjNj8sYzRD8kOCeGFMvMI_9z3GbA_Y5I39G0VU52Nw_CCFQnHwYrBmzzx/s6016/SaguaroMountains2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAH-J7ZmbatdVywIPU14wnlxBNlO4nSsYCaSkVGh3fH0sARVhie7oqP9MDnK1vumDPOr9v1LrK6GD2gJaFUconJ3y5Bbrt_FKK1DyQd7Jt9ww5njfZ5EMUjD_6hqv3wjQyfhZOjNj8sYzRD8kOCeGFMvMI_9z3GbA_Y5I39G0VU52Nw_CCFQnHwYrBmzzx/s320/SaguaroMountains2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cave Creek Mountains viewed from Biscuit Flat<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUaL7FMQZNPS7yUh16ltFaXvnBE-VPLDo-r8eC430eGM2r9lEjvSWV55q_ER200TxdEK5HjqxL8wVyypGnXb_GKOp-8nbokm2K0gH3Ks-PggBEP8U6_DAHSXBC-Myl5MCSzEMFeY0LU9v4xrgIjlsjCkoC6wnqcujH8vqB4E3Y8JlfP62TpQLRx1xHTBx7/s6016/BradshawsView7.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUaL7FMQZNPS7yUh16ltFaXvnBE-VPLDo-r8eC430eGM2r9lEjvSWV55q_ER200TxdEK5HjqxL8wVyypGnXb_GKOp-8nbokm2K0gH3Ks-PggBEP8U6_DAHSXBC-Myl5MCSzEMFeY0LU9v4xrgIjlsjCkoC6wnqcujH8vqB4E3Y8JlfP62TpQLRx1xHTBx7/s320/BradshawsView7.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bradshaw Mountains on the north horizon<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Hikers must take care at
intersections to spot the next sign to stay on track. (Some signs were down at this
writing but did not present a navigation problem).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At about the 2-mile point, the trail enters
the sandy floodplain of New River and makes a rocky crossing through a
tamarisk-choaked channel. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYJuj_Dlv8e-QjE_XoIhBelB7zPkPgYV3T7yBIE0onFXzoKcYvYAZqqkTsc4QzVDz9XwfDzs3h9RZP5YQ-drnn5koiUsJ8J9ifbe6Qja6Pulcbs5VTqMF_aVDt6vlWa2r28AkD1EJHuTZQcWabvy_48x1Qq1GOK-0FRBYXm3IZ7uGGENR2G3BbRvNcwZNJ/s6016/ChollaMesa80.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYJuj_Dlv8e-QjE_XoIhBelB7zPkPgYV3T7yBIE0onFXzoKcYvYAZqqkTsc4QzVDz9XwfDzs3h9RZP5YQ-drnn5koiUsJ8J9ifbe6Qja6Pulcbs5VTqMF_aVDt6vlWa2r28AkD1EJHuTZQcWabvy_48x1Qq1GOK-0FRBYXm3IZ7uGGENR2G3BbRvNcwZNJ/s320/ChollaMesa80.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mountain vistas on Biscuit Flat<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTtCx3CZllqWepsuIBT6e3fI0T1E2guvo2dBDPME4v4Pizss4eZLcYCcW_9yVOq2sDTywy6opKcxmrxd4doL293N-9vmzVw9A69ElEABAqwc8mXbTgzIvWKAMVOGMfL5Wz44irCH7KhdPZj4BUPZEFfR3nKu_2ja-xTmZaqUGDgu_Pq4IhDCYerIhoiWvX/s6016/trough47.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTtCx3CZllqWepsuIBT6e3fI0T1E2guvo2dBDPME4v4Pizss4eZLcYCcW_9yVOq2sDTywy6opKcxmrxd4doL293N-9vmzVw9A69ElEABAqwc8mXbTgzIvWKAMVOGMfL5Wz44irCH7KhdPZj4BUPZEFfR3nKu_2ja-xTmZaqUGDgu_Pq4IhDCYerIhoiWvX/s320/trough47.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old trough on Biscuit Flat<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>Signs anchored
by rock piles guide the way through the weedy waterway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On the south bank, the trail heads up an
embankment, passes a gate and begins a shade less walk through open desert. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The pop-pop of pistol fire from the nearby Arizona
Game & Fish Department-managed Ben Avery Shooting Facility grows louder
where the trail briefly shares space with the Valley-circling Maricopa Trail
and crosses Deadman Wash.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The south
trailhead is little more than a dirt pullout and gate along busy Carefree
Highway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnUwvfnS8Ky14HKp6nbClKTfmYFNyVeqV4Uz0wDnYBIzaGzl5vQakPqNing6i_-RDvFqNeP2g5VqrXEHwHlNJagHA1nMPL41iOaNXhswz5J3toUgo-LgHeWI9D6OasXgaFksmkHaFonenhgICv4Imfh93McS072Vm5aurBX0bBkBEPvAyd3xMqFBj5K8GS/s6016/SaguaroMountains75.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnUwvfnS8Ky14HKp6nbClKTfmYFNyVeqV4Uz0wDnYBIzaGzl5vQakPqNing6i_-RDvFqNeP2g5VqrXEHwHlNJagHA1nMPL41iOaNXhswz5J3toUgo-LgHeWI9D6OasXgaFksmkHaFonenhgICv4Imfh93McS072Vm5aurBX0bBkBEPvAyd3xMqFBj5K8GS/s320/SaguaroMountains75.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saguaros on Biscuit Flat<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </span>If you parked a shuttle vehicle
here, be sure to close the gate behind you to keep the legacy burros from
wandering into 21<sup>st</sup>-Century traffic. </span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>LENGTH:</b>
5.9 miles one-way</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>RATING:</b>
easy</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>ELEVATION:</b>
1,598 – 1,878 feet</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>GETTING
THERE:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>NORTH:</b>
Emery Henderson Trailhead: From Interstate 17 in north Phoenix, take the New
River Road exit 232 and go 3.1 miles west to the trailhead on the right. The
large parking area has space for trailers. There’s a restroom, but it was out
of order at this writing. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>SOUTH:</b> Bob
Bentley Trailhead: From Interstate 17 in north Phoenix, take the State Route 74
(Carefree Highway) exit 223 and go 1.8 miles west to the trailhead on the
right. No facilities.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>INFO &
MAPS: </b>Black Canyon Trail Coalition</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="https://bctaz.org/">https://bctaz.org/</a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>WILD BURRO
INFO</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="https://www.blm.gov/whb">https://www.blm.gov/whb</a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">https://www.blm.gov/programs/wild-horse-and-burro/herd-management/herd-management-areas/arizona/lake-pleasant</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>WILD BURRO
ADOPTIONS</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">https://aci.az.gov/capabilities/wild-horse-burro-training-and-adoption/</span></p>
<p><style>@font-face
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{page:WordSection1;}</style> <br /></p>Marehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15128367085408432589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3360001322242903715.post-2167981503428066752023-10-31T13:42:00.004-07:002023-10-31T13:43:41.448-07:00Hikes, Honky-Tonks and Hangouts<p style="text-align: left;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvM4pIILNCnkFaZ97nIm40q_3hKu1dJ4OCU1feeaJ_5siIM6c4G6KY7PumZ9-PwRu8v4D6dF6ytBUABZiaEIDqoX_osvIhVcmtuuGqooTpAh03Cj1p_y1BRqVMFFAYd5c_1Oyb4MZQC4rod9_Rq_rUE1Oeh7W_cul-i_CWyvI3KZwkoTSRG0hAx3fDS8IT/s4032/IMG_4438.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><b></b></a><b>HIKES, HONKY-TONKS & HANGOUTS</b></div><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDDgenG31YIXQoRs08SKQFE5moGIjYMvLo4z_ar9dE7qEgdt4VOcEZmZc-Pf6pIIY4AiIXWKCbz3KrXDcTLsjKAfRA6C26WREgiRZKBwl1h1YCjclEu7jyyolfCDc3gyF6Xmf7wBb7WLDxAVdF9Yo3YTMRJwTrvYXtgF_Zz8CUUTmj9O7ujQCyE4ZJIv2m/s4032/IMG_4438.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDDgenG31YIXQoRs08SKQFE5moGIjYMvLo4z_ar9dE7qEgdt4VOcEZmZc-Pf6pIIY4AiIXWKCbz3KrXDcTLsjKAfRA6C26WREgiRZKBwl1h1YCjclEu7jyyolfCDc3gyF6Xmf7wBb7WLDxAVdF9Yo3YTMRJwTrvYXtgF_Zz8CUUTmj9O7ujQCyE4ZJIv2m/s320/IMG_4438.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Check out my feature in the November-December 2023 issue of PHOENIX magazine: Hikes, Honky-Tonks & Hangouts. 'Nuf said!</p><p><em>On Newsstands November 2nd. PHOENIX </em>magazine is on sale at all major grocery, pharmacy and
book retailers in the Phoenix area. The current issue also may be
purchased by calling the <em>PHOENIX </em>magazine office at 480-478-8806 or online at <a href="https://cities-west-publishing.square.site/shop/phoenix-magazine/4" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">phoenixmag.com/shop</a>. </p><p><br /> </p>Marehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15128367085408432589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3360001322242903715.post-50519144099128927172023-10-31T08:32:00.004-07:002023-10-31T10:13:56.959-07:00Granite-Keefer Hill Circuit<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">GRANITE-KEEFER
HILL CIRCUIT </span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Paloma
Regional Preserv</b>e</span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq_XJCRp-lPk5bIGxvRh5av9OcbxMUZJIbhpgUDuZU5actZcTTVQlwshkfTkKN4FXSvb1Xwp4BlsCDQoWXXemYgaChKYvKCusiC1fDoRdwbm3Kzg356bDuK9IHSmzu1K6WYdZkNw7rQ6Seg5eR4pykSYF6dLPDkEa1K6bEA6f19aH9sNwNSITPRciKrIVi/s6016/GraniteSaguaros534.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq_XJCRp-lPk5bIGxvRh5av9OcbxMUZJIbhpgUDuZU5actZcTTVQlwshkfTkKN4FXSvb1Xwp4BlsCDQoWXXemYgaChKYvKCusiC1fDoRdwbm3Kzg356bDuK9IHSmzu1K6WYdZkNw7rQ6Seg5eR4pykSYF6dLPDkEa1K6bEA6f19aH9sNwNSITPRciKrIVi/s320/GraniteSaguaros534.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saguaros frame mountain views on the Granite Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">The
landscape of Paloma Regional Preserve is defined by a massive, flat drainage
basin punctuated with a few minor knolls of volcanic rock. </span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijS4jfe8K4jpKM7FQzPbzDiH6ygJikFKEdWgv9BGYzM7HU5BClZE44seBLunNDBP3w1pcFFScIUWtXozYmbgcdnNAGuefc2LoDAYmRYNaTjeBE_wDnGVJ6RBX1yC4jreq1jZB-jLbvNvmjpY52Y1ZzXKIr9e7bWYKL_ub22HMeLxsDcCbxhCns54Kz-hgz/s6016/GranitePinnacle574.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijS4jfe8K4jpKM7FQzPbzDiH6ygJikFKEdWgv9BGYzM7HU5BClZE44seBLunNDBP3w1pcFFScIUWtXozYmbgcdnNAGuefc2LoDAYmRYNaTjeBE_wDnGVJ6RBX1yC4jreq1jZB-jLbvNvmjpY52Y1ZzXKIr9e7bWYKL_ub22HMeLxsDcCbxhCns54Kz-hgz/s320/GranitePinnacle574.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Volcanic outcroppings in Paloma Regional Preserve<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br />New River, when it
runs, spills right down the middle of it in untamed rivulets, muddy channels,
and occasional torrents.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3AMLr188Ub4YsGptPiA0WdJdwB07QdIMb2mTpZra5KmmWfpyVDgmc74DPYUa_9Hccj8iaUxDNqxtqavPt-IKmEl_E6hPM5nrUjzDKVxIhr2N08T3MW9-7Yw7jEDB04aqSWe15O5CyspHthFtnxjd2elC_SRCfTtxtgCQlQOIfRxtG8UO6uRGqJ_2p9OnO/s6016/KeeferCrestedSaguaro3.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3AMLr188Ub4YsGptPiA0WdJdwB07QdIMb2mTpZra5KmmWfpyVDgmc74DPYUa_9Hccj8iaUxDNqxtqavPt-IKmEl_E6hPM5nrUjzDKVxIhr2N08T3MW9-7Yw7jEDB04aqSWe15O5CyspHthFtnxjd2elC_SRCfTtxtgCQlQOIfRxtG8UO6uRGqJ_2p9OnO/s320/KeeferCrestedSaguaro3.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crested saguaro in the Keefer Hill Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Bounded by a
crescent of desert hills, terra cotta rooftops and the Westwing and Eastwing
Mountain Preserves, the large water scoured expanse interfaces seamlessly with
its suburban Peoria location. Trail users may walk in from several adjacent
parks and neighborhood access points where family-friendly facilities and
cul-de-sacs melt easily into acres of protected Sonoran Desert.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHzM-kxhOLbvI8ov181LulN6KPz4gLJeFYjg1G2wSp3WbBXhyphenhyphentEhgbwVujWsPiMLoNGHWs8F0-kLHu9T2Kloc0NsF-FaNNmYBVm8qNPA-WoTEMQsGoRTyGgTZFt9TfDXUNQ3sp2Z_pNcgGg7_EsCwW-CHpyeCyyGisIZ6oshu0e65mnLZJqBlWq1Dh58UQ/s6016/GraniteWestWingView529.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHzM-kxhOLbvI8ov181LulN6KPz4gLJeFYjg1G2wSp3WbBXhyphenhyphentEhgbwVujWsPiMLoNGHWs8F0-kLHu9T2Kloc0NsF-FaNNmYBVm8qNPA-WoTEMQsGoRTyGgTZFt9TfDXUNQ3sp2Z_pNcgGg7_EsCwW-CHpyeCyyGisIZ6oshu0e65mnLZJqBlWq1Dh58UQ/s320/GraniteWestWingView529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Westwing Mountain viewed from Granite Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Paloma
Regional Preserve’s trail offerings diverge from those of its climb-centric sister
preserves. Instead of abrupt stacked loops that culminate on desert mountain
summits, the sprawling flatlands are outfitted with a slew of serpentine routes
that take their time rolling out the goodies.</span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMdDIOcortc1Wuq1XQWfQSJ9B3PsbnAWUTKePktOBHrLXusS6IFxWr41BtRDk_EnntFdguXUyIy0NuWda0k_nOGDPHyaGbAIylts8MQgW3nxrcu_YC4QoEn2C0hetzgnVa9ozTyhwCug0AUbknNUSKXR2eVg82L3mBllqs591CNTUr5mmGoEk4eRoDTyli/s6016/GraniteRiverBasin8.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMdDIOcortc1Wuq1XQWfQSJ9B3PsbnAWUTKePktOBHrLXusS6IFxWr41BtRDk_EnntFdguXUyIy0NuWda0k_nOGDPHyaGbAIylts8MQgW3nxrcu_YC4QoEn2C0hetzgnVa9ozTyhwCug0AUbknNUSKXR2eVg82L3mBllqs591CNTUr5mmGoEk4eRoDTyli/s320/GraniteRiverBasin8.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New River basin seen from the Granite Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>While the preserve’s Compass Rose Trail does ascend to a minor peak,
it's an anomaly in an otherwise level field. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2dnpgP8C1jCI8Bmd0ytoiyRo_AXKyCWJAYFZSncswmOBRGxpcrJxNXz9y4RBK4NXWDgGeW1OgJ4V60PJOL2NfttJR8hyJTt3nl7XPsTNboqD_UQ6flbJHJoXD11w9vua9ziOR96DmfQvkO-QRZ82VWi4vj0xckSt-YIwWMC0dsxkTWphnMBO2JtRdDfwd/s6016/GraniteBoulders13.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2dnpgP8C1jCI8Bmd0ytoiyRo_AXKyCWJAYFZSncswmOBRGxpcrJxNXz9y4RBK4NXWDgGeW1OgJ4V60PJOL2NfttJR8hyJTt3nl7XPsTNboqD_UQ6flbJHJoXD11w9vua9ziOR96DmfQvkO-QRZ82VWi4vj0xckSt-YIwWMC0dsxkTWphnMBO2JtRdDfwd/s320/GraniteBoulders13.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Granite boulders on the eponymous trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />All preserve trails are linked and connect
with Eastwing and Westwing parks, so customizing loops and long treks is
easy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjENznNR20gr1SDrjMaTbS0nBFPNBD6-gdqLdJ83iJuYQVr9gWPuxLMP9urGSQF2OgF8wwpHEZSkIArTJ4p_MKDSVS8nHcPNaowZViLjcGXYr5mN4zgnnMFHllQxXtALd78Cxjak1Fihv5cdSrrdXiE5YJ7YLdLFZWwBOZYz2f7m7S2GHOqYuOXKFHfC197/s6016/GraniteQuartzBasalt4.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjENznNR20gr1SDrjMaTbS0nBFPNBD6-gdqLdJ83iJuYQVr9gWPuxLMP9urGSQF2OgF8wwpHEZSkIArTJ4p_MKDSVS8nHcPNaowZViLjcGXYr5mN4zgnnMFHllQxXtALd78Cxjak1Fihv5cdSrrdXiE5YJ7YLdLFZWwBOZYz2f7m7S2GHOqYuOXKFHfC197/s320/GraniteQuartzBasalt4.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Salt & Pepper" basalt and quartz line the trails<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />A good way to start is to make a
lollipop loop using the Multi-Use Path A, Granite, New River, and Keefer Hill
trails. The hike begins at the 10-acre Sonoran Mountain Ranch Park at the
preserve’s east end. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKuuK_-bTqL80oELz5lnqF1sCgysGmjBK9mDHkPZGkQlChVJljq-sAq4eLgFHw0GVB_GiYJ1gEw5yFd4T__pPcroKwu0NGnzmaXN7W_3CnVfCNAt61HQ_E3-78RaNHOx_qkwTMSDvIut3LbVun3zu6_vu8UQrCz6XTXKxBbO5jaDQrEn952rBll-L-sNTA/s6016/KeeferHill74.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKuuK_-bTqL80oELz5lnqF1sCgysGmjBK9mDHkPZGkQlChVJljq-sAq4eLgFHw0GVB_GiYJ1gEw5yFd4T__pPcroKwu0NGnzmaXN7W_3CnVfCNAt61HQ_E3-78RaNHOx_qkwTMSDvIut3LbVun3zu6_vu8UQrCz6XTXKxBbO5jaDQrEn952rBll-L-sNTA/s320/KeeferHill74.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New River Dam seen from Keefer Hill Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The trails are accessed from the park’s paved perimeter path
where a trailhead with benches and a map kiosk mark the start point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A 0.3-mile walk on Multi-Use Path A leads to
the junction with the 1.7-mile Granite Trail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The twisty singletrack makes a mild ascent through volcanic boulders,
topping out on a rocky mound overlooking the course of New River.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The mesquite-cluttered intermittent waterway
appears as a ribbon of green below the ridgeline of Westwing Mountain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKbUQ8bhQ1XDOxO90C14QhxRT6nqQTznWkf9WmBmJasJssWTI1kfAbjFNqR-f8KZ4fydzH40EyxSH-eYzkwNoPqikpTq01_FkPYGQLwwULvKrConON_5Y0OyjwjSYQsW4VsTMrI99PuYzHquGS3qSaeq_8EEZuVT11hTqFMdqgAvu4cEhm5y1AYu_teFo3/s6016/NewRiverTrail83.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKbUQ8bhQ1XDOxO90C14QhxRT6nqQTznWkf9WmBmJasJssWTI1kfAbjFNqR-f8KZ4fydzH40EyxSH-eYzkwNoPqikpTq01_FkPYGQLwwULvKrConON_5Y0OyjwjSYQsW4VsTMrI99PuYzHquGS3qSaeq_8EEZuVT11hTqFMdqgAvu4cEhm5y1AYu_teFo3/s320/NewRiverTrail83.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tonto National Forest mountains seen from New River Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>The trail then winds down passing through creosote-dominated
terrain strewn with a salt-and-pepper mix of black basalt and white quartz
chips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To the north, the Cave Creek
Mountains and peaks and mesas of Tonto National Forest stand out on a hazy
horizon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The circuit follows the New
River Trail a few yards to the Keefer Hill Trail junction. The 0.62-mile path
traces the base of a 1,650-foot isolated butte.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrDYkjf9JbgsJJJa6rpvGCnPuysP4Ri1kz97IKejDKkzH06OLN7XmLC-N7WeKEnEq8pU-PhzFAi2cCBZbLZiHh69vuesMq88la9q0j_g3jVpQSVfpIy_bc_skakuPFJhiGrTQlwT9imvHyEnKFFGgemMN8DxQn7vF7oit272Gsq2cSwtBOLQ50JWgIYzwM/s6016/GraniteHighPoint7.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrDYkjf9JbgsJJJa6rpvGCnPuysP4Ri1kz97IKejDKkzH06OLN7XmLC-N7WeKEnEq8pU-PhzFAi2cCBZbLZiHh69vuesMq88la9q0j_g3jVpQSVfpIy_bc_skakuPFJhiGrTQlwT9imvHyEnKFFGgemMN8DxQn7vF7oit272Gsq2cSwtBOLQ50JWgIYzwM/s320/GraniteHighPoint7.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the high point on Granite Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />A few feet in, a crested saguaro hovers above a clutter of Palo Verde
trees, its elaborate crown splayed into a contorted, spiny bouquet. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAVW-iU84tRd6uMuIyrGGafuoMX_ZRkXPqFVXuTj8YIhGR9-X7CQZ73QVm-S4bgg1Ge-0I-4QQl265H6Fl9jsg-AGJWPGxCsk1YCdLF1Vkahqhi8GK2hQYYKflyvCIH6WbKFJl5S2GMWV8UWvjrFHICnGOfDWObgGzppavwLqPW-SU2G9tKT8cpuoVH2SK/s6016/Trailhead3.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAVW-iU84tRd6uMuIyrGGafuoMX_ZRkXPqFVXuTj8YIhGR9-X7CQZ73QVm-S4bgg1Ge-0I-4QQl265H6Fl9jsg-AGJWPGxCsk1YCdLF1Vkahqhi8GK2hQYYKflyvCIH6WbKFJl5S2GMWV8UWvjrFHICnGOfDWObgGzppavwLqPW-SU2G9tKT8cpuoVH2SK/s320/Trailhead3.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Start point for the hike<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Beyond the end of the Keefer Hill Trail that rounds crumbling flanks and boulder passages, the Flood
Control District of Maricopa County managed New River Dam tames the tendrils of
the freeform desert waterway, intercepting its deluge of the manicured subdivisions
below. </span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWHxwRnq4xGLScC3tn1OLg8xw9t5oG1hP4GuvZ-O4qK5LY5Dz6JQrwK4j68agB-ALbgHDAre-8v3cJ2Q8ilx8RuxYXmyQTEqnz-18y1SRKTXK2dbUBwliGigf7mxK4StyYR7uYCgpKf3Hp0pyltBK2lu7JX6w0nhy4BLPQ1bAO73x5wsroT1SrGjJN4gW7/s6016/KeeferJunction49.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWHxwRnq4xGLScC3tn1OLg8xw9t5oG1hP4GuvZ-O4qK5LY5Dz6JQrwK4j68agB-ALbgHDAre-8v3cJ2Q8ilx8RuxYXmyQTEqnz-18y1SRKTXK2dbUBwliGigf7mxK4StyYR7uYCgpKf3Hp0pyltBK2lu7JX6w0nhy4BLPQ1bAO73x5wsroT1SrGjJN4gW7/s320/KeeferJunction49.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Preserve trails are well signed<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>LENGTH:</b> 5.24
miles round trip</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>RATING:</b>
moderate</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>ELEVATION:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1,412 – 1,515 feet (604 feet of accumulated
elevation change)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>GETTING
THERE:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">Sonoran Mountain
Ranch Park, 7098 W. Miner Trail, Peoria.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">From Phoenix, go
north on I-17 to Happy Valley Road exit 218. Go 5 miles west on Happy Valley
Road to 67<sup>th</sup> Avenue, turn right and drive 2.8 miles (road becomes
Pyramid Peak Pkwy.) to Sonoran Mountain Ranch Road.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Veer left and go 0.5-mile to Chalfen Blvd.,
turn left, continue 0.1-mile to Miner Trail and follow the signs to Sonoran
Mountain Ranch Park. Turn left into the parking area signed for Eastwing
Mountain Trail. Hike begins at the far west end of the park’s paved perimeter
trail. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">HOURS:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"> sunrise to sunset daily</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">FACILITIES:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"> restrooms, picnic ramadas, playground, basketball courts. No fees. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">INFO: </span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">City of Peoria</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://www.peoriaaz.gov/trails" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 11pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">https://www.peoriaaz.gov/trails</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"></span></p>
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{page:WordSection1;}</style></p>Marehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15128367085408432589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3360001322242903715.post-55096942513450593862023-10-02T12:55:00.005-07:002024-02-27T11:35:42.646-08:00Calloway Butte-New Tank<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>CALLOWAY
BUTTE - NEW TANK</b></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1a4VaeVTH6xWvM5MvuihZt1JnikDIdyntvFxtAOsew7IFVFSNE2AJO00dD5DwUgLXkBH2EFo-CcftD_rOCpBY-SQxXzJLhCRmlgcliyyr1NdypXuyZ1TVPY7MB87d7k-3omzUwtYGkBVX4nSsmyPtIfoVuXoHtPo0bFUDMdfjH9J3wawBNd29YSd4VImw/s6016/NewTankClose18.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1a4VaeVTH6xWvM5MvuihZt1JnikDIdyntvFxtAOsew7IFVFSNE2AJO00dD5DwUgLXkBH2EFo-CcftD_rOCpBY-SQxXzJLhCRmlgcliyyr1NdypXuyZ1TVPY7MB87d7k-3omzUwtYGkBVX4nSsmyPtIfoVuXoHtPo0bFUDMdfjH9J3wawBNd29YSd4VImw/s320/NewTankClose18.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New Tank in Coconino National Forest<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b><br /></b></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Peaceful,
secluded places aren’t too difficult to find along the backroads of Coconino
National Forest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Weighing
in at over 1.8 million acres in size, Arizona’s second largest national forest
is ostensibly the most diverse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY9P-z7R6YyXL0rJJ2K4F7CxJ3nNvFj4qYggIuw_z7uaySDyTIPQ_5YsCWBKSAo-6JlJAF5koarotrG_UwWl5fWZ4OsW2WCBatXxJKvaPVSkTNokIE1CFtLpNogXcYq6H2n3eEnltGDqFLrBRdzx3TyII0zvkqGGx2xQUWEHH569cuM1sL047Xx_ElDfde/s6016/OakRoad2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY9P-z7R6YyXL0rJJ2K4F7CxJ3nNvFj4qYggIuw_z7uaySDyTIPQ_5YsCWBKSAo-6JlJAF5koarotrG_UwWl5fWZ4OsW2WCBatXxJKvaPVSkTNokIE1CFtLpNogXcYq6H2n3eEnltGDqFLrBRdzx3TyII0zvkqGGx2xQUWEHH569cuM1sL047Xx_ElDfde/s320/OakRoad2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gambel oaks shade Forest Road 142<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span>The northern
Arizona swath of public land encompasses the famous red rock high deserts of Sedona, mountain
lakes and streams, aspen glens, and alpine tundra around the state’s highest
point in Flagstaff. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtcflqONUpnbK6zgFhrzRsasJICNuJkVqs_vrO9NJEcvcvG30hvRVLJMmh9ws7UCN_hwb2BSDC9MaJmIGj4xiwoglIhukBr1Hf5tUrIcC9_fsVLcTyo_gaB3toE1Rleir8kljLblRq6UYTf4fBpyv01Cy6a3iNPcBsEOvxHZoQTirClbumn7hRmm2Eekaf/s6016/NewTankBarbedWire3.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtcflqONUpnbK6zgFhrzRsasJICNuJkVqs_vrO9NJEcvcvG30hvRVLJMmh9ws7UCN_hwb2BSDC9MaJmIGj4xiwoglIhukBr1Hf5tUrIcC9_fsVLcTyo_gaB3toE1Rleir8kljLblRq6UYTf4fBpyv01Cy6a3iNPcBsEOvxHZoQTirClbumn7hRmm2Eekaf/s320/NewTankBarbedWire3.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Barbed wire fencing around New Tank<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>While sandstone phantasms,
plunge pools and hypoxic vistas are the hallmarks of the easily accessible land,
the B-list stuff in between is quite remarkable as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8hTKEMzjhpBOW-dMxcokAX7vm54t0y7QurYm3AqrSGWPy4ApfVb3gjPYN0N1feTT-CA_VBYovP3jhf8rL_E-v3TzbrHV7lrW1KG0OM_VKZqS6DzOLGl-tqQ94hY4H1ItBD7NqRZ5ompk5LHVYrkdIq9LbAMVlGMA6VSTT7PiO8JF6CDtxp4ovKCVMZE4u/s6016/MountainView86.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8hTKEMzjhpBOW-dMxcokAX7vm54t0y7QurYm3AqrSGWPy4ApfVb3gjPYN0N1feTT-CA_VBYovP3jhf8rL_E-v3TzbrHV7lrW1KG0OM_VKZqS6DzOLGl-tqQ94hY4H1ItBD7NqRZ5ompk5LHVYrkdIq9LbAMVlGMA6VSTT7PiO8JF6CDtxp4ovKCVMZE4u/s320/MountainView86.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mountain vistas from Forest Road 142<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />When viewed through a lens of discovery, who-knew
pockets of forest deliver hikes with generous servings of tranquil beauty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wildlife water holes, often created and
maintained by Arizona Game & Fish Department, are the unsung gems of back
road hiking destinations. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp_2TemWJeboQjMOXEyISyR9rzg9iFDI9JjexgTOkkDSRx0XQou_YZY9RGaIyXgG4dBc9Frs2tD_s8AGJZ0F__8pjpbAjaBsoWmd-gVc7tWBKeq9w5oE6Ld9AcNQQbQlyNPKEQFvAW85gyjWbz4pCgF7NZuVe_mttmbzShFIopfV3GAGwQ0CUHVXau6voP/s6016/NewTankCorralClose5.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp_2TemWJeboQjMOXEyISyR9rzg9iFDI9JjexgTOkkDSRx0XQou_YZY9RGaIyXgG4dBc9Frs2tD_s8AGJZ0F__8pjpbAjaBsoWmd-gVc7tWBKeq9w5oE6Ld9AcNQQbQlyNPKEQFvAW85gyjWbz4pCgF7NZuVe_mttmbzShFIopfV3GAGwQ0CUHVXau6voP/s320/NewTankCorralClose5.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old corral near New Tank <br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhygcj3KtXj9D5AVByMvu_VPBb8xThqW7HMmuj8sv8WWDwSO8JWrHb-uaJqjcIqdPsWfIklAzY37kQWSoExuHaGI4z7JUqd8OBZ5zso527qnPU7YTRmJe86FZQ9dpSWjcfzbBjdFwbf8EZG2KG8uoEZyBbTTEY4o9Zc-NtSVQBdcMvyQppvuP8n7z2fTHuD/s6016/NewTankVicky.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhygcj3KtXj9D5AVByMvu_VPBb8xThqW7HMmuj8sv8WWDwSO8JWrHb-uaJqjcIqdPsWfIklAzY37kQWSoExuHaGI4z7JUqd8OBZ5zso527qnPU7YTRmJe86FZQ9dpSWjcfzbBjdFwbf8EZG2KG8uoEZyBbTTEY4o9Zc-NtSVQBdcMvyQppvuP8n7z2fTHuD/s320/NewTankVicky.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gateway to New Tank on Forest Road 142<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The weedy stock tanks backed by earthen dams are plentiful
along 4x4 roads so they’re easy to find.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It's possible and legal to drive to many of them, but road conditions
are not for amateurs. New Tank, one of the most scenic water holes, is a sizable
pond choaked with water smartweed and bulrushes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidXjNtRcSQEjsIR1CV2jHRJ-kMv_rSDFLFBZGHo3Bmxqgg1mnvdz0b91smuqz9C5J_xoS2LIB7SF9IPLir8gOuamiQsspcL4KIovVwc8GR8udSlIpXoBWAhLgdvt6SnuLJosoK8vJNAspyOb_Aygc2ZEWOSabUjZa21JRuv6dH1PWBNV3-whMFT766OVGO/s6016/NewTankLogFence36.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidXjNtRcSQEjsIR1CV2jHRJ-kMv_rSDFLFBZGHo3Bmxqgg1mnvdz0b91smuqz9C5J_xoS2LIB7SF9IPLir8gOuamiQsspcL4KIovVwc8GR8udSlIpXoBWAhLgdvt6SnuLJosoK8vJNAspyOb_Aygc2ZEWOSabUjZa21JRuv6dH1PWBNV3-whMFT766OVGO/s320/NewTankLogFence36.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A peaceful place in Coconino National Forest<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>Situated along Forest Road 142 about 27 miles
east of Camp Verde, the pond is the focal point of a pastoral scene wrapped in a
dilapidated ring of log-and-wire fencing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The tank sits at the north base of Calloway Butte, a 6,860-foot pine-covered
mound south of the West Clear Creek Wilderness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_DDZ3qBu27M7pX4j1CSyjjxrra9NOhd2HKAdo8NIpbExYQvI2Zazm1DrC38z_q4yACoyFhiqGUQmZwQDHBvoPVpCH1DMmggS5wZ4ubKXme35WFBd8TAj8hZO1twuAs9rqWydvjyXAuiGp9oB3cQ-U44gJT3bnO_Fm27_0plBHWJolaEjllllv84l112QZ/s6016/CallowayButteApproach2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_DDZ3qBu27M7pX4j1CSyjjxrra9NOhd2HKAdo8NIpbExYQvI2Zazm1DrC38z_q4yACoyFhiqGUQmZwQDHBvoPVpCH1DMmggS5wZ4ubKXme35WFBd8TAj8hZO1twuAs9rqWydvjyXAuiGp9oB3cQ-U44gJT3bnO_Fm27_0plBHWJolaEjllllv84l112QZ/s320/CallowayButteApproach2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Calloway Butte seen from FR 142<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>Getting to the tank involves an undulating walk on the rough track of
Forest Road 142.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Beginning at a dirt
parking area off State Route 260 where the General Crook Trail #130 passes
under the highway, the hike makes an immediate descent to a 3-way
junction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMzYtgnGJMRqQL_XAyxdPTKgwq1kkjxr8b59CSkoHD73jbkLAABfY4rkRHNsWsutpQjTu-LKb6yL9tvaodvQ_H1T4fl0qs93Fa_yGMfR5XCwQE9e6hrOoL2PTfi-JHbAnMV3P40k34ehJcr6bKGOm87y6TC2N5iRhWJSY54LA-D9730QQ7AZ3ahOEdRAtC/s6016/NewTankCorralView73.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMzYtgnGJMRqQL_XAyxdPTKgwq1kkjxr8b59CSkoHD73jbkLAABfY4rkRHNsWsutpQjTu-LKb6yL9tvaodvQ_H1T4fl0qs93Fa_yGMfR5XCwQE9e6hrOoL2PTfi-JHbAnMV3P40k34ehJcr6bKGOm87y6TC2N5iRhWJSY54LA-D9730QQ7AZ3ahOEdRAtC/s320/NewTankCorralView73.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meadow with a view near New Tank<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>FR 142 heads left, on the first
of a sequence of rocky climbs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The road
is shaded by a mix of Ponderosa pines, Gamble oaks and gnarly alligator
junipers, passing by several side roads before dipping down into the cut of
Meadow Canyon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A final uphill crawl
reveals mountain vistas peeking through thick tree cover and first looks at the
green arc of Calloway Butte. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The road flattens
out as it approaches the tank and skirts a rustic corral before meeting the
tank at the 2.4-mile point. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgonq3BBLSxgS8CY_0eQvxjoJ2a3Vyx9Q0kY3pwO5Nogi2gD_vB3x5LLl1gWxiVQfSRkAe8yIY3wgpIJrAYG6XTly_Rl-bex1vw6-YgGa8-vu1zNqG22OcE6o2g3k9tQfPIvR2GDKKF96OKAzPdM9skbK6qARPT_Ta7IKFaszaRaL9dN56uyKO7DLtOQF4I/s6016/FlowerRoad5.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgonq3BBLSxgS8CY_0eQvxjoJ2a3Vyx9Q0kY3pwO5Nogi2gD_vB3x5LLl1gWxiVQfSRkAe8yIY3wgpIJrAYG6XTly_Rl-bex1vw6-YgGa8-vu1zNqG22OcE6o2g3k9tQfPIvR2GDKKF96OKAzPdM9skbK6qARPT_Ta7IKFaszaRaL9dN56uyKO7DLtOQF4I/s320/FlowerRoad5.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wildflowers and pines along FR142<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Massive oaks
that blaze in shades of gold in autumn serve as a leafy gateway to the water
hole that attracts all sorts of wildlife.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Elk, javelina, water birds and a robust community of woodpeckers skulk
its perimeter. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The photogenic site is drenched
in sunlight, the air spritzed with earthy notes of mint and grass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9kx_l5nShC7GVIFTZ2b_eONMZZJtHbHAABDDYeD81CPW2FYVxeCsZeYQUiKTuQc0yNuArAlnbo6CNJYefL-DHJMjCrXxCMzRVdEWAPvynr126UbVP6e8B8i4eRavBNm1gC55rY_M9CDxzeQCM-spqyD1a501zThtjvozIu30a0SM4BnnT93X7zEJhf5ex/s6016/NewTankMeadow1.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9kx_l5nShC7GVIFTZ2b_eONMZZJtHbHAABDDYeD81CPW2FYVxeCsZeYQUiKTuQc0yNuArAlnbo6CNJYefL-DHJMjCrXxCMzRVdEWAPvynr126UbVP6e8B8i4eRavBNm1gC55rY_M9CDxzeQCM-spqyD1a501zThtjvozIu30a0SM4BnnT93X7zEJhf5ex/s320/NewTankMeadow1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pastoral scene at New Tank<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>It’s a relaxing spot for a lunch break before
heading back or continuing another 0.8-mile on the road to Forest Road 142B,
which is also signed as FR 9396. The hiker logo on the post indicates that the Calloway
Trail, a half-mile strenuous route that descends into West Clear Creek, lies ahead.
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjlglpO0SF0Hl9-zA33HiF_5p6LuzMGXS3aNyfKboNeZsF9N1iZ54rSxreszx_uknYHavp6mbmk2ec19f0lJum7khugNx_oTL_SFSle5hlhfLAt02H1GuNHmxJ6jzJrwQLBOGlBU0J1yGCLNXDkuc2_n1PxfhVxfSIC_zohzsXsgTCZvYq_SQW1pcpDokD/s6016/MeadowCanyon4.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjlglpO0SF0Hl9-zA33HiF_5p6LuzMGXS3aNyfKboNeZsF9N1iZ54rSxreszx_uknYHavp6mbmk2ec19f0lJum7khugNx_oTL_SFSle5hlhfLAt02H1GuNHmxJ6jzJrwQLBOGlBU0J1yGCLNXDkuc2_n1PxfhVxfSIC_zohzsXsgTCZvYq_SQW1pcpDokD/s320/MeadowCanyon4.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">FR 142 traverses Meadow Canyon<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Well-equipped, adventurous hikers may follow the narrow, rough road 3-miles the
trailhead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But to stick with the theme
of enjoying the pleasure of an unassuming little place between highway and wilderness,
New Tank makes for a good turnaround point. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsQs3UGDDzcN4TFzzsKB9IBMgH_KYwz_TImQDoPfAZ3merwW1gTzY8mzYYhdFbEm1EIEZ7DZmmBxfDdgO3C8FUM7FOrY2BUd7ibYJc3hcvPvycI62nmQ-cxmP2vGzRLYgEaLefmZZ7TjBmbmBi8s1upBykRCv7hwF3vXMc8Kxge0gBtqhdL6mGngnSPy51/s6016/FR142B4.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsQs3UGDDzcN4TFzzsKB9IBMgH_KYwz_TImQDoPfAZ3merwW1gTzY8mzYYhdFbEm1EIEZ7DZmmBxfDdgO3C8FUM7FOrY2BUd7ibYJc3hcvPvycI62nmQ-cxmP2vGzRLYgEaLefmZZ7TjBmbmBi8s1upBykRCv7hwF3vXMc8Kxge0gBtqhdL6mGngnSPy51/s320/FR142B4.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The FR 142B turnoff for the Calloway Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>LENGTH:</b> 4.8
miles round trip (to the tank and back)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>RATING:</b>
moderate</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>ELEVATION:</b>
6,146 – 6,718 feet ( 1,501 feet of accumulated elevation change)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>GETTING
THERE:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">From
Interstate 17 in Camp Verde, go 27 miles east (toward Payson) on State Route
260 to Forest Road 142 located past milepost 245 on the left. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Immediately past the cattle guard and turn
left into a dirt parking area for the General Crook Trail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A high clearance vehicle is recommended.</span></p>
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{page:WordSection1;}</style></p>Marehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15128367085408432589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3360001322242903715.post-61910997972260758242023-09-24T11:11:00.004-07:002023-11-15T09:42:16.500-08:00Verde Vista Loop<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>VERDE VISTA
LOOP</b></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh15ZQEWsGq3GqovhDuRCYbKnIRe_dCNb75w-imRmEqUumdPYcEwgMiAXvqyHxd_FdywA6xHULqhlCDYtfD5jl-mHP9YnZ2vvilghGxtOy76V7muG7qmAmP--EVMzEW9oKDlf0TA4VCx6rJXlEpkdlAo4H2nooup2uerolQd9iKvGiFaRt7y0dlnJUtSbpG/s6016/climb87.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh15ZQEWsGq3GqovhDuRCYbKnIRe_dCNb75w-imRmEqUumdPYcEwgMiAXvqyHxd_FdywA6xHULqhlCDYtfD5jl-mHP9YnZ2vvilghGxtOy76V7muG7qmAmP--EVMzEW9oKDlf0TA4VCx6rJXlEpkdlAo4H2nooup2uerolQd9iKvGiFaRt7y0dlnJUtSbpG/s320/climb87.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the Verde Vista Loop<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b><br /></b></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">It’s only a
little over a 500-foot climb to the zenith of the Verde Vista Loop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But getting there is trickier than it
looks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBLNNCYLxKiGm7tT0TTuMBTKSRfmAECBz-Iyhi32tyQokfyNiDcIZOXTiucgJ3eTSr0Lm4V4N9dR5eZdaPLsRVfOl4QDWJKn7BdMa7ei89dIJjgArxIWcQnTUbCnois5ky9z_voDfXiFra58GOf7-hdU6UlyaPWNQlEsJkNCU-F_den8BHUnv-cjrsNTGL/s6016/VerdeRiverView99.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBLNNCYLxKiGm7tT0TTuMBTKSRfmAECBz-Iyhi32tyQokfyNiDcIZOXTiucgJ3eTSr0Lm4V4N9dR5eZdaPLsRVfOl4QDWJKn7BdMa7ei89dIJjgArxIWcQnTUbCnois5ky9z_voDfXiFra58GOf7-hdU6UlyaPWNQlEsJkNCU-F_den8BHUnv-cjrsNTGL/s320/VerdeRiverView99.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The green corridor of the Verde River<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br />The trail, which was completed in
2021, is tethered to the still under construction Camp Verde Sports Complex and
crosses into Coconino National Forest east of the Verde River and Beaver Creek .<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWBC3cLAfrXDQUvRx_CEEjO0jzj90s4IMlcjPFsCZY-15JVHV0g7jZy-BAb7YWXAYi1jU3s8pUFKBqbJxbvag0oVfQuBJ_Z5vY1JDVW5T9mnnB-F3SBWwj49zXZe14mNowz7zD0-6Xemqtk9Zal05HL4bMUG50sfw31EgPv5RibzDabHl85Zf1RGw4H2GK/s6016/CoconinoGate850.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWBC3cLAfrXDQUvRx_CEEjO0jzj90s4IMlcjPFsCZY-15JVHV0g7jZy-BAb7YWXAYi1jU3s8pUFKBqbJxbvag0oVfQuBJ_Z5vY1JDVW5T9mnnB-F3SBWwj49zXZe14mNowz7zD0-6Xemqtk9Zal05HL4bMUG50sfw31EgPv5RibzDabHl85Zf1RGw4H2GK/s320/CoconinoGate850.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Verde Vista Loop crosses into Coconino NF<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </span>The 5.5-mile non-motorized trail, in the
hills southeast of Montezuma Castle National Monument, is a joint effort between
the Town of Camp Verde Urban Upland Trail System and Coconino National Forest. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV9M8H3UdTpvjrQVpqqcsN9BZSxPxx53pB03AsVo8ctzcq1rNMdmf1JB0Niw0s7RUWv-sWzKN46uX9IgJvVVRoCRHGMmC0m1Wfc12f1pKOpx33pw-4QbY2HiDI01S0X8TfU6WUm9ANMPXZRDGtxWzVM6V9aJ9To3mxRM1ljsRa7PWk3xjVrjLW8Nvk38Y9/s6016/LimestoneWall89.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV9M8H3UdTpvjrQVpqqcsN9BZSxPxx53pB03AsVo8ctzcq1rNMdmf1JB0Niw0s7RUWv-sWzKN46uX9IgJvVVRoCRHGMmC0m1Wfc12f1pKOpx33pw-4QbY2HiDI01S0X8TfU6WUm9ANMPXZRDGtxWzVM6V9aJ9To3mxRM1ljsRa7PWk3xjVrjLW8Nvk38Y9/s320/LimestoneWall89.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Verde Vista Loop passes below limestone cliffs<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The route departs from the easy-rated , Perimeter
Loop that circles the Sports Complex with a level, gravel surface that’s
welcoming to hikers, dog walkers and stroller-pushing families. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSmqp0OT49nAJTFa7nsxhsaCJhkAhV1dAThepznmTJsK5y0IYY7oRsZyCyggsXLeQwwzkvF61irFeeQ_62u1khkVLlS7hkERniAWzntKX2B19L58WMXHgPAynENWWJVtCoa86518QTczZIsdt4WMz7rKl_eJtqqfm-W-L9cd_tzgQRam8HCoX6yELctqDm/s6016/MapSignTwoTrack855.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSmqp0OT49nAJTFa7nsxhsaCJhkAhV1dAThepznmTJsK5y0IYY7oRsZyCyggsXLeQwwzkvF61irFeeQ_62u1khkVLlS7hkERniAWzntKX2B19L58WMXHgPAynENWWJVtCoa86518QTczZIsdt4WMz7rKl_eJtqqfm-W-L9cd_tzgQRam8HCoX6yELctqDm/s320/MapSignTwoTrack855.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The route is well signed throughout<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </span>The Verde Vista Loop begins innocently enough
with a walk-through open desert and grassy slopes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The first mile makes an effortless ascent on
a mix of two-track and singletrack dirt. Mountain views stand out all around as
the path winds through clumpy forbs, yucca and a green sea of creosote shrubs.
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizao-rD70dA0x1E9K53LTT6BN7cYf0Ie2vsZmYvwPXLiqYyi6-d_mvH_A-MOvV4ZyDjVsEUel0kQBZuVHZooKuqcjv9afabzYvMERhhcVmeko88hRcSDRJC0H-gsrSlcogPFJ5YnE26A57EDZfdCL05-X6-0YjNFFJkGn09XYrIhzI6Z0AhuiT02lm1Dol/s6016/WeedyPassage5.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizao-rD70dA0x1E9K53LTT6BN7cYf0Ie2vsZmYvwPXLiqYyi6-d_mvH_A-MOvV4ZyDjVsEUel0kQBZuVHZooKuqcjv9afabzYvMERhhcVmeko88hRcSDRJC0H-gsrSlcogPFJ5YnE26A57EDZfdCL05-X6-0YjNFFJkGn09XYrIhzI6Z0AhuiT02lm1Dol/s320/WeedyPassage5.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grasses and a sea of creosote on the lower leg<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />As the route moves toward the imposing crescent of buff-colored cliffs and a large
mesa-like mound to the northeast, views of the emerald band of the Verde River glows
in the valley to the west.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After passing
into Coconino National Forest, the trail meets a sign warning equestrians that
conditions ahead can be hazardous for horse travel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjTzEN7zsOHi-RV_h2ftFcTxW_Xo40_leWM_pAx_eBpC_IWlD8YBfglmeDy2MGBz5Cv6cce56BBmnPAsD1v3vepXs2ZhOj4CNg3TeGHZ0MvvGXFVa4OaBD9i2B02wpMLr6Rw9i5VJGYU_IqHDys9H2ukS6ZgId3_cwD8kqJlO5oJvuknxZjZFRnJwyTAgG/s6016/LimestoneSteps807.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjTzEN7zsOHi-RV_h2ftFcTxW_Xo40_leWM_pAx_eBpC_IWlD8YBfglmeDy2MGBz5Cv6cce56BBmnPAsD1v3vepXs2ZhOj4CNg3TeGHZ0MvvGXFVa4OaBD9i2B02wpMLr6Rw9i5VJGYU_IqHDys9H2ukS6ZgId3_cwD8kqJlO5oJvuknxZjZFRnJwyTAgG/s320/LimestoneSteps807.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There are some steep and slippery sections<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Bikers and hikers should take heed too,
because beyond the sign, the trail goes full-tilt crazy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Abrupt twists, loose rock and
close-to-the-edge traverses on a base of crumbling limestone characterize the
roughly mile-and-a-half ascent to the trail’s high point in the White Hills.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwlWdB6a1RjDQjf2en99s-n_lkOYjr9NgtudjsaL1X1AGahi3K_yAqym8BD0p8XP96YhA-Y4N3R0KMU7sIw2xOzuzmo4uGW1_mefTUV52CiCSvtZax0JVPH3Un5spV5DizN2hQ_aLV-aELWm351U4eoNmjFTDyVZLrv2xLHUyWoN72L1uFdzJqODdpA1jP/s6016/PerimeterTrail82.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwlWdB6a1RjDQjf2en99s-n_lkOYjr9NgtudjsaL1X1AGahi3K_yAqym8BD0p8XP96YhA-Y4N3R0KMU7sIw2xOzuzmo4uGW1_mefTUV52CiCSvtZax0JVPH3Un5spV5DizN2hQ_aLV-aELWm351U4eoNmjFTDyVZLrv2xLHUyWoN72L1uFdzJqODdpA1jP/s320/PerimeterTrail82.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Perimeter Loop is level and easy<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>Narrow and slippery in places, it’s smart to pay
attention to footing and not be distracted by the ever-expanding mountain and
valley panoramas rolling out below. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAhuG3_-82fHTOmG-9_AobUUpstV9p1tvftA66wwDJ5lYYTlyGIWDBqTHSY-YOBKXGzi7nb5NRvtWjmsQOa4YcCvGYUah53Di7NlvAbleN_c9XqOFmYEt6srK3RgdjZPYNAjF6s4FPyxL0TOFYsJFaBw0HXgGjytaBcX1iMYJIWhkS8mFIpGkyEyYOcbFa/s6016/VerdeVistaYucca4.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAhuG3_-82fHTOmG-9_AobUUpstV9p1tvftA66wwDJ5lYYTlyGIWDBqTHSY-YOBKXGzi7nb5NRvtWjmsQOa4YcCvGYUah53Di7NlvAbleN_c9XqOFmYEt6srK3RgdjZPYNAjF6s4FPyxL0TOFYsJFaBw0HXgGjytaBcX1iMYJIWhkS8mFIpGkyEyYOcbFa/s320/VerdeVistaYucca4.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yucca decorate the Verde Vista Loop<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>After
huffing, puffing and scrambling over chalky ledges, the trail delivers a punch
of in-your-face eye candy as a reward. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsO5hwB2DfVaN0ZJZ9qViojTbfwXIFAS1l5W_t7dS_QmhZSxjBHqgUDV7ihabDASyJGkijiJFaa_YQtNrkRZY543iOuwlTJzIcV6xAJwdzIyNtvcUoeU1Hujz9tGfkxxaV4BlhLhOeWiuFqyaCRR8M2nSlpf2ExT3F-n5Dq2-ndaP_hJbYWqeGDUyejcRI/s6016/CreosoteFrame29.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsO5hwB2DfVaN0ZJZ9qViojTbfwXIFAS1l5W_t7dS_QmhZSxjBHqgUDV7ihabDASyJGkijiJFaa_YQtNrkRZY543iOuwlTJzIcV6xAJwdzIyNtvcUoeU1Hujz9tGfkxxaV4BlhLhOeWiuFqyaCRR8M2nSlpf2ExT3F-n5Dq2-ndaP_hJbYWqeGDUyejcRI/s320/CreosoteFrame29.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Verde Vista Loop climbs to the top of the White Hills<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />While
easier than the ascent, the return leg the loop still has its challenges. It
clings to cliffs, sweeps over ridgetop flatlands and hits one last spiral of
switchbacks before landing hikers back in the creosote sea. </span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>LENGTH:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Verde
Vista Loop: 5.5 miles</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Perimeter
Loop: 1.6 miles</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>RATING:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Verde
Vista Loop: difficult</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Perimeter Loop:
easy</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>ELEVATION:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Verde
Vista Loop: 3,136 – 3,688 feet (1,190 feet of accumulated elevation change)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Perimeter Loop:
3,100 – 3,160 feet</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>GETTING
THERE:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">From
Interstate 17 in Camp Verde, go 4 miles east (toward Payson) on State Route 260
to </span><span> Champion Trail about 1/2 mile beyond the Ranger Station. The Champion Trail entrance gives direct access to a parking lot with trail
map kiosk.</span></p>
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{page:WordSection1;}</style></p>Marehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15128367085408432589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3360001322242903715.post-51057975065114397092023-09-18T13:27:00.003-07:002023-09-18T13:27:22.853-07:00Herkenham-Skywalker-Old Post Loop<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>HERKENHAM-SKYWALKER-OLD
POST LOOP<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnhLVio_W23ppDTSM3iE_0Y4Uq1EDnRJvPJhsc5tNo8xqLEQsidKjrQDkjx1aLdABSkRJUE2_jYqkXJoR1nsaVvxNCJNJUIy3SZScag9TemOGiYZ1pfHW4os-siSvZEsNu7SfoF4Th-J6qvW6paXmJtbm2x8tJGFvMRPqYHO5GqLeHPP5V0OhI8OBMShDH/s6016/HerkenhamOcotillo7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnhLVio_W23ppDTSM3iE_0Y4Uq1EDnRJvPJhsc5tNo8xqLEQsidKjrQDkjx1aLdABSkRJUE2_jYqkXJoR1nsaVvxNCJNJUIy3SZScag9TemOGiYZ1pfHW4os-siSvZEsNu7SfoF4Th-J6qvW6paXmJtbm2x8tJGFvMRPqYHO5GqLeHPP5V0OhI8OBMShDH/s320/HerkenhamOcotillo7.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ocotillo frame views on the Herkenham Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">In the
exalted realm of Sedona hiking trails, Herkenham barely registers a blip. Maybe
because it’s been around for so long, it has become invisible. Or perhaps its nexus
is misunderstood.<br /> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There’s no cave, no
natural bridge and no babbling creek. While lacking in traditional hiker
catnip, the trail’s list of don’t-haves includes one attribute that some hikers
must have. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh76CV8FY0oMbXecZU_FMriiMujQQ8FeERn-NcXWFaDIlGQL0sbST1_gLzmgOSstWr3UvegZJJ4Oa7d4UYQaKpj6oltSqh6AsNXIBa4q-vD_C9wwoZrobihr4u-S3TNMHODCcE3xjR0_xs9cewTAH6IhaZch480Z6AahTqmSpVTHApiLQWSwe8vbU972nMm/s6016/SkywalkerCourthouse513.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh76CV8FY0oMbXecZU_FMriiMujQQ8FeERn-NcXWFaDIlGQL0sbST1_gLzmgOSstWr3UvegZJJ4Oa7d4UYQaKpj6oltSqh6AsNXIBa4q-vD_C9wwoZrobihr4u-S3TNMHODCcE3xjR0_xs9cewTAH6IhaZch480Z6AahTqmSpVTHApiLQWSwe8vbU972nMm/s320/SkywalkerCourthouse513.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courthouse Butte (L) and Bell Rock (C) from Skywalker Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />There are no crowds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And to the
aforementioned some, swapping a look-at-me Instagram moment for solitude is a fair
tradeoff. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">The
Herkenham Trail sits in the corrugated hills above Oak Creek on the west side
of Sedona. It’s part of a network of looped trails that trace airy ledges and
scoured gullies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmsHhJtbx7DWhNSAAk8mUFs6lWKeACV5faLM1ZNR7kobUDeopctKhIj5wYGcaQJf0fKEiXjPTMt4w5CdWBqP5_Wyh6-nXK3pi9NxCpflpgK_DBPHrZKDQnkGQB3AUUjkfisbIwBQXG-mfEtCToA2R95pxlBBzxEaeowq2EHxFqfMLrpS_z9IuzQ72E5Rke/s6016/OldPostPyramid5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmsHhJtbx7DWhNSAAk8mUFs6lWKeACV5faLM1ZNR7kobUDeopctKhIj5wYGcaQJf0fKEiXjPTMt4w5CdWBqP5_Wyh6-nXK3pi9NxCpflpgK_DBPHrZKDQnkGQB3AUUjkfisbIwBQXG-mfEtCToA2R95pxlBBzxEaeowq2EHxFqfMLrpS_z9IuzQ72E5Rke/s320/OldPostPyramid5.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pyramid formation from Old Post Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The system that spins
around the twisted course of Carroll Canyon has easy access points and lighter traffic
than many other Red Rock Country hike destinations. But that doesn’t mean the
trails lack appeal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The singletrack
paths trudge through gorgeous high desert ecozones with enough elevation change
to guarantee good workouts and continually changing vistas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoBml0BpJsKm4YRh81i7OGoR3sJlimXSJfyRoMbrmH-AnJYPOmk_jOG4nRBu_UDjW5SiaQCDYIhs9m_LzWj_34ntrnLxPWLgUl7vE2TYxudKfowiOXvDn2cYvsDs1ZkZitBsS0J1KR1LMrWCqLsjH3J8ZjX4qtVFpv2Baq6ZgUlvub2YszxKEpBfMQbAZx/s6016/HerkenhamGreen.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoBml0BpJsKm4YRh81i7OGoR3sJlimXSJfyRoMbrmH-AnJYPOmk_jOG4nRBu_UDjW5SiaQCDYIhs9m_LzWj_34ntrnLxPWLgUl7vE2TYxudKfowiOXvDn2cYvsDs1ZkZitBsS0J1KR1LMrWCqLsjH3J8ZjX4qtVFpv2Baq6ZgUlvub2YszxKEpBfMQbAZx/s320/HerkenhamGreen.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A rare shady spot on Herkenham Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The beauty of the Carroll Canyon area in
Coconino National Forest is way trail expansion has evolved around a few stalwart
heritage routes. Besides Herkenham, the Old Post and Carroll Canyon trails have
been around for years, while the newer Skywalker, Scorpion and Pyramid trails add
miles with respect for the original core routes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBm2sTKqWzjX2kpUMsefHJKuBvISZbvQYNHFymtIxiutoXd1TK6OdmPunSoHnF_ohwBoo6ySApRd2EkfRha1YUFt1i-6jLBRAuZuBI0HVb67blLoVAQd6Mpfd8Sbeikh1-GzHuqMT7z3EA6jrq5gxaJZUosTOcqSSvmb7JLBqYsuGNg8MqdU0lpr5dEq-D/s6016/SkywalkerAirportMesa95.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBm2sTKqWzjX2kpUMsefHJKuBvISZbvQYNHFymtIxiutoXd1TK6OdmPunSoHnF_ohwBoo6ySApRd2EkfRha1YUFt1i-6jLBRAuZuBI0HVb67blLoVAQd6Mpfd8Sbeikh1-GzHuqMT7z3EA6jrq5gxaJZUosTOcqSSvmb7JLBqYsuGNg8MqdU0lpr5dEq-D/s320/SkywalkerAirportMesa95.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tabletop Mesa (C) from Skywalker Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </span>One way to sample old and new is to make a
loop hike using the Old Post, Herkenham and Skywalker trails. The moderate-rated
hike may be accessed from the Old Post Trailhead along Chavez Ranch Road by
hiking 0.7-mile north on the Old Post Trail to the Herkenham junction.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7-kfQcjXFzEMA4ji69wvoMHiYyPctP7zN9jvEiBNKm9MLarrgzgGepsGjJraNFAr5-yNFX13cnhLeJFuTg9HfUkHsj5dATlpSMYKcjJNSMicZR2Xjgi88dtviEEpf1d3P5dr_bOEgjOq27WINAEAw3CpmpmR5D4MeZWWYDHaKjo6CjEGcF3B4Pc8S5EFK/s6016/HerkenhamOldPostJunction66.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7-kfQcjXFzEMA4ji69wvoMHiYyPctP7zN9jvEiBNKm9MLarrgzgGepsGjJraNFAr5-yNFX13cnhLeJFuTg9HfUkHsj5dATlpSMYKcjJNSMicZR2Xjgi88dtviEEpf1d3P5dr_bOEgjOq27WINAEAw3CpmpmR5D4MeZWWYDHaKjo6CjEGcF3B4Pc8S5EFK/s320/HerkenhamOldPostJunction66.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The loop is well signed <br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> The
first leg is an easy-going stroll through cactus-dotted grassland.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6C3FtnTCCKgcpBLnnivVNXfnSixALs_XJ7QUfKYITIght70v2lJhNwMkx4zO41Dq1IOklWdhHgpuVKfRxyGYW3h3Q0U2v0x4pH9kG-otSW578fN4aZeihBZ8pwEuTZD-7unt1f60cbXFunhmlMxGM9RfZC932kJWak2yaDCzt7vUwztjTmYEFXGh1-R7Y/s6016/SkywalkerGully5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6C3FtnTCCKgcpBLnnivVNXfnSixALs_XJ7QUfKYITIght70v2lJhNwMkx4zO41Dq1IOklWdhHgpuVKfRxyGYW3h3Q0U2v0x4pH9kG-otSW578fN4aZeihBZ8pwEuTZD-7unt1f60cbXFunhmlMxGM9RfZC932kJWak2yaDCzt7vUwztjTmYEFXGh1-R7Y/s320/SkywalkerGully5.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Skywalker Trail ducks around a gully<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Sparce shade is courtesy of sporadic stands
of pinion pines and junipers that pop up in groups large enough to block the
sun for a water break but never dense enough the eclipse mountain vistas. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most of the hike’s elevation gain happens on
the 1.1-mile Herkenham Trail leg. While the loop’s overall high-to-low
elevation difference is less than 600 feet, the route is deceptively more
challenging. A constant string of rises, dips and turns keep things interesting
and pleasantly paced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Herkenham tops out
at a small parking area across from the old Red Rock High School. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijVvoUgztM1qJLP_d0k_Dp--6ndPH02eUyfsekQRqkPiAIowWlSksE4Z4urHfHujj9JbNziyBBlHb2XDMp8QxRQu0YilT6gzI7XZ2SjTnRkjfTv4GxLCHICPELeYCCC7i2YuCSSZj6Ls4o1f1MolKuBhpdfVcggJcKsKag1pFjXdZOCKQ4JXH_IbAoKgcQ/s6016/SkywalkerOakCreek68.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijVvoUgztM1qJLP_d0k_Dp--6ndPH02eUyfsekQRqkPiAIowWlSksE4Z4urHfHujj9JbNziyBBlHb2XDMp8QxRQu0YilT6gzI7XZ2SjTnRkjfTv4GxLCHICPELeYCCC7i2YuCSSZj6Ls4o1f1MolKuBhpdfVcggJcKsKag1pFjXdZOCKQ4JXH_IbAoKgcQ/s320/SkywalkerOakCreek68.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of Oak Creek from Skywalker Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />This site may
be used as an alternative trailhead, but it fills up fast, especially on
weekends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the parking area, the
Skywalker Trail begins with a rocky descent outside the bounds of a residential
area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw66ntoWAGxfd7rB5WcGynkHPrxFPoA--25PcsqJPpydnjf7MU2CMKMGIsYRLMPfS8XP-5J7iMiSTFuqhEkFRFaiaciKtZVvWyJHQpxWixO-c4oRlTcU9W6Gkw-F88lc6Q61bAAM9votFfk0q36X2eANNmSR45IoAJoxlOxIvbZj1BV9ksDDd2MSi0xcu5/s6016/SkywalkerPath2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw66ntoWAGxfd7rB5WcGynkHPrxFPoA--25PcsqJPpydnjf7MU2CMKMGIsYRLMPfS8XP-5J7iMiSTFuqhEkFRFaiaciKtZVvWyJHQpxWixO-c4oRlTcU9W6Gkw-F88lc6Q61bAAM9votFfk0q36X2eANNmSR45IoAJoxlOxIvbZj1BV9ksDDd2MSi0xcu5/s320/SkywalkerPath2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Capitol Butte (center horizon) from Skywalker Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Beyond the homes, the trail begins
its 1.5-mile southeast trek.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The first half
of the trail rides high on a ridgeline with the best views of the loop. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpqgmaEJXsCUYnxWR8t_N0AQwCvoi3w2xMmEfvbwbbbMW52D3bGNjVt_93BcIf4QccPBZR038v_ZRUtGjBpZVuRazIfsM55Xn6VhZsQr-zYvw8_jp7y-nifm7WqERU1-JBzl-ISXTmiz8cxIoVR1gi5sJZ5jxtneiXFolv0Uv7sQplmu1lroYzSmBzIzCl/s6016/SkywalkerOcotillo5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpqgmaEJXsCUYnxWR8t_N0AQwCvoi3w2xMmEfvbwbbbMW52D3bGNjVt_93BcIf4QccPBZR038v_ZRUtGjBpZVuRazIfsM55Xn6VhZsQr-zYvw8_jp7y-nifm7WqERU1-JBzl-ISXTmiz8cxIoVR1gi5sJZ5jxtneiXFolv0Uv7sQplmu1lroYzSmBzIzCl/s320/SkywalkerOcotillo5.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little rain brings out the ocotillo on Skywalker<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The green band of the Oak Creek corridor glows
in the valley below with outstanding peeks at Courthouse Butte, Bell Rock, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and Capitol Butte.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Views to the northeast are more elusive, but
quick looks at the Cockscomb formation and Bear Mountain are available to those
who pay attention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF3QLZ9bIonTHVRi6SFaCRepcEUVG3E9dmDMQ-vGCoyTGSSl3SAfZjub0fy3i99Y4Q8vXKnnSx6roezcSMttYGD02bxJG0BAn1aJywwfQ9FC3l4cjJhPCNxQZfImNjg7shoN58I3KuL7Q5kqMpGfbSG-VaivHhSVidNHKPyqPvwY8DKXd_XaMXwNb9DAkr/s6016/map2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF3QLZ9bIonTHVRi6SFaCRepcEUVG3E9dmDMQ-vGCoyTGSSl3SAfZjub0fy3i99Y4Q8vXKnnSx6roezcSMttYGD02bxJG0BAn1aJywwfQ9FC3l4cjJhPCNxQZfImNjg7shoN58I3KuL7Q5kqMpGfbSG-VaivHhSVidNHKPyqPvwY8DKXd_XaMXwNb9DAkr/s320/map2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carroll Canyon trails are easy to loop up<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />After several dozen flowing
bends, the “sky walking” portion of the trail ends where the long profile of Tabletop
Mesa and the colorfully layered peaks of Munds Mountain Wilderness stand out on
the horizon. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The trail then makes a
steady descent back down to the Old Post trail for the 1.5-mile return segment
where the call of scrub jays mingles with the rumble of cars headed toward Red
Rock Crossing--the closest ooh-and-ahh catnip. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>LENGTH:</b>
5.1-mile loop</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>RATING:</b>
moderate</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>ELEVATION:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>3,979 – 4,569 feet (1,037 feet of elevation
change)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>GETTING
THERE:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Old Post
Trailhead:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">From the
State Route 179/89A traffic circle in Sedona, go 4 miles west (toward
Cottonwood) on SR 89A to Upper Red Rock Loop. Turn left and continue 1.8 miles
to Chavez Ranch Road (Forest Road 216A), turn left and go 0.1 mile to the Old
Post trailhead on the left. There are no fees or facilities at the trailhead. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>INFO:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Coconino
National Forest</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=72089&actid=50">https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=72089&actid=50</a></span></p>
<p><style>@font-face
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{page:WordSection1;}</style></p>Marehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15128367085408432589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3360001322242903715.post-63145133249852849632023-08-28T13:33:00.003-07:002023-09-07T12:06:03.466-07:00Dipper-Apollo-Pluto-Spacewalk Circuit<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>DIPPER-APOLLO-PLUTO-SPACEWALK
CIRCUIT</b></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzst3hFN1ShgqoxBVbq2ekjnqCJHnPZGe0Vyi1XTPXoah4oJLnkzxmbfjCeN5GlC-pMP2NUEk3ICYSoZHlLcxw8wOQA_ZjfHQYVbgjkqzvTSjyhjn-35DRBridkDxLxKNgJjj6GKWj7gu0wiE3u_OwpEQNRtfNMGz9eANKDdC0zdDg3Yt9KUX9q2ctyJvh/s6016/PlutoMonolith2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzst3hFN1ShgqoxBVbq2ekjnqCJHnPZGe0Vyi1XTPXoah4oJLnkzxmbfjCeN5GlC-pMP2NUEk3ICYSoZHlLcxw8wOQA_ZjfHQYVbgjkqzvTSjyhjn-35DRBridkDxLxKNgJjj6GKWj7gu0wiE3u_OwpEQNRtfNMGz9eANKDdC0zdDg3Yt9KUX9q2ctyJvh/s320/PlutoMonolith2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Impressive monolith on the Pluto Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b><br /></b></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Flagstaff
has a long and colorful association with astronomy and space exploration. Notable
mentions include the discovery of Pluto from the Lowell Observatory by Percival
Lowell in 1894. And in the 1960s, the Apollo astronauts trained in the Cinder Hills
area to test procedures in volcanic craters that resembled the lunar landscape
prior to landing on the real thing in 1969.</span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTfVbGrOhTTNRnbumuJcVQFvoq1iCg0P1OiNfXaLPr1hhWSzy63zf_eVGWM7Mf50ygO4PdaUe4qGW5vIj6hafV4nkpnbgK2w4RaRYYomj4WFpoCrffqgmstqaPcwidiPwiaCHfYmy7D2gX6stSGIyLxXba7_C8mSrFn2zG8hWnLda-aPk6xiM05B7QIc3I/s6016/Apollo36.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTfVbGrOhTTNRnbumuJcVQFvoq1iCg0P1OiNfXaLPr1hhWSzy63zf_eVGWM7Mf50ygO4PdaUe4qGW5vIj6hafV4nkpnbgK2w4RaRYYomj4WFpoCrffqgmstqaPcwidiPwiaCHfYmy7D2gX6stSGIyLxXba7_C8mSrFn2zG8hWnLda-aPk6xiM05B7QIc3I/s320/Apollo36.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Apollo Trail winds through volcanic boulders<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Additionally,
Flagstaff has the distinction of being named the first International Dark Sky
City in 2001.</span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhSLA7J7_6shw5t3Jxm9Q-gdw2sCioHKm-kngW27PkAkKlZWeZpHgo2efxI8ib58Qirqj7Fm9xO8SjrS09TmH5Yfuy0ySwMefTWVOdIOZunTItwaVElbqiILhVEAU2FwXEMy6VhxndGBktZw7Z8rPOxqs7CJLUYQaQiJb-DWFsc4W9h5cSPSv5P4lJLqxr/s6016/DipperHairpin8.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhSLA7J7_6shw5t3Jxm9Q-gdw2sCioHKm-kngW27PkAkKlZWeZpHgo2efxI8ib58Qirqj7Fm9xO8SjrS09TmH5Yfuy0ySwMefTWVOdIOZunTItwaVElbqiILhVEAU2FwXEMy6VhxndGBktZw7Z8rPOxqs7CJLUYQaQiJb-DWFsc4W9h5cSPSv5P4lJLqxr/s320/DipperHairpin8.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A hairpin curve on the Dipper Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /> That’s a big deal because the city’s policies on limiting nighttime
light pollution have many benefits including improving human health, protecting
sensitive wildlife and ecosystems and maintaining clear skies for stargazing
and studying the universe.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhGPUuRgdJ5KfHV62-00z3JcN49KyAggu5_AqWQr-ctEQi0m9UZvytKPv_YFA0ECPzL9RPRx8wsSrkf-SrOdT98SYiI-H8X5tXQl1ZOe4H-tBX8OdCh8ldQ3ZOsn5V2Z_EfJta_zxLBbYRUzAhmGSMk35W52XVUpCK9gBN1l11T9tj6rQOg5taaW0NPxCL/s6016/SpacewalkPeaks81.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhGPUuRgdJ5KfHV62-00z3JcN49KyAggu5_AqWQr-ctEQi0m9UZvytKPv_YFA0ECPzL9RPRx8wsSrkf-SrOdT98SYiI-H8X5tXQl1ZOe4H-tBX8OdCh8ldQ3ZOsn5V2Z_EfJta_zxLBbYRUzAhmGSMk35W52XVUpCK9gBN1l11T9tj6rQOg5taaW0NPxCL/s320/SpacewalkPeaks81.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mountain vistas on the Spacewalk Trail <br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Learn more at
darksky.org)</span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">In homage
to the Northern Arizona city’s outer space heritage, a new maze of trails in
the Mount Elden-Dry Lake Hills (MEDL) area was opened to the public in August.</span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghhw1iM5789IszWspivMZQB1a5WkND9TpRLjYyn0JbaJpabFunqKIETUPbR1NvTX6BXlygf7nXdzzWcMu0-yNxX47hvu2GP68EljvbzKjL5tKNA055HJi_nMOAx0IB_MhzahGeuyix7GIZM7_zEw090jJL05kCGdIiUUnbL3b05LTL1urmprab0lM-psFL/s6016/SandSage8.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghhw1iM5789IszWspivMZQB1a5WkND9TpRLjYyn0JbaJpabFunqKIETUPbR1NvTX6BXlygf7nXdzzWcMu0-yNxX47hvu2GP68EljvbzKjL5tKNA055HJi_nMOAx0IB_MhzahGeuyix7GIZM7_zEw090jJL05kCGdIiUUnbL3b05LTL1urmprab0lM-psFL/s320/SandSage8.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wildlife browse sand sage August - November<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3fqePWcmmpGDMCfeK42qyPgwp9aRQJXZ719gai_zNUI5KTjiLd0E-AeJe14z0XT1MQk8k5-aypJRyoJpm_MxY4jSq62ZGTPRj1EtxnYJWdfQJGkJq8CBoqh0WlQUOc488s3MOuU9BHR2MrdCud482KW-7I3-YOirJsJP8t0EPQZ1HkJWMTxFUu1hbMuhu/s6016/RockyRidge51.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3fqePWcmmpGDMCfeK42qyPgwp9aRQJXZ719gai_zNUI5KTjiLd0E-AeJe14z0XT1MQk8k5-aypJRyoJpm_MxY4jSq62ZGTPRj1EtxnYJWdfQJGkJq8CBoqh0WlQUOc488s3MOuU9BHR2MrdCud482KW-7I3-YOirJsJP8t0EPQZ1HkJWMTxFUu1hbMuhu/s320/RockyRidge51.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New MEDL trails connect with Rocky Ridge Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Part of the Schultz stacked loop system,
located just a few miles north of downtown, the new Dipper, Apollo, Pluto and
Spacewalk trails tie into the previously unveiled Big Bang Trail. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz3_B_bdfN6VaOlQ8Bcz3-OoL8iZZxPFL5Ux2cNyfV3YabnOIt6Pp96lQ9GDNmE4kMj9ziyQgQ1ciSgZIW2N-vC4WKa4OlCjT9t4gMpRuMy7XozMDX5LrR5IGbayPSDWdbi1j1nMOVdDCOQGUDf5cxahuV8Zuo3C_k3LW_7Wzn6A69elzk_fW5EzLe5iJf/s6016/PlutoBurnWindow13.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz3_B_bdfN6VaOlQ8Bcz3-OoL8iZZxPFL5Ux2cNyfV3YabnOIt6Pp96lQ9GDNmE4kMj9ziyQgQ1ciSgZIW2N-vC4WKa4OlCjT9t4gMpRuMy7XozMDX5LrR5IGbayPSDWdbi1j1nMOVdDCOQGUDf5cxahuV8Zuo3C_k3LW_7Wzn6A69elzk_fW5EzLe5iJf/s320/PlutoBurnWindow13.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pluto Trail passes a recovering burn scar<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />They also add
toned muscle to Old Standard backbone routes like Rocky Ridge, Sunset,
Brookbank and Upper Oldham Trails. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ98RNPmfbFV9ZSvk8Z4i2CJCDn9iGK9seq0uOwB7l3ObyC1Ue0oBo6alPuZR0aCnZGCa7bGSNeOb_gx7CHKZBSPZ5-wlqVp-v6zSzZ7E6MMFbRi76soCsNG8LjZS3lSyHo8K-Md7PiWbVLLyHUhZ475I8DcTAuBonUtFfh-smQYmbWfeMqbdvjRGv3GL1/s6016/ApolloElden2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ98RNPmfbFV9ZSvk8Z4i2CJCDn9iGK9seq0uOwB7l3ObyC1Ue0oBo6alPuZR0aCnZGCa7bGSNeOb_gx7CHKZBSPZ5-wlqVp-v6zSzZ7E6MMFbRi76soCsNG8LjZS3lSyHo8K-Md7PiWbVLLyHUhZ475I8DcTAuBonUtFfh-smQYmbWfeMqbdvjRGv3GL1/s320/ApolloElden2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mt. Elden seen from the Apollo Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Built by Coconino National Forest and
Arizona Conservation Corps with the assistance of local volunteers, the trail
names slap a celestial sugar coating on a decidedly terrestrial domain.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKpYCFUDGL4KIKbEkXUBbDX_T8EoC9vegW_f_dls_qpMjHY3KjCcZURcuPV8BbsXTy22GwWo9w5vIjGZhVbsFlFZ8Kh_k6rvTooVaG9S9yS1uhZA5XkMkjARM8UXLi8NIEWkNNDkfWIWF7g0CAnQ3peUhoIJKcwdHMRz_OfGyEmJZjqQuTJQ1oTQWEIsgv/s6016/SpacewalkMeadow2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKpYCFUDGL4KIKbEkXUBbDX_T8EoC9vegW_f_dls_qpMjHY3KjCcZURcuPV8BbsXTy22GwWo9w5vIjGZhVbsFlFZ8Kh_k6rvTooVaG9S9yS1uhZA5XkMkjARM8UXLi8NIEWkNNDkfWIWF7g0CAnQ3peUhoIJKcwdHMRz_OfGyEmJZjqQuTJQ1oTQWEIsgv/s320/SpacewalkMeadow2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wildflower meadow on Spacewalk Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> While
the area’s high elevation and slightly lower O2 levels might give lowlanders
(if you’re from Phoenix, you’re a lowlander) a mini case of the woozies, the
trail designs minimize the impact. These new routes are not of the old school
straight-up-and-down ilk that seem engineered to make you feel like a looser.
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrRzTUqbKFnTjhgzc552hitUFgcpr79AXC7hzJd6-lE5VbiRlgT8Tj8lIQ35LF9GSgGgQa5HqkKFdUvFzPElb9zUXE1iqcErJSwz98qY522lkxK2tMfoemLZD4eR0XGuMvmi5JYGGR9rmZpBcDFj9tAnCCDWqH6jOUxaNtq89miGokrUxbUuqQDZhTP_g2/s6016/DipperTree2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrRzTUqbKFnTjhgzc552hitUFgcpr79AXC7hzJd6-lE5VbiRlgT8Tj8lIQ35LF9GSgGgQa5HqkKFdUvFzPElb9zUXE1iqcErJSwz98qY522lkxK2tMfoemLZD4eR0XGuMvmi5JYGGR9rmZpBcDFj9tAnCCDWqH6jOUxaNtq89miGokrUxbUuqQDZhTP_g2/s320/DipperTree2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ancient alligator juniper on the Dipper Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />These scenic paths capitalize on natural landscape contours, using sweeping
switchbacks to ease climbs and tight hairpin turns to propel trail users around
ravines and gullies.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSIQ3bqrfTNPl7nePkQjP0mkvBdfve-O3dzA1A_sE5XZFQDkN6TecER2GnPjRnkdLYv9rynnI-PyUQPaUt8ic_nOnH1HQDJjLO21stXd8WKKr_kyzNse0G-Rr4qlrArm8iH2wdZb_yi1Evp02ACIXv0OWnXrMib8ztGr3cT0lAhxlRBYyZucjoJXFG9kTt/s6016/paintbrush81.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSIQ3bqrfTNPl7nePkQjP0mkvBdfve-O3dzA1A_sE5XZFQDkN6TecER2GnPjRnkdLYv9rynnI-PyUQPaUt8ic_nOnH1HQDJjLO21stXd8WKKr_kyzNse0G-Rr4qlrArm8iH2wdZb_yi1Evp02ACIXv0OWnXrMib8ztGr3cT0lAhxlRBYyZucjoJXFG9kTt/s320/paintbrush81.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paintbrush color sunny spots March - September<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjMtIbSWJv_KzF3TuPbk6US-IuHvf7d__FpS2diQOI_5GND8scoel2akUGbMihrVfZBU5D48WD11w6wQrhmjczyQ8BE7VLRZ6oO5d1JUJ0ZbC5UhBWgl5NUq-KW0RD07Rs-5pDnv45B4ey6E1OBEEGl7fPupGRbIFxkCAGhWGoxw65rhVrzpv-iwPnckbz/s6016/SpacewalkPlutoJunction4.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjMtIbSWJv_KzF3TuPbk6US-IuHvf7d__FpS2diQOI_5GND8scoel2akUGbMihrVfZBU5D48WD11w6wQrhmjczyQ8BE7VLRZ6oO5d1JUJ0ZbC5UhBWgl5NUq-KW0RD07Rs-5pDnv45B4ey6E1OBEEGl7fPupGRbIFxkCAGhWGoxw65rhVrzpv-iwPnckbz/s320/SpacewalkPlutoJunction4.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The looped trails are easy to customize<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">To explore
this new hub, begin at the Schultz Creek Trailhead, which was relocated away
from the course of Schultz Creek this summer, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>with a short walk on the Chimney Trail to
connect with the Rocky Ridge Trail. </span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhDkly8VyEBMly_cZGPtXAF5r-sSmPRPELI-DITpNN4G7cgRzRiJbMYepNQlYJ4C6bqMhmmLPPVZOZrIm15UYlkbLeG0hKEnVVJA6TO6RqEpTvDCaqVtwk7M3AiRG2KSjjGXM2NTzbz1naw3m5ltUsrgdpXjXBfBbwk5t89RWVysGeHQ5eFd6z_cUDwRiU/s6016/DipperPeaks20.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhDkly8VyEBMly_cZGPtXAF5r-sSmPRPELI-DITpNN4G7cgRzRiJbMYepNQlYJ4C6bqMhmmLPPVZOZrIm15UYlkbLeG0hKEnVVJA6TO6RqEpTvDCaqVtwk7M3AiRG2KSjjGXM2NTzbz1naw3m5ltUsrgdpXjXBfBbwk5t89RWVysGeHQ5eFd6z_cUDwRiU/s320/DipperPeaks20.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">San Francisco Mountain seen from Dipper Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br />The route follows Rocky Ridge for 0.7 miles
to where the Apollo Trail heads left.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
0.3-mile connector path twists among lichen-encrusted volcanic boulders and
sporadic tree cover, serving up appetizer views of what’s to come. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimn2dn2yBltTv2iLP6Ner6ufmMqb7BngSa3Hbrr7F6cvQv08XwoZwjesHVsUPn--zm59ks_hYl23rSGmiPgMYMt9WsX-f8_3sZ0UnxJeb1LnjvUsc3aHpD93e0TeXtoTEORUWjt57zNftMzjXYC4Nm4vpogc89YujhsSfoH3p33xXKrxgnngyHY68e40Xn/s6016/DipperSunflowers7.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimn2dn2yBltTv2iLP6Ner6ufmMqb7BngSa3Hbrr7F6cvQv08XwoZwjesHVsUPn--zm59ks_hYl23rSGmiPgMYMt9WsX-f8_3sZ0UnxJeb1LnjvUsc3aHpD93e0TeXtoTEORUWjt57zNftMzjXYC4Nm4vpogc89YujhsSfoH3p33xXKrxgnngyHY68e40Xn/s320/DipperSunflowers7.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunflower meadows below the Dipper Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />At the
1-mile point, Apollo intersects the Dipper Trail. For this trip, the route
heads right taking on an edgy segment where enormous alligator junipers frame
mountain vistas and glimpses of downtown Flagstaff before exposing first peeks
at the sky-scraping silhouette of 12,633-foot San Francisco Mountain. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwfa2J5dSmlBR2R65MrtRpGsSFzPlBvcNL3V0espGFtfKDke1-2-DRcFSckEpnzqwbs82jW2VQQIVWfbukkelG17dvk3akfciSfRgiSdlsgHaHuA9qNVw35P27MXcTPRGS3hScaKccvEJdnwqk7745e1lQ3hwQPNci1NZ8oH1uOoF-YZ7CAEJt8ljVRfDw/s6016/PlutoPeaks8.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwfa2J5dSmlBR2R65MrtRpGsSFzPlBvcNL3V0espGFtfKDke1-2-DRcFSckEpnzqwbs82jW2VQQIVWfbukkelG17dvk3akfciSfRgiSdlsgHaHuA9qNVw35P27MXcTPRGS3hScaKccvEJdnwqk7745e1lQ3hwQPNci1NZ8oH1uOoF-YZ7CAEJt8ljVRfDw/s320/PlutoPeaks8.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mixed conifer woodlands on Pluto Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </span>Immediately beyond the mountain preview, Dipper
meets the Pluto trail at the 1.8-mile point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Pluto is another capillary-type route of about a third of a mile that
runs between the Dipper and Spacewalk trails.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The tightly coiled path jogs around a recovering burn scar and a
prominent monolithic stone outcropping, then connects with the Spacewalk Trail.
Great views of the peaks can be had by heading left at the junction. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5uqfCDjbdMxufWbCSIwBfRnHScnxa2zFivKjhD8MENXmZPnBQyUYN4OBiJnRmXggNuS5IOw-uIYHnm3JMCs_lPnQIU9935OehhKrJumxVNf-xmbyPFvwGoY3OP_CLOltl_eaNYLyVIZkMGvCUElTG2KPj6xMTTWnUbnMn2EKt_wyYp03p-8NVYb0_zXJU/s6016/PurpleLocoweed4.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5uqfCDjbdMxufWbCSIwBfRnHScnxa2zFivKjhD8MENXmZPnBQyUYN4OBiJnRmXggNuS5IOw-uIYHnm3JMCs_lPnQIU9935OehhKrJumxVNf-xmbyPFvwGoY3OP_CLOltl_eaNYLyVIZkMGvCUElTG2KPj6xMTTWnUbnMn2EKt_wyYp03p-8NVYb0_zXJU/s320/PurpleLocoweed4.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Purple locoweed bloom June - September<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEbhjjzn2HdwcGOmpDazJX2L_X0Ot6mOjiHCdzc_ar2tIP2AunzHJZIIaQ-ZGmk1yLC08naoHeZqvRZzJz0wde3-ohZWVU7UAOyCFPZ1X-r1vrHQI4ED6xWMTxXJDVZAxaqv4rtFHbT29KrWmZxdK2r09AkIWwhs80gefZ7I5PWRexqZQImFBsQwZC3t8m/s6016/NarrowleafTickClover5.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEbhjjzn2HdwcGOmpDazJX2L_X0Ot6mOjiHCdzc_ar2tIP2AunzHJZIIaQ-ZGmk1yLC08naoHeZqvRZzJz0wde3-ohZWVU7UAOyCFPZ1X-r1vrHQI4ED6xWMTxXJDVZAxaqv4rtFHbT29KrWmZxdK2r09AkIWwhs80gefZ7I5PWRexqZQImFBsQwZC3t8m/s320/NarrowleafTickClover5.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Narrowleaf tick clover bloom July - September<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The easy
singletrack meanders for a half-mile through wildflower meadows and mixed conifer
woodlands before bumping into the Big Bang Trail, the turnaround point for this
exploratory trip. However, a quick map consult will show a full menu of loop options
for longer or shorter hikes. </span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>LENGTH:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><b> </b> </span>4.66 miles out-and-back</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>RATING:</b> moderate</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>ELEVATION:</b>
7,160 – 7,765 feet (964 feet of elevation change)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>GETTING
THERE:</b> </span><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">Schultz Pass
Trailhead: </span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">In Flagstaff, go 3 miles north on U.S. 180 (Humphreys Street) and turn
right on to Schultz Pass Road (Forest Road 420). Continue 0.5-mile on FR 420
and make a hard left at the Elden Look Road (Forest Road 577) and go another
half-mile to the<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>parking area on the left.
There are no fees or facilities at the trailhead. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><b>INFO: </b>Coconino National Forest</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recmain/coconino/recreation">https://www.fs.usda.gov/recmain/coconino/recreation</a> <br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
</p><br /><p><style>@font-face
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{page:WordSection1;}</style></p>Marehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15128367085408432589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3360001322242903715.post-55516040845773980562023-08-21T10:07:00.004-07:002023-08-21T10:08:20.363-07:00Noodle Loop <p>
</p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>NOODLE
LOOP</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Spence Basin Trail System. <br /></b></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDIOVYQ9nUJPY5fj8yy_JZ8ef6DWfg4AAFi2vLDKnpfixyi3w3fYAJrEdjWs9kh40rT_tuCIt5pughUL0oCWd-6NuXSY4lEbYtRoFyrwc2BxyR4_X-Wfu3riS9cshg1x6Lix-WvYGZ5rvaHhaxJYHbNPXUXnMy-0dV0RL8GcZYQv2y4TfKKLnRcesfaPCm/s6016/TwistBoulders2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDIOVYQ9nUJPY5fj8yy_JZ8ef6DWfg4AAFi2vLDKnpfixyi3w3fYAJrEdjWs9kh40rT_tuCIt5pughUL0oCWd-6NuXSY4lEbYtRoFyrwc2BxyR4_X-Wfu3riS9cshg1x6Lix-WvYGZ5rvaHhaxJYHbNPXUXnMy-0dV0RL8GcZYQv2y4TfKKLnRcesfaPCm/s320/TwistBoulders2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wiggly course of Noodle Loop<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b><br /></b></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Wiggly,
woodsy, route. Say that three time fast and you’ll get the vibe of the Noodle Loop
Trail No. 360.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYgsztjJ5DdkGmLNykuCaPMuHLrXAOOqnQg-BugAwZk1WUHcSKMEw0noeEMOFxmjwN9ZS3hN2zLVW_rXn7u7zVPuRrimrzqPtCnUkWy46XivtjE-1shhxFrrypwmR7htTNGJI-diY8QpYcD79G7bDbrbZsUTv-XxyGTkevJDtDb0drF7sdYNnY3aC2EgpH/s6016/CloudForest5.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYgsztjJ5DdkGmLNykuCaPMuHLrXAOOqnQg-BugAwZk1WUHcSKMEw0noeEMOFxmjwN9ZS3hN2zLVW_rXn7u7zVPuRrimrzqPtCnUkWy46XivtjE-1shhxFrrypwmR7htTNGJI-diY8QpYcD79G7bDbrbZsUTv-XxyGTkevJDtDb0drF7sdYNnY3aC2EgpH/s320/CloudForest5.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There's lots of shade on Noodle Loop<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /> </span>Living up to this tongue-twister
summary and moniker, the short loop in the Spence Basin Trail System in
Prescott National Forest, delivers a quick trip marked by lots of shade, abrupt
bends and flowing curves.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhseb2oiBpEZaCRvRJjN_-nY5caD1iWhqve1eBrWdU1aKacSuRI8yqnmbYo9G021INUMZSXfdHeoZwNt-cWcw7fiCKmHGGEV1ONik7oSXy8AyBhjkyCxQeE5iLLMm91iV0cJgeY8BuE5-vg2gFMb2gwpgQ19zv-Ike0O1H5KhkXyhZT-kX7vdp6PjuKZrbS/s6016/MapSign9810.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhseb2oiBpEZaCRvRJjN_-nY5caD1iWhqve1eBrWdU1aKacSuRI8yqnmbYo9G021INUMZSXfdHeoZwNt-cWcw7fiCKmHGGEV1ONik7oSXy8AyBhjkyCxQeE5iLLMm91iV0cJgeY8BuE5-vg2gFMb2gwpgQ19zv-Ike0O1H5KhkXyhZT-kX7vdp6PjuKZrbS/s320/MapSign9810.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spence Basin trails are well signed<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The trek debarks
from the Spence Springs trailhead located just a few miles northwest of Downtown
Prescott. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpCdZKYno9bJbhxB3OZsIZBXigeFt4FZokDC8aPcpM3HBINaClzf1qk0fQQSv8nFYX2rNndo6V7z5mzXwdlcZ4JlSkgTDFKBi59eDjb6CcNlD41DOrnr6JMUJjirooi693U2JcKQTOWDf7A8V1TNQXyKQ0OyGcdizAtpMmuVlHhAFHB1M-NJrTumgoUS1e/s6016/acorn9.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpCdZKYno9bJbhxB3OZsIZBXigeFt4FZokDC8aPcpM3HBINaClzf1qk0fQQSv8nFYX2rNndo6V7z5mzXwdlcZ4JlSkgTDFKBi59eDjb6CcNlD41DOrnr6JMUJjirooi693U2JcKQTOWDf7A8V1TNQXyKQ0OyGcdizAtpMmuVlHhAFHB1M-NJrTumgoUS1e/s320/acorn9.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shrub oaks are common along the loop<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />While the loop is well-signed and synced with a phone app, many intersecting
roads and trails including the 50+-mile Prescott Circle Trail can be tempting
distractions. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizhYmJR0Im6Ij1osBWk--Hgm2Rro5sZSif-_iwLtFe8n9SY3DSQmRvfV8_KEj1m2U5ACXRNKGucIoJSzgy--vXCcEyOpCqXqEaPSul-yIaoiLwqM0NPA8j8TzulMbFQG3mSs1dIqX88pNa5iZvmYB7yyyOwhqE5na8m0FQPd-1jjmmr7juMv9iu67L9hI1/s6016/boulders9.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizhYmJR0Im6Ij1osBWk--Hgm2Rro5sZSif-_iwLtFe8n9SY3DSQmRvfV8_KEj1m2U5ACXRNKGucIoJSzgy--vXCcEyOpCqXqEaPSul-yIaoiLwqM0NPA8j8TzulMbFQG3mSs1dIqX88pNa5iZvmYB7yyyOwhqE5na8m0FQPd-1jjmmr7juMv9iu67L9hI1/s320/boulders9.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The loop is slick and clear of obstacles<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The hub, which sits between majestic 7,626-foot Granite Mountain and
iconic 6,440-foot Thumb Butte is beloved for its maze of short, coiled paths
that glide through hilly terrain with endless ways to customize day hikes. <br />Noodle
Loop is a perfect choice for warmer days as it stays mostly in a pocket of
pines, oaks and junipers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW0m01Iz-0w6bvH_A_4yzNUhfVtpLvsP_9apY5aEIH3eFD--ii00MG01fOwp5_WuG3PsRAJd1mU5f9wuouZ5gPh_XRDN6oxMCpg3NeKUAPxEuxeOY8qKb3KhmdjKqg-85udmf7bD1P-Q1YPLzZjOQtNKC2caUMtU1D9SwHZ96mabxrTaBnd1E4r8D2mEut/s6016/MountainGromwell5.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW0m01Iz-0w6bvH_A_4yzNUhfVtpLvsP_9apY5aEIH3eFD--ii00MG01fOwp5_WuG3PsRAJd1mU5f9wuouZ5gPh_XRDN6oxMCpg3NeKUAPxEuxeOY8qKb3KhmdjKqg-85udmf7bD1P-Q1YPLzZjOQtNKC2caUMtU1D9SwHZ96mabxrTaBnd1E4r8D2mEut/s320/MountainGromwell5.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mountain gromwell bloom July -September<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>Views are
sparce but the loop’s string of bumps, bends, and hairpin turns that slingshot
hikers over cottonwood-cluttered drainages, ledges and through boulder
outcroppings provide plenty of entertainment. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0jo_KOUcXyZ1sXCQPtWUGLGn4AmyPtLfzCPzFEvkLRW2_SzCme26ZRtaKP7lUIkrZzeOehb0hf3XZnmh1bIM8DqsM-r6lbPDM0nFe0v175eKe9O8eYBRCQ0h9ITLMX68eG_XiGcGKyOZ1fcqwQb0eX9me0NxeD35EuntmsibtPU_HDT5EiPoHuPrhxqB0/s6016/OakBend2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0jo_KOUcXyZ1sXCQPtWUGLGn4AmyPtLfzCPzFEvkLRW2_SzCme26ZRtaKP7lUIkrZzeOehb0hf3XZnmh1bIM8DqsM-r6lbPDM0nFe0v175eKe9O8eYBRCQ0h9ITLMX68eG_XiGcGKyOZ1fcqwQb0eX9me0NxeD35EuntmsibtPU_HDT5EiPoHuPrhxqB0/s320/OakBend2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The loop stays in a shady, wooded basin<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>The maintained single-track path feels as it
was engineered for speed. There are no major obstacles to work around and clear
lines-of-sight make it easy to see oncoming bikes and horses that share the
trail.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKoroyoIHQ-YgKgEqCu3-t7LtF7W_SJgHizHcgIZw-nzvwEL_WWl6sWT8QrtqpgLSd9Lws_V5iUMJDKWMbh2T3_DNI-m3SzUYi79hW9zkO3soLgevAn_4LUYyGhMJ7n_PY67MTj0JX5_7AErrFlErL1Ow5xDCD_Ypb4P57jiZNhmot-5NflG9zCwuGs5UY/s6016/cottonwoods12.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKoroyoIHQ-YgKgEqCu3-t7LtF7W_SJgHizHcgIZw-nzvwEL_WWl6sWT8QrtqpgLSd9Lws_V5iUMJDKWMbh2T3_DNI-m3SzUYi79hW9zkO3soLgevAn_4LUYyGhMJ7n_PY67MTj0JX5_7AErrFlErL1Ow5xDCD_Ypb4P57jiZNhmot-5NflG9zCwuGs5UY/s320/cottonwoods12.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cottonwoods thrive in a moist drainage<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> Following the natural contours of the terrain, the trail’s smooth,
linguine-like dips and climbs add up to over 700 feet of accumulated elevation
change. But the loop’s slick design acts as a silent propellant, whisking hikers
through in painless, speedy style. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia6obvoD-QW2rUk4sKgq0wnemuqi10znEM1hLaK8KZcGb2pqe-z1Nj_MjKTg7QQ5LbQDQf5X--MyDtGtMqLkWhJ-oYkmRfcmF6wO-PVvLd4jZbjDdTiqP9J5DDyfZPvSrM9Z5SUuYi5zkYC6M0A_MjUZnMVoq4cY_fnwnIG_eVVX5wSMEsF91KGSIXMHPO/s6016/mushrooms3.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia6obvoD-QW2rUk4sKgq0wnemuqi10znEM1hLaK8KZcGb2pqe-z1Nj_MjKTg7QQ5LbQDQf5X--MyDtGtMqLkWhJ-oYkmRfcmF6wO-PVvLd4jZbjDdTiqP9J5DDyfZPvSrM9Z5SUuYi5zkYC6M0A_MjUZnMVoq4cY_fnwnIG_eVVX5wSMEsF91KGSIXMHPO/s320/mushrooms3.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mushrooms bloom after monsoon rains<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>LENGTH:</b>
2.3-mile loop</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>RATING:</b>
easy</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>ELEVATION:</b>
5,514 – 5,676 feet (703 feet of accumulated elevation change)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>GETTING
THERE:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Spence
Springs Trailhead:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">From Courthouse Square
in downtown Prescott, go 4.8 miles north on Montezuma Street which will turn
into Whipple Street then Iron Springs Road (County Road 10) to Spence Springs
Road on the left.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is located just
past the turnoff for Granite Basin Recreation Area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There’s a portable restroom at the trailhead.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>INFO:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Prescott
National Forest</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/prescott/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=84362&actid=50"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/prescott/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=84362&actid=50</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">City of
Prescott</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="https://www.prescott-az.gov/recreation-area/prescott-circle-trail/">https://www.prescott-az.gov/recreation-area/prescott-circle-trail/</a></span></p>
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{page:WordSection1;}</style> <br /></p>Marehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15128367085408432589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3360001322242903715.post-50771600999726479582023-07-31T13:11:00.008-07:002023-08-01T07:08:45.533-07:00Arizona Trail Passage 34: FR418 to Kelly Tank<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">ARIZONA
TRAIL PASSAGE 34 SAN FRANCISCO PEAKS</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Forest
Road 418 to Kelly Tank</span></b></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5akS2KZ6jnTGm2ceCJewv-CgzS-EHEuyrp5XR6PXGzjehB8PJmh9eQomX2Lb-y9D2uyEhbqbi7cL8Ye8vUfPSKCXNJnB7VHxY2nNd65c3M9b-Wx4udAn2ZLWemSsL7k9F57-iePLi8x0acWmNBYwt2_MMkwt4LzbIsAaR7dWchdq8T28bUs8m9fJeJfnz/s6016/AspenStorm57.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5akS2KZ6jnTGm2ceCJewv-CgzS-EHEuyrp5XR6PXGzjehB8PJmh9eQomX2Lb-y9D2uyEhbqbi7cL8Ye8vUfPSKCXNJnB7VHxY2nNd65c3M9b-Wx4udAn2ZLWemSsL7k9F57-iePLi8x0acWmNBYwt2_MMkwt4LzbIsAaR7dWchdq8T28bUs8m9fJeJfnz/s320/AspenStorm57.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aspens and pines on the Arizona Trail Passage 34<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">An Arizona
“alpine start”-the pre-dawn trailhead call for a mountain hike- can be timed by the stars. Basically, if Orion has faded into
the dawn, it’s already too late. </span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4V73zxiolD9felcGEsQDfyyOdyNWlmZbad8k8VrrAViK0ns37ARTw9fgsPMZqhoNSVwBTOGA6UJ0J2tZQ5XsbQyTLYdxEqeL7lNe1RRxPDz6asWCs60XvnQr-owWEnP4YgSyGPTgui-q0sbE6lDQJv53Jmcdxsnc0wu3XkiuhkZNxwNARpuhMzgVgy6OV/s6016/FernsLloyd623.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4V73zxiolD9felcGEsQDfyyOdyNWlmZbad8k8VrrAViK0ns37ARTw9fgsPMZqhoNSVwBTOGA6UJ0J2tZQ5XsbQyTLYdxEqeL7lNe1RRxPDz6asWCs60XvnQr-owWEnP4YgSyGPTgui-q0sbE6lDQJv53Jmcdxsnc0wu3XkiuhkZNxwNARpuhMzgVgy6OV/s320/FernsLloyd623.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hip-high ferns near Forest Road 418<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br />The iconic winter constellation with its prominent
three-star belt arcs over the night sky from December to late April. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmtANWVZGGX1mrQKu0QiAAhquh4tZ2lNan0pQIuEnZr36To4J5Vh3H1_NOOvf3AcyeWcjZAJkEyDzruPS7BeVx2qOpYR2KLhceYZbLhH-qrqk5MUD2DtgJtGe0kzcDciolx3WAMxQblyG5SjFqZHfH6Dt0AInZ6bEWbuLWJXqlIP-CBb23aqzN9nqifhMc/s6016/PeaksWhiteHorseHills6.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmtANWVZGGX1mrQKu0QiAAhquh4tZ2lNan0pQIuEnZr36To4J5Vh3H1_NOOvf3AcyeWcjZAJkEyDzruPS7BeVx2qOpYR2KLhceYZbLhH-qrqk5MUD2DtgJtGe0kzcDciolx3WAMxQblyG5SjFqZHfH6Dt0AInZ6bEWbuLWJXqlIP-CBb23aqzN9nqifhMc/s320/PeaksWhiteHorseHills6.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Storm builds over the White Horse Hills<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />It then disappears
for a few months before making its summer debut in the early morning hours of
August. Visible low on the eastern horizon around 4 a.m., Orion the Hunter
signals the hour Phoenix area day hikers must leave the Valley to beat high
country monsoon storms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZFzoHalgVtbvB1DocdXf90D9_pglpYkjnnFJzG7Yt6fYAMTXmWkAPaAz7_lqaFs97Y6PF6qb0Zd1FW0Ah1vktCAtnDtk9F96EW_0EDZ51rkzpkASH0EbLMkqv_KXdIy9SfJQykKLHCU6t9gDjaFrpRyCkiqMdvFS6AFbLO_QWvYk3SJNxB4w_bCrTgU7a/s6016/StormWhiteHorseHillsLloyd2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZFzoHalgVtbvB1DocdXf90D9_pglpYkjnnFJzG7Yt6fYAMTXmWkAPaAz7_lqaFs97Y6PF6qb0Zd1FW0Ah1vktCAtnDtk9F96EW_0EDZ51rkzpkASH0EbLMkqv_KXdIy9SfJQykKLHCU6t9gDjaFrpRyCkiqMdvFS6AFbLO_QWvYk3SJNxB4w_bCrTgU7a/s320/StormWhiteHorseHillsLloyd2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">When thunder roars, go indoors.<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>There are three
things to know about summer hiking on Arizona’s mountain trails. First,
temperatures will be cooler, but fickle. Second, mountains make their own
weather, often churning out thunder, lightning, high winds, and rain after 11
a.m. And finally, being caught on a mountain or in the open during a monsoon
storm is a potentially deadly situation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>That’s why it’s smart to follow The Hunter’s lead and head out super
early to be off peaks and into safety before noon. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC83kmRvRIsgzTN8vApuwGq77T-e9Lb6gDJG9jemhhnOmeAtGMDuMKO8-Yaped2mzHrlMe6beyeI1mjSGDLdHEVhvAxO0SCWqRsTXvMw_1AzlQlPbMeqOeVXe4TqNN3ToYIpGkZNB_f65AvmRX8O5zF3wIf6LiD_I4BGvWvKcA8ZyhIi0Guvg28755Kw84/s6016/SilverstemLupine602.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC83kmRvRIsgzTN8vApuwGq77T-e9Lb6gDJG9jemhhnOmeAtGMDuMKO8-Yaped2mzHrlMe6beyeI1mjSGDLdHEVhvAxO0SCWqRsTXvMw_1AzlQlPbMeqOeVXe4TqNN3ToYIpGkZNB_f65AvmRX8O5zF3wIf6LiD_I4BGvWvKcA8ZyhIi0Guvg28755Kw84/s320/SilverstemLupine602.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Silverstem lupine bloom June - October<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Per the National Weather
Service, “When thunder roars, go indoors.” For more lightning safety education,
visit:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><a href="https://www.weather.gov/safety/lightning"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">https://www.weather.gov/safety/lightning</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">.</span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">In
addition to staying alive, early morning hiking has many benefits. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-D27WUZ5-yHgzcfLWMVx4dwetrLWjA-uaIOHGCSw_nalG22XY0WWEXk9LWbCtpmrLxlzy8QzvuNTE7AUlfQMgCR5Jy62TZUzG5-dUruib-hQgNmtbjRjJBwLP02mzz-9SJiiw_n4ksn_SlMEhwWGVu-2jDetF0pgQsixZx9Mf8fDlHHBB2wvmATHLBJL-/s6016/WalkerCinderCone47.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-D27WUZ5-yHgzcfLWMVx4dwetrLWjA-uaIOHGCSw_nalG22XY0WWEXk9LWbCtpmrLxlzy8QzvuNTE7AUlfQMgCR5Jy62TZUzG5-dUruib-hQgNmtbjRjJBwLP02mzz-9SJiiw_n4ksn_SlMEhwWGVu-2jDetF0pgQsixZx9Mf8fDlHHBB2wvmATHLBJL-/s320/WalkerCinderCone47.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alpenglow on the Walker Lake cinder cone<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span>The crack of dawn is the best time to observe
wildlife and witness the syrupy amber “alpenglow” the sun paints on mountain
slopes. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgopA8XlhNRpOxcEYwR9O202Oub6jAHoeQTeHLODQk33D5SaZjTpvH6fEr_c6Q0oi4o_9tBFRzL631Z7KcJ3mLtEdwhZT5Q3-kELU8c4YDXwZZ1uKXXtuL7Btr7WPVNUSpe1aOO5AtLTfTzkgjBlA_rgv69Wb-HccYDPV6OcOpeNCY6xRZrJtBwtQagL1V3/s6016/KendrickPeak10.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgopA8XlhNRpOxcEYwR9O202Oub6jAHoeQTeHLODQk33D5SaZjTpvH6fEr_c6Q0oi4o_9tBFRzL631Z7KcJ3mLtEdwhZT5Q3-kELU8c4YDXwZZ1uKXXtuL7Btr7WPVNUSpe1aOO5AtLTfTzkgjBlA_rgv69Wb-HccYDPV6OcOpeNCY6xRZrJtBwtQagL1V3/s320/KendrickPeak10.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kendrick Peak viewed from the Arizona Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The San Francisco Peaks Passage 34 of the Arizona National Scenic Trail
is one worth setting the alarm to experience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The Flagstaff area favorite runs for 35.3 miles between the Weatherford
Trailhead at the south edge of the peaks to Babbitt Ranch in Coconino National
Forest. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVp9MIlN6ZBW3IT58I6KmclDxWW8NF_DiSPFrQCLpcnYvwkPN0l4VPoh5pNtRjYFMLYOReWjfEvqlQ6ZR-97jakrbvSGvLnvLN4JrHQGtnPFYjnGCsJAFTALOewLBfNemJzH9J5eIOX8qXSx24ciwxEAhc0-9zEmdw8EvWQRBOV-wG4zFAjAowPcrhQMsr/s6016/MeadowClouds32.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVp9MIlN6ZBW3IT58I6KmclDxWW8NF_DiSPFrQCLpcnYvwkPN0l4VPoh5pNtRjYFMLYOReWjfEvqlQ6ZR-97jakrbvSGvLnvLN4JrHQGtnPFYjnGCsJAFTALOewLBfNemJzH9J5eIOX8qXSx24ciwxEAhc0-9zEmdw8EvWQRBOV-wG4zFAjAowPcrhQMsr/s320/MeadowClouds32.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Monsoon clouds over the Arizona Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Along its mostly easy course, the trail cuts through aspen glens, dense
coniferous forests, meadows, and juniper-studded rangelands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The entire passage is hemmed in by mounds and
craters of the San Francisco Volcanic Field, an 1,800 square mile swath of the
Colorado Plateau with over 600 volcanic features.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQWuhBVpgi5IZabneRP-6G-u1jb6bmLhxE5h_8W7qt3qwOkiCP5KLxEDU4VygSm-q22TWtlp0gEDLnPxDtm4TxkMWx2sXtyvvAYZqU0VnrNesSJlidBZVuk4q7NHDe205OFn0k1lqfnQKTqWcqdEasbYO_lQQoCCn0353QFeCXFIGkfKUDbPPm7Mbbo2kx/s6016/PeaksLloyd.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQWuhBVpgi5IZabneRP-6G-u1jb6bmLhxE5h_8W7qt3qwOkiCP5KLxEDU4VygSm-q22TWtlp0gEDLnPxDtm4TxkMWx2sXtyvvAYZqU0VnrNesSJlidBZVuk4q7NHDe205OFn0k1lqfnQKTqWcqdEasbYO_lQQoCCn0353QFeCXFIGkfKUDbPPm7Mbbo2kx/s320/PeaksLloyd.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A hiker photographs a scenic moment on the AZT<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhdFe3EtljVlivU4T1exFgq0ImZTl1b0X4YVf3StuN_GjUDkQJqjiN9I3Ni1OhF2Ju6aDt8ApDXVAs_lNKDPLynoKadguLRco6GJzKqwF-Vyfq7Nk9A1ui_EpjxKe78cWgKgNST6l1aMmBfRBLmwFYw-VklHzIV1SiP7vgIqNtEFgwHQ9yofXESqeEkCvt/s6016/AZTGate11.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhdFe3EtljVlivU4T1exFgq0ImZTl1b0X4YVf3StuN_GjUDkQJqjiN9I3Ni1OhF2Ju6aDt8ApDXVAs_lNKDPLynoKadguLRco6GJzKqwF-Vyfq7Nk9A1ui_EpjxKe78cWgKgNST6l1aMmBfRBLmwFYw-VklHzIV1SiP7vgIqNtEFgwHQ9yofXESqeEkCvt/s320/AZTGate11.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arizona Trail gate at FR 514<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Passage 34 rounds the slopes
of 12,633-foot San Francisco Mountain ( the Humphreys Peak Trail goes to its summit), a dormant stratovolcano, and heads north
through a maze of cinder cones and lava flows.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>For a volcano-centric day hike, the segment of the passage that runs
between Forest Roads 418 and 514 is a beauty. </span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">The
6.8-mile out-and-back trek begins in a thicket of aspens on the northwest edge
of San Francisco Mountain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An understory
of ferns, lupines, and tall grasses lap at the legs as hikers take on the
gentle inclines. Within a half-mile, the trail parallels the Walker Lake cinder
cone. </span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO4C6CA4_gG5DpeCrIacbou2y6GtM7TptZzHFeDu6Jw5SWzVBBo_BSJEj7eZSyGJ0jII_rEXoXgA5V9dtBc7PfRmhT6Qo1lNYi2RTuFsiNeXThigvwIlp-DigH4Gh1wZLxS14yjEIhGZM1UjOY_ecPWDAbQFLExvPxjOh-mutSV72XwFvwh-8kOPa5sNE0/s6016/PeaksPines1.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO4C6CA4_gG5DpeCrIacbou2y6GtM7TptZzHFeDu6Jw5SWzVBBo_BSJEj7eZSyGJ0jII_rEXoXgA5V9dtBc7PfRmhT6Qo1lNYi2RTuFsiNeXThigvwIlp-DigH4Gh1wZLxS14yjEIhGZM1UjOY_ecPWDAbQFLExvPxjOh-mutSV72XwFvwh-8kOPa5sNE0/s320/PeaksPines1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">San Francisco Mountain viewed from AZ Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKdEUzTlKmmJaAPz9M5HscC076eWIO0AK-_dPc9Mz8Em0ZzDqP2Le5N88-5v7ISML2JJ3JHNsw9KlU3ZXMeYSfD8yrctc6qIC__PKvG6XO-yQZjNx2SJsPKsBygzuK29vpKe1lEft_9AbemfKXdHRsYwOTo0d6Zq_m7OsUXwwz5_rfSKi-xrcqyWsZj9D9/s6016/SaddleMountain12.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKdEUzTlKmmJaAPz9M5HscC076eWIO0AK-_dPc9Mz8Em0ZzDqP2Le5N88-5v7ISML2JJ3JHNsw9KlU3ZXMeYSfD8yrctc6qIC__PKvG6XO-yQZjNx2SJsPKsBygzuK29vpKe1lEft_9AbemfKXdHRsYwOTo0d6Zq_m7OsUXwwz5_rfSKi-xrcqyWsZj9D9/s320/SaddleMountain12.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A hikeable road leads to the summit of Saddle Mountain<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Standing at over 8,400 feet, its pine-fleeced crater contains a shallow pond.
The swampy pool is not visible from the trail, but a nearby dirt road leads
to its innards. To the east, the weathered peaks of the White Horse Hills rise
over Deadman Wash. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBmgyNsmQjs6FFcXhfAhUW4Bs42BoZk1UrPhCUMVaKezru5vyICEoJYyHh5DNUEq0xMKzV9vWLhcm5Pd29wHMMdp9IFJ5LbX8vt0XpHud8pAByatCn4p14F18GLSABbYjk4_uWIFdSI6ab1WwabTtWY9tlNNgt9H0t-m4kvyf_vRotL-IvXSEvK_o5SA4v/s6016/YarrowFerns4.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBmgyNsmQjs6FFcXhfAhUW4Bs42BoZk1UrPhCUMVaKezru5vyICEoJYyHh5DNUEq0xMKzV9vWLhcm5Pd29wHMMdp9IFJ5LbX8vt0XpHud8pAByatCn4p14F18GLSABbYjk4_uWIFdSI6ab1WwabTtWY9tlNNgt9H0t-m4kvyf_vRotL-IvXSEvK_o5SA4v/s320/YarrowFerns4.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Western yarrow blooms June - September<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The mostly treeless, isolated volcanic landforms top out at
9,065 feet with a choppy fringe of Ponderosa pines huddled at their bases.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKjYwEAONUarqBob-0gR1vukkVC1VGljELknPTFg6NcaAZy-L0eA2SrSyfiUHGcwJNQxvS0XZ0bGLlq3yI2rePJ3qdepuJid91jx0Uc5OivPDTjPH9LKJVv461fFJpEGLIM4pUYKEXGIPS1c2nIiksQctlubmXsEn1UKrYE6Gb7P7pZZj-PEIzCOeNRTIP/s6016/ElkRub7.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKjYwEAONUarqBob-0gR1vukkVC1VGljELknPTFg6NcaAZy-L0eA2SrSyfiUHGcwJNQxvS0XZ0bGLlq3yI2rePJ3qdepuJid91jx0Uc5OivPDTjPH9LKJVv461fFJpEGLIM4pUYKEXGIPS1c2nIiksQctlubmXsEn1UKrYE6Gb7P7pZZj-PEIzCOeNRTIP/s320/ElkRub7.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elk leave "antler rub" scars on aspen trees <br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">As this
hike approaches its turnaround point at Forest Road 514, the tree cover thins
out opening views of<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>10,418-foot
Kendrick Peak to the west and 8,864-foot Saddle Mountain straight ahead. Both
have trails to their summits. At hike’s end across from Kelly Tank, an Arizona
Trail gate<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>marks the route’s transition
into more arid terrain where junipers, brush and wide-open spaces commandeer
the viewscape. Still, the mountain-borne lightning storms that happen on a near
daily basis in summer are something to monitor and avoid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An alpine start helps.</span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGR4-SpkBlZbdm-6XxzfBwl-3XUVVXkKtSbuCs5T9C3idqIdfVaNaflyRtq0VZXWcF1UC2ISM81yU0V9rzlnx_yEkOwuVGMBLrmFdBpUANyxwuci-LvEvau88-B65tP2-burqSfCi6vbKGMoZ6H1GQ985dtEYuMK_iDUFG-64pPLAjl_g2Trt4laN2QoHz/s6016/WhiteHorseHillsPeaks24.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGR4-SpkBlZbdm-6XxzfBwl-3XUVVXkKtSbuCs5T9C3idqIdfVaNaflyRtq0VZXWcF1UC2ISM81yU0V9rzlnx_yEkOwuVGMBLrmFdBpUANyxwuci-LvEvau88-B65tP2-burqSfCi6vbKGMoZ6H1GQ985dtEYuMK_iDUFG-64pPLAjl_g2Trt4laN2QoHz/s320/WhiteHorseHillsPeaks24.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gathering storm over the White Horse Hills <br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>LENGTH:</b>
6.8 miles out-and-back </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>RATING:</b>
easy</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>ELEVATION:</b>
8,300 – 7,721 feet</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>GETTING
THERE:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>SOUTH
ACCESS: FOREST ROAD 418 TRAILHEAD:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">From
Flagstaff, go 19.5 miles north on U.S.180 to the northern entrance<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>for FR151 (Hart Prairie Road) just past
milepost 235.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Turn right and continue
1.6 miles to FR418.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Continue
1.1 miles on FR418 to a dirt parking apron on the right. Hike begins on the
north side of the road. Forest roads are maintained dirt suitable for most
vehicles.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>NORTH
ACCESS: KELLY TANK TRAILHEAD:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">From
Flagstaff, go 21 miles north on U.S. 180 to Forest Road 514 (Kendrick Park
Road) at milepost 236.6. Turn right and continue to just past the 3-mile marker
at Kelly Tank and park in the dirt lot on the right at the beginning of Forest
Road 9006R. This is directly across from an Arizona Trail gate.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Forest
roads are maintained dirt suitable for most vehicles.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>INFO &
MAPS:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="https://aztrail.org/explore/passages/passage-34-san-francisco-peaks/">https://aztrail.org/explore/passages/passage-34-san-francisco-peaks/</a></span></p>
<p><style>@font-face
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{page:WordSection1;}</style></p>Marehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15128367085408432589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3360001322242903715.post-86663717900433465772023-07-19T08:34:00.000-07:002023-07-19T08:34:18.021-07:00Arizona Trail in a Day 2023<p><b>ARIZONA TRAIL IN A DAY 2023</b><br /></p><div class="" dir="auto"><div class="x1iorvi4 x1pi30zi x1l90r2v x1swvt13" data-ad-comet-preview="message" data-ad-preview="message" id=":r3u3:"><div class="x78zum5 xdt5ytf xz62fqu x16ldp7u"><div class="xu06os2 x1ok221b"><span class="x193iq5w xeuugli x13faqbe x1vvkbs xlh3980 xvmahel x1n0sxbx x1lliihq x1s928wv xhkezso x1gmr53x x1cpjm7i x1fgarty x1943h6x xudqn12 x3x7a5m x6prxxf xvq8zen xo1l8bm xzsf02u x1yc453h" dir="auto"><div class="xdj266r x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs x126k92a"><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs4LXnAgED4473WzC1-x1rYfzp_nUMH42NJNByWbP3605VVVyIu0AabX-wWhyLv6POANJBdNjISBWw2y1IwjY3bucq__eh4ffULqaCnOvclHrPeQYMzYUaN4QrJnlBVVlL2n4x-uGpuv_sd9NIBI17NCBwl7_49YiXklAEzdDB1-n1Z1RX76zHL6dJyG2i/s6016/AZTTreeSign4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs4LXnAgED4473WzC1-x1rYfzp_nUMH42NJNByWbP3605VVVyIu0AabX-wWhyLv6POANJBdNjISBWw2y1IwjY3bucq__eh4ffULqaCnOvclHrPeQYMzYUaN4QrJnlBVVlL2n4x-uGpuv_sd9NIBI17NCBwl7_49YiXklAEzdDB1-n1Z1RX76zHL6dJyG2i/s320/AZTTreeSign4.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />I'm doing <b>ARIZONA TRAIL IN A DAY</b> on October 7, 2023 to help raise $$ for the construction,maintenance and educational programs of the 800+-mile trail. Stuff like repairing fire and flood damage, adding water catchments and supporting trail stewards and volunteers need $$ to fly. So if you can kick in a few bucks for the effort, it's greatly appreciated! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrWZ83PBOHh_d17_vH9eAI-BwXKtm2PjUakE4BO1pIS10c3bLw48VGe46PrKZR52ujWA54KJinPxchDkAkUAZ8347SUcoBSamoVvO-QueMje8-T90IjmGRLiOYQRdJyv6FspRIhpjV-oeMNV_QfQJpS1zbAwdYdH4MnZrK96HG0Mw-VDMd6Ri6Z6fI6zsF/s4288/trailhead7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="4288" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrWZ83PBOHh_d17_vH9eAI-BwXKtm2PjUakE4BO1pIS10c3bLw48VGe46PrKZR52ujWA54KJinPxchDkAkUAZ8347SUcoBSamoVvO-QueMje8-T90IjmGRLiOYQRdJyv6FspRIhpjV-oeMNV_QfQJpS1zbAwdYdH4MnZrK96HG0Mw-VDMd6Ri6Z6fI6zsF/s320/trailhead7.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"> </div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;">No, I'm not hiking 800 miles in one day--just about 12 (and will drink beer after). </div></div></span></div></div></div></div><p> DONATE HERE:<br /></p><p><a href="https://raceroster.com/events/2023/76665/azt-in-a-day-2023/pledge/participant/21168283?fbclid=IwAR30Tcc657zuWo8q7j5eUGY3MDZd_7bzLG7vn4c0WhOZEFe9lLlAwkP8t0g">https://raceroster.com/events/2023/76665/azt-in-a-day-2023/pledge/participant/21168283?fbclid=IwAR30Tcc657zuWo8q7j5eUGY3MDZd_7bzLG7vn4c0WhOZEFe9lLlAwkP8t0g</a></p>Marehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15128367085408432589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3360001322242903715.post-10058690662410663262023-07-17T14:18:00.000-07:002024-02-27T11:36:08.135-08:00Arizona National Scenic Trail Mormon Lake Passage 29<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>ARIZONA
NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL MORMON LAKE PASSAGE 29<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcE9GVBd9ijVglzpoirsr357646Ds3luRhGPr39COcuf6oEZgUUF6mC5LXE0hJRBiBQSqId4y3pQn45aE_BdNts3-djEMJER0qLhol74ycoYUqqD9VV87bB1r6ifdTlXo53YbvLfAvP-C9icqY2kX4oMH4R-1lCm1Dx8nPqb7umGQLmeHyttwSs1J8g_6q/s6016/ConiferClouds5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcE9GVBd9ijVglzpoirsr357646Ds3luRhGPr39COcuf6oEZgUUF6mC5LXE0hJRBiBQSqId4y3pQn45aE_BdNts3-djEMJER0qLhol74ycoYUqqD9VV87bB1r6ifdTlXo53YbvLfAvP-C9icqY2kX4oMH4R-1lCm1Dx8nPqb7umGQLmeHyttwSs1J8g_6q/s320/ConiferClouds5.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old growth pine, spruce and fir trees on the AZT<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">The Mormon
Mountain Passage 29 of the Arizona National Scenic Trail slides through the of
forests and high plains of Anderson Mesa and the Plateau Lake region of
Northern Arizona.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR8s2b725teSnpqMl2rG2XYLqMtNUyZoS0ZfosaUPycWu8LkNRpLjl-QBYmIK4dwrrq0JQNqmCO_kVfsjqKkVk5vPLxI5ZLHqlWfDjwd3WFOApPWyxAFHq7nyIJ-vWsD-w3a_OfJrqZ43xfaLT0K2loT0DCnAl8T1z82mq4QL5B9yTkHTykWReDVicbbfs/s6016/butterfly7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR8s2b725teSnpqMl2rG2XYLqMtNUyZoS0ZfosaUPycWu8LkNRpLjl-QBYmIK4dwrrq0JQNqmCO_kVfsjqKkVk5vPLxI5ZLHqlWfDjwd3WFOApPWyxAFHq7nyIJ-vWsD-w3a_OfJrqZ43xfaLT0K2loT0DCnAl8T1z82mq4QL5B9yTkHTykWReDVicbbfs/s320/butterfly7.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pollinators alight on sunflowers near Double Springs<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">At 14.8
miles in length, it’s one of the shortest segments of the 800+-mile route that
runs from the Mexico border to Utah and is also one of the most accessible. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY7vaFwxoIzEdJZsWh84bAoXLxWH93iRMbAB1kn5iwX3HzaBl_6ViqIfc3r3s3wGXcP1Th0RoLfxLJYLIneA3Ksl-wRoY3PUiVJ7D4RGGSDBQJgpzS-oes7j_cDZlr98V5Fyn4O0aFzVIaGV-B-Gy1RSsi41_epFNOsIvTdsyrCSu-z2nKz6CsSDTXYsJm/s6016/CliffClouds2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY7vaFwxoIzEdJZsWh84bAoXLxWH93iRMbAB1kn5iwX3HzaBl_6ViqIfc3r3s3wGXcP1Th0RoLfxLJYLIneA3Ksl-wRoY3PUiVJ7D4RGGSDBQJgpzS-oes7j_cDZlr98V5Fyn4O0aFzVIaGV-B-Gy1RSsi41_epFNOsIvTdsyrCSu-z2nKz6CsSDTXYsJm/s320/CliffClouds2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cliffs and clouds on Passage 29 of the AZT<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The
segment heads north from the Gooseberry Springs trailhead off Lake Mary Road and
crosses paths with several campgrounds, water sources and the busy recreation
hub around Mormon Lake Lodge to its terminus at Mayflower Spring north of the
Dairy Springs Campground.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigPmfbnFpriza9Rrdd_Rjk0t3YL9dHp_TTlSQc1EzrPTbs0St5C20ELDDclHJNOnYYlTk6CcBFLLO7UFgVsAN31Ik2-qGc1jZoP7iPBFbHbE2Dip-Th2L-w14aeSUZrfdAd_EvtI0aazIumdghPqiiPmIKeE68RoH_BJ6OVyXPNktRypfFMAIu0Q_jJh9m/s4288/NavajoSpringTroughs83%20copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="4288" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigPmfbnFpriza9Rrdd_Rjk0t3YL9dHp_TTlSQc1EzrPTbs0St5C20ELDDclHJNOnYYlTk6CcBFLLO7UFgVsAN31Ik2-qGc1jZoP7iPBFbHbE2Dip-Th2L-w14aeSUZrfdAd_EvtI0aazIumdghPqiiPmIKeE68RoH_BJ6OVyXPNktRypfFMAIu0Q_jJh9m/s320/NavajoSpringTroughs83%20copy.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Navajo Spring site on the Arizona Trail near Mormon Lake<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">While the
trail maintains its backcountry ambience in Coconino National Forest, it never wanders too far from civilization.
That’s why this shady slice of the long-distance route located roughly 20 miles
south of Flagstaff is a perfect place for day hikers or trail novices to step out
with confidence and comfort. Multiple
access points and make dropping in and out of the passage or creating
abbreviated day hikes a cinch. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">A day hike
option that starts near the segment’s north end at the Mormon Mountain trailhead
doubles down on the shade for a cool summertime escape.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhollvwWm00FbqsAiv7YXCDHUtnOgu2hFSt_9MRFoK4Z9zvh2Bj8l0xx64KqY2Wsahzn8WrxE_FkNimVlhSr11hPuX1WA2M78irIf2hQUuLpcRhPPKSQjwiEUoj2s7BtiW_qK2Zupd69yaZDt5TQYkhnA8qJ6MtoogBKK07EHnsIMua_fgazjKE_Jo8Wc3h/s6016/LakeviewTrailhead2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhollvwWm00FbqsAiv7YXCDHUtnOgu2hFSt_9MRFoK4Z9zvh2Bj8l0xx64KqY2Wsahzn8WrxE_FkNimVlhSr11hPuX1WA2M78irIf2hQUuLpcRhPPKSQjwiEUoj2s7BtiW_qK2Zupd69yaZDt5TQYkhnA8qJ6MtoogBKK07EHnsIMua_fgazjKE_Jo8Wc3h/s320/LakeviewTrailhead2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Double Springs trailhead <br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Located near the Dairy Springs Campground on
the west shore of Mormon Lake, the trailhead is mainly used for the Mormon
Mountain Trail, a 6-mile roundtrip hike to the 8,449-foot summit of the eponymous
volcanic peak. From the trailhead, it’s a 0.4-mile walk to the Arizona Trail
junction where this trip heads left (south). Smothered in old growth
mix-conifer woodlands, mountain breezes whip up a cocktail of earthy-pine
fragrance in the air. The fir-spruce deep woods that dominate the first mile gradually
give way to a Ponderosa pines and Gamble oaks centric biozone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Where a short stretch of alligator junipers takes over
on a sunny ridge, the tree cover gives up fleeting peeks at the lake. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLDDs_0vXsfEt4XjTsruDJSmmqnaNugHxkG79dsGDsgg8ipbSf9FthauqDiPxivy_AAbcImGUb5p82Kvg7iIsgQthWNsV7CBg2NtABYyXaiBomX55-5N5Pgyg_KQ59e6DUTVASRRbYuOptnPRQxt_i5jrymjOrjkBbUYk3aqUnC5Kne7i0EgUvXUtl9ohM/s4288/WildBergamotTrail20%20copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="4288" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLDDs_0vXsfEt4XjTsruDJSmmqnaNugHxkG79dsGDsgg8ipbSf9FthauqDiPxivy_AAbcImGUb5p82Kvg7iIsgQthWNsV7CBg2NtABYyXaiBomX55-5N5Pgyg_KQ59e6DUTVASRRbYuOptnPRQxt_i5jrymjOrjkBbUYk3aqUnC5Kne7i0EgUvXUtl9ohM/s320/WildBergamotTrail20%20copy.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wildflower meadow near Navajo Spring<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />After
crossing Forest Road 240, the trail enters Double Springs Campground and follow
a road a short distance to the Lakeview Trail on the right. The Arizona Trail
follows Lakeview for a mile to a junction at the 3-mile point. For a 6-miler,
this makes for a good turnaround point. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxTfrdWJKYW_bIGBDXuDIB_bbA4L7o21ZqDNDLVpQF0peIABSxpnmcmEdvKXbFaWR4S37S11cjtBRnWpYLknFHA61DSz_YTGLla6td43Eou5tTcWCLujv7Q1IX9phPTCmhNGam24pu9wqruwkp5Zspks0xqszhLyJocn6yWAUNJdq-OaDYrvoReYK_Plii/s6016/LakeviewFlowers21.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxTfrdWJKYW_bIGBDXuDIB_bbA4L7o21ZqDNDLVpQF0peIABSxpnmcmEdvKXbFaWR4S37S11cjtBRnWpYLknFHA61DSz_YTGLla6td43Eou5tTcWCLujv7Q1IX9phPTCmhNGam24pu9wqruwkp5Zspks0xqszhLyJocn6yWAUNJdq-OaDYrvoReYK_Plii/s320/LakeviewFlowers21.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Part of Passage 29 follows the Lakeview Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0fgvfignZineEM19QE5tdbxs1C5Gz-11GjMxfBC-Ki_HEbAkdSeCbgPZXVSYG1ejffE98VbulyCwpRv401mPbniPwizMFwfccQ1h0zqkZYCoaHi6fAo_f064s_DE4vadlLm0T7nNx64FENArritcgsqlB8Hpxdn82Jo6SKyaihT-IHKrSMZREJavjCpGG/s6016/MormonMtnTrailhead100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0fgvfignZineEM19QE5tdbxs1C5Gz-11GjMxfBC-Ki_HEbAkdSeCbgPZXVSYG1ejffE98VbulyCwpRv401mPbniPwizMFwfccQ1h0zqkZYCoaHi6fAo_f064s_DE4vadlLm0T7nNx64FENArritcgsqlB8Hpxdn82Jo6SKyaihT-IHKrSMZREJavjCpGG/s320/MormonMtnTrailhead100.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mormon Mountain Trailhead in Coconino NF<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />However, the Lakeview Trail continues
for another mile on a sketchy path up to a scenic lookout spot. It’s an optional
detour, but forest clearing operations make it somewhat difficult to follow. The
Arizona Trail continues south through meadows and aspen glens. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju7GBr825uwi1Cd9294yW-goOOU3CYTwpSn1LxzilbSuAJQN_e-LmdRIlw7-FKxpQ95Piridpjdq_KZdAGOVgSgIem3dSmv4F6InbmmHfh6eTqZLO1JbzWV_yXcnfa__w7yZTkA9JZxRIUgufyf7L4Y2GPA6d0cLnVXYBFoLZikiyivlXDzL8UHrYA8RqI/s6016/LakeviewAZTJunction1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju7GBr825uwi1Cd9294yW-goOOU3CYTwpSn1LxzilbSuAJQN_e-LmdRIlw7-FKxpQ95Piridpjdq_KZdAGOVgSgIem3dSmv4F6InbmmHfh6eTqZLO1JbzWV_yXcnfa__w7yZTkA9JZxRIUgufyf7L4Y2GPA6d0cLnVXYBFoLZikiyivlXDzL8UHrYA8RqI/s320/LakeviewAZTJunction1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trail junction at the 3-mile point<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />At the 6-mile
point just beyond Forest Road 90N, the trail meets the Navajo Spring site. A canopy
of feathery aspens and acres of wildflowers foil the intrusion of an arc of rectangular
concrete troughs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once used to water
livestock, the decaying array sits in a sunny clearing where filtered light softens
its manufactured edges. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif__SBRtyR92yAj4MgKLvvapfmaAvm8os7ohcFq7z6n5AqoEgOtJ3N9NF-47GM6W522e4NANagsoWlpY2zCeDAVgnw0IzT2pg9PanKf5RYqRjEQ4ptsZFt3n3VD2Wg__QMVHXbuqrnFUtOAcP8Z5Nhkj3_HYtTDnCbPJwVHYzlkXoYVsOUwdRRdwvDkRom/s6016/AZTRollover7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif__SBRtyR92yAj4MgKLvvapfmaAvm8os7ohcFq7z6n5AqoEgOtJ3N9NF-47GM6W522e4NANagsoWlpY2zCeDAVgnw0IzT2pg9PanKf5RYqRjEQ4ptsZFt3n3VD2Wg__QMVHXbuqrnFUtOAcP8Z5Nhkj3_HYtTDnCbPJwVHYzlkXoYVsOUwdRRdwvDkRom/s320/AZTRollover7.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">AZT rollovers simplify passing through gates<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Farther down a
shallow canyon, the Navajo Spring Trail spins off to the left and continues for
just over a mile to Mormon Lake Lodge. This makes for another car shuttle or
turnaround point option. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDEpPaT8W9Y_hZ-DqTcCNE3e3eYilrRSo3bJhGRm0EZPmL7TKVZce95CE_JHqFQ9kHpQTouThxvlYAJpWqP6fSgRe2eKRCqVcDbBp0n5ra1fvpTD5yC4icMGIvFhtNgZHB4zSQiPXxgLm6SvbFbMM04N_0mCNz09hAMb1Uzqj248kqelbVIe7YJQ03VtqA/s4288/ArizonaTrailRailroad36%20copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="4288" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDEpPaT8W9Y_hZ-DqTcCNE3e3eYilrRSo3bJhGRm0EZPmL7TKVZce95CE_JHqFQ9kHpQTouThxvlYAJpWqP6fSgRe2eKRCqVcDbBp0n5ra1fvpTD5yC4icMGIvFhtNgZHB4zSQiPXxgLm6SvbFbMM04N_0mCNz09hAMb1Uzqj248kqelbVIe7YJQ03VtqA/s320/ArizonaTrailRailroad36%20copy.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Part of the route follows an old railroad bed<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />For a longer trek, the trail continues south following
parts of an old railroad bed before concluding at the Gooseberry Springs trailhead.
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEPymwXcGc9Goz9-Cc_8kCkLYt4D0-qfhVPxeYbcy5VOBeUo7a76iQ2KEGPqpXt2CpR9ta714z67IENx3ElLzt4V0JrMJ1XI4cMosuKdTByQFFbcAQDd8NyGzxhi_4eoZi7AJl__4XE5XS_cQuIPMvAHqmnp8AtB83txLr61-u8jOpibhtia2jg1Mmp6Dw/s6016/ConiferBranches1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEPymwXcGc9Goz9-Cc_8kCkLYt4D0-qfhVPxeYbcy5VOBeUo7a76iQ2KEGPqpXt2CpR9ta714z67IENx3ElLzt4V0JrMJ1XI4cMosuKdTByQFFbcAQDd8NyGzxhi_4eoZi7AJl__4XE5XS_cQuIPMvAHqmnp8AtB83txLr61-u8jOpibhtia2jg1Mmp6Dw/s320/ConiferBranches1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The trail is shady and pine-fresh!<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For hikers who still want more, lots of
dispersed camp sites anchor the beginning of the trail’s 29.4-mile Happy Jack
Passage 28 that explores the Mogollon Rim. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoPlH2vpB01a75-6F6U715HmX8wc02vyU6NnjpY6YrYGXsOpowKLop4Vf_LuQedjIYN_l0BPWo0uR8lzlABOP0Pj2ovINoGgIksmQdajBrKG250XS9FrIDXapdhNStTPjUbBb3yL5ZP2tgBvMN6iJyCTJyNxNIUOebk6UqGI8dy7jV8WxB-r6nRalAyY-E/s6016/trailhead53%20copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoPlH2vpB01a75-6F6U715HmX8wc02vyU6NnjpY6YrYGXsOpowKLop4Vf_LuQedjIYN_l0BPWo0uR8lzlABOP0Pj2ovINoGgIksmQdajBrKG250XS9FrIDXapdhNStTPjUbBb3yL5ZP2tgBvMN6iJyCTJyNxNIUOebk6UqGI8dy7jV8WxB-r6nRalAyY-E/s320/trailhead53%20copy.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gooseberry Springs trailhead<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b><span style="color: red;">ARIZONA
TRAIL IN A DAY:</span></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">With this
primer completed, you might want to participate in the 6<sup>th</sup> annual Arizona
Trail in a Day event happening on October 17, 2023. The event rallies hikers
all across the state to complete the entire trail (in coordinated segments) in
24 hours while raising awareness and funds for trail construction, maintenance and
educational programs. Cool T-shirts, too! <b>REGISTER HERE:</b> <a href="https://aztrail.org/events/aztinaday-2023/">https://aztrail.org/events/aztinaday-2023/</a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>LENGTH:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">From the
Mormon Mountain Trailhead:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">To Lakeview
Trail Split: 3 miles one way</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">To Navajo
Spring: 6 miles one way</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">To
Gooseberry Springs Trailhead: 14 miles one way</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>RATING:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><b> </b> </span>moderate</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>ELEVATION:</b>
7,150 -7,484 feet (overall)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Mormon Mountain
Trailhead (Dairy Springs Campground): 7,287</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Double Springs
Campground: 7,146 feet</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Lakeview
Trail junction: 7,383 feet</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Wallace
Spring: 7,333 feet</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Navajo
Spring junction 7,467 feet</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Gooseberry
Springs Trailhead: 7,484</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>GETTING
THERE:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>MORMON
MOUNTAIN TRAILHEAD (as described here):</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">From
Flagstaff, go 20 miles south on Lake Mary Road (Forest Road 3) and turn left on
Mormon Lake Road (Forest Road 90) past milepost 323. Continue 3.6 miles to
Montezuma Road and the turn off for Dairy Springs Campground, turn right and go
0.3 mile to the trailhead. Roads are paved and maintained dirt suitable for all
vehicles.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>DOUBLE
SPRINGS CAMPGROUND:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">From
Flagstaff, go 20 miles south on Lake Mary Road (Forest Road 3) <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>to Mormon Lake Road (Forest Road 90) past
milepost 323 on the right. Follow Mormon Lake Road 5 miles to<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the Double Springs Campground turnoff and
continue 0.2-mile to the trailhead. Roads are paved and maintained dirt
suitable for all vehicles.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>NAVAJO
SPRING TRAILHEAD:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">From
Flagstaff, 20 miles south on Lake Mary Road (Forest Road 3) and turn left on
Mormon Lake Road (Forest Road 90) past milepost 323. Continue 7 miles to Mormon
Lake Lodge. Park in the dirt lot behind the reservation office and horse
corral. Hike begins at the Environmental Education Center across the road.
Roads are 100% paved. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>GOOSEBERRY
SPRINGS TRAILHEAD:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">From
Flagstaff, go 32 miles south on Lake Mary Road (County Road 3) to Forest Road
92. This is past mile post 313 on the left and signed for Gooseberry Springs.
Continue a short distance to the trailhead on the right. Roads are paved and
maintained dirt suitable for all vehicles.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>INFO &
MAPS:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Coconino
National Forest</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recarea/?recid=55006"><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recarea/?recid=55006</span></i></a><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Arizona
Trail Association</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="https://aztrail.org/explore/passages/passage-29-mormon-lake/">https://aztrail.org/explore/passages/passage-29-mormon-lake/</a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
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{page:WordSection1;}</style></p>Marehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15128367085408432589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3360001322242903715.post-22230567558204838992023-07-10T09:39:00.005-07:002023-07-10T12:01:01.547-07:00Forest Road 6033C<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>INTO THE
WOODS on FOREST ROAD 6033C</b></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8u_xp82w5ZtQtkVDJY2gchPCsCCNmrQf8HRYgbn4TwkoDQNwbGYjDz-Huo9Ogr-k_ZuK9iFNLBBTc6ZyU9P43irMd2Fe65TnXRE8zsbSyJqhxgBGmD26n15o4E2otSmRYRJoL-ckunn9dD9oL_EuKQ1r16Kn63S2UVuQiKotMRGfH-gp8fvjPStjTAd7o/s6016/FR6033C48.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8u_xp82w5ZtQtkVDJY2gchPCsCCNmrQf8HRYgbn4TwkoDQNwbGYjDz-Huo9Ogr-k_ZuK9iFNLBBTc6ZyU9P43irMd2Fe65TnXRE8zsbSyJqhxgBGmD26n15o4E2otSmRYRJoL-ckunn9dD9oL_EuKQ1r16Kn63S2UVuQiKotMRGfH-gp8fvjPStjTAd7o/s320/FR6033C48.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">FR6033C on the Mogollon Rim<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b><br /></b></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Forest
roads can be sweet escape routes from the swarms of summertime recreationists
that migrate from the Valley to the cool Arizona high country. Especially the ragged
ones; the ones few people notice or care to explore. This is a boon for
intrepid types willing to walk out into the albeit signed and plowed unknown.</span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVr9cKy1RsqwqsyxDj18yC3_WVaRPByVCN-gSKMoKjdTOwjxlR56a914hNUW37RUAYTJTbur3r1MJ4C0fpNQMoAUeLqGm8NKrDgAUEKKcQjL1BwQ6AkEnWVd6tmGykyMT1WXtH5M8kTbiStc5sm4-Cnp2VzAzEI1DM3Cq4n3uzXtXIQAfU2Kw2F81z1UMJ/s6016/FR6033CMcCartyRidge7.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVr9cKy1RsqwqsyxDj18yC3_WVaRPByVCN-gSKMoKjdTOwjxlR56a914hNUW37RUAYTJTbur3r1MJ4C0fpNQMoAUeLqGm8NKrDgAUEKKcQjL1BwQ6AkEnWVd6tmGykyMT1WXtH5M8kTbiStc5sm4-Cnp2VzAzEI1DM3Cq4n3uzXtXIQAfU2Kw2F81z1UMJ/s320/FR6033CMcCartyRidge7.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">McCarty Ridge seen from FR6033C<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Forest
Road 6033C reveals no obvious destination, its purpose is veiled in a tangle of
pines. </span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiesJ9HpLn7tZFqPmCrD5xyfvY61vXba7-qqqu8L5RxwWcHYHthHUPechFbA_mv8wQHX-yivqZA1Jafav-YQUvVug296bj3SpBEIyenfffbsrg91bGgfPs9EJiIgqivJfhMsQRcxJ14mYdJqIKBUJODna7XROKgVF2rut03v-ooAKIkiv0A6ywaVbFfluBS/s6016/FR6033BTank2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiesJ9HpLn7tZFqPmCrD5xyfvY61vXba7-qqqu8L5RxwWcHYHthHUPechFbA_mv8wQHX-yivqZA1Jafav-YQUvVug296bj3SpBEIyenfffbsrg91bGgfPs9EJiIgqivJfhMsQRcxJ14mYdJqIKBUJODna7XROKgVF2rut03v-ooAKIkiv0A6ywaVbFfluBS/s320/FR6033BTank2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A drought-stricken wildlife water hole on FR6033C<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br />The backwoods road located a couple clicks north of the community of
Clints Well on the Mogollon Rim is signed but not shown on forest service
maps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It runs on the terraced slopes above the
course of East Clear Creek in Coconino National Forest west of the popular Blue Ridge recreation area and
C.C. Cragin Reservoir. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQzghDeTVkIm2BLm1bNfvwiVTP4nXJIU7z_eMMZ11PH8XwkzNAtFR3FDDWGfhnRN3qBGSatc2bVsyrhG1bwlKIQDZHD15TFZoisr3RJ5Zw02u2D5Dx29cnVU6_4B5Ebp-VJQ745Rg6kV_1bxiHPhwJ7y_6hT7bgpGFPa4Dir-cXiOCDHUzIO6-J3dkEQEn/s6016/FR6033GSign2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQzghDeTVkIm2BLm1bNfvwiVTP4nXJIU7z_eMMZ11PH8XwkzNAtFR3FDDWGfhnRN3qBGSatc2bVsyrhG1bwlKIQDZHD15TFZoisr3RJ5Zw02u2D5Dx29cnVU6_4B5Ebp-VJQ745Rg6kV_1bxiHPhwJ7y_6hT7bgpGFPa4Dir-cXiOCDHUzIO6-J3dkEQEn/s320/FR6033GSign2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Several side roads offer more exploratory options<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Passage 27 of the Arizona National Scenic Trail winds
over Battleground Ridge through the busy hot spot on its way north to Utah. Camper
convoys, boat trailers and conga line of backpackers and day hikers speak to
the area’s magnetism for heat-weary outdoor enthusiasts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With so many rich hiking opportunities nearby,
the logic for walking on a non-descript dirt road lands squarely between why
and why not. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7H59PBdHhAqaCzGpDox5GUeikH_5NjgpVjfYt11oBttDGRnyrKS_lUGesjLoLsYhTjJt7Cc1qqv0jxn_EEwT7Q5K4fJ5vkrQiBd_y06tJhXOdv_-jNC_vXrig9n6hrPSo2cTXjgUMEj0xQltqei0No-YzvegrXM6VmSW8O0D4Xg6_YXuqAGDSA1yfPcxw/s6016/KaibabPussytoes.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7H59PBdHhAqaCzGpDox5GUeikH_5NjgpVjfYt11oBttDGRnyrKS_lUGesjLoLsYhTjJt7Cc1qqv0jxn_EEwT7Q5K4fJ5vkrQiBd_y06tJhXOdv_-jNC_vXrig9n6hrPSo2cTXjgUMEj0xQltqei0No-YzvegrXM6VmSW8O0D4Xg6_YXuqAGDSA1yfPcxw/s320/KaibabPussytoes.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kaibab pussytoes bloom May - July<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">The
FR6033C hike is clocked from a gate just beyond the dispersed camp sites on
Forest Road 9033H.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Within a half mile,
the road meets its first junction where FR6033C continues left.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From the junction, the deeply rutted track is
an endless series of ups-and-downs that hop drainages, draws and ridges,
accumulating over 1,000 feet of elevation change. For a mind-clearing,
uncrowded excursion, there aren’t many distractions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Pb805fA0B-0KzJDz6PF-dibP5ilKpBkKZzrJ3mJbMv1gc5vz5k5TBRFT3IvTqisyHR-6RalXOpkVNEjEwHJ957e7DAsDJO4vwu-n7o6-L7qYlg___UVXtGxssk2lT8BRQvOKT3odz8LkQVjpuUHFq6Cuz-GIgBGBu2iPfR5QZ1J8Rk51pPjogEeP3ZWN/s6016/HornedLizard13.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Pb805fA0B-0KzJDz6PF-dibP5ilKpBkKZzrJ3mJbMv1gc5vz5k5TBRFT3IvTqisyHR-6RalXOpkVNEjEwHJ957e7DAsDJO4vwu-n7o6-L7qYlg___UVXtGxssk2lT8BRQvOKT3odz8LkQVjpuUHFq6Cuz-GIgBGBu2iPfR5QZ1J8Rk51pPjogEeP3ZWN/s320/HornedLizard13.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A horned lizard vogues for the camera<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br />A wildlife water tank and several signed side
roads that appear to disintegrate a few yards in are the only disrupters in an
environment dominated by Ponderosa pine trees with their signature
straight-arrow trunks and rounded canopies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Forest water tanks are often dry in summer before the monsoons kick in,
putting wildlife at risk. Arizona Game & Fish Department receives no
general fund tax dollars to<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>maintain
3,000 wildlife waters including created catchments around the state and relies on donations to deliver
life-saving water to drought-stressed locations. (Not necessarily the water hole shown here.) <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGCzAXfZ0nFEZGyP5X5Pv10m2SNdTs0U7w5Uj397f8NxNTYkFf6bbSNzj4SmLFaoLHaJgEfAJU1z7xnfBcEii1pNNA9TGKE_BmbmRfIYUu3stLyF6rvvmP6cTd6c5eZgySwTH6v04Xye3L_AI0-VUaDSx5uMcNMuq7olvXqlSVNmLXUG6o8sbJ0KWTBw9H/s6016/FR6033C9.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGCzAXfZ0nFEZGyP5X5Pv10m2SNdTs0U7w5Uj397f8NxNTYkFf6bbSNzj4SmLFaoLHaJgEfAJU1z7xnfBcEii1pNNA9TGKE_BmbmRfIYUu3stLyF6rvvmP6cTd6c5eZgySwTH6v04Xye3L_AI0-VUaDSx5uMcNMuq7olvXqlSVNmLXUG6o8sbJ0KWTBw9H/s320/FR6033C9.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Solitude not far from popular recreation sites<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />You can help by donating at <a href="http://azwildlifehero.com">azwildlifehero.com</a>.</span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">At the top
of several rises, conifer-fleeced McCarty Ridge cuts a prominent profile on the
southeast horizon. Except for wind-rustled branches and the scurrying of critters,
it’s blissfully quiet. At the 2.5-mile point, in a shaded hallow, the road
veers north and becomes sketchy enough to call it a turnaround point. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>LENGTH:</b> 5
miles round trip</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>RATING:</b>
moderate</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>ELEVATION</b>:
6,894 – 7,132 feet (1,107 feet of elevation change)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>GETTING
THERE:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">From the
State Route 87/260 junction in Payson, go 40 miles north on SR87 (past Clints
Well) to Forest Road 9033H on the right past milepost 292.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>SEND
WATER:</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Arizona
Game & Fish Department </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Wildlife
Hero Program</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="https://www.azwildlifehero.com/programs/lifesaving-water?gad=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI_7rjkcSEgAMVfg-tBh2KdgcnEAAYASAAEgKf7PD_BwE">https://www.azwildlifehero.com/programs/lifesaving-water?gad=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI_7rjkcSEgAMVfg-tBh2KdgcnEAAYASAAEgKf7PD_BwE</a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
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{page:WordSection1;}</style></p>Marehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15128367085408432589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3360001322242903715.post-81188408749739068522023-06-13T07:35:00.002-07:002023-06-13T07:44:33.074-07:00Cliffhanger-Lime Kiln Trail<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">CLIFFHANGER-LIME
KILN TRAIL</span></b></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCqAo3y0Kktm3YPjgLLQX-fCMXj9kWra-LiDQ0HTuTlVHsM_RSum8gardh9e1OgALHm89ix3MbcK40GwlSTaYf1lU0ThbObn-uqRdJmEB3kDi3Euf5pc6qEI6v-qDT9b7xUYHu6q7q8N9weX79YAZDpT2OFmsoyE79TXj2gGbHxX-HtR3NN0UliIxJ-w/s6016/CliffhangerYucca596.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCqAo3y0Kktm3YPjgLLQX-fCMXj9kWra-LiDQ0HTuTlVHsM_RSum8gardh9e1OgALHm89ix3MbcK40GwlSTaYf1lU0ThbObn-uqRdJmEB3kDi3Euf5pc6qEI6v-qDT9b7xUYHu6q7q8N9weX79YAZDpT2OFmsoyE79TXj2gGbHxX-HtR3NN0UliIxJ-w/s320/CliffhangerYucca596.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yucca bloom on Cliffhanger Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">In a
nutshell, the Cliffhanger Trail does what it says. The edge-hugging multi-use
trail in west Sedona lives up to its name with a thrilling and scenic trip
through a creek-scoured corner of Coconino National Forest where the courses of
Oak, Dry and Turkey Creek collide. </span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSTaMazJ2obJf1ildXM3GyrYkAFCM167DOHNR6zRh1ZquRSOW3jybncN8i9csuQp4RB203UL091_VsNboUZx7I1aBIC_xvl4r4vS8m_WKvSPCzIo_hBKHTZqJZ08O7dgHdVLggytC-AaXaTZ0OE4zswqmj7dIZy0ppxyyugEVqlOt-wcg3ApNseYKIgg/s6016/CliffhangerBearMtn78.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSTaMazJ2obJf1ildXM3GyrYkAFCM167DOHNR6zRh1ZquRSOW3jybncN8i9csuQp4RB203UL091_VsNboUZx7I1aBIC_xvl4r4vS8m_WKvSPCzIo_hBKHTZqJZ08O7dgHdVLggytC-AaXaTZ0OE4zswqmj7dIZy0ppxyyugEVqlOt-wcg3ApNseYKIgg/s320/CliffhangerBearMtn78.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A high point vista on Cliffhanger Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">While
Cliffhanger is billed as an OHV trail, it’s more of a hybrid. Part of its
forked route shares space with the 15-mile Lime Kiln Trail that runs between
Red Rock and Dead Horse Ranch State Parks with one fork leading to a
non-motorized footpath that lands at a secluded floodplain on Oak Creek. </span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7rlvPpGDWYuhFOXBL3PJ12V196x-GegRUZ0QQpBPwR3Bh37J3FaCkrukNJYxsUt9-eM2V-tuIAVsiO3m5V52_be_W3lNf_mL-GY5DyhdGIqBTJmQPw7naWqk4HtQavRaWJkWU8KKhUG4qJPRsFcuaGGP7uvJHVlf7R4jkds05uKJqAFqVQPu9BJMWWA/s6016/LimeKilnCloudsCairn2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7rlvPpGDWYuhFOXBL3PJ12V196x-GegRUZ0QQpBPwR3Bh37J3FaCkrukNJYxsUt9-eM2V-tuIAVsiO3m5V52_be_W3lNf_mL-GY5DyhdGIqBTJmQPw7naWqk4HtQavRaWJkWU8KKhUG4qJPRsFcuaGGP7uvJHVlf7R4jkds05uKJqAFqVQPu9BJMWWA/s320/LimeKilnCloudsCairn2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Basket cairns mark the Lime Kiln section of the route<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br />The
hike starts at the OHV trailhead with a short walk on Forest Road 9845A. At the
bottom of a rise at a green gate, the road bends left and joins the Lime Kiln
Trail that’s marked by basket cairns (rock piles wired into pillars). <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyDwK0AaHfK2Gh4GFnwbS_ED8MgzJDVQbNvhhd7Qq3Utu8bEolFAMy_sJAf5EugBx0un2bcy1VXBFHJesZfYmqS8RHDwJMMhspr98bkRT8hOAsUJwZ1SLm0116Sxaw0OlDdEj_XnmgLT9O6ZTpWxXTARMqqDw9CvGFpie2G_AF7WkQ-18u-uf07DLCQA/s6016/HikeTrailEndRuins29.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyDwK0AaHfK2Gh4GFnwbS_ED8MgzJDVQbNvhhd7Qq3Utu8bEolFAMy_sJAf5EugBx0un2bcy1VXBFHJesZfYmqS8RHDwJMMhspr98bkRT8hOAsUJwZ1SLm0116Sxaw0OlDdEj_XnmgLT9O6ZTpWxXTARMqqDw9CvGFpie2G_AF7WkQ-18u-uf07DLCQA/s320/HikeTrailEndRuins29.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meadow and cliffs near trail's end. <br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjFGAuMpXW2oTPLugyRFYvL-7F33rIBHvb7jGQDRV6VuGBvLN_mrogDYdJceppcf4l3iw4W0iclgDQzh_xT1BxFUsP3C2IZXcGtKIwe891k0Fgra-yUx_NLtRxuZVsnZbfdrT1sf8cPxmqTJ6172sq3LdFoOwMG7WeKvt4DEGG_f2DMUcQfFuWieAgKw/s6016/SkunkBush74.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjFGAuMpXW2oTPLugyRFYvL-7F33rIBHvb7jGQDRV6VuGBvLN_mrogDYdJceppcf4l3iw4W0iclgDQzh_xT1BxFUsP3C2IZXcGtKIwe891k0Fgra-yUx_NLtRxuZVsnZbfdrT1sf8cPxmqTJ6172sq3LdFoOwMG7WeKvt4DEGG_f2DMUcQfFuWieAgKw/s320/SkunkBush74.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Edible skunk bush fruits favored by birds and mammals<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The route
is also indicated with orange Cliffhanger trail posts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The road continues downhill on a moderate
grade through classic high desert vegetation. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB4dX7ofnbfTCtLMeWov9fzJGSiybYpl4N-9C-CywM_prEXrZKiBCwoze_PYCuLzUK1sJoQW9ltX5GSVaDwAZPpZUEl6fSn8npM87C1No_nJy1_lsYdgGo4Xje5wqLyBD-HD24XNaAEITXv-m9_2t3W6KVWuNp0dIUSP7Fesl7gWkVIo9uywEJiEV6ig/s6016/catclaw31.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB4dX7ofnbfTCtLMeWov9fzJGSiybYpl4N-9C-CywM_prEXrZKiBCwoze_PYCuLzUK1sJoQW9ltX5GSVaDwAZPpZUEl6fSn8npM87C1No_nJy1_lsYdgGo4Xje5wqLyBD-HD24XNaAEITXv-m9_2t3W6KVWuNp0dIUSP7Fesl7gWkVIo9uywEJiEV6ig/s320/catclaw31.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cat Claw bloom May - August<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Yucca, red barberry, prickly pear
cactus, catclaw, and gray thorn line the russet, rocky trail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the 1.5-mile point, the road crosses Dry
Creek.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkz7sxAjBgC0sfWEu2gp2EQCW3arfUj-FfWSKHDJtvW6wLsXniObUi_efhU2BkiWyva6zxghmsO7r08F6lXJBJCdXtQZCwlCH0T-qmUF0T0O_QUphQBpUOgMygDlEH9VaJwKLaQmtL28_-xHLQSXNxgqShyuW53NETC_y8Y5YndHZ6Ms_ma7tRuMmbRA/s6016/RedBarberry6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkz7sxAjBgC0sfWEu2gp2EQCW3arfUj-FfWSKHDJtvW6wLsXniObUi_efhU2BkiWyva6zxghmsO7r08F6lXJBJCdXtQZCwlCH0T-qmUF0T0O_QUphQBpUOgMygDlEH9VaJwKLaQmtL28_-xHLQSXNxgqShyuW53NETC_y8Y5YndHZ6Ms_ma7tRuMmbRA/s320/RedBarberry6.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Edible red barberry fruits are browsed by wildlife<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8biOIMrKKkKQsb4-RpNLxKgL8UI3xVg2VLyGRH7Zt9tHipMh26WBnPBGGnRwNQ3hQ8GB2li0LFOKbo1Pm6sVerehw46Yk02_scHUpXprLowkspVtSRl8Rit_MIS6wubOHnE2ognoihLCGwv9ILbWSChRBGoUgKtjC58Z5ZU7R-US1gYn1Qzw1Wmulwg/s6016/DryCreekCross634.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8biOIMrKKkKQsb4-RpNLxKgL8UI3xVg2VLyGRH7Zt9tHipMh26WBnPBGGnRwNQ3hQ8GB2li0LFOKbo1Pm6sVerehw46Yk02_scHUpXprLowkspVtSRl8Rit_MIS6wubOHnE2ognoihLCGwv9ILbWSChRBGoUgKtjC58Z5ZU7R-US1gYn1Qzw1Wmulwg/s320/DryCreekCross634.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lime Kiln Trail crosses Dry Creek<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQQB8kIdz2bk72_jMDiJq2fEJkPJsTSCQRgUym0NRheIr5FWD6nxlTx0AhWY1hBqvM8MsMT2eRCfsPpyccd0ax2QHLX7R33cgsE9kChSwmoySzlIwajzh5fu1ARzvOkNK5MXsGJZNVRSKpEn34Mjb-YIkzrYBqMBd-NcUXsR0nEX0HwqfywRxPxEubFA/s6016/CliffhangerUphill.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQQB8kIdz2bk72_jMDiJq2fEJkPJsTSCQRgUym0NRheIr5FWD6nxlTx0AhWY1hBqvM8MsMT2eRCfsPpyccd0ax2QHLX7R33cgsE9kChSwmoySzlIwajzh5fu1ARzvOkNK5MXsGJZNVRSKpEn34Mjb-YIkzrYBqMBd-NcUXsR0nEX0HwqfywRxPxEubFA/s320/CliffhangerUphill.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A cliff hanging section of Cliffhanger Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Strewn with colorful boulders,
there’s rarely any surface water, but a leafy fringe of cottonwoods, sycamores,
desert willows and cypress trees springing from the sandy soils soak up subterranean
moisture. Beyond the creek, the route swings back uphill on one of a continual
string of ups-and-downs that add up to over 1,100 feet of total elevation
change for the hike.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj14ketpgoGn2cWQyVn3c0SJw9uFzXxZvQP70svPwEn1Rd-ifYdaBodWARg1rtr9Vy6OWf0NkxXIJS5OThAGdv3kD-_Yd5KcPsayqU0sICvxeCwmW4n0_minAy_7d6EsD_ZLGk1v5JE-xV-fVZX9bz7O0uSYRkwExm_YPuQktUmy8Zxes1ZjOVG3HjZ8g/s6016/HikeTrailEndRuins27.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj14ketpgoGn2cWQyVn3c0SJw9uFzXxZvQP70svPwEn1Rd-ifYdaBodWARg1rtr9Vy6OWf0NkxXIJS5OThAGdv3kD-_Yd5KcPsayqU0sICvxeCwmW4n0_minAy_7d6EsD_ZLGk1v5JE-xV-fVZX9bz7O0uSYRkwExm_YPuQktUmy8Zxes1ZjOVG3HjZ8g/s320/HikeTrailEndRuins27.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stone foundations at trail's end at Oak Creek<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">With the
serpentine course of Dry Creek below and views of Sedona rock formations all
around, the road is hacked from red sandstone cliffs with steep drop-offs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Except for the occasional juniper or pinyon
pine, there’s little shade. </span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmZhEWjcFuXSvSfBp0qN6BkYWrrlaXiKQHKCl8zhDl6nLIR-en1YXHc9D2rNWqe76ZGwDm3_X3To5l5aMBObrcMLLIe6x9zIidpITk6qgNr7PBCGUnx_8SPcu-yS2GKl-LlaBOxjEW38dXd4ZdD-S5mATiWqifS2wLm_HLRhVnT3a6wTqOjmP6eBBKCA/s6016/DryCreekCross628.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmZhEWjcFuXSvSfBp0qN6BkYWrrlaXiKQHKCl8zhDl6nLIR-en1YXHc9D2rNWqe76ZGwDm3_X3To5l5aMBObrcMLLIe6x9zIidpITk6qgNr7PBCGUnx_8SPcu-yS2GKl-LlaBOxjEW38dXd4ZdD-S5mATiWqifS2wLm_HLRhVnT3a6wTqOjmP6eBBKCA/s320/DryCreekCross628.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Willows and cypress trees line Dry Creek<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br />That’s why is important to choose a cool day and
take plenty of water on this hike. At the 2-mile point, the road splits. Lime
Kiln Trail veers left following the north fork of Cliffhanger and Forest Road
9845N, the south fork of the Cliffhanger Trail, heads right.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpxExdlu7at6RiqEN9-AvVKBm2v7WzBUHkPFyeqJ1CYyGZY3PIlM7FkjhvXjvQdzJA_x-AiSyLs1jczK10BIdB297Fh9rq2fRIPiU1MgKeOpMkjnSvwA8kVKiY1MSLlUnmfcsNKKtKe_U9_28graZum_nVIsxOLClY2plCJichSHCKRYc9BIQ8FnIYoA/s6016/WesternPatch-nosedSnake11.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpxExdlu7at6RiqEN9-AvVKBm2v7WzBUHkPFyeqJ1CYyGZY3PIlM7FkjhvXjvQdzJA_x-AiSyLs1jczK10BIdB297Fh9rq2fRIPiU1MgKeOpMkjnSvwA8kVKiY1MSLlUnmfcsNKKtKe_U9_28graZum_nVIsxOLClY2plCJichSHCKRYc9BIQ8FnIYoA/s320/WesternPatch-nosedSnake11.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Western patch-nosed snake crosses Cliffhanger Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN2TGenzB4-108eAfcEdy46mDq4op-s7PtthoUNRypoltMzxr2VNiGruSjUQ4lNH6Z8Ow_stnDDvtEdWgFk49_2I_5rXfy-y0lAA3hF4fRbIkVZGrLkSFcT-9vvQt62n6co1T8V9kSXSy7gBBvoMAAAAPKIzGy--FtGHwZ0rTVUifeyy5S-rLGlTSQbQ/s6016/CliffhangerDryCreekBelow86.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN2TGenzB4-108eAfcEdy46mDq4op-s7PtthoUNRypoltMzxr2VNiGruSjUQ4lNH6Z8Ow_stnDDvtEdWgFk49_2I_5rXfy-y0lAA3hF4fRbIkVZGrLkSFcT-9vvQt62n6co1T8V9kSXSy7gBBvoMAAAAPKIzGy--FtGHwZ0rTVUifeyy5S-rLGlTSQbQ/s320/CliffhangerDryCreekBelow86.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dry Creek winds below Cliffhanger Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />For this trip, follow
FR9845N as it rounds a knoll before starting its dive down to Oak Creek. This leg
vacillates between canyon-bound grasslands and highpoints with views of the
Bradshaw Mountains topping out at a sharp right bend where the route makes a
severe dive on a rough, tiered track. Below, a brilliant band of green belies
the Oak Creek corridor. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5cj_sRIlvSeEDpmpvip8uiTgUyp0HShjEETAn8RtgHuEn8p9ilPlRo6dpb_HlUdDF918vSgq5HytTfa1WJFKPkZ1pLjyryBWp80Z9wucGh78urDgiIbAl-2YeD6Ql5Gg1OGJnptnJIOuPlY1Mknb60bfc8C7L0ykzZfbD21ABUQfSuk0SDoIcPK1_HQ/s6016/EngelmannsPricklyPear649.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5cj_sRIlvSeEDpmpvip8uiTgUyp0HShjEETAn8RtgHuEn8p9ilPlRo6dpb_HlUdDF918vSgq5HytTfa1WJFKPkZ1pLjyryBWp80Z9wucGh78urDgiIbAl-2YeD6Ql5Gg1OGJnptnJIOuPlY1Mknb60bfc8C7L0ykzZfbD21ABUQfSuk0SDoIcPK1_HQ/s320/EngelmannsPricklyPear649.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Engelmann's prickly pear cactus bloom May - June<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyUQ6PEhAHm3d1Mfb8FaS5LW72yXErcTg4N5tak1oioJz4XK9SBD1p1raGuR2l1ZNmWMRy7PxxgKkfzhOOEO53hcVCkvQmvw1gLcEEK2Fx5KpF_PXC4tBf2L_1cDjmyhkpr6NCSCRxlcBTvzmWJkUEjA39lmNwsAIJpdEkaccU3hetv9NJuSrnDLJI0g/s6016/BananaYucca12.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyUQ6PEhAHm3d1Mfb8FaS5LW72yXErcTg4N5tak1oioJz4XK9SBD1p1raGuR2l1ZNmWMRy7PxxgKkfzhOOEO53hcVCkvQmvw1gLcEEK2Fx5KpF_PXC4tBf2L_1cDjmyhkpr6NCSCRxlcBTvzmWJkUEjA39lmNwsAIJpdEkaccU3hetv9NJuSrnDLJI0g/s320/BananaYucca12.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Banana yucca fruits <br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </span>The short steep
section lands in a pocket of juniper woodland where the road suddenly changes
from rusty red to powdery gray. Up ahead at 3.3 miles, a green gate bars
motorized access to the remainder of FR9845N. Hikers, bikers and equestrians
are welcome to trudge the last 0.4-mile. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tracing Oak Creek, the deeply rutted narrow
road progresses to the hike’s lowest point, a grassy meadow hemmed in by the
creek and vertical cliffs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkLhpEHd6RSN7SaC8nIzL_Ko98-jyEgAdXekJtGXHcv_KY3Aw4RrV9XPAjlftKYHe-lbHN7Ltuu8M1qevUByPtksSdTI8MXiee7f9FLmzxVFKejHyDT9jNuJn3S5i4jQxATZu32tBqgEYfdrNZQ-kNlwDHdk3R-L65KYVG5SvY1o_PS_ojlPh6jdRCAA/s6016/HikeTrailGate3.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkLhpEHd6RSN7SaC8nIzL_Ko98-jyEgAdXekJtGXHcv_KY3Aw4RrV9XPAjlftKYHe-lbHN7Ltuu8M1qevUByPtksSdTI8MXiee7f9FLmzxVFKejHyDT9jNuJn3S5i4jQxATZu32tBqgEYfdrNZQ-kNlwDHdk3R-L65KYVG5SvY1o_PS_ojlPh6jdRCAA/s320/HikeTrailGate3.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The last half-mile of Cliffhanger non-motorized use<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />A native
stone foundation and low walls that might have been a cabin or corral stand on the
creek’s west bank.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <br /> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht_ki5eUUryfbgfBa0cW9Zgh5RXoiWmCrcWyyKnF4hlw_1ea-T1RbqHETiiuMK4_GfgRK29sLw6aiMn8u_1BrbkjqfkRiU8xzkJJeO6SZlz0UhhDD04wD03nS50TUKTX_qkFaot6zaOt1fFbpOfnuLLk41mE96w_iu_P58rP6rd0QKiPwgkajt7-AeEw/s6016/HikeTrailCreekTrees1.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht_ki5eUUryfbgfBa0cW9Zgh5RXoiWmCrcWyyKnF4hlw_1ea-T1RbqHETiiuMK4_GfgRK29sLw6aiMn8u_1BrbkjqfkRiU8xzkJJeO6SZlz0UhhDD04wD03nS50TUKTX_qkFaot6zaOt1fFbpOfnuLLk41mE96w_iu_P58rP6rd0QKiPwgkajt7-AeEw/s320/HikeTrailCreekTrees1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trees clutter around Oak Creek<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyT-FpG2DC8Xjj4JuzulmUv--l_26fBlwRYgPa3m8LiAZBGwZQEYFZ5is3UZ25Nt-Okoo-9niPzNPtSDIRoOkFk036kM1t2hCRF5f1lXmNcP5B2Zg-xUYSqZ9uLxLFnDNnIhdAjtJAIGXPHbLG70UFrlUaZnXTn70jlQ466UiPO5kJnA0PhY9IqxLHgg/s6016/LimeKilnView623.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyT-FpG2DC8Xjj4JuzulmUv--l_26fBlwRYgPa3m8LiAZBGwZQEYFZ5is3UZ25Nt-Okoo-9niPzNPtSDIRoOkFk036kM1t2hCRF5f1lXmNcP5B2Zg-xUYSqZ9uLxLFnDNnIhdAjtJAIGXPHbLG70UFrlUaZnXTn70jlQ466UiPO5kJnA0PhY9IqxLHgg/s320/LimeKilnView623.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from Lime Kiln Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The stone ruins make
for a good turnaround point, however FR9845N continues a short distance through
the meadow and another faded dirt track, FR9845R offers a weedy walk through a
quiet high desert creek corridor.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirjDRd9FBTOwTl7AJ3tAPr7M4CRXkybECkLHHRnTduuF0SvyM6wyzgO7_J4hw3XMjc4I_laYJ0jdyMQUOdAG9ouEh-yfomNgdlvq-u75kdXRWIMVqRQ2QSuBrvhXNvNFlE9AuOmL4J0cqa7R3PbHNy01-RXPii9bRpL4qNdzeWerAVeXaLAbiC4ppuwQ/s6016/YuccaSky605.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirjDRd9FBTOwTl7AJ3tAPr7M4CRXkybECkLHHRnTduuF0SvyM6wyzgO7_J4hw3XMjc4I_laYJ0jdyMQUOdAG9ouEh-yfomNgdlvq-u75kdXRWIMVqRQ2QSuBrvhXNvNFlE9AuOmL4J0cqa7R3PbHNy01-RXPii9bRpL4qNdzeWerAVeXaLAbiC4ppuwQ/s320/YuccaSky605.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Banana yucca bloom April - July<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <br /></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>LENGTH:</b> 7.4
miles roundtrip</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>RATING:</b>
moderate</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>ELEVATION:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>4,085 – 3,708 feet (1,100 feet of accumulated
elevation change) </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">GETTING
THERE:</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">From the
State Route 179/89A traffic circle in uptown Sedona, go <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>8 miles west (toward Cottonwood) on SR89A to
the Cliffhanger OVH trailhead (Forest Road 9845A) on the left. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is directly across from the Sedona
Wetlands Preserve near milepost 366. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">INFO &
MAPS:</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recarea/?recid=83430"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recarea/?recid=83430</span></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
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{page:WordSection1;}</style></p>Marehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15128367085408432589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3360001322242903715.post-38009672679817992672023-05-23T15:37:00.004-07:002023-09-06T07:53:15.395-07:00The Arizona Whistle Initiative<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">THE ARIZONA
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>WHISTLE INITIATIVE</span></b></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHQcQTfm8lQ3JPeH0Y1Ypxpr9hMny8RR-41Fql3x5H7HBqGwRxZGPZ6H1k_g3d5590pVfi2y3tJ7WtK1G9Qkub4PbVRnxoNPLsl8Wom3OZYdSKrMyVkUqvqBO87lRGflMOPCtWA5KXeyPPi0qGuP_O-SMBDnCpnBFBXKsxLBeR2ZQgJys4IMmJRMQjKg/s6016/group.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHQcQTfm8lQ3JPeH0Y1Ypxpr9hMny8RR-41Fql3x5H7HBqGwRxZGPZ6H1k_g3d5590pVfi2y3tJ7WtK1G9Qkub4PbVRnxoNPLsl8Wom3OZYdSKrMyVkUqvqBO87lRGflMOPCtWA5KXeyPPi0qGuP_O-SMBDnCpnBFBXKsxLBeR2ZQgJys4IMmJRMQjKg/s320/group.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Schasteen, Finn, Parker and Gilleland<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> “We didn’t
expect things to go wrong,” says Thomas Finn about an ill-fated hike up to
Skull Mesa in Tonto National Forest. “We were just friends out for fun and
fellowship. We made a few mistakes. The trail was confusing, washes looked like
trail and we got off course. We discussed turning around but decided to push
on. It took too long to get to the top and by then it was over 100 degrees.
That’s when we ran into problems with water and heat.” </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">While the missteps
Finn described about the Labor Day 2022 hike that ended tragically with the death
of his friend and hiking companion Dr. Evan Dishion are not unusual, they are almost
always preventable.</span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3bInbrjQy2q3rleR-NPlm7NmzKHke9Yn89NPnS5SlzymfzkxE0q2WWmiNEj6SMCh9p_GLzwqEjo9fMrDoA-rx-azFa8UT1NLLJPHa5KeQiE07ttc0d4Il7VASV1Ba85J4rBWxpgeP0KGifWcIqXPw-afWK_Lx-0KmIvRG6UXG37fBbjpZUv4g4m1GQg/s6016/sign.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3bInbrjQy2q3rleR-NPlm7NmzKHke9Yn89NPnS5SlzymfzkxE0q2WWmiNEj6SMCh9p_GLzwqEjo9fMrDoA-rx-azFa8UT1NLLJPHa5KeQiE07ttc0d4Il7VASV1Ba85J4rBWxpgeP0KGifWcIqXPw-afWK_Lx-0KmIvRG6UXG37fBbjpZUv4g4m1GQg/s320/sign.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sign commemorating the lost hikers at Spur Cross<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Rainer
Schasteen, was also on the trek that included young, fit, experienced hikers.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">“We had a
false sense of security because we were in a group. I let down my guard a bit,”
Schasteen said. “I’ve learned--you’re responsible for yourself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s why I’m now more prepared on hikes. I
bring extra water, food, enough to share if needed.” Schasteen emphasizes that
search and rescue crews will not be mad at you for seeking assistance and you shouldn’t
hesitate if you feel at risk. “If you think it’s a good idea to call for help<i>;
do it</i>,” he stated. “I was eventually able to get cell reception (on the Skull
Mesa hike) and we were rescued by helicopter. But it was too late for Dr.
Dishion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One or two more water bottles
could have made a difference.”</span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjedI3OKICauSsM7-MC8pd7qR5zodM8-wXUNMk4Sq9Y-OEXn0_zSjn38tVzo2Q5EeXZTb5oZ2haVeOoIf_95GO24DaoO8OD4jYPa1A5jwWCpIbYpujMKnrgL2JMdyuK2Rksd9ND90Y9s8BnmFYALDBRZeE8a-XjLybSQxVQdRMJozFkmccLSjuunGgB4w/s6016/volunteers.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjedI3OKICauSsM7-MC8pd7qR5zodM8-wXUNMk4Sq9Y-OEXn0_zSjn38tVzo2Q5EeXZTb5oZ2haVeOoIf_95GO24DaoO8OD4jYPa1A5jwWCpIbYpujMKnrgL2JMdyuK2Rksd9ND90Y9s8BnmFYALDBRZeE8a-XjLybSQxVQdRMJozFkmccLSjuunGgB4w/s320/volunteers.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">AZFH911 volunteers show their whistles<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> Dr. Evan Dishion
was one of three recent hiker deaths in the Cave Creek area. Hikers Kathleen
Patterson and Austin Peck also succumbed to heat, disorientation, and
dehydration.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> That’s
when Sunny Parker, Founder and President of Arizona Foothills 911 decided it
was time to up her game. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Parker set up the
501c nonprofit organization after an answered prayer. “My son had been
diagnosed with a serious medical condition and was given little chance for
survival,” Parker shared. “I fell to my knees and promised that if his life was
spared, I’d spend the rest of my life making a difference by giving back to my
community.” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her son recovered, just as a
string of wildfires that rattled her town of Cave Creek got her thinking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I asked myself, what can our community do to
be better prepared and quicker to respond.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>That’s what inspired her to create Arizona Foothills 911 to inform and rally
communities around Cave Creek and the North Valley in emergency
situations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>‘Neighbors helping neighbors
because it’s the right thing to do’, is the organization’s motto.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>During wildfires, floods or other natural
disasters, the community-driven organization supports first responders, assists
with pet and livestock evacuations, and keeps residents up to date about how to
find or offer help.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The mission also
extends to preparedness education and rounding up volunteers for search and
rescue operations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“We were the ones who
found Kathleen Patterson. It was a very sad outcome, but we are thankful we
were able to bring closure for her family.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But Parker knew that she could do more to help prevent hiking tragedies.
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdPaukzsMEYuZ_GlIiAHQ2XfZ6HikJB6X53_958CIVqMc2FVj3BxOxYfKHoTaY_CDIEQAyiB-4SJpATDaWcYq1lmONOS4rqiV62LVEu2GVp8WJTB6tRdNGgNba9ygYmjI_67-zc73SYyPPPW_t0fv1z76xmMIQaZZmRMuPp5D1ZQejE1TZk6Ji4zo4BQ/s6016/crowd.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdPaukzsMEYuZ_GlIiAHQ2XfZ6HikJB6X53_958CIVqMc2FVj3BxOxYfKHoTaY_CDIEQAyiB-4SJpATDaWcYq1lmONOS4rqiV62LVEu2GVp8WJTB6tRdNGgNba9ygYmjI_67-zc73SYyPPPW_t0fv1z76xmMIQaZZmRMuPp5D1ZQejE1TZk6Ji4zo4BQ/s320/crowd.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Booths at the April 22, 2023 event<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /> </span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">“I
thought, this can’t continue to happen. What can we have done
differently?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After speaking with
friends and relatives of the victims and first responders, Parker learned that
lack of preparedness, unforeseen mishaps and technology fails often contributed
to deadly outcomes. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Two solutions seemed
obvious. First, educate hikers about how to be prepared for emergencies, and second--give
them a big, loud whistle. Thus, the birth of Arizona Foothills 911’s The Arizona
Whistle Initiative hit the ground running.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">“If you
depend too much on technology (like cell phones and trail apps) it will
probably fail when you need it most,” says Shawn Gilleland, Arizona Foothills
911 Public Information Officer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While carrying
expensive personal locator beacons and satellite messengers on hikes can save
lives in emergency situations, so can simple, low-tech tools and common sense. “Take
a whistle and always let somebody know where you’re going and when you expect to
return," Gilleland said. "Share a pre-hike selfie with friends showing what you are wearing." Selfies can help locate you if you get lost because drone technology can search for specific colors. Gilleland was on site at an
April 2023 Whistle Initiative event at Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area in
Cave Creek to promote hiking safety and give away free trail maps and emergency
whistles. The theme of the event focused on the facts that one can never be too
prepared and even the most physically fit and experienced hikers can get into
trouble on the trails.</span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2MtVHHNSr6dXEBpHUmYBhftFEfR0975abitsbLOdCd2m5SArMJND8hhk801NwoXBOLkd6U_IZAJ8zi14okCaYvGTmTndpbB3Fz_adaIj5KROvdJoKqbrVisZj5s91DrQdIly978ouV-ALPqJNr-h94oQHhP1VPR46xT5fAAR8NgxrFl5DCds-rDJizw/s6016/donations.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2MtVHHNSr6dXEBpHUmYBhftFEfR0975abitsbLOdCd2m5SArMJND8hhk801NwoXBOLkd6U_IZAJ8zi14okCaYvGTmTndpbB3Fz_adaIj5KROvdJoKqbrVisZj5s91DrQdIly978ouV-ALPqJNr-h94oQHhP1VPR46xT5fAAR8NgxrFl5DCds-rDJizw/s320/donations.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whistle giveaways are funded by donations<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">“It’s
always a good idea to have a back-up plan,” Parker says. “A whistle worn where
you can easily reach it (not kept in your pack) can save your life when batteries
die or you’re out of cell phone range.” The whistle giveaways are funded by
donations. But finding just the right whistle to hand out was a trial-and-error
endeavor for Parker. “I finally settled on a storm whistle that reaches 120 decibels.
I had the manufacturer overnight me a sample and tested it for range and
durability. It’s tough and you can hear it for miles.”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">The whistle
is just one part of the well-prepared hiker kit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Know your abilities and let somebody know
your plans,” says Gilleland.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Temperatures
and trail conditions can change rapidly so plan accordingly. Wear proper clothing,
understand your route, bring your whistle, and carry more water than you think
you’ll need.”</span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuKqz5Q9LeUPldtdhOh4qDzXZndlBitebM0AW5NCWBdxMkALI6jVvBElDgZ5A3cVhp8f1ACXIRUkgS7ye04TIBnIqQ6YSK5DU_jJK83mbcuq3QGKQL7exF070Q19hqzo11Byy8-Jflrx8X7wkktqIb8VWj9ka1VHpZyFXVS_LWTtCtJf6kj71cqp16LA/s6016/whistle.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuKqz5Q9LeUPldtdhOh4qDzXZndlBitebM0AW5NCWBdxMkALI6jVvBElDgZ5A3cVhp8f1ACXIRUkgS7ye04TIBnIqQ6YSK5DU_jJK83mbcuq3QGKQL7exF070Q19hqzo11Byy8-Jflrx8X7wkktqIb8VWj9ka1VHpZyFXVS_LWTtCtJf6kj71cqp16LA/s320/whistle.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A low-tech whistle can save lives in emergencies<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">The Whistle
Initiative events honor the memories of Patterson, Peck and Dishion, who Parker
says makes the mission of Arizona Foothills 911 stronger, better, and even more
committed. “We plan to hold more events throughout the year,” Parker says.“Check
the organization’s website or Facebook group for updates.”</span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCW3zflym8Vf2EpI2H13hSzJv-Sy0Vyx_nTdndgF_5GOka4XSgvK-GicNiYEY7nCGleH06YqtFXzhi3XRQQhVoG6TiMC2UMVAgk03BWqGmqO_7Vjv92PZhv90yGCXzbdOEH_JJILJxoIbua9vG-xp8CabfJ5wS9o2Z6ykmoW0HHx6N8dME7puVNDqJgQ/s6016/SkullMesaCreek2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCW3zflym8Vf2EpI2H13hSzJv-Sy0Vyx_nTdndgF_5GOka4XSgvK-GicNiYEY7nCGleH06YqtFXzhi3XRQQhVoG6TiMC2UMVAgk03BWqGmqO_7Vjv92PZhv90yGCXzbdOEH_JJILJxoIbua9vG-xp8CabfJ5wS9o2Z6ykmoW0HHx6N8dME7puVNDqJgQ/s320/SkullMesaCreek2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Skull Mesa viewed from Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Of all the
great hiking advice and information shared at the Spur Cross event, there’s one
takeaway that resonates loudly.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“If you ever think it’s a good idea to turn
around, take that opportunity,” Thomas Finn advises. “Trust your gut.”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">AZ FOOTHILLS
911</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="https://azfoothills911.org/">https://azfoothills911.org/</a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://Facebook.com/groups/AZFH911"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Facebook.com/groups/AZFH911</span></a></p>
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{page:WordSection1;}</style></p>Marehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15128367085408432589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3360001322242903715.post-61650511099996005362023-05-16T09:20:00.007-07:002023-09-07T12:06:48.933-07:00Big Bang Trail<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">BIG BANG
TRAIL</span></b></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8QYOilYdjEbKl7EkpCLGlWhngf1jy_W-18S5W2dQpOSmuEOsaBgk87PpVwwnNjIuj-TGnwVcFTAdvkno_Ov9svtoFjzC1dtOA-bX-B2EJ8p-x1bVllCpYx5lPXOsFi2wKW63OD9NTUvZd-4P5mMMCmrLJqTPc7eHIGslvYi7-eabOKxZ3weUcnw7lAQ/s6016/BigBangPeaks8024.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8QYOilYdjEbKl7EkpCLGlWhngf1jy_W-18S5W2dQpOSmuEOsaBgk87PpVwwnNjIuj-TGnwVcFTAdvkno_Ov9svtoFjzC1dtOA-bX-B2EJ8p-x1bVllCpYx5lPXOsFi2wKW63OD9NTUvZd-4P5mMMCmrLJqTPc7eHIGslvYi7-eabOKxZ3weUcnw7lAQ/s320/BigBangPeaks8024.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">San Francisco Peaks seen from Big Bang Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Being
loved to death is a slow and complicated process. Whether self-inflicted or enabler
enriched, initially, it feels good. But before long, the halo wears off and
reality pitches a swift, hard slap. It’s kind of like scarfing down tacos five
nights a week only to wake up one morning “surprised” with a love handle
hangover. </span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg73KafG0Rut6HnCIrG1oaWt6jQep_JZmydlVXHSpHSnbP_PB8rcUBW-myFCtr37L9KC8OTTMiAB7d6f4UjkCM9zcdYKKWsIzLz8eczF-YySStk573OnFWhHnBqoumpoZj_A6OsiZhznn0KQA2y464cBKzC52zFqXf6_6DaWu9etYt55RBk-ZZEIC0pfg/s6016/BigBangAlligator6.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg73KafG0Rut6HnCIrG1oaWt6jQep_JZmydlVXHSpHSnbP_PB8rcUBW-myFCtr37L9KC8OTTMiAB7d6f4UjkCM9zcdYKKWsIzLz8eczF-YySStk573OnFWhHnBqoumpoZj_A6OsiZhznn0KQA2y464cBKzC52zFqXf6_6DaWu9etYt55RBk-ZZEIC0pfg/s320/BigBangAlligator6.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The first mile of Big Bang Trail is easy<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br />Swapping out tacos for unauthorized trail building, this is a good <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>analogy for what has been happening in Flagstaff’s
Mount Elden/Dry Lake Hills (MEDL) area for decades. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEislyWMiDOnywFsu7WLFh5voYqQFrn4RlXZZM_KO_TgmisIZQWLoCBJUysmsn4oTCWJk7_wr0WUHD9V63g8iMCmGdvDcJJXcBnWLPRiEBHfpjLwsa-FkT0dev-_X-5cu0xsRWLKM2yqwQSZUd9dgj-NxFCwu54qAUbV_MlsN6fxm0-gNKZw9KZx0G2BHA/s6016/BigBangAlligatorEdge2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEislyWMiDOnywFsu7WLFh5voYqQFrn4RlXZZM_KO_TgmisIZQWLoCBJUysmsn4oTCWJk7_wr0WUHD9V63g8iMCmGdvDcJJXcBnWLPRiEBHfpjLwsa-FkT0dev-_X-5cu0xsRWLKM2yqwQSZUd9dgj-NxFCwu54qAUbV_MlsN6fxm0-gNKZw9KZx0G2BHA/s320/BigBangAlligatorEdge2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An alligator juniper anchors a bend in Big Bang Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />While it might feel good to buck the system and blaze user-created paths, they cause
environmental damage, disrupt wildlife and can lead to trail users getting lost or
injured. This should come as no surprise to any outdoor enthusiast. While the slap has been stinging for quite some time, it’s only been
in the last few years that efforts to rehabilitate the popular recreation area have
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>materialized.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfjZ5W6ScZshGGNc6mkxDEewNvi6FakRva2O4J0m8M8Sm6rMHmOvctJ2euT480oDZqn4nk52gwLpdLKU09q2TC2PS4L_J35Iz8jMXJgdUUPxLsdjp0ux5dggvb3m639vO-qPLdZwvYFTRA6KLQtGplcGiPdVw-Z7HlgjxmUSZtOTFn6UnyMUYcNwiZWQ/s6016/SchultzCreek87.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfjZ5W6ScZshGGNc6mkxDEewNvi6FakRva2O4J0m8M8Sm6rMHmOvctJ2euT480oDZqn4nk52gwLpdLKU09q2TC2PS4L_J35Iz8jMXJgdUUPxLsdjp0ux5dggvb3m639vO-qPLdZwvYFTRA6KLQtGplcGiPdVw-Z7HlgjxmUSZtOTFn6UnyMUYcNwiZWQ/s320/SchultzCreek87.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Schultz Creek flows near the trailhead<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">The MEDL
trail system, which includes popular old-standards like Brookbank, Sunset, Oldham
and a segment of the Arizona National Scenic Trail, was originally dedicated in
1987. </span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqyD1kk9QvKxkR0VFaONDrpKCEPVwHcHBCXUJ41wVciow5VXctLI5w1BLjFrcReFfZOeWN7CJ53ztPre6VSxXytMauNbBKJFbykCwQpWPCFOP6VSbHXKn-yIT4adtdKo8nKS8tI19tm1mhN2qJIwy9jTQe6Qk97o3CgeV1H9zt33_4Z8--RLbxCTlIxw/s6016/BigBangKendrickMtn65.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqyD1kk9QvKxkR0VFaONDrpKCEPVwHcHBCXUJ41wVciow5VXctLI5w1BLjFrcReFfZOeWN7CJ53ztPre6VSxXytMauNbBKJFbykCwQpWPCFOP6VSbHXKn-yIT4adtdKo8nKS8tI19tm1mhN2qJIwy9jTQe6Qk97o3CgeV1H9zt33_4Z8--RLbxCTlIxw/s320/BigBangKendrickMtn65.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wing Mountain and Kendrick Peak on horizon<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Because of
its proximity to town, multiple access points and scenic qualities, the MEDL
area in Coconino National Forest suffered from deteriorating conditions due to overuse,
a confusing maze of unauthorized “social or wildcat” trails and recent
human-caused wildfires. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The negative
impacts on natural resources were palpable. Now, a joint effort between the
forest service and local outdoor organizations is taking action to mitigate the
damage, disperse pressure off the old standards and improve sustainability in
the area.</span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5VtOoGrntAoGsSHMVHSRl9W3ipVel2co6NMc-R6hMLUc1-Yfnq3s8WdSQmRqIDzcnyX9Vl5DrWN8do8ibAThNg9ZKt1rfofNOvmmsVSOS2fCofyV6z9lmLfpZera2AECcayfLIg9qxAmRhWX4KAXmxKyuAYwFaRucvUYj858C8OcCxkj_yAgl-8a2ag/s6016/BigBangExposure2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5VtOoGrntAoGsSHMVHSRl9W3ipVel2co6NMc-R6hMLUc1-Yfnq3s8WdSQmRqIDzcnyX9Vl5DrWN8do8ibAThNg9ZKt1rfofNOvmmsVSOS2fCofyV6z9lmLfpZera2AECcayfLIg9qxAmRhWX4KAXmxKyuAYwFaRucvUYj858C8OcCxkj_yAgl-8a2ag/s320/BigBangExposure2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Much of the trail hugs exposed edges<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /> </span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">One of the
first of the new breed of routes to be completed is the Big Bang Trail. </span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiPSB_DKjgXD0_IPhvDjmCK7ytgMCubec0ULVe8uPBvVYTpKI1feIppYcwDiXYwgvsbZXOqurtNjoBNkt7QI5VnHWSGHy4_UMzAvjlWKDKkvHAG5tjyUhuEAYJTE6uslk6_XI_quBctHUAlsX_7x9k5CW4hojruH1lCgizwlFNi-23geWd6JyGHeaXow/s6016/CreepingBarberry2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiPSB_DKjgXD0_IPhvDjmCK7ytgMCubec0ULVe8uPBvVYTpKI1feIppYcwDiXYwgvsbZXOqurtNjoBNkt7QI5VnHWSGHy4_UMzAvjlWKDKkvHAG5tjyUhuEAYJTE6uslk6_XI_quBctHUAlsX_7x9k5CW4hojruH1lCgizwlFNi-23geWd6JyGHeaXow/s320/CreepingBarberry2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Creeping barberry blooms April - June<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br />The 4.4-mile
singletrack is outstanding not only for its smart design but also for its panoramic
vistas, oscillating levels of difficulty and variety of terrain. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The serpentine path climbs over 1,200 feet
along the natural contours of the Dry Lake Hills northeast of 9,299-foot Mount
Elden. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwXuAxGmphyStZD3_868llIC3Wvpw1nDLycZ4SmBScyNODI-YMydezUg44um_YQedaaYRkrG2kyd2mdsYZHrtM8HbwhWRqaAUIlX5HqvQWANYhrKOxmUKAiB7jRrbP89uX63BzybccgqDKrqu3nWyyTx8ZAiQEK2KxZnB7Yflocpf10AkKmE65dlUyNQ/s6016/BigBangMtElden.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwXuAxGmphyStZD3_868llIC3Wvpw1nDLycZ4SmBScyNODI-YMydezUg44um_YQedaaYRkrG2kyd2mdsYZHrtM8HbwhWRqaAUIlX5HqvQWANYhrKOxmUKAiB7jRrbP89uX63BzybccgqDKrqu3nWyyTx8ZAiQEK2KxZnB7Yflocpf10AkKmE65dlUyNQ/s320/BigBangMtElden.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mount Elden seen from Big Bang Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>The trail may be accessed from
the Schultz Creek trailhead by following the Rocky Ridge Trail (also part of the
Arizona National Scenic Trail) <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>0.2-mile to
the signed junction. The first mile takes it easy, twisting among Ponderosa
pines, alligator junipers and oaks with glimpses of 8,578-foot Wing Mountain
standing out to the west.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Spots of damage
from the 2010 Schultz Fire and the 2022 Pipeline Fire are evident along the way
as are slash piles and other signs of restoration efforts. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2xP5WtIztpyK2okpHk6kGG05SmqaQFbX6ILXo8RUyFJACj_Ktx2vo3kat2e6ZN2AxQTui48TKbdtLwJrViCWLqmnFngANUcqHcNNB4E_SxpWacJzPdP7i759W46VkQ-Ml90Ih7-OA5jO0TfeGbriFQDTguhaAad0NDUelvPYlEeB583cySsvRgUxx1g/s6016/BigBangBoulderEdge63.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2xP5WtIztpyK2okpHk6kGG05SmqaQFbX6ILXo8RUyFJACj_Ktx2vo3kat2e6ZN2AxQTui48TKbdtLwJrViCWLqmnFngANUcqHcNNB4E_SxpWacJzPdP7i759W46VkQ-Ml90Ih7-OA5jO0TfeGbriFQDTguhaAad0NDUelvPYlEeB583cySsvRgUxx1g/s320/BigBangBoulderEdge63.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boulders line a section of the Big Bang Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Where the route
makes a northeast bend, views of the San Francisco Peaks<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>that soar to over 12,000 feet, break through the
cover of a mixed-conifer forest. Right about where the mountains views show up,
the trail becomes moderate in difficulty, dodging boulders with hairpin turns. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrM193AcmmbD0plTEiICtyUye7k1knsJSTc-d0JDSOrgzUoNIyIDndU9k-eZlKGUG0rVhrmbdq_5XrnQL0S4PcnEpu3zptLmfEuSgaBvV3587Ss4T17Q-AXNUGvbhVWAT_Xv2-ZGd2lXj71UNh-Az2rOQmh8DPQ6To8ECxwlEEgzuUzOLmjWZzsFYnBA/s6016/FendlerRose.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrM193AcmmbD0plTEiICtyUye7k1knsJSTc-d0JDSOrgzUoNIyIDndU9k-eZlKGUG0rVhrmbdq_5XrnQL0S4PcnEpu3zptLmfEuSgaBvV3587Ss4T17Q-AXNUGvbhVWAT_Xv2-ZGd2lXj71UNh-Az2rOQmh8DPQ6To8ECxwlEEgzuUzOLmjWZzsFYnBA/s320/FendlerRose.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fendler rose scent the trail June - August<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </span>Next, the route takes on a more aggressive,
edgy ascent along stony cliffs with steep drop offs overlooking Flagstaff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As the coniferous forest thins and gradually
morphs into a drier, more exposed mountain clime. Views of 10,428-foot Kendrick
Peak pop out on the northwest horizon and Sedona’s 7,122-foot Wilson Mountain
can be seen to the south. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrdl01i1qdPo12F4TS4B3iYE8CL73ftfkzrM-Fa7CP9M0UpI2A0fNBOSlvJ_JhkAH67vN_1TxyXH-G2ytSh0R7tXtG2CzXMO5eDWtIj_iqCqLgVE717GRL2NQyvqyN7V6uW1WXZhWP0JY0CkMy4TIibtydiQq9f0iIIiRZXcga3aMVjh0TxFIidgtLqg/s6016/BigBangFlagstaffView33.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrdl01i1qdPo12F4TS4B3iYE8CL73ftfkzrM-Fa7CP9M0UpI2A0fNBOSlvJ_JhkAH67vN_1TxyXH-G2ytSh0R7tXtG2CzXMO5eDWtIj_iqCqLgVE717GRL2NQyvqyN7V6uW1WXZhWP0JY0CkMy4TIibtydiQq9f0iIIiRZXcga3aMVjh0TxFIidgtLqg/s320/BigBangFlagstaffView33.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flagstaff visible below the Big Bang Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>Right around
where it meets the 8,000-foot point, the trail bends north among sun-loving
cliff-rose shrubs, yucca, and scrub oak, hitting its highest point and
concluding the major climbing before winding through woodlands and meadows to its
terminus at the Brookbank Trail. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbjZWAlrCSgaDk-UQx45mgGRrXL8oYnwb2F8Y7zsybK7p744pJnSkdJP7n4B6urB32r1bLzaYu78EJaqB-CSWwE3-jouOspmJPCc5Xv6iQymRET70sITqeSVU-y7Q5eGjH-RMBkLlVXQj8slod97mlqXu_rKam9E2LefvHDIOyxReIEnLuWSpGqIzE8A/s6016/BigBangJunction4.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbjZWAlrCSgaDk-UQx45mgGRrXL8oYnwb2F8Y7zsybK7p744pJnSkdJP7n4B6urB32r1bLzaYu78EJaqB-CSWwE3-jouOspmJPCc5Xv6iQymRET70sITqeSVU-y7Q5eGjH-RMBkLlVXQj8slod97mlqXu_rKam9E2LefvHDIOyxReIEnLuWSpGqIzE8A/s320/BigBangJunction4.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big Bang spins off the Rocky Ridge Trail <br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />If the Big
Bang Trail is any indication of what’s in store for MEDL as trail realignments,
and more connectivity roll out, hikers, bikers and equestrians can look forward
to a greatly improved recreational experience. And if trail users heed the slap
and stick to designated trails instead of disrupting natural resources, this environmentally-sound system will last for generations. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiibV4c5h2e9aKVBEUQrBrgrWSU0uPV--Kwkf8vsO0sl0q1YJrRxTIHVeN8vJdzNpDNs7U3hg6UTwgtR_Hi7y3OaaQgYVK_DUZfymdlzs5aJLOVt2j-q_4Qp2n9cq3PdgwbdOjzfdM91FbNgmbF2vC19HRKS-wqR_Jm1JXtMpIkcWrQNC1ouHkcFacSRw/s6016/BigBangPeaks20.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiibV4c5h2e9aKVBEUQrBrgrWSU0uPV--Kwkf8vsO0sl0q1YJrRxTIHVeN8vJdzNpDNs7U3hg6UTwgtR_Hi7y3OaaQgYVK_DUZfymdlzs5aJLOVt2j-q_4Qp2n9cq3PdgwbdOjzfdM91FbNgmbF2vC19HRKS-wqR_Jm1JXtMpIkcWrQNC1ouHkcFacSRw/s320/BigBangPeaks20.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mixed conifir forests frame the San Francisco Peaks <br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>LENGTH:</b>
9.2 miles roundtrip/out-and-back</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>RATING:</b>
moderate-difficult</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>ELEVATION:</b>
7,147 – 8,404 feet </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">GETTING
THERE:</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Schultz
Pass Trailhead:</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">In
Flagstaff, go 3 miles north on U.S. 180 (Humphreys Street) and turn right on to
Schultz Pass Road (Forest Road 420). Continue 0.5-mile on FR 420 and make a
hard left at the Elden Look Road (Forest Road 577) and go another half-mile to
the <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>parking area on the right.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">There are
no fees or facilities at the trailhead. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: red;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">2023 ROAD
CLOSURES: </span></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">During 2023,
the Schultz Creek restoration project, which will mitigate damage to the
Schultz Creek watershed caused by the 2022 Pipeline Fire, will result in temporary
road and trail closures in the area. During construction, Schultz Pass Road
beyond the Coconino National Forest boundary will be closed to motorized
vehicles, but will remain open to hikers, bikers and equestrians. There’s
limited parking at the forest boundary located a few yards south of the Schultz
Creek trailhead, and more parking at the “Schultz Y” at the corner of Schultz
Pass Road and Elden Lookout Road.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Phase 1
will begin on May 22 and run through June. Phase 2 will happen in late 2023. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">FOR NEWS
& UPDATES:</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/coconino/news-events/?cid=FSEPRD1106239"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/coconino/news-events/?cid=FSEPRD1106239</span></a></p>
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{page:WordSection1;}</style></p>Marehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15128367085408432589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3360001322242903715.post-14748301297211119082023-05-08T14:58:00.005-07:002023-05-10T06:45:59.778-07:00Higher Learning-Extra Credit Loop<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">HIGHER
LEARNING-EXTRA CREDIT LOOP</span></b></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisQEL3ILEc7BmCgiMHVx81fpfx9W2qkQvUk24dhmZuOlbx1fuFAz3RMhxr1TalDseZzyJ2JdyNr0lnA4myWFgiIIKPacVBV77fKgXoHs7Oo2TW3cMWARSEjXHcROgV-svW8iYpXA_AW9jawV2t31g6_bZo5llMyCcENAAnUZF_6g-mLx3rk99a7vyCNQ/s6016/HigherLearningJunction4.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisQEL3ILEc7BmCgiMHVx81fpfx9W2qkQvUk24dhmZuOlbx1fuFAz3RMhxr1TalDseZzyJ2JdyNr0lnA4myWFgiIIKPacVBV77fKgXoHs7Oo2TW3cMWARSEjXHcROgV-svW8iYpXA_AW9jawV2t31g6_bZo5llMyCcENAAnUZF_6g-mLx3rk99a7vyCNQ/s320/HigherLearningJunction4.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blowout Wash Trail System is well signed <br /></td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Situated
in the foothills below Mingus Mountain a couple of miles south of the Town of
Cottonwood, The Blowout Wash Recreation Area trail system offers an airier
alternative to crowded Sedona-area hike destinations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrWE2T29gVsig-x_y9j4uVjMxgverxGQHkXI6ZlOP7VZnauwbHunWq1Gf2U0lDuZ0QlRcX801XP7tKyZdYAwyo4oQbc7cgdVSSofzMzRMu-W5XYDXPbD2IdUp4Ob7y2yR7G963axaWPgtZ0h5BwoYKGDOZ4SMwBpS2CybrOjhuVBs7EQHPJq77vjjSgg/s6016/ExtraCreditCanyonYucca8.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrWE2T29gVsig-x_y9j4uVjMxgverxGQHkXI6ZlOP7VZnauwbHunWq1Gf2U0lDuZ0QlRcX801XP7tKyZdYAwyo4oQbc7cgdVSSofzMzRMu-W5XYDXPbD2IdUp4Ob7y2yR7G963axaWPgtZ0h5BwoYKGDOZ4SMwBpS2CybrOjhuVBs7EQHPJq77vjjSgg/s320/ExtraCreditCanyonYucca8.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yucca bloom on the Extra Credit Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span>The 15+-mile system in Prescott National Forest is made up of flowing
singletrack loops that are easy to customize for both challenging day hikes and
easy strolls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN11skHBPQdE2w6hxxW41Pkc4NB0f-wlpof75XwtI1D5hO44FLmPe7Ij6Zq1XER2TdHUW6IeDu1x33gjTJdsEGagvTvMiRW3R113xNjIC-9UR7GLikEgwykPOEle-R18p3FaqcyQvSzxkc5sFq46orEu0uyV5JYOpmSZT9WxDh9NrtOoxS8VnoUACQyQ/s6016/BullseyeMingus644.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN11skHBPQdE2w6hxxW41Pkc4NB0f-wlpof75XwtI1D5hO44FLmPe7Ij6Zq1XER2TdHUW6IeDu1x33gjTJdsEGagvTvMiRW3R113xNjIC-9UR7GLikEgwykPOEle-R18p3FaqcyQvSzxkc5sFq46orEu0uyV5JYOpmSZT9WxDh9NrtOoxS8VnoUACQyQ/s320/BullseyeMingus644.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of Mingus Mountain from Bullseye Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The loops run through a
scenic mix of high desert terrain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTG7cdilBk-JTMbGJ9UyKrwy1KkxAkXdCWJLIK-sXzvqFgMlYH_cW--svOaTlYBtHs0mSFHTqE6nXB2AeJayOCYJYD_upAP_Vhd08f8RHFxMvnUpqgf0_9E4ZGkMUjxX9WKmJUfCwZdimPi5V35JMb6ThHDANI6J4wyEoQp0Ip46W5lzK-e5DELgGxIw/s6016/BarestemLarkspur1.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTG7cdilBk-JTMbGJ9UyKrwy1KkxAkXdCWJLIK-sXzvqFgMlYH_cW--svOaTlYBtHs0mSFHTqE6nXB2AeJayOCYJYD_upAP_Vhd08f8RHFxMvnUpqgf0_9E4ZGkMUjxX9WKmJUfCwZdimPi5V35JMb6ThHDANI6J4wyEoQp0Ip46W5lzK-e5DELgGxIw/s320/BarestemLarkspur1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Barestem larkspur bloom March - May<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The
varied terrain and microclimates of water-scoured washes, a chiseled stone-walled
canyon, edgy ridgelines and high desert grasslands are the backbone and soul of
this always entertaining non-motorized maze.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>An excellent, moderate-rated introduction to the area links up four
trails for a tour of some of the system’s sweet high point vistas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnzZa1rwM9TxXnxA6U_LqFI0Hroa5Q100HXIAi1wMqg4eNw__ZreLmfdzchnf1pt2cRD50I8EqOAHuwivdy6LQ-85lgxImPDaMJuzzgSWsuskMllNQ2-m7X6MskBWiaQyZRcf9yobcPOhHowZr-3L06gcEmPWxYWzgIJbT-whumBSM9LruLsoJp8pOeQ/s6016/DesertFourOClock2.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnzZa1rwM9TxXnxA6U_LqFI0Hroa5Q100HXIAi1wMqg4eNw__ZreLmfdzchnf1pt2cRD50I8EqOAHuwivdy6LQ-85lgxImPDaMJuzzgSWsuskMllNQ2-m7X6MskBWiaQyZRcf9yobcPOhHowZr-3L06gcEmPWxYWzgIJbT-whumBSM9LruLsoJp8pOeQ/s320/DesertFourOClock2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Desert Four O'Clock bloom April - September<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>Beginning at the main trailhead along Forest
Road 493, the loop begins with a 0.2-mile walk on Blowout Canyon Trail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhBaYEFS9wNFIFuTejZ6CwNK3rfseBhiG-TM6ukJyeLIHIsjmXy0A9EY4cM8k12TympECrjH12K28Ots7xtwrNoTHOVZUZpmQTdGh3W1vxclPkkgrSuX6AHgXbqS_g49sOYnRix-vywYpw-dT8QRqs2xoClkR0_xEfe2ueU0m8x3cggeGAbrtKIouNNQ/s6016/HigherLearningCanyonView7.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhBaYEFS9wNFIFuTejZ6CwNK3rfseBhiG-TM6ukJyeLIHIsjmXy0A9EY4cM8k12TympECrjH12K28Ots7xtwrNoTHOVZUZpmQTdGh3W1vxclPkkgrSuX6AHgXbqS_g49sOYnRix-vywYpw-dT8QRqs2xoClkR0_xEfe2ueU0m8x3cggeGAbrtKIouNNQ/s320/HigherLearningCanyonView7.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trail cut visible on knoll from Higher Learning <br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>Right out of the chute, the hike delivers
amazing 360-degree vistas, dominated by 7,818-foot Mingus Mountain in the west
and the sprawling Verde Valley to the north.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9k1uRvRyu-Uzia3FTez57zfsRYoKtSQbBXcKCode_EUi7gVUeNLvUYPg2dJpzNBZJdx3PfoajX5qmKvpKsjgvtSTL9WoP7vGHU4qarkPhLsj-Bju6C4-FEM-yzczeqUldzK2YDPFtC5zbQz7axkJenuSMaHyj4IDekG2VVLWBLRCuz8sprq9b949_KA/s6016/ThistleView.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9k1uRvRyu-Uzia3FTez57zfsRYoKtSQbBXcKCode_EUi7gVUeNLvUYPg2dJpzNBZJdx3PfoajX5qmKvpKsjgvtSTL9WoP7vGHU4qarkPhLsj-Bju6C4-FEM-yzczeqUldzK2YDPFtC5zbQz7axkJenuSMaHyj4IDekG2VVLWBLRCuz8sprq9b949_KA/s320/ThistleView.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thistle frame a view on Extra Credit Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The route then veers right onto the Bullseye Trail where it begins a
leisurely mile-long climb through a corrugated landscape dotted with junipers, common
hop trees, velvet ash, yucca and cacti. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_doo3X3S9wVzVCSffcExoYqGdqe0ZHBX4Qecg9PwXd_8InslSl-94q4f8Yu4v58yzeAkLXx_EaHbrnAZZQV2y0quWWzBpvrUJ6NKzFeuqLNs9fSn6pfWyYjZ64MG86ixHoUGcLzmldZQmeJpK7oepN8doC-mYTfkV0CjVNuz7nYz4OreMtoWUI-OeoA/s6016/BullseyeValleyView33.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_doo3X3S9wVzVCSffcExoYqGdqe0ZHBX4Qecg9PwXd_8InslSl-94q4f8Yu4v58yzeAkLXx_EaHbrnAZZQV2y0quWWzBpvrUJ6NKzFeuqLNs9fSn6pfWyYjZ64MG86ixHoUGcLzmldZQmeJpK7oepN8doC-mYTfkV0CjVNuz7nYz4OreMtoWUI-OeoA/s320/BullseyeValleyView33.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of Sedona Red Rocks from Bullseye Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />At 1.2 miles, the circuit connects with
the Higher Learning Trail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUEVfcRz54u3hAA-Cx8fjwgXHSw4WuNjdLF6VuIEa9wa3L1lVmwJfL95KfIFXiefNQBW1NqnbW6dy5jZJsVlWJo8psluHZsdGx78jEd-PwZylCeWuvTmj9rystA4EHJJ59-6GQza5mqVDpH6Pp24ypQjvq6mx2-7Px4x6toxMSGIPP13v5QgKzP2GTOw/s6016/HigherLearningBeargrass4.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUEVfcRz54u3hAA-Cx8fjwgXHSw4WuNjdLF6VuIEa9wa3L1lVmwJfL95KfIFXiefNQBW1NqnbW6dy5jZJsVlWJo8psluHZsdGx78jEd-PwZylCeWuvTmj9rystA4EHJJ59-6GQza5mqVDpH6Pp24ypQjvq6mx2-7Px4x6toxMSGIPP13v5QgKzP2GTOw/s320/HigherLearningBeargrass4.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bear grass on the Higher Learning Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>This segment offers
the best views of Sedona Red Rocks, the twisting, green channel of Oak Creek and
the geometric layout of vineyards in the valley below. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX7P-AA9YP2K4BhqAmNf8hb6X5-uPZHPmJZs_FzBVLMoCEOGNvxmpoc-d93-XKaIsHfs5WzfdFXDlLwbxTJxvd4kNd_paKthkErbsM0Qk2DH9lpfO7WHG9Om16thD66a60fRSKP747w6DT0wQw4igRG8-hli_6zN92AE5gQXseAZWQnB260_3vnXH7wg/s6016/StrawberryHedgehog518.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX7P-AA9YP2K4BhqAmNf8hb6X5-uPZHPmJZs_FzBVLMoCEOGNvxmpoc-d93-XKaIsHfs5WzfdFXDlLwbxTJxvd4kNd_paKthkErbsM0Qk2DH9lpfO7WHG9Om16thD66a60fRSKP747w6DT0wQw4igRG8-hli_6zN92AE5gQXseAZWQnB260_3vnXH7wg/s320/StrawberryHedgehog518.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Strawberry hedgehog cactus bloom March - May<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />But the views are temporarily
swallowed up where the trail slides into a minor canyon before swinging back
uphill.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP3CLI6mWFyBJfEKIubSJ9xBIIFsOpz37-AApIFJ1g9kpRMAfedEXuje4p4e3Yo0cWxBbQt8Lorxp-LghM5ZaeDbSO93mOdJbq1yIA1tIpQuVsU2zauj_CFTaucnrDu1LF84j6p4tsGNf_wN0DU9RIhu7L2_jk35QQBVbaJ1zRbpQMiK9aX2J82h44Gw/s6016/SilverleafNightshade19.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP3CLI6mWFyBJfEKIubSJ9xBIIFsOpz37-AApIFJ1g9kpRMAfedEXuje4p4e3Yo0cWxBbQt8Lorxp-LghM5ZaeDbSO93mOdJbq1yIA1tIpQuVsU2zauj_CFTaucnrDu1LF84j6p4tsGNf_wN0DU9RIhu7L2_jk35QQBVbaJ1zRbpQMiK9aX2J82h44Gw/s320/SilverleafNightshade19.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Silverleaf nightshade bloom April - November<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB33LFjKmR0EVUVLf1ImhwBMtpZKR4e-hRkv-2bpbMSPIn7jb9OaaTvpp0huSGNhA8_SwHWPJZ3ekLPk9Xt8_RdmNK0e_F8GB6Zc2yhe66vQwL2J2NbnaouXINVaIMQOZwvzr8DoY57FyfoaHfBxe3FfHDnBl331Sf8vwAYXZd-mLEs67udVld36K-sg/s6016/HigherLearningEdge1.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB33LFjKmR0EVUVLf1ImhwBMtpZKR4e-hRkv-2bpbMSPIn7jb9OaaTvpp0huSGNhA8_SwHWPJZ3ekLPk9Xt8_RdmNK0e_F8GB6Zc2yhe66vQwL2J2NbnaouXINVaIMQOZwvzr8DoY57FyfoaHfBxe3FfHDnBl331Sf8vwAYXZd-mLEs67udVld36K-sg/s320/HigherLearningEdge1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Higher Learning Trail ascends a ridgeline<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The hike encounters a breezy lookout point at the Extra Credit Trail junction-- a treeless ridgeline with a fringe of yucca and prickly pear cactus anchoring an
expansive grassland flush with wildflowers like Barestem larkspur, sego lilies,
Four O'Clock, antelope horns, tufted evening primrose, silverleaf nightshade, thistle, prickly poppies,
Blackfoot daisies, scarlet beeblossom and miniature wool star--to name a few. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4439sR57AxJUoK_qUUn6dFCQyXDMs76G5eMx-4tUIK9vyoKcB6_Z4YMxTQ5XrVVdm9exWRF7-mi2MJrelEek1DURDAc6gwVncQWxYo3zyCHb-w1VrZotu9AwXBoVAefheczt1BK5Kb540HJd84Lx9_z_qP5cczTfPBMIRKy8xoYTa2ks7czFqTgI-Nw/s6016/ratany6.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4439sR57AxJUoK_qUUn6dFCQyXDMs76G5eMx-4tUIK9vyoKcB6_Z4YMxTQ5XrVVdm9exWRF7-mi2MJrelEek1DURDAc6gwVncQWxYo3zyCHb-w1VrZotu9AwXBoVAefheczt1BK5Kb540HJd84Lx9_z_qP5cczTfPBMIRKy8xoYTa2ks7czFqTgI-Nw/s320/ratany6.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Range ratany shrubs bloom April - October<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">At the junction,
hikers may opt for a longer, 6.7-mile loop by continuing straight ahead, or a
4.9-mile-miler by turning left at the sign. Either way, Higher Leaning
reconnects with the Extra Credit Trail that makes an easy, half-mile descent to reconnect with the Blowout Canyon Trail</span>.
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{page:WordSection1;}</style><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiStvKuC9P6XYM7-AoKKysVB1WgkpiS4YU6067c8dfLPkFxSKnCU_IR6ZEpfrX5BPFypGrXgYpEY_k3OguM0PS257azth07RvVCSixMFS0ZrKuJaMzSfbddcweoVEhtnYoQc1tzzpfp24s2DgvsIEGStO3TenaqfJVQvoSw83pYiMkr9PzGcrAUEpWL8g/s6016/ScarletBeeblossom.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiStvKuC9P6XYM7-AoKKysVB1WgkpiS4YU6067c8dfLPkFxSKnCU_IR6ZEpfrX5BPFypGrXgYpEY_k3OguM0PS257azth07RvVCSixMFS0ZrKuJaMzSfbddcweoVEhtnYoQc1tzzpfp24s2DgvsIEGStO3TenaqfJVQvoSw83pYiMkr9PzGcrAUEpWL8g/s320/ScarletBeeblossom.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scarlet beeblossom bloom April - September<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Along the Blowout Canyon segment, peeks at the steep-walled,
eponymous canyon and an impressive community of ocotillo and blooming cactus
enter the fray. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPOuKWDTUUP6LUWkVcliKPLD1kTvQvw2lbwxDZ7r6HXjiNWn7ZV_2IDRMDRgaHCaVjxlzabySJBw9kWXbf150PU_rQF0PKwKNIdOkiavEq_veBZht2DBtJLnvtEY7FdrLVhe1YedAQcF3PV1k-SpxQNLdCGMTbZK52PmxSunkzesjfrqIZue2-8utEHg/s6016/BlowoutButte671.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPOuKWDTUUP6LUWkVcliKPLD1kTvQvw2lbwxDZ7r6HXjiNWn7ZV_2IDRMDRgaHCaVjxlzabySJBw9kWXbf150PU_rQF0PKwKNIdOkiavEq_veBZht2DBtJLnvtEY7FdrLVhe1YedAQcF3PV1k-SpxQNLdCGMTbZK52PmxSunkzesjfrqIZue2-8utEHg/s320/BlowoutButte671.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A short trail climbs Blowout Butte<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Over this half-mile leg, distant mountain peaks hover over the
southern horizon while flowering shrubs like range ratany vie for attention
underfoot. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Back at the Bullseye Trail
junction, the route doubles back to the trailhead where a colorful map kiosk shows
the entire trails system layout and more ways to enjoy the quieter side of
Verde Valley hiking. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvpJoKhShoiLW5vWTldVM_uvcfcyyLLHkdRItTvp4giyLLI36lxzbWdIqDT_ZNedubQHDyktrC0odZOa5A37SpGRNLDghhtRU_2OPFiMFpG0fV5EZXnTjcMw0wBg26a88E34Rqth69RjllZdlyKs3K393-lUJI2B7Y4fT9W9et85L06hfqq9POKwJBRg/s6016/TrailheadKiosk.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvpJoKhShoiLW5vWTldVM_uvcfcyyLLHkdRItTvp4giyLLI36lxzbWdIqDT_ZNedubQHDyktrC0odZOa5A37SpGRNLDghhtRU_2OPFiMFpG0fV5EZXnTjcMw0wBg26a88E34Rqth69RjllZdlyKs3K393-lUJI2B7Y4fT9W9et85L06hfqq9POKwJBRg/s320/TrailheadKiosk.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blowout Wash trailhead<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-zBTkgkGSWwjRzyXZ3QDBdWno-foboIcrGVlU8N-RGs1LD3FGuEFcRA8d0xE7bgPhf7FUJHh_MedlZG4tILhnyhxanONvZiMrOmmaiy5uWaRBnq5fH3q6_qihwIaRupdP0oY9Ahjg93XaoWrjgi4VXtJR7_NavMJHvbewVuTYcQrBH5j27-ocGzFwRQ/s6016/hoptree4.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-zBTkgkGSWwjRzyXZ3QDBdWno-foboIcrGVlU8N-RGs1LD3FGuEFcRA8d0xE7bgPhf7FUJHh_MedlZG4tILhnyhxanONvZiMrOmmaiy5uWaRBnq5fH3q6_qihwIaRupdP0oY9Ahjg93XaoWrjgi4VXtJR7_NavMJHvbewVuTYcQrBH5j27-ocGzFwRQ/s320/hoptree4.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wing-like seeds on a common hoptree<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">LENGTH:</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Short
Loop: 4.9 miles</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Long Loop:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>6.7 miles</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">RATING:</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Short
Loop: moderate</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Long Loop:
moderate</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">ELEVATION:</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Short
Loop:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>3,806 – 4,318 feet (926 feet of accumulated
elevation change)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Long Loop:
3,806 - 4,675 feet. (1,129 feet of accumulated elevation change)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>GETTING
THERE</b>:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">From
Interstate 17 north of Camp Verde, take the Cornville Road/County Road 30 exit
293. Continue 17.7 miles west on Cornville Road, which will turn into Mingus
Avenue and then Forest Road 493, to the Blowout Wash Recreation Area trailhead
on the right. For reference, the trailhead is 1.5 miles south of the Cottonwood
airport. Roads are paved except for a short section of rough dirt that’s suitable
for all vehicles.There are no fees or facilities at the trailhead.<br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">INFO:</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Prescott National
Forest</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/prescott/recreation/recarea/?recid=84363&actid=50"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/prescott/recreation/recarea/?recid=84363&actid=50</span></a></p>
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{page:WordSection1;}</style></p>Marehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15128367085408432589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3360001322242903715.post-81312730802478524582023-05-02T08:34:00.003-07:002024-02-27T11:36:30.667-08:00Black Mountain Canyon<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">BLACK
MOUNTAIN CANYON</span></b></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRmdAoMH6cdJBvuwZ_TkOycWqO8xhDzSYdr12rAoODD_7B3VhAOJXmTeq1LPbLRGylWw2wbuZLBLpf9ptEyb7ZAUpQgH88ILd563WugNFlY9WU2_z1WWian1CIDJaUIHWcDJCjbkzrbPWIWetAGrZ-XINFmi2ihHDtk5ohxGC08o3Qqb-sRGNkYWSrXw/s6016/ParsonsTankYucca105.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRmdAoMH6cdJBvuwZ_TkOycWqO8xhDzSYdr12rAoODD_7B3VhAOJXmTeq1LPbLRGylWw2wbuZLBLpf9ptEyb7ZAUpQgH88ILd563WugNFlY9WU2_z1WWian1CIDJaUIHWcDJCjbkzrbPWIWetAGrZ-XINFmi2ihHDtk5ohxGC08o3Qqb-sRGNkYWSrXw/s320/ParsonsTankYucca105.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Parsons Tank on FR 9243B in Prescott NF<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">It’s just 582
feet downhill from the paved byway of State Route 260 to the rocky course of
Black Mountain Canyon but hiking the dirt back road to get to get to it is deceptively
more complicated. Located in a hilly section of the Upper Verde River Volcanic
Field in Yavapai County 15 miles east of Camp Verde, Forest Road 9243B cuts
through dramatic terrain with a backstory of lava flows, ash deposits, water-scoured
canyons and countless geological disruptions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibTSr2SXnXWLHvaKzc-V8LOXSIdPDOzqygOHqXiHIfBTaZvtvh-i6qxhuo99ZAn8h7mPq1d2i8KAqRGsaZNz8ccmruMpCzN2KMhmnHBYzYs-YCUXRjnmGlD3xspCYHBIAsDos-RnDPUC04644I7CbqpKX3-r3yQxKEwIuhWtC_O7pUsLSodzm2Hg_8Ng/s6016/BlackMtnCanyon.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibTSr2SXnXWLHvaKzc-V8LOXSIdPDOzqygOHqXiHIfBTaZvtvh-i6qxhuo99ZAn8h7mPq1d2i8KAqRGsaZNz8ccmruMpCzN2KMhmnHBYzYs-YCUXRjnmGlD3xspCYHBIAsDos-RnDPUC04644I7CbqpKX3-r3yQxKEwIuhWtC_O7pUsLSodzm2Hg_8Ng/s320/BlackMtnCanyon.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The rocky course of Black Mountain Canyon<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br />
</span>The rough two track heads north from a dirt pull out along SR 260 in Prescott
National Forest on a roller coaster style course that challenges hiking legs with
over 1,000 feet of elevation change and delights the eyes. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZpsFfTdACWMUKSSvZOzLmYI_8EdqEg-j5q8Q8mwRdWR_gwn-w0V-hUq0_qY6ANEzprcomjQ3aaBLkmid3sH4w6RdD2R2lMMBveR8F8IHocN7sHIcc9O3kQFioCcCnrWlxZhfuFo6zFxWtF2aVE6cV--NM50T2oHfJUf-rYPSW8lA939pMrmzeGFUmvA/s6016/BillWilliamsHorizon69.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZpsFfTdACWMUKSSvZOzLmYI_8EdqEg-j5q8Q8mwRdWR_gwn-w0V-hUq0_qY6ANEzprcomjQ3aaBLkmid3sH4w6RdD2R2lMMBveR8F8IHocN7sHIcc9O3kQFioCcCnrWlxZhfuFo6zFxWtF2aVE6cV--NM50T2oHfJUf-rYPSW8lA939pMrmzeGFUmvA/s320/BillWilliamsHorizon69.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bill Williams Mountain on far right horizon<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXrL94DGuNriVOQldwB73S58g8gizlyTS8_bBn7wm0uoSzNAakn-qH5RPiyHzsotm1nBDM_7aZxUTuyZoPQkwdp5tJr9DClZjjuksvefqlZK2EZhR6jPtM0eobwKWERWrvPsRTZgdopM0IRgZq3hz0s8T5WQFKRbp89SbQqvcGx9p3WuNcq7kT1qry-A/s6016/Cliff-rose905.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXrL94DGuNriVOQldwB73S58g8gizlyTS8_bBn7wm0uoSzNAakn-qH5RPiyHzsotm1nBDM_7aZxUTuyZoPQkwdp5tJr9DClZjjuksvefqlZK2EZhR6jPtM0eobwKWERWrvPsRTZgdopM0IRgZq3hz0s8T5WQFKRbp89SbQqvcGx9p3WuNcq7kT1qry-A/s320/Cliff-rose905.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cliff-rose bloom April - September<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The sparsely shaded road
wastes no time delivering outstanding vistas and a tour of the area’s diverse
eco-zones.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The trailhead is bolstered by
two volcanic land forms one being Thirteenmile Rock Butte (5,515 feet) a prominent
basalt-topped formation that served as a waypoint on the historic 200-mile General
Crook Trail built in the 1800s to connect a chain of military forts that ran
from Eastern Arizona along the Mogollon Rim to the Prescott area.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUyacw4EPpeGClkelgilrNDQkWVaHJKA4isOJn06S9w1t1m29PdugrWk6lN0RBI9fO-lt-qLW4O6Mok8r9_zrKQWyNu3U0UVeKPKkzSEeBU5Pifbnbc3F-nTlCtEgzN3wgv9fIeOPwePdDtaUpaSoxT8r0xRqgQTV0iKFFuH2YL6nN5Zk88GQqvqf8IQ/s6016/CactiYucca6.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUyacw4EPpeGClkelgilrNDQkWVaHJKA4isOJn06S9w1t1m29PdugrWk6lN0RBI9fO-lt-qLW4O6Mok8r9_zrKQWyNu3U0UVeKPKkzSEeBU5Pifbnbc3F-nTlCtEgzN3wgv9fIeOPwePdDtaUpaSoxT8r0xRqgQTV0iKFFuH2YL6nN5Zk88GQqvqf8IQ/s320/CactiYucca6.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yucca bloom April - July<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGvFS216hX7LdS--eODzZkqbzqx50yHfQNg21xZ_beXAlbLhMzbW2SD-geRWAbM0kjJ4lwefgHO9LpmvQyQ92yyq01lgSfgAXwtXfegB3z5wa2XLq5wl4fZd8CB5DMqZxctZ0vDoLzQ0JKWUgs3K7w8WXL52kG-pDpvOQH9bbt-HWn3_vJAuflJzSuPA/s6016/ButtesRoad.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGvFS216hX7LdS--eODzZkqbzqx50yHfQNg21xZ_beXAlbLhMzbW2SD-geRWAbM0kjJ4lwefgHO9LpmvQyQ92yyq01lgSfgAXwtXfegB3z5wa2XLq5wl4fZd8CB5DMqZxctZ0vDoLzQ0JKWUgs3K7w8WXL52kG-pDpvOQH9bbt-HWn3_vJAuflJzSuPA/s320/ButtesRoad.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">FR 9243B goes between two volcanic buttes<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>The other geological standout is an unnamed 5,283-foot
volcanic pinnacle with a broken east flank that exposes a base of red and black
cinders. Forest Road 9243B begins with a run right between the two stony
massifs. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1FoflvexMXcgmztkEVrJv2PqRy5O_CxZiIOF_QgJCjPHEg_6RWgLinw7SjRbKqKpJ2QrKp_qrHq14OMtq9G8htSFq8EGd9hV6hRC11oRQSnB0rOrIXLXPwgx7Yn9dpkutX9h8KOk_9osazbDjXuKJlkFeIekoz6FCInG1PWgPGYra5oimX4vMsoguiA/s6016/CinderPitClose83.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1FoflvexMXcgmztkEVrJv2PqRy5O_CxZiIOF_QgJCjPHEg_6RWgLinw7SjRbKqKpJ2QrKp_qrHq14OMtq9G8htSFq8EGd9hV6hRC11oRQSnB0rOrIXLXPwgx7Yn9dpkutX9h8KOk_9osazbDjXuKJlkFeIekoz6FCInG1PWgPGYra5oimX4vMsoguiA/s320/CinderPitClose83.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exposed red cinders tumble from a volcanic butte<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Open to off-road vehicles, hikers, bikers and equestrians, the road is
a scenic destination for any type of travel, although, the many details along its
course are best observed on foot. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq7SsBrKv52hTUM1hd4nmS6UgaTr0kptst9hSekCkOsZD2Bu9hj1bdg0VAMUbsh54vpeHDYJ9ODYRsI4JD7kurwcxqqJcMHxSmgwnqVMyAsMUIlc1AxuK8EIAba0PSxLD6lqdMoPrO8sNQofZVTpUd7gH9ALu-Usy0NM_rG2icZT9FY7hG6ecptFcq9Q/s6016/CanyonDescent4.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq7SsBrKv52hTUM1hd4nmS6UgaTr0kptst9hSekCkOsZD2Bu9hj1bdg0VAMUbsh54vpeHDYJ9ODYRsI4JD7kurwcxqqJcMHxSmgwnqVMyAsMUIlc1AxuK8EIAba0PSxLD6lqdMoPrO8sNQofZVTpUd7gH9ALu-Usy0NM_rG2icZT9FY7hG6ecptFcq9Q/s320/CanyonDescent4.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Velvet ash trees line the road near Black Mtn Canyon<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </span>Within
the first quarter mile, the road hits a high point overlooking the Verde Valley.
On clear days, the distant silhouette of Bill Williams Mountain near the City
of Williams can be seen standing over green valleys and red rocks on the northwest
horizon. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfeTFAnv2Rj6cz14OJRd9KTz6-_bJKDOc3GjNBkR7ELos22gX11IYQqE-HsqkoFh5DI60pTjgVqnHpTOO5xvPN3ZGILRs_ajvgTRXebsaQ3CcdCzrepF8om96fgZWHTlzLJP6gtMycKSGrY6f7w9QVaCCkoxhEPbZ34PAdo_UDfL9EO_DjO_0upVepZA/s6016/RabbitThorn17.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfeTFAnv2Rj6cz14OJRd9KTz6-_bJKDOc3GjNBkR7ELos22gX11IYQqE-HsqkoFh5DI60pTjgVqnHpTOO5xvPN3ZGILRs_ajvgTRXebsaQ3CcdCzrepF8om96fgZWHTlzLJP6gtMycKSGrY6f7w9QVaCCkoxhEPbZ34PAdo_UDfL9EO_DjO_0upVepZA/s320/RabbitThorn17.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rabbit thorn blooms April - June<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The route then makes the first
of several dips-and-climbs passing by the exposed cider pit before rounding
uphill again for another big vista moment before it begins an undulating downhill
spiral.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGLdlxm6kkVEwqz6UikMIfyot22ExxSJVs2eXiaqt2SedNsc6f86hNZHf4kzOnnTnpU-B0aXWVTmOhZLidwYDr1S3q6Kr1ScTJeBJcbi4iW9bweWGUnMGIHT6akAQghE5qGxKsWXfQqMhbzwIrMIgUqZiJeHt1VE5F2qZUtTYEogSayVayf_MXDSc6JA/s6016/RoadEdge64.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGLdlxm6kkVEwqz6UikMIfyot22ExxSJVs2eXiaqt2SedNsc6f86hNZHf4kzOnnTnpU-B0aXWVTmOhZLidwYDr1S3q6Kr1ScTJeBJcbi4iW9bweWGUnMGIHT6akAQghE5qGxKsWXfQqMhbzwIrMIgUqZiJeHt1VE5F2qZUtTYEogSayVayf_MXDSc6JA/s320/RoadEdge64.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">FR9243B traces the edge of Black Mountain Canyon<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>At the 0.8-mile point, the route
continues straight ahead where an unmarked dirt road (FR9243C) veers to the left.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Vegetation along the first mile is of the typical
high desert variety.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yucca, junipers,
rabbit thorn, cliff-rose, scrub oak, skunk bush and cacti dominate the
landscape with an understory of primrose, lupines, lilies, wild carrot and
other wildflowers coloring the loose cinder-strewn substrate. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrd3NhbjsGxYrW-aINLfQ_vwZK33UB3JRTmQButx7k0fDaawmLts5bSAsuKon5iFBq5nu9NIEmF4th6k1GGf0ToBxvxYrSndyCAK04Mb2Cs9BlqUH6ZoCjok8wpxlJsxuuYUiznYRQRu6in3lxV2YpJV9Zb1qIQiktKO17inPt8uVBAsKUySouWbS3fw/s6016/ThirteenmileButteCacti4.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrd3NhbjsGxYrW-aINLfQ_vwZK33UB3JRTmQButx7k0fDaawmLts5bSAsuKon5iFBq5nu9NIEmF4th6k1GGf0ToBxvxYrSndyCAK04Mb2Cs9BlqUH6ZoCjok8wpxlJsxuuYUiznYRQRu6in3lxV2YpJV9Zb1qIQiktKO17inPt8uVBAsKUySouWbS3fw/s320/ThirteenmileButteCacti4.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thirteenmile Rock Butte<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Following
a steep downhill section, the water of Parsons Tank comes into view in a juniper-ringed
depression. </span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbG5op-NreUh6X0n9o34C48W0eVJFNNwbCTnLGjlHqRLRsbedXtRP0fHdZc3z7T0-dypHvEKxgj84HQ1YiOk5PF6W0CI6XeNUjy1yii7rGE6V7WWf1eQCvbnVUGMLyLniCgRyoyrpNoqpFYnbd4rKPiJHRwKW_d2UuHg18mU62L8jDbnC7ceUf3hR5mQ/s6016/CinderButteValley25.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbG5op-NreUh6X0n9o34C48W0eVJFNNwbCTnLGjlHqRLRsbedXtRP0fHdZc3z7T0-dypHvEKxgj84HQ1YiOk5PF6W0CI6XeNUjy1yii7rGE6V7WWf1eQCvbnVUGMLyLniCgRyoyrpNoqpFYnbd4rKPiJHRwKW_d2UuHg18mU62L8jDbnC7ceUf3hR5mQ/s320/CinderButteValley25.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Verde Valley view from FR 9243B<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><br />The road swings around the tiny pool where the footprints of skunk,
bobcats, deer and raccoons signal the importance of this created waterhole to
wildlife. Yet another uphill section lands hikers at a gorgeous vista point
above the final descent to Black Mountain Canyon. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgumz0YmTTFuuU5Gz5r0goF1s5qxr80lH5IK-RiMLEvzttCqoOzn9xFm8Gz7NnVW3LxAgtIWl4-oP03WLdZPa6t_69P3aDd1ckQe9fo4ekb4oRUDLF5vErEC62iCqowZGcjWpngQ6pQdxOV5VwchH5eypkVrsK1L8kYo27JxvjAF7umxVM0ZjgDoTaQgw/s6016/AmericanCarrot.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgumz0YmTTFuuU5Gz5r0goF1s5qxr80lH5IK-RiMLEvzttCqoOzn9xFm8Gz7NnVW3LxAgtIWl4-oP03WLdZPa6t_69P3aDd1ckQe9fo4ekb4oRUDLF5vErEC62iCqowZGcjWpngQ6pQdxOV5VwchH5eypkVrsK1L8kYo27JxvjAF7umxVM0ZjgDoTaQgw/s320/AmericanCarrot.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Delicate American carrot bloom March - May<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjymvMbM8hB7LqKvDk75tXboFf0c5N9sh0KCjYsPKtrAy5b0xSP1PGZ3bUaemOT-95zDn9a-AlBl2EBTy5ljR_jzM0rv4xu7fUmFKMCeRcdnxSEKWT25MvqRe_y8q5La8vd6cXXaa5Doj2u54mSzwTu6EhG6SgIQDIehsnTv2v96BVH2p0xQe9M6rZTEw/s6016/ParsonsTankSnag98.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjymvMbM8hB7LqKvDk75tXboFf0c5N9sh0KCjYsPKtrAy5b0xSP1PGZ3bUaemOT-95zDn9a-AlBl2EBTy5ljR_jzM0rv4xu7fUmFKMCeRcdnxSEKWT25MvqRe_y8q5La8vd6cXXaa5Doj2u54mSzwTu6EhG6SgIQDIehsnTv2v96BVH2p0xQe9M6rZTEw/s320/ParsonsTankSnag98.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Verde Valley viewed from Parsons Tank<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />On the last edgy plunge, vegetation
gradually changes from desert to riparian with ash trees and fruit-bearing
shrubs entering the mix.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg88xWLzteprD_jQ1RrBzEapa048xIioJUDIkSG6viDrzxkw9BsfPzDGgCXr2KEMJDwve8kvqcsleS9E4CDSydvn_1YVLNaxkD4HDZK6rkhtE6DcqaV65neKTw3Sp7nUfJh5aPD2sGYuJdBzYZmerN291rNrx0qXHpfahr7EGglvnY6fW_nlEoocTFJUQ/s6016/PurshPlantain8.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg88xWLzteprD_jQ1RrBzEapa048xIioJUDIkSG6viDrzxkw9BsfPzDGgCXr2KEMJDwve8kvqcsleS9E4CDSydvn_1YVLNaxkD4HDZK6rkhtE6DcqaV65neKTw3Sp7nUfJh5aPD2sGYuJdBzYZmerN291rNrx0qXHpfahr7EGglvnY6fW_nlEoocTFJUQ/s320/PurshPlantain8.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pursh plantain bloom February - July<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The road meets
the canyon bottom at the 2-mile point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Marked
by a tree-lined boulder crossing, the major drainage makes for a good
turnaround point. But the hike may be extended on a maze of dirt roads shown on
the Prescott National Forest map.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgw-aaf_O5OtY8EOxJS1SdFMTUPS_knG3Rm4nr2dAuNbEslXp_SXd6EZaxSn8wnW78zoyzuOJdSUE0rHYWrZx9Xe8ICpI3jgGzFT_Izik85CYTOE-SNBpjLSSTef9o5YzaqyhzcG7fnQgGAiD4zJeogAYkrhWWfQmMa3AnNe8J3b_ZVDy199Sv8ar8bw/s6016/StrawberryHedgehog4.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgw-aaf_O5OtY8EOxJS1SdFMTUPS_knG3Rm4nr2dAuNbEslXp_SXd6EZaxSn8wnW78zoyzuOJdSUE0rHYWrZx9Xe8ICpI3jgGzFT_Izik85CYTOE-SNBpjLSSTef9o5YzaqyhzcG7fnQgGAiD4zJeogAYkrhWWfQmMa3AnNe8J3b_ZVDy199Sv8ar8bw/s320/StrawberryHedgehog4.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Strawberry hedgehog cactus bloom Mar - May<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>LENGTH:</b> 4
miles round trip</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>RATING:</b>
moderate</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>ELEVATION:</b>
4,374 – 4,956 feet (1,077 feet of accumulated elevation change)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">GETTING
THERE:</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">From
Interstate 17 in Camp Verde, take the State Route 260 exit 287 and continue
15.7 miles east (toward Payson) to Forest Road 9243B on the left just past
milepost 234. Pass the gate (close it behind you) and park in the turn outs along
the road. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">INFO:</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://visitcampverde.com/general-crook-trail/"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">https://visitcampverde.com/general-crook-trail/</span></a></p>
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{page:WordSection1;}</style></p>Marehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15128367085408432589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3360001322242903715.post-4006916144635105092023-04-24T12:25:00.000-07:002024-02-27T11:36:42.835-08:00White Spar Loop Trails<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">WHITE SPAR
LOOP TRAILS<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieFZPwTBuJLsviHlmnR-afxJZ9_MgLQ0TV-o1sOxIwhVekE3mIr2clORaD6eCNIHQz8g3J7ZCO9A0vDJkV6KKqgLUDhI0fGKcYoe9kdt192MeJefXXH1Lu30ufvZpI609s6ZqD4IVhdEkqzesAcMFZdp9zBHNBMHgmVjy9OdgwsLDryuFLESwV4GAQZA/s6016/AppleBlossomBanningCreek.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieFZPwTBuJLsviHlmnR-afxJZ9_MgLQ0TV-o1sOxIwhVekE3mIr2clORaD6eCNIHQz8g3J7ZCO9A0vDJkV6KKqgLUDhI0fGKcYoe9kdt192MeJefXXH1Lu30ufvZpI609s6ZqD4IVhdEkqzesAcMFZdp9zBHNBMHgmVjy9OdgwsLDryuFLESwV4GAQZA/s320/AppleBlossomBanningCreek.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Apple Blossom trail crosses Banning Creek<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">In the
gullies and hills of the Granite Creek watershed northwest of the Goldwater
Lakes, a maze of short, interconnected trails offer access to a diverse pocket
of Prescott National Forest. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg6F_LnuLuM-bQzHFu0mihU0RTHpzni40Ei4mSh_7SmgRi5sLAq6eFJcs9T2s7M8QIw5y-DfsGog-sHTL1fI18VtMXOQL7hUbgXeGXuD_JlrNDBhomR1j3P6XsuJaKsym5FlPEJDo_dNpvjeIgVzTmPtowhMnj_g0rRpdc_2c_gVyuQv4PMmaykSl2iQ/s6016/BanningCreek131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg6F_LnuLuM-bQzHFu0mihU0RTHpzni40Ei4mSh_7SmgRi5sLAq6eFJcs9T2s7M8QIw5y-DfsGog-sHTL1fI18VtMXOQL7hUbgXeGXuD_JlrNDBhomR1j3P6XsuJaKsym5FlPEJDo_dNpvjeIgVzTmPtowhMnj_g0rRpdc_2c_gVyuQv4PMmaykSl2iQ/s320/BanningCreek131.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Banning Creek Trail <br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>Pine
forests, riparian corridors, historic relics, and a strangely out-of-place garden
of fruit trees contribute to a continual sting of eye candy in the Central
Arizona hike hub. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsmhMswCuwTcGVjLmxj4jyuFSFxF8zipyoblFR7jvAC9dBQkgP-cHbxNMUxvDOpAQRclPDhTInqQX2KX3P7IIsEtzc8ZQ9HkPbhePHtzWcDGmANtqsqYSsmDFjF9qg2yOfr0FKimNkn6BeM_4jwsPSaOPzbQ_IkRKFGj4juaBbacddTgFw8GjBgQ7PoQ/s6016/BanningCreekWater14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsmhMswCuwTcGVjLmxj4jyuFSFxF8zipyoblFR7jvAC9dBQkgP-cHbxNMUxvDOpAQRclPDhTInqQX2KX3P7IIsEtzc8ZQ9HkPbhePHtzWcDGmANtqsqYSsmDFjF9qg2yOfr0FKimNkn6BeM_4jwsPSaOPzbQ_IkRKFGj4juaBbacddTgFw8GjBgQ7PoQ/s320/BanningCreekWater14.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Water pools in Banning Creek<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Collectively known as the White Spar Loop Trails, the shaded
singletracks may be explored by way of the White Spar Campground located just a
couple of miles south of Prescott’s historic Whiskey Row. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj91n9tCq0veVggHiqENsy9oOIB0qlULJrLC7JNdi1m7CuDwn0TaKwBX6eWcWDf7sGkMhTYf-BhMPlNoWMB8iYv5i8R2tCUj--2SOFK2FRvezZAKjjhQaeyuGGOmkHd9dDY_cWLuA5yQw0Au-GJSe8gUWxJkeY-N_UwfUUF08ga9oyNqxu3GWN5D9RNZg/s6016/AppleBlossoms10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj91n9tCq0veVggHiqENsy9oOIB0qlULJrLC7JNdi1m7CuDwn0TaKwBX6eWcWDf7sGkMhTYf-BhMPlNoWMB8iYv5i8R2tCUj--2SOFK2FRvezZAKjjhQaeyuGGOmkHd9dDY_cWLuA5yQw0Au-GJSe8gUWxJkeY-N_UwfUUF08ga9oyNqxu3GWN5D9RNZg/s320/AppleBlossoms10.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Apple blossoms on April 21, 2023.<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Well signed and
maintained, the loops are a mash up of newer trails and old standards that also
link up with the 50-mile, city-circumnavigating Prescott Circle Trail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While there are dozens of ways to use the
White Spar Loops to cobble together a day hike or backpack trek, a short
circuit using the Goldwater Lake #396, Banning Creek #81 (the old standards),
Apple Blossom #373 and Twist & Shout #372 (new kids on the block) trails is
a perfect introduction to the area’s many faces.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-a_FnswPWgbyFn-iC_zuiyB38TkVMAkvGBjYCb4PjUUVTQOhTaZXmaiCvJihGjgC5N0kexoZ0oMt6QL1qjB_P42OahfIgDjO7wb6uAjburJGAzi2v-Rj9VGc1gx4ErBWK7Etu35r7SXRxfnTTGSF-t-KQZp9qNNDxGQoSszk3tCQ9f_ElZoQipOMhAQ/s6016/GoldwaterLakes13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-a_FnswPWgbyFn-iC_zuiyB38TkVMAkvGBjYCb4PjUUVTQOhTaZXmaiCvJihGjgC5N0kexoZ0oMt6QL1qjB_P42OahfIgDjO7wb6uAjburJGAzi2v-Rj9VGc1gx4ErBWK7Etu35r7SXRxfnTTGSF-t-KQZp9qNNDxGQoSszk3tCQ9f_ElZoQipOMhAQ/s320/GoldwaterLakes13.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tall pines on Goldwater Lake Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">From the
dirt trailhead parking lot before the campground entrance, the circuit begins
with a 1.5-mile walk on Goldwater Lake #396. This leg climbs easily through
stands of Ponderosa pine, alligator junipers and oaks passing by the Hidden
Valley trail junction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLgxpy29ckMUofINJ7h2QRkkScZR8xADpkH_uxciIQATJUmrLuV3n_MjM87B2kiHBmv7Xjjkx71i-78HVUF97muyOYL9e0bbGFonBF2yLl-pQpHxH-d8fc3dC5tAkFaG4lpOuOFFZum0zuf-SWuQ0qvp11ZTn4FnSa6Qao-x2yzfcHUZhvyG6t-75j3Q/s6016/BanningCreekPipe.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLgxpy29ckMUofINJ7h2QRkkScZR8xADpkH_uxciIQATJUmrLuV3n_MjM87B2kiHBmv7Xjjkx71i-78HVUF97muyOYL9e0bbGFonBF2yLl-pQpHxH-d8fc3dC5tAkFaG4lpOuOFFZum0zuf-SWuQ0qvp11ZTn4FnSa6Qao-x2yzfcHUZhvyG6t-75j3Q/s320/BanningCreekPipe.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old water pipeline on Banning Creek Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>The hike hits
its highest elevation (5,920 feet) at the one-mile point, where nice views of
iconic Thumb Butte and Granite Mountain peek through coniferous tree cover. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The route then begins a gradual,
half-mile<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>descent to the course of
Banning Creek.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzo6E1XfN0yRR0axWJU-a-CApG2NH06APBwqnRmwI9IosqFQ1ULuIiYSe1oSa9kMxeBAGa5tppDzle6dBXowKMd6T7mE0mzGlAsw4zfPV44JI5zbhjLbbXFCQCJcZmaCUbleEwB52XGJkxvjbS6UeR_o3CRSKTfTYY_wSUvIq0wk4lPIgcdZs8fcuepw/s6016/AppleBlossomJunction.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzo6E1XfN0yRR0axWJU-a-CApG2NH06APBwqnRmwI9IosqFQ1ULuIiYSe1oSa9kMxeBAGa5tppDzle6dBXowKMd6T7mE0mzGlAsw4zfPV44JI5zbhjLbbXFCQCJcZmaCUbleEwB52XGJkxvjbS6UeR_o3CRSKTfTYY_wSUvIq0wk4lPIgcdZs8fcuepw/s320/AppleBlossomJunction.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White Spar Loops are well-signed & maintained<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The Banning Creek trail #81
junction can be a little confusing. Hikers may head left (north) and follow the
wide dirt road that traces the creek’s west banks or go right at the “81” sign
and slingshot around to get on the east bank trail. Either way, the two options
converge less than a half-mile north where the creek crosses the dirt road. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6B1Km9l3KGaojI8wYY5IqlBBU2EfKDEUHOaNnU8dT5kRw2OTLjjLXlQ-ouNFtF0aEUH-WQpq9CbLIpL7cWu5Pn4CYn_kQ-EZR6JH_ECsJ64QPkkoZ1qm87bakL3_FyBTmUYMyvxwMJwm3x8SdGPnaCmT8iBd-qqIIJaJkr4XQMmtwsrFHeq7xMVIsHQ/s6016/GoldenCurrant2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6B1Km9l3KGaojI8wYY5IqlBBU2EfKDEUHOaNnU8dT5kRw2OTLjjLXlQ-ouNFtF0aEUH-WQpq9CbLIpL7cWu5Pn4CYn_kQ-EZR6JH_ECsJ64QPkkoZ1qm87bakL3_FyBTmUYMyvxwMJwm3x8SdGPnaCmT8iBd-qqIIJaJkr4XQMmtwsrFHeq7xMVIsHQ/s320/GoldenCurrant2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Golden currant blooms along Granite Creek<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Adding
notes of history to the hike, an old, elevated water pipeline—a relic of<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>early 20<sup>th</sup> century water supply
technology-- can be seen following the course of the creek.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwpq2jOzg9yAGHi_WBlNLFMerPhT1I-IUYcJR5-k97hTo_YAjcuCvxx_-X11XRNHAjc9XJ7gXVQEWSpMThWSmjDl1AiD4DIC80_AczAc97FZvBJhjX-3cmcf-KV1h-ECj3KsqWlJguSL0kPRuQMd-fLnNOBJJB1zjvks8zqzLaMrg4eoxd9Rz23h2ezg/s6016/FirstJunction46.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwpq2jOzg9yAGHi_WBlNLFMerPhT1I-IUYcJR5-k97hTo_YAjcuCvxx_-X11XRNHAjc9XJ7gXVQEWSpMThWSmjDl1AiD4DIC80_AczAc97FZvBJhjX-3cmcf-KV1h-ECj3KsqWlJguSL0kPRuQMd-fLnNOBJJB1zjvks8zqzLaMrg4eoxd9Rz23h2ezg/s320/FirstJunction46.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Goldwater Lake Trail is part of the Prescott Circle Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Vegetation along this watery leg includes
classic riparian species like willows, cottonwoods, boxelder, and golden
currant shrubs growing in mucky shallows and boulder-bound bends. At the
2.2-mile point, the route heads left onto Apple Blossom trail #373 among
magnificent cottonwoods that stand along a trickling creek crossing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Within a few yards, the trail comes to
another junction where it veers right to meet the eponymous apple
blossoms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZSHGpv1eO0D3sssLw9G4OoGxG8wQEVYpGV6QmholOU4y8YUmnBsc7Zdw4IuLZXwmfn8T1QcqPSW6Re3MRgl8BjPOCp3Ttn--6h_1izdnz71HQpchZApfTvTeIK5LRq1-qRkTPEOSJqNTmP7gzw0ZL5XkglToaTJ0Xsq-M5dVKhXs9JAwITCckS69pLQ/s6016/CommonMullien0.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZSHGpv1eO0D3sssLw9G4OoGxG8wQEVYpGV6QmholOU4y8YUmnBsc7Zdw4IuLZXwmfn8T1QcqPSW6Re3MRgl8BjPOCp3Ttn--6h_1izdnz71HQpchZApfTvTeIK5LRq1-qRkTPEOSJqNTmP7gzw0ZL5XkglToaTJ0Xsq-M5dVKhXs9JAwITCckS69pLQ/s320/CommonMullien0.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Common mullein is a familiar plant along the trails<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>Several small, spindly fruit
trees line the trail, looking sort of lost among towering pines. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In spring, creamy flowers scent the air and
attract pollinators.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Beyond the blooming
trees, the route continues straight ahead and uphill the somewhat
befuddling<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>#373/#374 junction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now back in pine-oak woodlands, the trail
passes by a forested subdivision before meeting the Twist & Shout <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>trail #372 junction for the loop’s final leg. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjw0ln3inIO0-nKeLbK8ju_zODIe00gYaOxUZPqCE5PBpx6y4IciAsvG2ffStRBsZeRnUbElEgFxkU0EzK3yZbuioGrLRMmJcvot6SCQMu2qtdtdz_-65nWftgDkP9Ker0ThiHBMPB6fCyuNLnJ1hd8zx4Cd4Lj_O74QjgXiKqHdu9E7OjVxp_Cuq_9g/s6016/GoldwaterLakesGraniteMtn34.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="6016" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjw0ln3inIO0-nKeLbK8ju_zODIe00gYaOxUZPqCE5PBpx6y4IciAsvG2ffStRBsZeRnUbElEgFxkU0EzK3yZbuioGrLRMmJcvot6SCQMu2qtdtdz_-65nWftgDkP9Ker0ThiHBMPB6fCyuNLnJ1hd8zx4Cd4Lj_O74QjgXiKqHdu9E7OjVxp_Cuq_9g/s320/GoldwaterLakesGraniteMtn34.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Granite Mountain seen from Goldwater Lake Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span>True to its name, the path winds among oak
canopies, making hairpin turns around ravines before rejoining Goldwater Lake
trail for the return trip to the trailhead. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>LENGTH:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>3.7 miles</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>RATING:</b>
moderate</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b>ELEVATION:</b>
5,517 – 5,920 feet</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">GETTING
THERE:</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">From Courthouse
Square in historic downtown Prescott, go 2.8 miles south on Montezuma Street
(U.S. 89/White Spar Road) and turn left into the White Spar Campground.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Trailhead parking in on the right before
entering the campground. No fee or facilities. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">INFO:</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Prescott
National Forest, Bradshaw Ranger District</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/prescott/recreation/recarea/?recid=75171"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/prescott/recreation/recarea/?recid=75171</span></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
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{page:WordSection1;}</style></p>Marehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15128367085408432589noreply@blogger.com0