SUMMIT MOUNTAIN

Looking east toward Bill Williams Mountain

Kaibab National Forest

overlooking Garland Prairie and the San Francisco Peaks

Aptly named, Summit Mountain delivers a quintessential peak-conquering experience—but without the pesky sore muscles and taxed lungs.  Ascending through thick broadleaf-coniferous woodlands, the trail is a cinch to follow, gaining elevation gradually via long, easy switchbacks.  Trees lining the path seem to know when it's time to move aside to reveal sigh-worthy views of the surrounding landscape, treating hikers to a continually-changing menu of eye candy. Near the top, the trail flattens out as it emerges on a windy mesa with two excellent viewpoints.  The first is a precipitous shelf of volcanic boulders teetering above the colorful and tumultuous gorge of Sycamore Canyon Wilderness.  Here, a mixed bag of raw geological features spills out in a 180-degree arc resembling the frenzied canvas of a tortured artist.  After exhausting your camera batteries (photo ops abound), proceed toward the communication towers and a second (even more precipitous) cliff overlooking a pine-fleeced basin laced with dirt roads and railroad tracks in the shadow of Bill Williams Mountain.

Because it's a long drive to the trailhead for us Phoenicians—consider combining this hike with nearby Benham, Dogtown Lake, Davenport Hill or Overland Road trails for a greater return on investment. (see separate blog entries)

The only downside of this hike is the obnoxious ATV cinder track located adjacent to the trailhead.  When we visited on Labor Day weekend, the place was a manic mash pit cocktail of gas-fume-spewing machines and screaming kids with a chaser of beer-and-cigarette-wielding adults---behind the wheel, mind you, in a TINDER. DRY. FOREST. Grrrrrrr! However, I'm gonna suck up my angst and attribute this booze-addled mayhem to the end-of-summer holiday weekend festivities and not let it sway me from highly recommending this trail. Also, although the Summit Mountain Trail #68 is off limits to motorized traffic, a dirt vehicle road comes up from the opposite side of the hill, so you may encounter ATVs, quads and motorcycles on the summit.  Hug a tree and take a deep, cleansing breath.....

a "Kodak moment" at the first viewpoint

LENGTH: 2.2 miles round trip

RATING: moderate

ELEVATION: 7,147' -7,797'
BEST SEASON: May - October

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 180 miles one way

GETTING THERE:

View of Sycamore Canyon Wilderness

From Phoenix, go north on I-17 to the I-40 junction in Flagstaff.  Travel 27 miles west on I-40 to exit 165. At the bottom of the offramp, veer left and follow Railroad Road 2.6 miles through Williams to 4^th (Fourth) Street on the left.  Drive 8.3 miles south on 4^th Street (a.k.a. Perkinsville Road, CR73) to milepost 177 and turn left onto FR110. Continue 2 miles on FR110 to the signed turn off for “Summit Mountain Trailhead” at FR2113A  on the right. (NOTE: the forest service Web site and other sources call this FR 706, but it is not signed as such.) Turn right onto FR2113A and go 0.5 mile (veer right at the 2111 fork) to the trailhead on the right.  Roads are paved, dirt & gravel—all suitable for cautiously-driven passenger cars.

INFO: Kaibab National Forest, Williams Ranger District,

http://www.fs.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsinternet/!ut/p/c4/04_SB8K8xLLM9MSSzPy8xBz9CP0os3gDfxMDT8MwRydLA1cj72BTJw8jAwjQL8h2VAQAzHJMsQ!!/?ss=110307&ttype=recarea&recid=11673&actid=50&navtype=BROWSEBYSUBJECT&position=BROWSEBYSUBJECT&navid=110160000000000&pnavid=110000000000000&cid=FSE_003714&pname=Kaibab+National+Forest+-+Summit+Mountain+Trail

MORE PHOTOS:

http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1747115456435.68512.1795269672&l=adb447e052&type=1

ARIZONA'S OTHER FAY CANYON

FAY CANYON

Flagstaff

When creeping barberry leaves take on a red blush, the last days of summer in Arizona’s high country are upon us. And so it was with this harbinger of frost underfoot that we set out to enjoy the last few bittersweet weeks of northern Arizona hiking. To do so, we selected yet another “who knew” trail in Flagstaff.  With numerous limestone caves, ancient sand dune rock formations and acres of alpine meadows, Arizona's other Fay Canyon is a joy to explore.  Unlike the famous (and crowded) red rock, Fay Canyon located in Sedona’s high desert, this trail sees much less activity.  That's likely because there are few resources describing this hidden gem of a hike.  Conveniently located in the Mormon Lake area, this route through a shallow valley connects with the Walnut Canyon Passage of the Arizona Trail, Flagstaff Urban Trails System and Sandy's Canyon.  The trail is almost completely shaded as it travels the margins of a lush gorge flanked with bizarre geological structures and deep canyon drop offs.  To add length, we included a side trip to Fisher Point. Here’s how:

HIKE DIRECTIONS: from the trailhead, hike 0.3 mile along the double-track dirt road paralleling Lake Mary Road.  At the gate/fence located where the road makes a sharp right hand turn, pass the gate and continue straight (north) along a footpath.  From here, the trail is well maintained and easy-to-follow.  At two points along the route, the trail splits—in both cases, stay to the left and take the higher paths. (I’m pretty sure the splits merge eventually, but it’s just smart to stay on the main trail).  At the 2.6-mile point, Fay Canyon Trail ends at a “Y” intersection with the Arizona Trail. Here, head right (east) along a well-signed path to continue on to Fisher Point and the dunes.

Whether hiked alone or as a leg on longer treks, this quiet canyon trail offers a perfect way to enjoy one last summer mountain trek.

Creeping Barberry turns red when temperatures drop

LENGTH: 8.2 miles roundtrip as described here. Fay Canyon alone: 2.6 miles one way

RATING:  moderate

ELEVATION: 6,220' – 7,033' (this description), Fay Canyon only: 6,620'-6,950'

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX:  148 miles one way

GETTING THERE:

From Phoenix, go north on I-17 to exit 339, Lake Mary Road (Forest Road 3) located just south of the I-40/I-17 interchange in Flagstaff.  From the bottom of the off ramp (across from a Circle K), turn right and go 4 miles south on Lake Mary Road to S. Wildlife Road (at the “Hitching Post Stables” sign).  Turn left here and drive a few yards to a “T” intersection, veer left and continue less than 0.1 mile to the sign that reads: “ Walnut-Skunk-Fay Closure Area, No Motor Vehicles”. Parking is very limited.  Please respect private property in the area by not blocking roads or driveways.

INFO:

PRINT MAP : Emmitt Barks Cartography “Flagstaff Trails Map”

Flagstaff Ranger District, Coconino National Forest, 928-526-0866

http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/coconino/recreation/mormon_lake/sandys-canyon-tr.shtml

MORE PHOTOS:

http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1761063725133.69036.1795269672&l=03813d6c07&type=1

OVERLAND ROAD HISTORIC TRAIL

OVERLAND ROAD HISTORIC TRAIL

Kaibab National Forest

The Swale at Dead Horse Tank

Playing Carin Leap Frog

A Road Segment

The arrival of the railroad in the late 19^th century signaled the demise of this storied wagon road built in the 1850-60s to haul gold and other goods between the Prescott area and Williams.  Nearly devoured by the hip-deep grasses of Garland Prairie, the Forest Service wisely saw this trail's historical significance and recreational value, and decided to  preserve the path using a web of roads, footpaths and cross-country jaunts.  Not for inexperienced hikers, the non-traditional route is tricky to follow, but for those who “get” the plan, it’s actually quite hike-able.  Think line-of-sight-leap-frog and you’ve got the idea. Just locate and follow strategically-placed rock cairns, tree blazes, brass caps and wooden posts emblazed with “mule” icons that, frankly, appear to be two heads shy of an image of Cerberus, the mythical 3-headed hound from hell.  As you’ll see, this will turn out to be an appropriate trail mascot---the devil is in the details. (click on the MORE PHOTOS link below to see images of some trail markers).

HERES THE PLAN: From the Dead Horse Tank trailhead, hike across FR 139 to the “2205” post---here, you’ll find the first brass cap trail marker poking out of the ground.  Follow this road 0.5 mile to where there’s a sunny swale with two wood posts stuck in the middle.  This marks the side trip for Dead Horse Tank---hike cross-country toward a prominent berm to find the pond.  We noticed a hunter blind built on the north side of the tank.  Once done visiting the tank, go back to the road and continue east to the 1-mile point where a large carin and a wood "mule" post marks the turnoff for the start of the cross-country leap frog.  Now, pay attention---spot the first carin, then locate the next before moving on----basically you’re walking from carin-to-carin.  Be diligent---they are there, but some are buried by fallen trees and require more effort to find.  Occasionally, the cairns are accompanied by the posts and caps.  Where the route follows road, look for cairns and tree blazes on the shoulders.  Also, some critical junction wood posts are missing---look for green metal rods instead. We had a reasonably easy time of it for about 3 miles before the carin hunt got very challenging, so be sure to budget your hiking time accordingly---this hunt-and-peck trek will take longer than you think.

Brass Cap & Carin

Pomeroy Tanks near FR 109

LENGTH:  25 miles one-way (11 miles roundtrip as described here)

RATING: easy---but route finding skills are  required

ELEVATION: 5,800’ – 7,100’ (6,650 – 7100, FR 139 to FR109 as described here)

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 180 miles one-way

GETTING THERE:  there are many access points, but here’s the one we used

Dead Horse Tank Trailhead:

Trail Sign Near Dow Spring 

From Phoenix, go north on I-17 to the I-40 junction in Flagstaff.  Go 27 miles west on I-40 to exit 165.  At the bottom of the offramp, go left and continue 2.6 straight through Williams on Railroad Avenue and turn left onto 4^th Street. Follow 4^th St. (it will change into Perkinsville Road/CR73) 7.5 miles due south  to FR 139 on the left.  Go 0.9 mile on FR139 to a the signed gravel parking loop/trailhead on the left side of the road .  Roads are paved up to FR 139 which is good dirt & gravel. Passenger cars okay.

INFO & MAP: Kaibab National Forest, Williams Ranger District

http://www.fs.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsinternet/!ut/p/c4/04_SB8K8xLLM9MSSzPy8xBz9CP0os3gDfxMDT8MwRydLA1cj72BTJw8jAwjQL8h2VAQAzHJMsQ!!/?ss=110307&ttype=recarea&recid=11672&actid=50&navtype=BROWSEBYSUBJECT&position=BROWSEBYSUBJECT&navid=110160000000000&pnavid=110000000000000&cid=FSE_003714&pname=Kaibab+National+Forest+-+Overland+Road+Trail

MORE PHOTOS:

http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1747079455535.68506.1795269672&l=f50a745421&type=1

SKUNK CANYON

SKUNK CANYON

Flagstaff

Although popular with mountain bikers, this trail has yet to ignite in the hiking community.  Why?  Well, for one, it doesn't generate a lot of buzz on the web.  In fact, I only stumbled upon it while perusing the Emmit Barks Cartography “Flagstaff Trails Map”. There it was, a lonely red line in section D4.

Squeezed into near obscurity by it's proximity to popular Sandy's Canyon and the Walnut Canyon Passage of the Arizona Trail (AZT),  this closed road/footpath , offers an under-the-radar trek through sun-drenched meadows and a shady slot canyon .  From the trailhead, head out into a wide field following a double track Jeep route that's now off limits to motorized travel.  After roughly 0.25-mile, the track meets a cross road.  Here, turn right and walk toward a tall white pole with a solar panel (no idea what this is) about 0.1 mile up the canyon and let the summer wildflower frenzy begin. When I visited here on August 27^th, patches of shoulder-high sunflowers clogged the path.  Lupine, primrose, vetch, fleabane, and countless other blooming plants formed  fragrant carpets of color.  Near the 2-mile point, the trail dips into a narrow, damp  ravine hemmed in by moss-embellished limestone escarpments with shallow caves and thick coniferous woodlands.  Along this brief fir-shaded segment, displays of mushrooms, berries and sparking crystals embedded in trailside boulders make for interesting “stop-and-see” moments.  Once through the dark forest, the path emerges onto yet another open meadow and continues a short distance  to the unsigned “Y” junction with the Arizona Trail.  From here, the hike can be extended by heading either left (north-ish) to connect with the Flagstaff Urban Trail System (FUTS) or, better yet, go right another 1.8 miles to Fisher Point, a scenic overlook above Sandy's Canyon. 

LENGTH:  5.2  miles roundtrip (8.8 miles roundtrip  to Fisher Point)

RATING: easy

ELEVATION: 6,720' – 6,920' (7,033' to Fisher Point)

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 149 miles one way
BEST SEASON: May - October (Aug-Sept for wildflowers)

FACILITIES:  none

GETTING THERE:

From Phoenix, go north on I-17 to exit 339, Lake Mary Road (Forest Road 3) located  just south of the I-40/I-17 interchange in Flagstaff.  From the bottom of the off ramp (across from a Circle K), turn right and go 2.1 miles south on  Lake Mary Road to S J Diamond Road on the left.  Follow this good dirt road roughly 0.2 mile to the end where there's a small parking area and gate.  Generic forest service and game & fish signs are posted, but nothing indicating “Skunk Canyon”--no worries though, you're in the right place.

INFO:
Emmit Barks Cartography, "Flagstaff Trails Map" (best resource for this trail)
Although there's no comprehensive online resource for this trail (except this one),  these sites are helpful:

Walnut Canyon Passage of Arizona Trail:

http://www.aztrail.org/passages/pass_31.html

Flagstaff Urban Trails System:

http://flagstaff.az.gov/index.aspx?nid=1379

MORE PHOTOS:

http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1734677705499.67955.1795269672&l=9d75e5dc8b&type=1

BUTTERFLY TRAIL

BUTTERFLY TRAIL

Santa Catalina Mountains

Five thousand feet below the Butterfly Trail #16, the San Pedro River drifts in placid meanders through a hazy desert basin separating southeastern Arizona’s Santa Catalina and Galiuro Mountain ranges. In addition to vertigo-inducing views, this trail offers a lot of variety in terms of bio diversity and interesting side trips. From the upper trailhead, the hike begins as a pleasant stroll in the woods. For those looking for an easy outing, it’s best to start at this end and turn around before the trail begins its 2,000-foot dip down the mountain. Over its pitchy course, the trail passes through a medley of fir-pine, juniper, yucca, moist seep areas and fire damaged segments where charred stumps cling to sheer slopes. Near the midway point, the dribbling water of Novio Spring fosters an oasis of flowering shrubs, nodding columbines and the butterflies for which the trail is named. Below the spring, Novio Falls spews an intermittent veil of water over bare rock. There’s also an informal path (usually marked with red trail tape) leading to the wreckage of a 1957 F-86 plane crash located a half mile past the spring. Two trailheads access this route, so it can be hiked either as an out-and-back or in two-car exchange style.

LENGTH: 5.7 miles one-way

ELEVATION: 6,500 – 8,500 feet

RATING: moderate-difficult

DOG RATING: fair

KID FRIENDLY:  somewhat

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 153 miles  one way

GETTING THERE:

UPPER BUTTERFLY TRAILHEAD:

From I10 in Tucson, take the Grant Road exit 256 and go 8.7 miles east to Tanque Verde Road. Turn left and continue 3.4 miles to Catalina Highway go left and drive uphill 22.5 miles to the trailhead on the right. Roads are 100% paved.

FACILITIES: restrooms

LOWER BIGELOW TRAILHEAD:

From I10 in Tucson, take the Grant Road exit 256 and go 8.7 miles east to Tanque Verde Road. Turn left and continue 3.4 miles to Catalina Highway go left and drive uphill 19.5 miles to the Lower Bigelow trailhead on the right. Roads are 100% paved. FACILITIES: restrooms, water

FEE: $5 Catalina Highway daily fee per vehicle

INFO: Santa Catalina Ranger District, Coronado National Forest, (520) 749-8700

http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/coronado/forest/recreation/trails/butterfly.shtml

MORE PHOTOS:

http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1197644199997.22853.1795269672&l=499e9a89b3&type=1

MOUNT BIGELOW

MOUNT BIGELOW

Tucson

View from the Summit of Mt. Bigelow

In terms of mountain summit hikes, this trek to a peak on the eastern edge of the Santa Catalina range ranks among the easiest. The ascent is gradual, winding uphill through fragrant stands of pine and oak thickets. At first, views are spare, but as the trail moves into its higher elevations, glimpses of the surrounding desert break through the timbers. On the summit, a hardware jungle of communication towers and a fire lookout are anchored to the rock. Beyond the breezy peak and groaning metal, the grass-fringed summit ridge falls away to reveal the hazy grid of Tucson with muted silhouettes of wilderness peaks – including those of Mount Wrightson Wilderness – saturating an expansive landscape.

LENGTH: 2 miles roundtrip

ELEVATION: 7,910-8,550 feet

RATING: easy

DOGS: easy

KID FRIENDLY?: yes

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 151 miles one way 

GETTING THERE: From I-10 in Tucson, take Grant Road (exit 256) and go 8.7 miles east to Tanque Verde Road. Turn left and continue 3.4 miles to Catalina Highway. Go left and drive uphill 19.5 miles to the Lower Bigelow trailhead on the right. All roads are paved.

FEE: $5 daily fee per vehicle for Catalina Highway

FACILITIES: restrooms, water

INFO: Santa Catalina Ranger District, Coronado National Forest, 520-749-8700,

http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/coronado/forest/recreation/trails/butterfly.shtml

MORE PHOTOS:

http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1197644199997.22853.1795269672&l=499e9a89b3&type=1

WEBB PEAK-ASH CREEK LOOP

WEBB PEAK-ASH CREEK LOOP.

Ash Creek Falls

UPDATE: This area was heavily impacted by the June 2017 Frye Fire. Closures may be in effect. Check before going. https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5221/
Brushing the clouds at nearly 10,000 feet in elevation, Webb Peak hovers above the Gila Valley where, in summer, triple digit heat hangs in a stifling haze. 

Getting into the refreshing climate of the Pinaleno range involves a scenic drive up the Swift Trail, which rises 6,400 feet over 29 miles. Temperatures drop as the road passes through desert scrub, juniper chaparral and oak woodlands before entering thick coniferous forests where it’s typically 20 degrees cooler than at the base of the mountain. From a distance, the summit looks formidable.

In reality though, hiking to the top of this peak is only moderately challenging and when combined with a side trip to nearby Ash Creek Falls, makes for a memorable journey.

Rushing water, alpine meadows, a fire tower, mountain slopes fleeced in spruce and fir, far-reaching summit views and dozens of hiking trails make this southeastern Arizona “sky island” (isolated peaks surrounded by arid environments) a popular summer destination. 

HIKE DIRECTIONS: From the Columbine trailhead, hike 0.5 mile north on Ash Creek Trail #307 to the Webb Peak Trail #345 junction.  Veer right here and continue on #307 to the 1.7-mile point where the trail splits.  Take the right stem and go 0.7 mile to the falls.  From here, backtrack to the Webb Peak junction and head uphill. The route crosses the summit and loops back to the Columbine trailhead.

LENGTH:  8.1 miles roundtrip

ELEVATION: 9,120’- 9,960’

RATING:  moderate

DOG RATING:  moderate

KID FRIENDLY: just okay--steep climb on the way out

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX:  204 miles one-way

GETTING THERE:

From Safford, go 8 miles south on US 191 to 1^st Ave (signed “Willcox”) and turn right.  Follow this road, which will become Swift Trail (AZ 366) 29 miles to the Columbine corrals and trailhead on the right just past the information center. Road is paved for 22 miles, then turns to maintained dirt suitable for passenger cars.  There are restrooms at the trailhead.

INFO: Safford Ranger District, Coronado National Forest

http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/coronado/forest/recreation/trails/webb_pk.shtml

(928) 428-4150

MORE PHOTOS:

http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1251918036809.28135.1795269672&l=5e600ce1c9&type=1

MARS HILL

MARS HILL TRAIL

Flagstaff Urban Trail System

Pluto was robbed.  Dissed by astronomers, this tiny space orb recently was demoted from planet to “plan-ette” status.  This seems absurd considering it sports two moons and a cartoon character namesake. Pluto was discovered in 1930 using a telescope on Flagstaff’s Mars Hill.  Today, the site is owned by Lowell Observatory, which has kindly granted an easement for non-motorized recreational use on its scientific preserve.  Mars Hill trail is maintained by the City of Flagstaff Urban Trails System (FUTS, called “foots”) and has several access points.  When I visited here on Aug. 13, the Thorpe Park lot was full, but I saw on the park map that I could connect to the trail from the community center—this added roughly 1 mile to the roundtrip mileage. The route is wide and smooth with good views of Flagstaff peaks, and although it passes through Lowell Scientific Preserve, you cannot get to the observatory from this trail (well, you could, but, don’t break the rules and blow it for the rest of us).  Added bonus:  after hiking this trail, you can hike from Earth to Pluto---albeit in miniature, of course--by making a side trip Lowell Observatory.  In addition to the 350-foot interpretive trail, the (usually kid-crammed) destination offers educational tours, and plenty of entertaining (a mausoleum!) diversions.  

LENGTH: 1.9 miles one-way  (or 2.4 mile one-way from the community center)

RATING:  moderate

ELEVATION:  6,933' – 7,402'

KID FRIENDLY:  yes

DOGS: must be on leash, there's a fenced bark park at the Thorpe complex
BEST SEASON: May-October

FACILITIES: restrooms, water at Thorpe Park

GETTING THERE:

COMMUNITY CENTER TRAILHEAD: From Phoenix, go north on I17 to Flagstaff.  Drive north through town on Milton Rd. to Humphrey's St. Turn left onto Humphrey's and go north to Birch Street, and continue to where the road dead ends at the community center/tennis court parking area.  Trail is the dirt road straight ahead.

THORPE PARK COMPLEX TRAILHEAD:

From Phoenix, go north on I17 to Flagstaff.  Drive north through town on Milton Rd. to Humphrey's St. Turn left onto Humphrey's and go north to Birch Street (Cherry St. works, too), turn left and continue a few blocks to N. Thorpe Road.  Turn right and continue a couple blocks to Thorpe Park on the right. Trail begins across from Frances Short Pond/Baseball/Dog Park complex.

LOWELL OBSERVATORY:

928-774-3358, http://www.lowell.edu/

FUTS INFO: http://www.flagstaff.az.gov/index.aspx?NID=1379

MORE PHOTOS:

http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1711402563635.66976.1795269672&l=39f95ff462&type=1

THE WOLVES ARE ALRIGHT

ARIZONA GAME & FISH ISSUES POST-WALLOW FIRE  UPDATE ON MEXICAN GREY WOLF PACKS 
Arizona Game & Fish has issued a press release summarizing the status of Mexican Grey Wolves as of the end of July 2011. Most survived the WALLOW FIRE and many pups have been spotted! Here's a excerpt—the entIre press release may be viewed by clicking on the embedded links.

CURRENT POPULATION STATUS
At the end of July 2011, the collared population consisted of 24 wolves with functional radio collars dispersed among ten packs and three single wolves.  Some other uncollared wolves are known to be associating with radio-collared wolves, and others are separate from known packs. 
Seasonal note:  During the past three months, the IFT has been actively monitoring wolf packs to determine if females are denning in order to document wild-born pups and estimate their survival.  At the end of July, the IFT determined the following packs have produced pups during this year’s denning season:  Paradise, Hawks Nest, Bluestem, San Mateo, Luna and Middle Fork.  Three other packs, Fox Mountain, Dark Canyon and Rim, have displayed denning behavior; however, the IFT has been unable to confirm the presence of pups with these packs.  Three of these packs in Arizona, including Hawks Nest, Bluestem and Rim, were impacted by the Wallow Fire in June.  At least two pups from the Bluestem Pack and six pups from the Hawks Nest Pack were documented alive after the fire impacts had subsided.  The IFT is working to determine if any pups from the Rim Pack are currently traveling with that pack.
IN ARIZONA:
Bluestem Pack (collared AM806 and AF1042)Throughout July, the IFT located AM806 and AF1042 in their traditional territory in the central portion of the ASNF.  The IFT confirmed at least two pups with this pack in July.  Their den area was impacted by the Wallow Fire earlier this summer.    
Hawks Nest Pack (collared AF1110 and f1208)In July, AF1110 and f1208 continued to use their traditional territory in the north-central portion of the ASNF.  The IFT confirmed the presence of six pups with this pack in July.  This pack’s den area was impacted by the Wallow Fire; however, the IFT has continued to locate AF1110 and f1208 in the vicinity adjacent to the original den site throughout July. 
 Rim Pack (collared AM1107, AF858, f1187 and f1213)Throughout July, the IFT located the Rim Pack utilizing its summer range on the central portion of the ASNF.  The den area for this pack was impacted by the Wallow Fire, also.  The IFT has been unable to document the presence of any pups with this pack in July.
Paradise Pack (collared AM795) In July, AM795 utilized the traditional summer range of its territory on the northern portion of the ASNF.  The IFT has confirmed the presence of at least five pups with this pack this month. 

The following is a summary of Mexican Wolf Reintroduction Project (Project) activities in Arizona on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests (ASNF) and Fort Apache Indian Reservation (FAIR) and in New Mexico on the Apache National Forest (ANF) and Gila National Forest (GNF).  Non-tribal lands involved in this Project are collectively known as the Blue Range Wolf Recovery Area (BRWRA).  Additional Project information can be obtained by calling (928) 339-4329 or toll free at (888) 459-9653, or by visiting the Arizona Game and Fish Department website at http://www.azgfd.gov/wolf or by visiting the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website at http://www.fws.gov/southwest/es/mexicanwolf.  Past updates may be viewed on either website, or interested parties may sign up to receive this update electronically by visiting http://www.azgfd.gov/signup.  This update is a public document and information in it can be used for any purpose.  The Reintroduction Project is a multi-agency cooperative effort among the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AGFD), New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF), USDA Forest Service (USFS), USDA-Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services (USDA-APHIS WS), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the White Mountain Apache Tribe (WMAT).  Other entities, including private individuals and nongovernmental organizations, cooperate through the Project’s Adaptive Management Work Group (AMWG) that meets periodically in Arizona and New Mexico.
To view weekly wolf telemetry flight location information or the 3-month wolf distribution map, please visit http://www.azgfd.gov/wolf.  On the home page, go to the “Wolf Location Information” heading on the right side of the page near the top and scroll to the specific location information you seek.
Please report any wolf sightings or suspected livestock depredations to:  (928) 339-4329 or toll free at (888) 459-9653.  To report incidents of take or harassment of wolves, please call the AGFD 24-hour dispatch (Operation Game Thief) at (800) 352-0700.

BLUE RIDGE PASSAGE 28, ARIZONA TRAIL

BLUE RIDGE PASSAGE 28, ARIZONA TRAIL

Mogollon Rim near Clints Well

On the Rim above Blue Ridge Reservoir

delicate red columbine

One hundred eighty-two clicks.  That's how much of the 800-mile Arizona Trail I figure I've completed so far. It's a paltry dent for sure, but hey, for work-a-day slobs like me, hiking the entire state-traversing route as a contiguous adventure will have to wait until retirement.  Until then, I'll continue to chip away at my glacially-paced weekend pursuit.  However, several sections—like this one—thwart my efforts to hike new passages because I keep going back to them again and again.

With three easy-access trailheads, abundant campgrounds and plenty of water, this 16-mile section of the Arizona Trail (AZT) is a choice destination for day hikers and backpackers alike.   Rife with ever-changing views (peaks, valleys, Blue Ridge Reservoir, and East Clear Creek) historical sites (General Springs Cabin, Battle of Big Dry Wash Monument) and just enough ups-and-downs for a reasonable workout, it's a perennial favorite for summer hiking, and nope, I do not include repeat trek mileage on my AZT log.

IF YOU DON’T WANT TO DO THE ENTIRE 16 MILES IN ONE DAY, HERE’S A QUICK OUT-AND-BACK OPTION:

Begin at the “middle” trailhead on FR 751. Cross FR 751 and pick up the trail near the cattle guard.  Hike roughly 0.75 mile to the wood sign for Blue Ridge Campground—veer right and continue on AZT.  The hike is flat for about a mile as it follows the ridge above East Clear Creek Canyon (to get a close up look at the reservoir—go to the campground or see my blog entry for nearby ROCK CROSSING trail).  Soon, the trail begins a gradual descent to East Clear Creek---which is usually dry in summer.  Once at the bottom, the trail continues directly across the wide rocky wash and begins its crawl up the opposite side of the canyon.  At the top, you’ll encounter a gate.  From here, AZT briefly follows FR 123A.  Pass a stock pond and a second gate, then start looking for a huge carin and AZT sign on the right---where AZT goes back to being a footpath. HINT—if you reach FR 123, you’ve gone 0.2 mile too far---just backtrack.  Parts of this section are difficult to follow---look for tree blazes, cairns and rock borders among fallen trees and rock slides.  Pay attention, and you’ll be fine.  AZT then crosses FR123 before heading downhill into Fred Haught Canyon (see separate blog entry) and the final stretch to General Springs Cabin and the edge of the Mogollon Rim—or turn around here for the 8-mile option.

manic summer wildflowers

LENGTH: 16 miles one way (8 miles roundtrip as described here)

RATING:  moderate

ELEVATION: 6,600' – 7,380' (7,380' - 6,800' for 8-mile option)

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 157 miles one-way (middle trailhead)

GETTING THERE:

East Clear Creek

MIDDLE, BLUE RIDGE TRAILHEAD: (as described in this post)

From Phoenix, go 90 mile north on SR 87 (Beeline Highway) to Payson.  At the intersection of SR 87 and SR260 in Payson, continue north on 87, to FR 751 (4.8 miles north of the gas station/café in Clints Well, just past milepost 295). Turn right (east) at the Blue Ridge Reservoir sign and go 2 miles on FR 751 to the signed trailhead on the left located just before a cattle guard and a sign reading “no roadside camping beyond this point”.  Roads paved up to FR 751 which is good dirt.

NORTH, HAY MEADOW TRAILHEAD:

From Phoenix, go north on I17 to Camp Verde. Connect to SR260 east (toward Payson) and travel 31 miles to the SR87 junction. Turn left (north) and go 9 miles on SR87 to Clint’s Well. From here, continue 8.3 miles to the turnoff for the Moqui campground (FR138). There will be a “Moqui” sign a few hundred feet before the road on the right. Turn right onto FR138 where a sign located roughly 50 yards in from SR87 reads: "Blue Ridge Campground/Moqui Campground/138". The trailhead is on the left about 100 yards from SR87. Roads are paved up to FR 138 which is good dirt. ALTERNATE ACCESS:   From Phoenix, take Loop 202 east, connect with SR87, continue to the SR87/260 junction in Payson. Continue north on SR87  to Clints Well and follow the directions above. It's a few miles longer this way, but the scenery is nice.

SOUTH, GENERAL SPRINGS TRAILHEAD:

From the intersection of SR87/260 in Payson, continue 28 miles north on SR87 to FR300 (Rim Road) near milepost 280. Turn right and go 12.2 miles to FR705 where there’s a Battle of Big Wash Monument on the NE of the intersection.  Go left (north) onto FR705 and continue 0.5 mile to the General Springs/AZ Trail trailhead.  Roads are maintained dirt and passable by sedan, although high-clearance is a better idea. Trail begins north of the cabin sharing the first miles with the Fred Haught Trail.

INFO: Arizona Trail Association:

http://www.aztrail.org/passages/pass_28.html

Coconino National Forest, Mogollon Rim Ranger District

http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/coconino/recreation/mog_rim/az-tr-blue-rdge-tr.shtml

MORE PHOTOS:
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1700119041554.66421.1795269672&l=ca355cfbc1&type=1

WILDFIRE UPDATE FOR THIS WEEKEND

U.S. Forest Service
Coconino National Forest                                                
www.fs.fed.us/r3/coconino                                
www.twitter.com/CoconinoNF
www.flickr.com/photos/coconinonationalforest

Scout Fire as seen from Blue Ridge 8-6-11

August 5, 2011

Coconino NF Wildfire Activity Update

Flagstaff, AZ – Several low-intensity, lightning-caused wildfires on the Coconino National Forest are being managed for natural resource objectives. These objectives allow fire to play its natural role as custodian of the forest, reducing accumulated fuel and recycling nutrients. With warmer and drier weather forecast through this weekend, fire activity and smoke will increase. Although there are no formal closures, forest visitors will see signs for fire activity in the immediate area of these fires.

Rocky Fire
Crews are creating control lines around the Rocky Fire, in preparation of ignition this weekend to “box-in” the fire. The fire size could increase by several hundred acres. Ignition will occur early in the morning to maximize smoke dispersal, and smoke will be visible from I-17, Forest Highway 3, and the Verde Valley. This fire is being managed by the Red Rock Ranger District.
Rocky Fire Facts
Behavior: Low to moderate smoldering and creeping. The fire is staying in the ponderosa pine understory.
Start Date: July 18, 2011
Location: 2 miles south of Stoneman Lake, near Rocky Gulch.
Size: 140 acres. Anticipate growth to several thousand acres.

Sandrock and Zeus Fires
These two wildfires are within the same area and are being managed together on the Mogollon Rim Ranger District. Fire crews are planning ignitions with drip torches along the control lines to “box in” the fire boundaries. Smoke may increase along the highways and drain into Calf Pen Canyon and Fossil Creek overnight. Drivers on Highways 87 and 260 will see electronic signs alerting them for smoke.
Sandrock and Zeus Fire Facts
Behavior: Light. The fire is staying in the ponderosa pine understory.  
Start Date: July 21 and 28, 2011
Location: off Highway 260, near Twenty-Nine Mile Lake
Size: Sandrock 300 acres, Zeus 9 acres. Anticipate growth to several thousand acres.

Scout Fire
Fire crews are preparing for additional ignitions along control lines, similar to strategy on Sandrock and Rocky Fires. Planned ignitions will produce smoke which will be visible from Payson and Blue Ridge area community. Managed by Mogollon Rim Ranger District.
Scout Fire Facts
Behavior: Low to moderate, burning in the ponderosa pine understory.  
Start Date: July 21, 2011
Location: 6 miles south of Clints Well, near Forest Road 141H and Forest Road 320
Size: 175 acres; could grow to 2000 acres.

Bolt Fire
The Bolt Fire received significant precipitation and is inactive. Crews continue to monitor.
Bolt Fire Facts
Behavior: Little activity.
Start Date: July 11, 2011
Location: Approximately 6 miles northeast of Munds Park, off Forest Road 132A
Size: 1,780 acres; no further growth anticipated.

Fire managers recognize the need to minimize smoke impacts to the communities as much as possible and use several tactics to do so while managing these wildfires including slowing fire growth and intensity when ventilation conditions aren’t as favorable, and conducting firing operations earlier in the day to allow the majority of smoke to disperse before nightfall.

To learn more about fire and smoke activity on the Coconino National Forest, visit www.fs.fed.us/r3/coconino, follow our tweets at http://twitter.com/#!/CoconinoNF
or contact your local ranger station:
Mogollon Rim Ranger Station (Blue Ridge): 928-477-2255  
Red Rock Ranger Station (Sedona): 928-203-7500 (open on weekends.)
Flagstaff Ranger Station: 928-526-0866.

###

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Karen Malis-Clark
Public Affairs, Conservation Education
Coconino National Forest
1824 S. Thompson St.
Flagstaff, AZ 86001-2529
Phone  928-527-3492  Fax 928-527-3620
email    kmclark@fs.fed.us

SP CRATER

SP CRATER

Rocky Mountain Bee Plants Surround SP Crater

North of Flagstaff

ON THE CRATER RIM

Roughly 71,000 years ago, the death throes of SP Crater volcano rocked the flatlands north of Flagstaff. During SP’s final moments, molten lava oozed from its base onto the surrounding high-desert plains, essentially bleeding the mountain to death. Over the course of its active phase, SP shuttered and quaked, splattering taffy-like ribbons of liquid basalt for miles across the landscape before sputtering out. Today, this extinct cinder cone volcano cuts a jaw-dropping silhouette on the skyline, attracting hikers in search of a challenge.

SP APPROACH

Not for the faint of heart, this “hike” involves a 600-foot, 32-degree climb on loose cinders – tantamount to clambering up a ramp of marbles. Once on top of the crusty rim, a 400-foot-deep internal vent gapes below. Quicksand-like substrate and an extreme slope make venturing into the vent dangerous, so it’s smart to stay on the rim. The 0.75-mile circumference hike around the vent features far-reaching views of the Vermilion Cliffs and Navajo Mountain in Utah. To the north, the 5-mile river of lava that signaled the end of this hill’s active phase flows out in a silent, lithic swan song.

LENGTH: 1.5 miles roundtrip

ELEVATION: 6,400-7,021 feet

RATING: moderate

DOGS: not recommended for dogs

THE INTERNAL VENT

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 185 miles one way (3 hours)

GETTING THERE: From Flagstaff, go 32 miles north on US 89 to just before milepost 446. Turn left (west) onto an unmarked dirt road south of Hank’s Trading Post; you’ll see the flattop cone of SP Crater looming on the horizon. Set your odometer and go 0.5 miles, veering left at the fork. At the 4.8-mile point, go right at the second fork. At the 6-mile point, go right again, continue 0.5 miles, and park at the base of the mountain.

Note: The roads are very rough with deep ruts. A high-clearance vehicle is required. Drive slowly and beware of roaming cattle.

INFO: Arizona State Land Department, 602-542-4631 (general info); 928-774-1425 (Flagstaff office)

MORE PHOTOS: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1695865855227.66234.1795269672&l=df0e47931e&type=1

SEE CANYON

  

SEE CANYON, Christopher Creek

One of the most popular hikes below the Mogollon Rim, See Canyon Trail #184 begins as an easy stroll but soon degrades into an insanely fun quagmire of logjams and sheer inclines on its 1,700-foot uphill haul.  Because of the claustrophobically narrow, deeply–wooded route, hikers like to bandy about the adage--“all you see is the canyon” when describing this trail.  However, to regard this as a deficit is to miss the point. Although majestic vistas are notably lacking on this trip, running water, wildlife and a wide variety of vegetation zones within the canyon make for a stunning visual journey.

Part of the adventure involves finding the trail.  Here’s how--from the parking lot, descend down through the wooden fence located to the right of the parking lot trailhead sign.  Bear left and head down toward the creek. Rock hop over the water, head up the bank and then veer right along a faint path to the signed intersection for the Highline and See Canyon Trails.  Turn left at the junction and hike north on #184.  The first mile of the trail crosses Christopher Creek several times before it leaves the streamside environment and enters the aforementioned frey on its way to the lip of the Mogollon Rim.

LENGTH:  7.5 miles round trip

ELEVATION:  6,160’ – 7,860’

RATING:  Moderate - difficult

DOG RATING: excellent 1st mile, challenging after that

KID FRIENDLY: yes--1st mile only

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX:  110 miles one-way

GETTING THERE:

From the intersection of SR87/260 in Payson, go 20 miles east (right) on 260 to the Christopher Creek Loop exit.  Continue on Christopher Creek Loop to FR 284, which is located directly across the road from the Tall Pines Market.  Follow FR 284 for 1.6 miles (ignore the many dirt spur roads; stay on the gravel) to the signed circular parking area.

FACILITIES: restroom

INFO: :  Payson Ranger District, Tonto National Forest

http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/tonto/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=35607&actid=50

BONUS SIDE TRIP: SEE SPRING TRAIL #185

This short jaunt, which branches off trail #184 at the 0.65-mile point, stays close to the water and away from the difficult terrain.

LENGTH: 2.6 miles roundtrip

ELEVATION: 6,160’ – 6,640’

RATING: easy

DOG RATING: 3 paws

KID FRIENDLY: yes

MORE PHOTOS: 
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1211388663600.24214.1795269672&l=c5c3c6c206&type=1