Payson's peachless Peach Orchard hike

PEACH ORCHARD TRAIL & PEACH LOOP

View of the Mazatzal Mountains

Payson

So bring on the peaches, already.  Given the fruity name of these two south Payson trails, I was certain we'd be wandering among groves of  fragrant blossoming trees.  Nope.  Although the eponymous peach trees were nowhere to be found, we did discover other points-of-interest along the way.

The route was developed as a cooperative project of the USFS and the City of Payson Area Trails System (PATS).  Existing 4x4 roads were lassoed into a cohesive “lollipop loop” open to hikers, equestrians, mountain bikes and motorized recreational vehicles.  Anchored by two  trailheads, we decided to begin this trek at the rodeo grounds, hike 3 miles on Peach Orchard to the Peach Loop and then double back for a 8.2-mile trip.  

From the trailhead, the rocky route begins as an easy climb to a scenic ridge.  Here, first views of the Mazatzal mountains peek out over thick  juniper-scrub woodlands.  Next, the trail dips into a yawning green valley passing the stone foundation of an  abandoned building and  a tiny riparian area (low point of the hike at 4,594')  before entering a sun-drenched basin where it connects with the Peach Loop trail.  At first glance, the loop--which PATS rates as strenuous---looks innocuous enough.  However, it ascends 340 feet (4,765' - 5105') in about 0.2 mile without mitigating switchbacks--so it's tougher than it appears. This makes for a good excuse to pause and enjoy views of the Mogollon Rim that grow more spectacular with each foot of elevation gained. We were glad to hike this section as an uphill, because going down would certainly tax the knees.   After this short grinding climb, the loop winds among agave-studded hills before re-connecting with Peach Orchard trail.

Mogollon Rim on the horizon

LENGTH: 8.2 miles (as described here)

Peach Orchard trail: 3 miles one-way

Peach Loop: 2.2 miles

RATING:  moderate

ELEVATION: 4,594' – 5,105'

BEST SEASON:  year-round, best spring & fall

DOGS: leashed dogs allowed

KID FRIENDLY?: yes, although the loop might be too tough

FACILITIES: none

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 90 miles one-way

GETTING THERE:

Gila County (a.k.a. Rodeo Grounds) trailhead (described here):

From Phoenix, go north on AZ87 (Beeline Hwy) to Payson.  Turn left onto Green Valley Parkway at the first traffic signal before entering town (across from the Mazatzal casino) and continue 0.2 mile to the trailhead.

Payson Golf Course trailhead:

Use this option to begin on the Loop:

From Phoenix, go north on AZ87 (Beeline Hwy) to Payson. Turn left on Main Street which is the 2^nd light as you enter town.  Follow Main St. 1.7 miles to the clubhouse, then make an immediate left to the trailhead.

INFO: Payson Parks & Recreation, 928-474-5242 EXT 7

http://www.paysonrimcountry.com/MountainRecreation/HikingTrails/PaysonAreaTrailsSystem/EventCenterGilaCountyTrail.aspx
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Prescott slickrock hiking

WILLOW DELLS SLICKROCK TRAILS

City of Prescott

Thank goodness for guys like Jerry.  He's one of the volunteers with the City of Prescott's parks & recreation department that help maintain the “white dot” trails in the granite dells-area parks.  Without those spray-painted little directional beacons, it would be impossible to stay on course. We ran into Jerry in the middle of his weekly trail inspection and he was kind enough to share some history and interesting facts  about the surrounding landscape  and also coached me through a slightly scary slickrock section---which was not as treacherous at it looked after all.

Hiking in Prescott's granite dells is like getting lost in a stone labyrinth hazed with an absorbing “one-with-the-rock” kind of feeling.  The network of paths on the north shore of Willow Lake coil through hulking quartz-studded granite buttes squeezing in-and-out on the paths in heaving accordian style. 

The rugged meandering loop trails move seamlessly from claustrophobically tight spaces to  airy exposed promintaries with unobstructed vistas. Don't be put off by the short hiking distance---the trails are a varied, complex mashup with high steps, cagey twists and surprises around every bend.

LENGTH: 3.3 miles (7 connected trails)

RATING: easy-moderate, sturdy shoes/boots with good traction required

ELEVATION:  5,080' – 5,180'

KID FRIENDLY: older kids

DOGS: must be on leash/pack out poo

FEE: $2 daily parking fee

GETTING THERE:

From Phoenix, travel north on I17 to Cordes Junction  exit 262 for Prescott  AZ 69.  Turn west and follow AZ 69 32 miles to Prescott.  Just outside of downtown, pass Walker Road and begin looking for Prescott Lakes Parkway---located across from the Prescott Gateway Mall where there's a huge Cadillac dealership. Turn right (north) on Prescott Lakes Pkwy and continue  north (crossing AZ89) to Willow Lake Road.  Turn left (west) and go  to Willow Creek Road.  Turn right and continue to Heritage Park Road (Across from Embry-Riddle U and heading toward the zoo). Turn right and then make an immediate right onto Heritage Park Creek and follow the signs to the to the trailhead.

INFO & MAP: City of Prescott

http://www.cityofprescott.net/services/parks/trails/?id=45

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Hikers are a waste of venom

RATTLESNAKE PREPAREDNESS

Encounter at Camp Creek

It's that time of year again—the beginning of rattlesnake season.  A report today on KJZZ stated that so far this year, there have been 7 documented rattler bites in Arizona---none of them were fatal.  Springtime warmth brings these  reptiles out of hibernation, and when they first wake up, they are both hungry and full of venom.  They are looking for rodents—not your ankle.  Venom is very expensive for snakes to produce so they don't want to waste it on anything that's not food.  That's why they rattle and warn first and strike only when stepped on, surprized or provoked.  Amazingly, many bites are the results of people intentionally handling the snakes. (as in, "Hold my beer; watch this...")

Black-tail rattler: Parson Springs

You can greatly reduce your chances of getting serpent stung by observing a few simple rules when hiking in rattlesnake territory (virtually all of AZ):

•  Never step or put your hands anyplace where you cannot see.

•  Loose the headphones; you'll want to hear that rattle!

•  Snakes are most active in morning and late afternoon.  They seek shade (beware the brittlebushes) during the heat of day.

•  Rodent holes=rattlesnake buffet. 

•  When you encounter a snake, simply walk around it.  There's no need to harass the beast.

•  If you are bitten, seek medical help by calling 911.  Do NOT, cut, use a tourniquet or ice the wound.  Your “treatments” can contribute to tissue necropsy and infection.  If you are out of phone range, you can walk slowly toward help.

•  It is not necessary to kill or capture the snake; hospitals will know how to treat you.

Sighting in Sycamore Canyon

ARIZONA GAME & FISH RATTLESNAKE INFO:

http://www.azgfd.gov/w_c/arizona-rattlesnakes.shtml

BANNER HEALTH SNAKE BITE ADVISE:

http://www.bannerhealth.com/Locations/Arizona/Banner+Good+Samaritan+Poison+and+Drug+Information+Center/Desert+Critters/Rattlesnakes.htm

Springtime hike in the Santa Catalina Mountains

ASPEN-MARSHALL GULCH LOOP

Pusch Ridge Wilderness

Half blaze-ravaged moonscape, half creek side woodland, this famously crowded loop hike makes for an interesting first-hand look at the cycle of wildfire forest destruction and subsequent regeneration.

Willowy, white-barked aspens--the quintessential trees of mountain climes--depend on fire for their survival. This species needs lots of sunlight to grow and reproduce, and their natural lifecycle includes succumbing to the shade and crowding brought on by encroaching conifers. When wildfires clear the trees and open the forest floor to sunlight, aspens shoot up rapidly, and right now, they’re having a heyday on the slopes of Mt. Lemmon.

A hike on the Aspen-Marshall Gulch loop showcases this miracle of nature in progress. The tour begins on Aspen Trail #93, progressing uphill through a patchwork of burned areas, fir woodlands and clusters of aspens. Soon, the path enters a dell of slender white-trunk sprouts with vivid green leaves that rustle and sway in a graveyard of charred pine stumps. Beyond this point the route ducks in and out of scorched tracts and intact woodlands before emerging on a sooty, snag-cluttered saddle. Here, the dramatic effects of recent blazes draw visceral reactions. It’s a charred and barren scab of a place. The trail gets a bit sketchy in this area, so watch for cairns leading up to the junction with Marshall Gulch Trail #3. Here, the route leaves the ashen badlands passing through a labyrinth of stone before heading downhill and into another world replete with creek side maples, ferns and alders rounding out the dichotomous flavor of this hike.

View from Aspen Trail

LENGTH: 5.1-mile loop

ELEVATION: 7,410 – 8,400 feet

RATING: difficult

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 158 miles one-way

GETTING THERE:

Aspen sapplings

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 27 miles through Summerhaven to the end of the road at the Marshall Gulch picnic area. Roads are 100% paved.

FEE: $5 Catalina Highway daily fee per vehicle

FACILITIES: restrooms, picnic area,

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

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

Hiking Payson's Houston Mesa

HOUSTON MESA

Payson 

View of the Mogollon Rim

When I first hiked this trail in the early 1990s it was a very confusing trek.  I got through using map, compass and a few lucky guesses to navigate the maze of roads and cross paths that bisect the main route.  Since then, the trail has been incorporated into the Payson Area Trails System (PATS), given a facelift and marked with directional signage.  So, when I hiked it again this past week, finding my way was a breeze.  Featuring a close-to-town trailhead accessible by paved roads (my tires thanked me), this

Pines and junipers on Houston Mesa

hike near the geographic center of Arizona offers occasional shade, big mountain vistas and active wildlife.  Located in high altitude desert terrain, vegetation is an interesting hybrid of coniferous woodland and desert scrub. Ponderosa pines, junipers and Gambel oaks tower over manzanita, barberry, paddle cactuses and myriad wildflowers.   The trail alternates between damp forests and arid, sunny mesas on its way to the Houston Loop junction. Here, you can add the loop (3.6 miles, 4,860' -4,950') or return the way you came.

LENGTH:  9.6 miles roundtrip (with loop option)

3.0 miles one way from Houston trailhead

4.6  miles one way from Horse Camp 

RATING: moderate

ELEVATION: 5,192' – 4,860'

DOGS: leashed dogs allowed

KID FRIENDLY?:  yes

FACILITIES: none

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX:  96 miles one way

GETTING THERE:

From Phoenix, take AZ87 north to the AZ260/87 junction in the town of Payson.  From here, travel 1.8 miles north on AZ87  to Houston Mesa Road (FR 199)  on the right. The Horse Camp lot (trailers) is 0.3 miles from the turnoff and the Houston (hiker) trailhead is 1.3 miles up FR 199 on the right.

INFO: Payson Area Trail System (PATS)

http://www.paysonrimcountry.com/MountainRecreation/HikingTrails/PaysonAreaTrailsSystem/HoustonLoopTrail.aspx

MAP:

http://www.paysonrimcountry.com/Portals/0/Trails_Legal%206-11-08%20(2).pdf

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Wilderness waterfall hike

BARNHARDT CANYON to the FALLS

Mazatzal Wilderness

Last week's high-country snowfall has resurrected my hopes for a spectacular water show in Barnhardt Canyon. Even in drier years, a late winter-early-spring hike up the geologically complex cataracts of the Mazatzal mountain range rewards with myriad waterworks including gushing springs, trickling rivlets and an impressive 100-foot, multi-tiered waterfall tucked into a secluded box canyon of red-tinged quartzite. It's easy to miss the turnoff for this hidden wonder as it's not visible from the trail. So, be sure to inspect every nook once you pass the 3-mile point. You'll hear them, but you won't see the falls unless you're willing to do some moderate scrambling on slippery rock. For reference, the second photo here shows the falls entry point.

LENGTH: 7-9 miles round trip (7 miles to the falls and back)

RATING: moderate - difficult

ELEVATION: 4,200-6,100 feet
BEST SEASON: mid-March thru April (for waterfalls)

GETTING THERE: From the Shea Blvd. intersection in Fountain Hills, go 51 miles north on AZ 87 (Beeline highway) to the Barnhardt Trailhead turn off (FR 419) located a quarter mile south of the town of Gisela. Follow the dirt road 4 miles to the signed trailhead.

INFO: Payson Ranger District, Tonto National Forest, 928-474-7900

http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/tonto/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=35281&actid=50

A stormy hike in Phoenix South Mountain Park

LAS LOMITAS LOOP

South Mountain Park, Phoenix

Yesterday, here in Phoenix, it was 87 degrees.  Today: 59.  Welcome to the wild and wacky world of Arizona weather. For the past several years, in mid-March, Arizona has experienced a major winter storm and this year was no exception.  Today, much of the high country was pummeled with snow while we here in the desert got a (much needed) day of mixed drizzles and downpours.  Of course, for hikers, this means one more luscious wintery opportunity to enjoy local trails.  A perfect choice for a soggy-day hike is Las Lomitas Loop in South Mountain Park.  Close-to-town, heavily-traveled and not-too-tough, it’s a logical choice for a quick trek.  Staying low in the foothills, this route is very popular with equestrians and families with kids.  The well-signed route passes among gigantic boulders, sandy washes and desert gardens of saguaros, ironwoods and Palo verde trees.  The loop tops out at the Kiwanis trailhead, then swings back for the return leg where beautiful views of downtown Phoenix and the western peaks of the Sierra Estrella mountains stand out on the horizon.  Back at the Holbert trailhead, I decided to take a quick jaunt into Box Canyon to see the famous petroglyphs.  The weather held for 20 more minutes before I was chased back to my car by what may be the last cold rain before our impending hot weather settles in for the long haul.

LENGTH:  1.2 miles (4 miles as described here)

RATING: easy-moderate

ELEVATION:  1,350’ – 1,460’

DOGS: leashed dogs allowed

HOURS: 5 a.m. – 11 p.m. (facilities close at 7 p.m.)

FACILITIES: restrooms, water, picnic tables, covered ramadas

KID FRIENDLY?: yes

GETTING THERE:

From Phoenix, go south on Central Ave and follow it all the way to where it dead ends at the park entrance.  Once past the guard gate, take the first left and follow the main road to the Holbert trailhead near the end of the road by the restrooms.

THE HIKE: as described here:  hike about 100 yards west, (go right) from the Holbert trailhead and pick up the Box Canyon Loop trail (actually, it’s Las Lomitas trail, but not signed that way).  Hike 0.25 mile on Las Lomitas to the Loop junction at trail marker 16.  Go right or left—and follow the signs to complete the loop.

INFO & MAP: City of Phoenix parks & Recreation, 602-262-7393

http://phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/south/hiking/index.html
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Prescott rails-to-trails hike

PRESCOTT PEAVINE NATIONAL RECREATION TRAIL

City of Prescott Rails-to-Trails project

Following a portion of the de-commissioned Santa Fe-Prescott-Phoenix railroad which ran during the 1890s, this extra wide, flat, gravel route is a favorite of hikers, bikers and stroller-pushing walkers.  There's a lot to like about this sunny trail.  Great views of Watson Lake and a tree-cluttered riparian area, easy access and connectivity with myriad Granite Dells area trails make the drive from Phoenix (or anywhere, really) worth the gas money. 

LENGTH:  5.2 miles one-way

RATING: very easy, suitable for strollers & wheelchairs

ELEVATION: 5,160' – 5,220'

FEE: $2 daily parking fee

FACILITIES: port-o-potties (real restrooms to be installed June 2012), picnic tables, benches along the route

GETTING THERE:

From Phoenix, travel north on I17 to Cordes Junction  exit 262 for Prescott  AZ 69.  Turn west and follow AZ 69 32 miles to Prescott.  Just outside of downtown, pass Walker Road and begin looking for Prescott Lakes Parkway---located across from the Prescott Gateway Mall where there's a huge Cadillac dealership. 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.

INFO: City of Prescott

http://www.cityofprescott.net/services/parks/trails/?id=40

MAP:

http://www.cityofprescott.net/_d/trails/prescott_peavine_national_recreation_trail_map.pdf

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Sedona vortex hike

COW PIES TRAIL

Sedona

Renowned for its come-hither, otherworldly beauty, Sedona is like a quivering supernova on the Arizona landscape. The mere mention of the “S-word” sends me scrambling to assemble my gear in a heart palpitating must-go-hiking frenzy.  Alas, this is what addiction must feel like.  Thankfully the “fix” for a Sedona hiking Jones is benign (except, of course, for the whole $4 gas thing).  Obnoxious fuel costs notwithstanding, when the Sirens of Sedona call, and the weather is a perfect blend of winter nip and spring balm---what Valley resident can resist?  Although the destination choice is a relative no-brainer, selecting a hiking trail is the more complicated side of the Sedona hiking equation. Cow Pies is one of those off-the-radar vortex (a place thought to harbor energy and spiritual powers) routes popularized in Sherry & Richard Mangum’s book, Sedona Hikes.  Because of its funny name, this trail has been on my to-do list for decades so, when a friend suggested we do it, the equation tipped into balance. Because Cow Pies and most of the hundreds of other Red Rock Country trails are short, we wanted to incorporate a second path to get in enough foot time to justify the drive expense. A natural choice was the Munds Wagon Trail, which can be used to add hike mileage and/or avoid the kidney-jarring drive on Schnebly Hill Road.  However, like the adventuresome moron that I sometimes can be, I decided to brave the rutted road and drive to the Cow Pies trailhead---hey, what else are new tires and shocks for anyway, right? Driving a Toyota RAV4, with reasonably high clearance, it took us 30 minutes to go 3.5 miles.  Although I did not have to use the 4x4 and never came close to bottoming out-- I cannot help but wonder if the lurching little sedan with Nebraska plates we passed had the same success. As is turned out, the drive was the most interesting aspect of this trip.  Although it’s certainly an attractive area, the sketchy, canyon-bound route pales in comparison to other Sedona trails. Several minutes into the hike, it becomes clear how this path got its name.  Clusters of smooth-tiered russet rock mounds resemble bovine splatter wads—except, they are huge, actually FUN to step on and some cast colorful images onto shallow reflecting pools at their bases.  Rock cairns mark the out-and-back journey while obvious paths-of-use lead to scenic overlooks and a ledge traversing Mitten Ridge.  With our hiking Jones sated for the day, we headed uptown to service our truly pathological addictions---locally–roasted coffee and 44 oz jugs of Diet Coke.

LENGTH: 8 miles roundtrip

Cow Pies: 1.5 miles one-way

Mitten Ridge: 2.5 miles one-way

Munds Wagon Trail: 2 miles to Cow Pies or 4.5 miles/1000 feet gain, one-way for entire route

ELEVATION: 5,000' – 5,300' (Munds-Cow Pies)

RATING: easy (some loose footing & bare rock)

FEE:  $5 Red Rock Pass required

FACILITIES: restrooms at Huckaby-Munds Wagon trailhead

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 129 miles one way

GETTING THERE:

From Phoenix, travel north on I17 to exit 298 for AZ 179/Sedona-Oak Creek. Go west (left) on AZ 179 to the traffic circle just before entering downtown Sedona.  Veer right into the circle and then take an immediate right onto Schnebly Hill Road (FR 153). Then....

Huckaby-Munds Wagon trailhead: continue 1 mile to the lot on the left. From here, hike 2 miles north on Munds Wagon, take the spur path up to Schnebly Hill Road and hike up to the Cow Pies trailhead.

Cow Pies trailhead: Continue 2.5 miles (road will turn to dirt) beyond the Huckaby-Munds Wagon trailhead to the Cow Pies trailhead on the left. The “official” parking lot is on the right across from the trailhead—but good luck getting over the massive ruts.  We parked along the road instead.

INFO:

Red Rock Ranger District, Coconino National Forest, 928-203-7500

This hike is not featured on the FS web site, however, for an overview of the area, see:

http://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/coconino/recreation/hiking

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Lost Dutchman State Park guided hikes

Medicinal plants of the Sonoran Desert hike

Apache Junction

creosote

There’s always something fun going on at Lost Dutchman State Park, and the month of March is jam-packed with events, hikes and programs.  This week I participated in a guided hike called Medicinal plants of the Sonoran Desert.  Following parts of the park’s Treasure Loop, Prospector’s View and Jacob’s Crosscut trails, volunteer hike leaders stopped at various shrubs, trees and flowers explaining each plant’s medicinal and food value attributes.  For instance, did you know that parts of the creosote bush can be used to reduce symptoms of arthritis, asthma and certain bacterial and fungal infections?  Or, that mesquite tree beans make flavorful, nutritious flour and that a tea made from its leaves can sooth sunburn, rashes and sore throats?  Here’s a sample of what’s on deck in the coming weeks, check the park web site for details:

March 14: Getting to know the birds around you.

March 16: Star Talk with astronomer Bill Dellinges

March 21: Geology Hike

March 24: Reptiles & Amphibians program

jojoba

LENGTH:  3.5 miles

RATING:  easy

ELEVATION: 2,000' – 2,500'

DOGS: must be on leash, pack out droppings

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 40 miles

GETTING THERE:

From Phoenix, go east on US60 to exit 196 for AZ88/Idaho Road.  Turn left and follow Idaho Road

2.3 miles to AZ88/Apache Trail.  Turn right and continue 4.9 miles to the park entrance on the right.

FEE: $7 daily fee per vehicle (includes guided hikes)

FACILITIES: restrooms, water, camping, picnic tables, visitor center

INFO:  480-982-4485

http://azstateparks.com/Parks/LODU/index.html

MAP: http://azstateparks.com/Parks/LODU/downloads/LODU_Park_Map.pdf

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WOLVERTON MOUNTAIN-WHITE SPAR PEAK

WOLVERTON MOUNTAIN-WHITE SPAR PEAK

City of Prescott-Prescott National Forest

Summit of White Spar

In Prescott-- the town where the streets have multiple, morphing  names--the same confusing moniker-muddling  applies to  local trails and geographic landmarks.   Case in point: the Wolverton Mountain Trail.  This lovely, pine-chaparral trail is also dubbed the Sierra Prieta Trail, forest trail #9415 and is now also part of the City of Prescott  Circle Trail System.  Confused?  Don't be—the trail is meticulously signed, heavily-traveled, and not-too-far from civilization, so there's little chance you'll loose your way.

Snow on Aspen Creek trail: March 3, 2012

Anchored by two easy-to-access trailheads, we chose to begin the hike at the Aspen Creek lot on Copper Basin Road.  From here, the hike begins across the road on trail #48 (Aspen Creek Trail). Hike steeply uphill 0.4 mile to  the turn off for “9415” (Wolverton Mountain Trail) at the second junction.   Note that the “9415” signs are located a few yards past the intersections---so make sure you locate them before making any turns.  Along the way, two side trips make for interesting exploration.  First up--just past the a gate near mile 1.2--there's a short 0.5 mile dirt road heading left that leads to a weather station below a high ridge on Wolverton Mountain where nice views of Prescott's  Thumb Butte area shine below.  The second detour is a highly-recommended  trip up to White Spar Peak (a.k.a. Quartz Mountain). At roughly 2.5 miles, turn right onto trail 9415A and follow a maze of old roads to a point just below the  top of the snowy-white quartz massif.  Here, it's easy to pick out informal footpaths that lead to the summit.  Hint---you should not have to scramble or use your hands to climb to the summit—if you find yourself doing so, locate an easier  route.  Well worth the extra effort, the hike up White Spar rewards with 360-degree views of  Flagstaff's  San Francisco Peaks, Bill Williams Mountain in Williams, the Verde River Canyon, and of course, the local lakes, woodlands and granite dells. We hiked this trail on March 3, 2012—a couple of days after a storm dusted the forests with a few inches of snow. Waning drifts in the south-facing canyons and a veil of frost on the peak made this trek all the more enjoyable.

Approaching White Spar (left) from Wolverton Mtn. trail

LENGTH: 5 miles one-way (7.6 miles with side trips)

RATING: moderate

ELEVATION:  5,600' -6,694'

FACILITIES/FEES: none

BEST SEASON: year-round, but best October – May

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 118 miles one way

GETTING THERE:

WEST: Aspen Creek trailhead:

From the AZ69/89 junction in Prescott continue 1.25 miles west on 69 (becomes Gurley St) to Montezuma St.. Turn left (south) on Montezuma (turns into AZ89/White Spar Road) and go 1 mile to the light at Copper Basin Road.  Turn right and go 4.6 miles on  Copper Basin (turns to good dirt after 1.6 miles) to the trailhead on the right---signed Aspen Creek Trailhead. 

EAST: White Spar Campground trailhead:

From the AZ69/89 junction in Prescott continue 1.25 miles west on 69 (becomes Gurley St) to Montezuma St. Turn left (south)  south on Montezuma (turns into AZ89/White Spar Road) and go 3 miles to the parking lot on the left.  Trail access is south of the campground on the west side of  AZ89.
INFO & MAP: http://www.cityofprescott.net/services/parks/trails/?id=44

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A striking desert passage of the Arizona Trail

ALAMO CANYON

Passage 17 of the Arizona Trail, Superior

Picketpost Mountain

For the first four miles of this undulating passage of state-traversing Arizona Trail, the imposing profile of Picketpost Mountain looms large on its eastern flank until the route's remote interior swallows the stony beast thus making way for spectacular canyon views.  Traveling south from Picketpost trailhead, the path begins as a mild walk in the desert but soon transitions into a roller-coaster-like hike through

Looking toward Superstition Wilderness

gullies, washes and moist drainages where mesquite trees provide what little shade there is to be had in this exposed backcountry.  Because of all the ups-and-downs, this moderate hike feels tougher than it is, so bring extra water and snacks to fuel the trek that ends at the northwest boundary of the White Canyon Wilderness.  Here, you can continue south on the Arizona Trail, Gila River Canyons passage #16  toward Tucson.

LENGTH: 11.5 miles one way

RATING:  moderate

ELEVATION:  2,360' – 3,800'
BEST SEASON: October - March

Mesquite shade

GETTING THERE:

Picketpost Trailhead:

From Phoenix, travel east on US60 to milepost 221—located just before the town of Superior  (if you reach Boyce Thompson Arboretum, you've gone  1.7 miles too far). About 0.4 mile past milepost 221, look for the signed turn off for Picketpost Trailhead (FR 231) on the right.  Turn onto this good dirt road and continue 0.2 mile to a “T” intersection  ---turn left (east) here and go 0.6 mile to the trailhead.

INFO:

Arizona Trail Association:

http://www.aztrail.org/passages/pass_17.html

http://www.aztrail.org/passages/pass_16.html

Tonto National Forest, Globe Ranger District:

(928) 402-6200

White Canyon Wilderness, Bureau of Land Management

http://www.blm.gov/az/st/en/prog/blm_special_areas/wildareas/whitecanyon.html

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New rating system for Valley hiking trails

Beware the “double black diamond” trails. 

The City of Phoenix and surrounding towns including Scottsdale, Glendale, Tempe and Fountain Hills, have adopted a new system of coding trail difficulty levels to better aid hikers in selecting routes that best match their abilities.

The system uses six color-coded symbols similar to those used for ski runs. They are:

WHITE DOT: easiest, flat, barrier-free, max 5% grade

GREEN DOT: easy, mostly smooth & wide dirt trails, max 10% grade

BLUE SQUARE: moderate, mostly smooth, variable width dirt with some unevenness, max 15% grade

BLUE DIAMOND: moderately difficult, mostly uneven dirt & rock, max 20% grade

BLACK DIAMOND: difficult, long , rocky segments with possible drops & exposure, loose, uneven rock, more than 20% grade

DOUBLE BLACK DIAMOND: extremely difficult, long , rocky segments with possible drops & exposure, loose, uneven rock, more than 20% grade, obstacles and excessive heat

The new rating system was unveiled on Feb 29, 2012 and will start popping up on area park web sites soon. Future plans also include adding the symbols to trail signs.

Prescott bird-watching hike

WATSON WOODS RIPARIAN PRESERVE

Ducks take flight in Watson Woods

Prescott

Birds flock to pools along Granite Creek 

A sign at the trailhead proclaims that Watson Woods has been designated an “important bird habitat” by the Audubon society.  This is an understatement.  Once a 1000-acre-plus stream side bosque of cottonwood, walnut and other moisture-loving plants along lower Granite Creek, the area was nearly lost to the ravages of modern development.  However, thanks to the efforts of the City of Prescott and Prescott Creeks (local watershed stewards) the woodlands are being restored.  Today, the preserve is a 126-acre bird-and-wildlife haven.  Even though it's located just yards off busy highway 69, the lush waterway boasts a bevy of natural wonders for your viewing pleasure.  A scenic interpretive trail guides hikers among restored wetlands, canopies of gigantic centuries-old trees, ponds and marshes.  Signs both at the trailhead and along the route describe the sights and chronicle on-going restoration efforts.

In addition to a sturdy pair of shoes for the dirt walkways, bring along a pair of binoculars (birds galore) and a hearty appetite for knowledge---you won't be disappointed. Also, for those who want to extend their hike, the preserve trail connects with adjacent Watson Lake Park, Lower Granite Creek trail system and the Prescott Peavine National Recreational Trail.

LENGTH: 0.5 mile one way

RATING: easy, educational

ELEVATION: 5,100'

KID FRIENDLY?: yes

DOGS: this is a sensitive riparian habitat, dogs MUST be on leash and all droppings packed out

HOURS: 7 A.M. - 10 P.M.

FEE: $2 parking fee

FACILITIES: port-o-potties (real restrooms planned for June 2012), picnic tables, maps

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 112 miles one way

Red-winged blackbird 

GETTING THERE:

1626 Sundog Ranch Road in Prescott. From Phoenix, travel north on I17 to Cordes Junction  exit 262 for Prescott  AZ 69.  Turn west and go 32 miles on AZ 69  to Prescott.  Just outside of downtown, pass Walker Road and begin looking for Prescott Lakes Parkway---located across from the Prescott Gateway Mall where there's a huge Cadillac dealership. 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. HIKE: Follow the paved Peavine entrance trail for about 100 meters, pass the picnic ramada and turn left once you reach the cindered potion of the trail. The Preserve walk-in gate and kiosk are west of the large walnut tree.

INFO: 

City of Prescott

http://www.cityofprescott.net/services/parks/parks/index.php?id=29

Site is managed by: Prescott Creeks, 928-445-5669

http://www.prescottcreeks.org/programs/watson-woods

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A water-themed hike near Black Canyon City

HORSESHOE BEND-SKYLINE SEGMENTS of the BLACK CANYON TRAIL

View of the Agua Fria River from Horseshoe Bend trail

Horseshoe Bend crossing

Along the Skyline trail

Just behind the Rock Springs Cafe (the “world-famous pies” place on I-17 near Black Canyon City), the Agua Fria River makes a U-bend around the defensive stone of Horseshoe Bar before continuing on its southbound, trickling meander.  It's here where two easy, open-to-the-sky segments of the 79-mile-long Black Canyon Trail (BCT) combine for a satisfying trek for both novices and expert hikers alike. Running from the Carefree Highway in Phoenix to near the town of Mayer in the Prescott National Forest, the course of the BCT has been in use since ancient times transitioning from Native American footpath, livestock driveway and wagon route to its current status as a hiking destination. The process of repurposing it into a multi-use recreational trail system began in 1969 and remains a work in progress.  However, much of the trail is already hike-able with 3 major and 7 rudimentary trailheads now in place.  A good way to get to know BCT is to hike the Horseshoe Bend and Skyline segments beginning at the easy-to-access Black Canyon City Trailhead.  Roughly 0.2 mile in, the trail splits-- take the south leg (go left) and follow the dirt track on its coiled-and-folded route to the river.  Here, you'll need to cross the water, which ranges from inches deep in the dry season to a raging torrent during spring runoff.  Once over the river, the thin trail makes long, edgy hairpin bends on its way up to a scenic highpoint then dips and climbs another 1.5 miles to connect with the next segment.

Truly a world-class achievement, the route has been designated a National Recreation Trail-- an honor reserved for only the most significant paths in the United States.  The trail's proximity to the aforementioned eatery makes for a convenient stop to indulge in a post hike snack. Rock Springs Cafe serves up filling, roadside-joint fare --though the “world famous” claim is debatable.  Still, both the pies and the trail live up to the cafe's slogan: “worth the drive from anywhere”.

LENGTHS:

Horseshoe Bend Segment: 1.5 miles one-way

Skyline Segment: 3.4 miles one way

To the Skyline highpoint and back: 6.8 miles roundtrip

RATING: moderate

ELEVATION:

Horseshoe: 2,040'- 1,850'

Skyline: 1,850'-2,584'

DOGS: leashed dogs allowed

KID FRIENDLY?: yes

GETTING THERE:

Black Canyon City Trailhead:

From Phoenix, go north on I-17 to exit 242 (Black Canyon City-Rock Springs).  Go west (left) and continue to the stop sign, turn north (right) onto the frontage road and continue a few hundred feet to Warner Road (the first road on the left where there's also a BCT sign). Turn onto Warner and go a short distance to the first intersection, turn right and drive roughly 0.1 mile to the parking area.

FACILITIES: none.  Room for cars and trailers.

INFO: Black Canyon Trail Coalition

http://www.bctaz.com/

ROCK SPRINGS CAFE:

http://rockspringscafe.com/

The author is not associated with the cafe and has NOT received payment, free pies, beer or any other bennies in exchange for this blog mention. 

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Lakeside hiking in Prescott

LOWER GRANITE CREEK SCENIC TRAILS

City of Prescott Mile-High Trail System

Lakeside views, millions of ducks and route-finding through a maze of  1.4 billion-year-old granite  rock formations keep things interesting on this intertwined collection of short trails. Although there are countless ways to explore these scenic gems, here's how we hit the dirt on this past Saturday. The plan:

From the trailhead, follow Peavine Trail  north to the turnoff on the right for Lakeshore Trail—there's a big boulder with a plaque just past the 1 mile post.  From here, finding your way is easy. Trail signs with maps are placed roughly every quarter-mile and where the trail crosses slick rock; follow the painted white dots to stay on course.  The first detour comes at the Treehouse Loop---a very rocky segment that's sure to bring the kid out in you, and yup, there really is a treehouse lodged in an alligator juniper.  Next up is a little traipse to Secret Cove, which is worth the diversion if only to  creep up on the Great blue herons and egrets that love the seclusion afforded by this mini fjord.

Farther along is the Over the Hill trail which crosses Boulder Creek on its way to  Watson Dam.  This winding path is almost 100% on bare rock and includes a couple of slick/steep sections. Near the end, the trail dips down to Granite Creek and swings south following the reed-lined stream to a narrow metal bridge below the dam that connects hikers to the Flume/Watson Dam Trails that lead to the Granite Dells Road trailhead.  As we didn't park a car at the at the north access, we hiked back the way we came.

LENGTH:  up to 6 miles

Lakeshore Trail: 2 miles one way, 5,160' – 5,220'

Over the Hill Trail: 0.4 mile one way, 5,076'-5,194'

Discovery Trail: 0.8 mile one way, 5,158' – 5,188'

Tree House Loop-Secret Cove: 0.1 mile each

Watson Dam-Flume Trail: 1.17 miles one way, 5,057' – 5,186'

RATING: easy-moderate (good balance and traction footwear is required!)

DOGS: This is a sensitive bird habitat--leashed dogs are allowed.

KID-FRIENDLY:  yes

FACILITIES: port-o-potties.  New restrooms are in the works and should be installed by June 2012, picnic tables, maps

FEE:  $2 daily parking fee

HOURS: 5 a.m (7 a.m. In winter) to 10:00 p.m.
DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 112 miles one way

GETTING THERE:

South Access: Peavine-WatsonWoods trailhead:

1626 Sundog Ranch Road, Prescott.

From Phoenix, travel north on I17 to Cordes Junction  exit 262 for Prescott  AZ 69.  Turn west and follow AZ 69 32 miles to Prescott.  Just outside of downtown, pass Walker Road and begin looking for Prescott Lakes Parkway---located across from the Prescott Gateway Mall where there's a huge Cadillac dealership. 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.

North Access:

From Phoenix, travel north on I17 to Cordes Junction  exit 262 for Prescott  AZ 69.  Turn west and follow AZ 69 32 miles to Prescott.  Connect with AZ89 and go north to Granite Dells Road, turn right (east) and continue to the parking area on the right.

MAP: http://www.cityofprescott.net/_d/trails/lowergranitecreektrails_8x11.pdf

INFO & MAPS: City of Prescott

http://cityofprescott.net/services/parks/trails/

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Lakeshore Trail: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2360154342024.82533.1795269672&type=1&l=3256dba4fe

Over the Hill Trail: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2362858209619.82594.1795269672&type=1&l=6cf894ae47

Treehouse/Secret Cove: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2363030093916.82596.1795269672&type=1&l=a06426394a