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

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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

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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

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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)

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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

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SPRINGS TRAIL

SPRINGS TRAIL # 633

Pinetop-Lakeside

Tricking creeks, manic wildflowers and herds of bellowing bovines wandering among errant blue herons distinguish this high country hike from your standard walk in the park. Short in length and easy on the feet, the trail loops through wildlife-friendly pine groves, dewy cienegas and sun washed pastures. Two creeks contribute to the area’s lush plant and animal life---Billy Creek feeds a swath of swaying grasses while Thompson Creek spawns a ridiculously green and moist riparian corridor.

LENGTH: 3.8-mile loop

ELEVATION: 7,140’ – 7,190’

RATING: easy

DOG RATING: excellent

KID FRIENDLY: yes

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 180 miles 1-way

GETTING THERE:

From Show Low, go southeast on SR 260 (toward McNary) to Bucksprings Road (located 2 miles before the Hon-Dah Casino).

Turn left at the stoplight and continue 0.6 mile to Sky-Hi Road (FR182), turn left and go 1.1 miles to the trailhead on the left.

INFORMATION: Pinetop-Lakeside Parks & Recreation, 928-368-6700 x 3, http://www.tracks-pinetop-lakeside.org/TrailsFiles/SpringsTrail.htm

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MOUNT BALDY TRAILS RE-OPENED TODAY

The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest has re-opened the West Baldy, East Baldy and Crossover trails for hiking and equestrian use effective July 22, 2011. However, rangers warn users to stay alert for downed trees and other damage caused by this year's Wallow Fire.

MOENKOPI

MOENKOPI (a.k.a. Jack's Canyon)

Near Winslow

UPDATE JULY 2012:  area is closed indefinitely due to damage from the Canyon Fire.

There’s a whole lot of nothing along AZ 87 between the dusty streets of Winslow and the edge of the Mogollon Rim.  From the highway, this dismal strip of badlands and tumbleweeds appears to hold little opportunity for outdoor recreation.

However, this grit-cloaked backyard of the boondocks holds a secret.  Just a few miles beyond the pavement, a fracture in the landscape harbors a lusty green oasis and some of the best sport climbing routes and exploratory hiking paths in the state. A short spur trail heading west (go left) from the trailhead register through a grove of junipers leads to the edge of Jack’s Canyon, which is also known as Moenkopi, a Hopi word meaning “place of running water”.  From here, a mildly steep trail drops from the sun-parched savanna into a grape vine-laced riparian corridor hemmed in by striated limestone walls. Myriad footpaths on the canyon floor weave among cottonwood trees, junipers and willows forming a maze of hiking options.  Adventurous hikers may choose to venture beyond the beaten paths to bush whack and scramble into the remote reaches of this Garden of Eden in the middle of nowhere. 

LENGTH:  up to 4 miles roundtrip

ELEVATION:  6,245’ – 6,097’

RATING:  moderate, exploratory

DOG RATING: fair

KID QUOTIENT: just okay

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 153 miles one-way

GETTING THERE:

From Payson, go 62 miles north on AZ87 to milepost 313 (roughly 30 miles south of Winslow).  Turn left (west) onto Forest Road 9736F, pass the gate (close it behind you) and set your odometer.  At 0.3 mile, turn left at the fork, continue to another fork at the 0.5-mile point, veer right and continue 0.7 mile to the trailhead.  A high clearance vehicle is required.

FACILITIES: restroom, primitive camping

INFO: Mogollon Rim Ranger District, 928-477-2255

http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/coconino/recreation/mog_rim/jacks-canyon.shtml

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ARIZONA TRAIL PASSAGE 34: BISMARCK LAKE TO SNOWBOWL ROAD

ARIZONA TRAIL PASSAGE 34: BISMARCK LAKE TO SNOWBOWL ROAD

Flagstaff

one of 3 aspen glens on the route

section of trail above Hart Prairie

One of the most scenic segments of state traversing Arizona Trail, Passage #34 (San Francisco Peaks) is 32.3 miles in length.  However, day hikers in search of a shorter out-and-back excursion can sample the prettiest (in my opinion) part of this passage by trekking from Bismarck Lake to Snowbowl Road.

Bismarck Lake was just a puddle on July 16, 2011

From the lake trailhead, the route heads east through shady fir forests and alpine meadows, meeting the turnoff for the lake at the 1-mile point.  From here, it’s 0.2 miles to the water.  The lake itself is a shallow volcanic crater that fills with water during spring snowmelt and monsoon season ranging in size from a tiny mud puddle to a substantial pond---you never know what you’ll find.  Once done exploring the lake, head back to the junction and continue 0.2 mile east (toward the mountains) to the Arizona Trail (AZT) junction.  Go right (south) here and begin the 2.5-mile trek to Snowbowl Road.  Along this segment, three hauntingly beautiful aspen glens break up wildflower-cluttered fields lined with Douglas fir and limber pines.  Views of the peaks are interspersed with glimpses of Hart Prairie, Kendrick Peak and Bill Williams Mountain to the west.  Near the end of the hike (you’ll know you're close when you pass the “Mexico 610 miles” sign), AZT intersects a two-track where a sign reading “Arizona Trail under construction” is visible across the road.  To get to Snowbowl Road from here, veer left and follow the dirt road uphill. There’s never a dull moment on this breezy, cool, high-altitude hike.

section of trail near Snowbowl Road

LENGTH: 8 miles roundtrip

RATING: moderate

ELEVATION: 8,800 -9,300 feet

GETTING THERE:

BISMARCK LAKE TRAILHEAD:

From Flagstaff, go north on US 180, pass milepost 225 and turn right onto FR 151 (south entrance to Hart Prairie Road).  Follow FR 151 6.4 miles to FR 627 (signed for Bismarck Lake), turn right and continue 0.6 mile to the trailhead. FR 151 and 627 are maintained dirt passable by sedan.

SNOWBOWL ROAD TRAILHEAD:

From Flagstaff, go north on US 180 to milepost 223 and turn right onto Snowbowl Road (FR 516). Continue uphill on FR516 roughly 6.5 miles to the “Aspen Corner” parking area.  Note: this is an unsigned pullout area on a curve in the road surrounded by wood, split rail fencing.  To find the trail from here, hike into the woods following an old dirt road beginning on the west (left) side  of Snowbowl Road for about 0.2 mile to the AZT intersection located just before where the road enters an open meadow.  At the intersection, take a right (north) and follow the signs.  Roads are 100% paved.

INFO: http://www.aztrail.org/passages/pass_34.html

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PHOENIX MAGAZINE SUMMER HIKING GUIDE

Still available by phone: call 480-664-3960 to order.

July 2011 issue

Costco Display

Hey hikers, pick up the JULY issue of PHOENIX magazine for some great summer hikes---not found on this blog!

All trails have been personally hiked, photographed and reported by yours truly, and, so far, none of these trails are on fire.

Here’s where you can find PHOENIX magazine: Safeway, Fry’s Marketplace, Wal-Mart, Costco, Sam’s Club, Sunflower Markets, Sprouts, Borders, Barnes & Noble, CVS, Walgreens, Sky Harbor Airport, Albertson’s, Fresh & Easy, Lowe’s, Home Depot, Target, Whole Foods, Basha’s, A.J.’s, La Grande Orange, The Kitchen, Area hospital gift shops WEB SITE: http://www.phoenixmag.com/ ORDER BY PHONE : 480-664-3960

ROSE CANYON LAKE

ROSE CANYON LAKE

Santa Catalina Ranger District, Coronado National Forest

With its pleasantly cool, canyon location on Mt. Lemmon, nearby camping, and convenient access to restrooms, drinking water and even a snack shack, Rose Canyon Lake draws the crowds on hot summer days. A 0.4-mile paved trail on the west side of the lake stays close to the water and is suitable for strollers, wheelchairs and walkers while a dirt trail on the opposite bank climbs to scenic rocky perches. Both trails are complemented by seating and plenty of shade making for effortless exploring around this tiny high altitude lake.

LENGTH: 0.7 mile total

ELEVATION: 7,000’

RATING: easy, partially barrier free

DOG RATING: dogs must be on leash and stay out of the water

KID FRIENDLY? absolutely

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 150 miles one-way

GETTING THERE:

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 17 miles to the turn off for Rose Canyon Lake (FR 9) between mileposts 17 and 18 on the left. Follow the access road to the end. Roads are 100% paved.

FEES: There’s a $5 Catalina Highway daily fee per vehicle and an $8 day use fee per vehicle at the lake.

FACILITIES: restrooms, supply store, camping, picnic area, drinking water

PROGRAMS: interpretive programs, fishing, no swimming or boating

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

http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/coronado/forest/recreation/lakes/rose_cyn_lake.shtml

MOGOLLON RIM TRAILS RE-OPEN

The Tonto-Coconino National Forest closures  on the Mogollon Rim which have been in effect since June 17, 2011 have been LIFTED as of 8 a.m. this morning. This week's rains added sufficient moisture to the forests to prompt the opening. However, fire danger is still high, so, hike respectfully.

View from Rim Lakes Vista Trail

BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAIN

BLUE RIDGE TRAIL 

Pinetop-Lakeside

One of the major loop routes near Pinetop-Lakeside, the layout of Blue Ridge Mountain Trail #107 resembles a wagon wheel with “spokes” that link to the Ice Cave and Springs Trails. This shady, undulating roundabout smothered in oaks and pines, skirts the slopes of the volcanic mountain via old logging roads and tapered footpaths.  As the trail’s high point is wrapped in woodland, there’s no appreciable summit-conquering experience. However, a deteriorating sign at the apex marks the achievement while intermittent clearings reveal views of White Mountain peaks scattered over a misty blue horizon.

LENGTH: 8.7-mile loop

ELEVATION: 6,950’ – 7,656’

RATING: moderate

DOG RATING:  moderate

KID FRIENDLY?: moderate

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 180 miles one-way

GETTING THERE: 

Trailhead #2:  From Show Low, go southeast on SR260 (toward McNary) to Bucksprings Road (located 2 miles before the Hon-Dah Casino).  Turn left at the stoplight and go 0.6 mile to Sky-Hi Road (FR182), turn left and go 1.5 miles to FR 187, turn left again and go 0.3 mile to the large trailhead on the right.

Trailhead #1:  from trailhead #2, continue up FR 187 roughly 3 miles to the parking area on the left.

INFORMATION: Pinetop-Lakeside Parks & Recreation, 928-368-6700 x 3,

http://www.tracks-pinetop-lakeside.org/TrailsFiles/BlueRidgeTrail.htm

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SOME APACHE-SITGREAVES FOREST CLOSURES LIFTED

Hikers, although some restrictions have been LIFTED, access to  hiking trails in the Springerville, Alpine and Clifton ranger districts are still off limits.  Hiking trails  in the Black Mesa and Lakeside ranger districts are now OPEN.

Arizona Game & Fish Press Release:

Good news for outdoor recreationists: Several forest closures lifted

   July 8, 2011

Big Lake

   Access is reopened to Big Lake and other popular areas There’s good news for anglers, campers and others  who like to recreate in high country areas that had been closed due to the Wallow Fire and other area fire concerns. The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests has reopened several popular areas of the forests to public use. The Sitgreaves National Forest closure order affecting areas, roads and trails in the Black Mesa and Lakeside Ranger Districts and the Promontory Butte area was lifted as of noon yesterday (July 7). Stage 1 fire restrictions are currently in effect across the Sitgreaves portion of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. These restrictions prohibit fires, campfires, and use of charcoal, coal or wood stoves, except in fire grills and grates provided by the Forest Service in developed recreation sites. Use of gas-fueled stoves, lanterns or heating devices is allowed. Smoking is not allowed except within an enclosed vehicle or building. The Apache National Forest closure order for several major recreation areas was lifted at noon today (Friday, July 8), including Big Lake, Crescent Lake and the adjacent developed campgrounds; the Greer lakes and the nearby developed campgrounds; Lee Valley and Winn Campground, Nelson Reservoir, and Luna Lake.   The specific areas opened in the Alpine and Springerville Ranger Districts include:

• Big Lake and Crescent Lake Recreation Areas including: Big Lake boat ramps and parking areas, Big Lake Visitor’s Center; Big Lake Administrative Site, Big Lake store and marina, South Cove boat ramp and parking area, Railroad Cove boat ramp and parking area. Current access to Big Lake is by Highway 273 only (Sunrise Highway) as Highway 261 is still closed and unsafe for motor vehicle use due to damaged guardrails.
• Greer Lakes Day Use Area including the following: Greer Lakes picnic area, Greer Lakes boat ramps and parking areas, Bunch Reservoir, River Reservoir, and Tunnel Reservoir. 
• Lee Valley Reservoir Day Use Area including the following: boat ramp and parking area, and the lake itself. 
• Rolfe C. Hoyer and Benny Creek Campgrounds and Squirrel Springs Picnic Area, Winn Campground, Springerville Ranger Station, Alpine Ranger Station. 
• 
  
• Luna Lake Day Use including the following: boat ramps and parking areas, Luna Lake Store and Marina, and the lake itself. 
• 
  
• Nelson Reservoir Day Use Area including the following: north end boat ramp, north end parking area, fishing piers, NFS land underlying Nelson Reservoir, and the lake itself.

Stage 2 fire restrictions will remain in place, which means that no campfires will be allowed, even in developed campgrounds. Lee Valley Reservoir, Luna Lake, Crescent Lake, and the three Greer lakes are for day use only.  Reservations at the Big Lake and Greer campgrounds can be made starting on July 8 by calling 1-877-444-6777 or on the web at www.recreation.gov . The Arizona Game and Fish Department’s Sipe Wildlife Area is also reopened to the public. Access is via the primary road from the north crossing Forest Service lands. Note that the last section of roadway crossing Rudd Creek into the wildlife area may be closed temporarily without notice if a flooding event occurs due to summer rains. This condition is expected to persist through the remainder of the summer.  Please note that the remainder of the Apache National Forest is closed to public entry at this time due to the many safety hazards present in the aftermath of the Wallow Fire. The Clifton Ranger District remains closed to public entry at this time until sufficient rain has fallen. Please check the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests’ website at http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/asnf/ to view the Wallow Fire Area Closure Order and Public Safety Amendment No. 3 with a list of all roads opened for access on the Apache Forest. Forest Service Law Enforcement officials are concerned that the public may be tempted to venture into closed areas to look at the effects of the Wallow Fire, but they ask the public to please be patient as crews clear hazardous trees near the roads. As the summer rainy season progresses, the threat from high water in certain drainages is very real. Please stay in areas open for public use. Warning: The Forest Service reminds individuals who violate road closures that they could be cited resulting in fines of $5,000 for individuals, and $10,000 for organizations and/or imprisonment for not more than six (6) months.   You can check the 593 Public Information Line for further updates by calling (928) 333-3412, or on the website at http://593info.org , or the ASNF website at www.fs.fed.us/r3/asnf/ .