Hike to a volcanic lake

WALKER LAKE

Coconino National Forest

Walker Lake

This expansive swale is a photographer’s paradise--especially since the couple of monsoony weeks we've had have coaxed out the wildflowers.  The combination of great views, reflecting pools, abundant wildlife and a carpet of colorful summer blooms provides unlimited photo opportunities.  Acres of wild field mint, daisies, silverweed and New Mexican vervain, lace the air with a refreshing herbal aroma.  In summer this ephemeral lake--which is an eroded volcanic crater--- shrinks to a patchwork of shallow pools with clumps of water smartweed lilies bobbing on the surface. The rim of the cinder cone forms a high fortress around the lake, giving a real sense of being inside an extinct cinder cone. On the eastern horizon, the lofty pinnacles of the San Francisco Peaks touch the sky. To add length and more interest to the hike, scramble up to the crater’s rim with a pair of binoculars to scope out the elk, deer, bear, porcupines and prairie dogs frequent this reliable water source.

San Francisco Peaks

LENGTH: 1-mile roundtrip

RATING: easy

ELEVATION:  8,060' - 8,189' 

DRIVING DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 175 miles

GETTING THERE:

From Flagstaff, go 19 miles north on  US180  to the northern exit for Forest Road 151 (Hart Prairie Road) just past milepost 235.  Turn right and continue 1.6 miles on the good dirt road to Forest Road 418.  Turn left and go .2 mile to the second road on the left (across from a log cabin).  Go left onto this unmarked dirt road, continue a short distance to a 3-way roundabout and then go right to the circular parking area.  The trail begins at the “road closed” sign in the northwest end of the parking area.

New Mexican vervain

INFORMATION: (928) 526-0866, or refer to the Coconino National Forest map

Fossil Creek closure to be lifted Wednesday

From: "Harper, Stephen -FS" <sharper@FS.FED.US>
Date: July 16, 2012 2:44:18 PM PDT
To: <USDA-FS-NEWS@NEWSBOX.USDA.GOV>
Subject: SOUTHWESTERN-NEWS-RELEASE: Coconino National Forest Smoke Information

Flagstaff, AZ – Campfire and smoking restrictions, as well as the Fossil Creek area closure, will be lifted on the Coconino National Forest beginning Wednesday July 18, 2012 at 8 a.m.

Recent rains, along with higher humidity and increased fuel moistures, have lowered fire danger on the forest and decreased the risk of major wildfires.

 “Although campfires will be allowed throughout the forest, people should never leave a campfire unattended,” said Coconino Fire Staff Officer Russ Copp. “Campers should make sure they bring about five to six gallons of water to extinguish their campfire completely before leaving, making sure to stir it with a shovel as you are pouring the water. The fire pit should be cold to the touch before leaving the campsite.”

Forest visitors are also reminded that campfire restrictions may vary on different national forests. Please call the nearest land management office or 877-864-6985 for current information or see http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php online.

For additional information please see www.coconinoforest.us or call the Coconino National Forest at 928-527-3600. 

Hiking in Arizona's Bigfoot territory

BEAR CANYON LAKE

Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest

Attention all Bigfoot seekers---this is your trail. Whether you take the existence of the reclusive beast with relish or a grain of salt, know that many alleged  sightings in Arizona have occurred in the forests surrounding Bear Canyon Lake.

Even with boisterous crowds of campers, anglers and hikers flocking to this popular summer destination--the beast abides. So, you’ll want to come prepared with binoculars, video camera and---for serious seekers---supplies for making plaster casts of footprints. However, finding the shy beast can be a challenge, even for cryptozoologists--those who study legendary or “hidden” creatures. That’s because the thick pine-oak woodlands surrounding the lake provide ample hiding places and dense undergrowth makes exploring a major endeavor. In the event Bigfoot fails to make an appearance, there are still plenty of other attractions on this high country trek. A scenic aspen-ringed peninsula, bald eagles, elk and secluded, moss-embellished coves make this a worthy hiking trail---even without scoring a peek at the mysterious creature lurking among the pines.

Red Cinquefoil

PLANT PROFILE:

Red Cinquefoil

Potenilla thurberi

Habitat: loamy soil, pine forests

Elevation: 6,000 – 9,000 feet

Blooms: July-October

LENGTH: 2 miles round trip (on main trail)

ELEVATION: 7,560 – 7,500 feet

RATING: easy

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 147 miles one-way

GETTING THERE: From the junction of AZ 87 and AZ 260 in Payson, go east (right) on 260 for 30 miles to Rim Road (Forest Road 300). Turn left and continue west on FR300 for 12 miles to Forest Road 89, turn right and go 3 miles to the lake.

The last 14 miles are on good dirt roads. The trail goes downhill from the parking lots 0.25 miles to the lake where it continues along the shore in both directions.

INFORMATION: Black Mesa Ranger District (928) 535-7300, http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/asnf/recreation/black_mesa_trails/trl_chv_bearcanyon.shtml

Cool & easy Flagstaff summer hike

ARIZONA TRAIL from SCHULTZ TANK Day Hike

Coconino National Forest

Passage 34 of the Arizona Trail runs through 36 miles of stunning high country territory beginning in the cool pine forests around Schultz Tank and ending on the arid scrublands near Cedar Tank Ranch. With numerous easy-access trailheads, it's a cinch to hike this passage in a series of short day hikes like the one we did last Saturday. Beginning at the Schultz Tank/Weatherord trailhead, our objective was to do a 7-to-10-mile, out-and-back trek.  About 50 yards up the Weatherford trail a nice wood sign marks where the AZT heads left and also states that it crosses the Moto Trail at 3.5 miles. Given that the sky was churning with ominous storm clouds, this sounded like a do-able turnaround point. As it turns out, there's no sign at the Moto junction (although some graffiti points the way to Snowbowl and So. Flagstaff).  Because the trail is so flat and easy (and the rain clouds were dissipating), we decided to continue hiking. It's at about this point where the mountain bike traffic really picks up.  That's because the Moto trail connects with the Fort Valley Trails System---another favorite of bikers.  And its easy to see why--the relatively new trail is smooth, free of rocks and full of long hairpin turns gliding through fern gullies, fields of lava boulders and coniferous forests.  The route crosses several dirt service roads and various off-the-maps mountain bike trails (a biker who stopped to chat identified one as the "Dog Food" trail) as it gradually climbs up to the aspens along Snowbowl Road--a good turnaround or car shuttle point.

LENGTH: (all one-way from Schultz Tank)

to Moto Trail junction: 3.5 miles

to Kachina trailhead: 7.6 miles

to Snowbowl Road: 7.8 miles

RATING: easy-moderate

ELEVATION: 

to Moto: 8020'-8800'

to Kachina: 8020'-9321'

to Snowbowl Road: 8020' - 9310'

KID FRIENDLY: yes

BEST SEASON: May thru October

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 155 miles

GETTING THERE:

Schultz Tank Trailhead:

From Flagstaff, travel north on US180 (Fort Valley Road) to milepost 218.6 and turn right on Schultz Pass Road (FR420).  Follow FR420 0.7 mile to a fork, veer left to stay on FR420 and continue 4.8 miles to the Schultz Tank/Weatherford trailhead on the right. Schultz Pass Rd is bumpy dirt-- passable by sedans but high clearance is recommended.

Snowbowl Road /Humphreys Trailhead:

From Flagstaff, travel north on US180 (Fort Valley Road) to milepost 223, turn right onto Snowbowl Road and continue 4.2 miles to the trailhead on the left. Roads are paved all the way to the parking lot.

INFO:

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

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Guided Arizona Trail hike: July 14, 2012

WALNUT CANYON GUIDED HIKE

Coconino National Forest

Have you been wanting to step out onto state-traversing Arizona Trail, but don't know how to begin? Say, here's an idea-- how about taking a moderate stroll with ranger Jane along an historic passage above Flagstaff's Walnut Canyon. In addition to enjoying a cool hike in the pines, you'll learn a thing or two (or ten) about the geological and human history of the canyon.

DATE: Saturday, July 14, 2012, 9:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m.

LENGTH: 5 miles roundtrip

ELEVATION: approx. 6600'-6400'

RATING: moderate

INFO & REQUIRED EQUIPMENT:

http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5378241.pdf

SQUIRREL SPRING RECREATION AREA

PONDEROSA LOOP

Squirrel Spring Recreation Area

Fed by three gurgling mountain streams and located adjacent to several campgrounds, Squirrel Spring Recreation Area is a popular, year-round playground with ample parking, picnic tables and restrooms. With over 14 miles of multi-use trails, this destination offers easy hiking among gigantic Ponderosa pines, bramble-choked creeks and glades. A good introduction to this trail system is the Ponderosa Trail #2.

Like a walk through the mythical earthly paradise of Shangri-La, the path wanders through a grassy-green valley enveloped by rolling hillsides and abrupt, stony escarpments. The route is somewhat befuddling, so, here’s the plan: From behind the trailhead kiosk, walk a quarter-mile on the wide, old road to a large metal gate. Pass through the gate and continue uphill to a junction at roughly the 1.5 mile point. Stay on trail #2. The trickiest intersection comes at mile 1.7 where there’s a small “#2” sign posted on a tree on the left. Here’s where you’ll leave the wide road and use the blue diamond symbols as your guide to complete the loop.

HIGHLIGHTS: easy hiking with lots of greenery and nearby campgrounds

LENGTH: 3.5-mile loop

RATING: easy

ELEVATION: 8,300 – 8,700 feet

DRIVING DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 237 miles

GETTING THERE:

From the stoplight in Eagar, go west on AZ260 for 9.6 miles to AZ373. Go south (left) on 373 and continue 2.2 miles to the Squirrel Spring Recreation Area on the right.

INFORMATION: 928-333-4301 
http://www.wmicentral.com/sports/take_a_hike/ponderosa-trail-loop-squirrel-spring-recreation-area/article_d332eda8-e71d-5726-a7be-a078d6481238.html

Canyon Fire closes AZ87 today

Highway 87  north of the Blue Ridge area and in the vicinity of Jack's Canyon on the Mogollon Rim is closed today.  Please check with the forest service before heading out to the area.

http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/coconino/news-events/?cid=STELPRDB5377713

Steep hike to West Clear Creek

TRAMWAY TRAIL

West Clear Creek Wilderness

Contained within the striated walls of a remote canyon on the Mogollon Plateau is the most expressive example of what might happen if the powerful hand of Nature applied a sledgehammer to a mesa and filled the resultant wound with water.

Narrow and deep, the rough-hewn upper reaches of West Clear Creek are a maze of cracked and tilted tributary slot canyons scoured out of contorted layers of sedimentary rocks. From its headwaters on the Mogollon Rim, the creek rips through a riparian gallery forest before merging with the Verde River 40-miles downstream.  The Tramway Trail #32, which offers the easiest access to this pristine wilderness, begins on the cliffs overlooking the canyon.  Here, remains of a defunct cable tram that was used from 1942 to 1965 to stock the creek with trout, hangs in rusted knots from an enormous Ponderosa pine tree. The route into the canyon is a spider crawl along a thin trail that clings to the siltstone precipice like a rocky fire escape. For those who are not bothered by heights, this trail’s steep switchbacks, rock-scrambles and dizzying drop-offs deliver a substantial adrenaline-rush.

At the base of the trail, there’s a well-worn primitive campsite above a large pool of water where healthy tufts of Canada violets and ferns sprout from the loamy soil.  Although the campsite marks the official end of the trail, adventurous hikers can pick their way along the creek through thick, wildlife-rich woodlands.  At every bend in the stream, contorted, 800-foot-high canyon walls converge and seem to swallow up the sky only to release it as seldom-seen alcoves emerge from beyond the clutch of the stony precipice.

LENGTH: 1 mile round-trip (on trail) with exploratory options

RATING: moderate

ELEVATION:  6,650’ – 5,900’

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX:  150 miles one-way

GETTING THERE:

From Phoenix, go north on I17 to the AZ 260 interchange near Camp Verde. Go east on AZ 260 (General Crook Trail) to the junction with AZ 87.  From there, go north (left) and continue for 11 miles to Lake Mary Road (Forest Road 3).  Go north (left) on Lake Mary Road and continue for 7.5 miles to FR 81.  Turn west (left) onto FR 81 and drive 3 miles to FR 81E.  Follow FR 81E and the “Tramway Trail” and generic “trail” signs for 3.6 miles to FR 693.  Go west (right) on FR 693 and continue 1.2 miles to a fork in the road.  Turn left at the fork and drive less than a half-mile to the trailhead.  A high-clearance vehicle is required.

INFO: Coconino National Forest,  Mogollon Rim Ranger District (928) 477-2255
http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=55416&actid=50

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PHOENIX magazine Summer Hiking Guide 2012

Hikers, thanks for your queries regarding "Where's the PHOENIX magazine July 2012 Summer Hiking Guide?" After a successful 6-year run, the publisher and editorial team decided to shake it up and change the theme for July.  Instead of hiking, the issue is all about where to find excellent but affordable restaurant food.   Also inside the issue  is my Great Escapes article about easy-access camping and cabin rentals with suggestions about where to stay while out on your summer hiking excursions.  On deck: the August cover story is all about AZ summer water recreation--hiking, boating, fishing, tubing, etc.  I logged about 6000 miles across the state to write the thing, so please buy it (go ahead, encourage me) when it hits newsstands the last week in July.  Happy trails, Mare

Wildland-Urban Interface hiking

FORT VALLEY TRAIL SYSTEM

Flagstaff

Located in Fort Valley Restoration Project treatment area, this collection of serpentine trails winds among Ponderosa pines and Gambel oaks in Flagstaff’s Wildland-Urban Interface. Here, sensitive woodlands fringed with human living spaces melt into bear-and-cougar territory.  Years of fire suppression here (to protect nearby homes and business) has compromised native species and also created forests with way too many trees.  In short, this means unhealthy, tinderbox conditions.  There’s an informative sign near the trailhead that explains what’s being done to restore the forest to its historical healthy conditions.  Take notes---there's also info on the sign about how you can help!

A work-in-progress, the trail system is mapped out at the trailhead kiosk.  Trail signage is somewhat lacking/confusing but does the job if you’re at all familiar with the area.  The maze of paths are very popular with mountain bikers and they connect with the Arizona Trail, Schultz Creek Trail and the Dry Lake Hills trails.  Not–too-tough and sprinkled with views of the San Francisco Peaks, this loopy-knotted hike is a pleasant, shady, though unspectacular day trip. 

LENGTH: 6.7 miles of interconnecting trails—with more in the works.

RATING: easy-moderate

ELEVATION: 7,230’ – 7,870’

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX:  149 miles 

GETTING THERE:

In Flagstaff, go north on US180 (Fort Valley Road) to FR164B located about 0.1 mile past milepost 220.  Turn right and continue roughly 400 feet and veer right to stay on FR164B. The trailhead is just a few yards beyond the turn off.  Roads are paved/good dirt and passable by sedan. 

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

http://www.fs.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsinternet/!ut/p/c4/04_SB8K8xLLM9MSSzPy8xBz9CP0os3gDfxMDT8MwRydLA1cj72BTJw8jAwjQL8h2VAQAzHJMsQ!!/?ss=110304&ttype=recarea&recid=55076&actid=24&navtype=BROWSEBYSUBJECT&position=BROWSEBYSUBJECT&navid=110000000000000&pnavid=null&cid=FSE_003741&pname=Flagstaff+RD+-+Fort+Valley+Trail+System

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Cool summer hike at Big Springs

BIG SPRINGS ENVIRONMENTAL STUDY AREA

Pinetop-Lakeside

Worth the trip if only to view the swarms of Technicolor dragonflies, a walk through this wetland preserve holds many fascinating attractions. Located just off the main drag in Pinetop-Lakeside, this pristine marsh with its cattail-and-watercress-cluttered ponds and pine-ringed perimeters is a haven for wildlife.

Fed by the perennial waters of two creeks and a spring that gushes 800-1200 gallons of water per minute, the 40-acre property is protected and maintained with lottery dollars from the Arizona Game & Fish Department's Heritage Fund & Watchable Wildlife Program. Interpretive signs along the easy hiking trail explain how the springs work and the importance of preserving riparian habitats.  Benches placed in shady spots near the water are handy for relaxing while watching and listening to the local waterfowl.  Hawks, jays, eagles, osprey, bluebirds, mallards and blackbirds aren't shy about putting on a show, so you won't have to wait long to see a variety of birds dive bombing for insects over crystal clear waters.   We visited here after doing the Lake Mountain loop (see separate blog entry) hike.

LENGTH: 0.5-mile loop

RATING: easy

ELEVATION: 6,950'

DOGS: must be on leash

KID FRIENDLY:  YES!

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 189 miles one way

GETTING THERE:

In Pinetop-Lakeside, travel east on AZ260 to Woodland Road (located past the turn off for Rainbow Lake).  Turn right (south) and continue 0.6 mile to the trailhead on the left.

INFO: Lakeside Ranger District, Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, 928-368-5088

http://www.wmonline.com/attract/bigsprgs.htm

Arizona Game & Fish Heritage Fund:

http://www.azgfd.gov/w_c/heritage_program.shtml

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Tonto National Forest closures begin today

Extreme fire conditions force closure of parts of the Tonto.

Mazatzal Wilderness

Effective today, June 21, 2012, two area closures go into effect on the Tonto National Forest.
Basically, this will restrict access to hiking around Fossil Springs, Pine-Strawberry, Mazatzal Wilderness, Mt. Ord, Four Peaks and Three Bar Wildlife Area. Here's the link for exact details and closure perimeters:

http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/tonto/news-events/?cid=STELPRDB5375197

Poco Fire limits access to several trails

The Poco Fire which was reported on Thursday, June 14, 2012 on the Tonto National Forest  has grown to 3,700 acres.  It's burning near the town of Young and fire fighters have closed FR 512 (Young Road). Although its too hot to be hiking in the impacted area---the fire may limit access to Hells Gate Wilderness and Canyon Creek, Haigler Creek and Tonto Creek area trails.  Be sure to check with the forest service before heading out.

Fire progression map: 6-19-2012

POCO FIRE INFO:
http://www.inciweb.org/incident/2911/

What goes around, comes around on Lake Mountain

LAKE MOUNTAIN LOOP

Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest

Lake Mountain lookout, built in 1926

If you’ve been reading this blog for any time at all, you’ve probably figured out that I have a penchant for hiking up volcanoes.  So, when I read about Lake Mountain--an extinct cinder cone with a water-filled crater near its summit—game on.  A little research showed that both a road and a good hiking trail lead to the summit. Using White Mountain Trail System (WMTS) online maps, we planned a loop hike using Los Burros Trail #631, Lake Mountain Spur and the lookout road.  As the system trails are very well signed, this plan was working well 

The "lake" is the volcano's crater--dry on June 16, 2012

Lake Mountain spur trail

Which way??

until we encountered our final junction where there were just waaaay too many signs.  A wooden forest service sign pointed right while of slew of WMTS blue diamond markers were tacked all over the place creating a confusing and seemingly contradictory conundrum.  As we puzzled over our maps, two friendly bikers---Keith and Bob---stopped to help.  We pointed out the Los Burros trailhead sign that had arrows pointing in opposite directions, and they suggested we head left as the WMTS signs indicated.  Sounded like as good a plan as any, and besides, I could always deploy my “return the way we came” tactic if we got off track.  We headed left but soon found that the abundant blue diamond trail markers suddenly disappeared, so we made the decision to turn around and hike back to a dirt road where we knew there was a trail sign. Then, two seconds before I was about to implement the backtrack, we heard a truck rumbling down the road---- Keith and Bob.  Having realized they had suggested the loooooong way back and that we’d probably be confused by the missing signage, they aborted their ride, tossed their bikes in their truck and came back to find us!  Talk about good guys!  WOW!  They even gave us a lift back to the trailhead.  This is just another example of how profoundly nice trail users can be.  I can’t tell you how many times my hiking pals and I have shared water, food, maps, rain gear, jumper cables and even helped haul fatigued hikers off the trails.  Truly, what goes around comes around. 

Hiking pal Julie poses with Bob and Keith--Thanks, guys!

Hike directions:

From the Los Burros #2 trailhead, cross the road and pick up Los Burros trail #631 heading north. Follow the blue diamond trail markers 0.5 mile to the lookout road (unsigned).  Turn left (west) here and hike 0.5 mile up the road to the lookout.  Here, there’s a wood sign that serves as the trailhead for both the Lake Mountain Spur trail and the 1-mile Lake Mountain Rim Trail loop. Do the loop, return to the trailhead, then head down the 0.25-mile spur trail to visit the “lake” and reconnect with Los Burros trail. At the bottom of the spur trail, continue right and hike 0.75-mile to a 3-way junction with a sign that reads “Los Burros trailhead 3”, go right here and hike 2 miles back to trailhead #2.

LENGTH: 5-mile loop

RATING: moderate—route/map reading skills required

ELEVATION:  7,800’- 8501’

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 207 miles one way

BEST SEASON: April - October

GETTING THERE:

From Pinetop-Lakeside, travel east on AZ260 to Vernon Road in McNary between mileposts 360-361. FYI: this road is also known as FR224, AP3140, Vernon-McNary Road, and N. Cady.  For reference, it’s located across from the McNary store and has a small green sign that reads “Vernon”.  Turn left (north) and continue 7.9 miles to Los Burros trailhead #2 (located at the 8 mile marker) on the right. The road turns into maintained dirt after 0.4 mile, passes thru the White Mountain Apache reservation, then enters the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest at the 5-mile point. 

INFO: White Mountains Trail System

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

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The back way up Mount Elden

MOUNT ELDEN via UPPER OLDHAM TRAIL

Flagstaff

Heading out on the "catwalk"

Final approach to Mount Elden

There's more than one way to tackle Mount Elden.  The most popular route begins off US89 in east Flagstaff and climbs 2300 feet in a short, steep 3 miles.  This way is great for a thigh-burning workout, but also earns a pox upon its ambience due to its proximity to two major highways and views dominated by industrial complexes.  However, the west side of the mountain holds an alternative route that's less steep, better shaded and cloistered in woodland vistas stretching all the way to Williams. Except for the occasional car on adjacent FR557, there's nary a hint of civilization on the west route until it crests on the Sunset trail.  Here, the hike lands on a scenic saddle overlooking the railways and warehouses of east Flagstaff, then heads south up to Mount Elden.  This short path is a beautiful trek sandwiched between pine-fir forests on the right and steep drop offs on the left.  Soon after passing through a dense stand of young aspens, the trail leaves the woods to  teeter on a barren, knife-edge ridgeline scarred by the 1977 Radio Fire.  Depending on your point of view, this open-to-the-sky, catwalk-like segment is either profoundly gorgeous or viscerally depressing. Fire damage notwithstanding, the terrain is very interesting---massive lava boulders, juvenile aspens and blooming shrubs lend an air of resurgence to the otherwise bald tread.    Charred snags bleached grey by years of harsh weather coat the slopes like toppled matchsticks and a few remaining upright torched trunks stand sentry above a volcano-studded landscape.  Sunset Crater, Strawberry Crater, O'Leary Peak and the Bonito Lava flow are all visible from the exposed path that feels as if the patches of clumpy grasses and wild roses growing on its margins serve as the glue that keeps it from slumping into oblivion.  Also, the damage done by the June 2010 Schultz Fire is visible to the north.  After passing the wildfire vistas, the catwalk meets FR577 for the final slog to the microwave-and-cellular-tower-cluttered summit with a fire lookout and 360-degree views.

HIKE DIRECTIONS FOR WEST APPROACH AS DESCRIBED HERE:

From the Lower Oldham-Rocky Ridge trailhead, hike 0.2 mile north to the turn off for the Brookbank trail.  Veer right here on an unsigned path and hike 0.5 mile to the Upper Oldham trail junction.  Follow Upper Oldham 1.5 miles, cross FR557, and pick up Sunset trail.  At the sign for Sunset-Schultz Tank-Elden, go right and hike 1 mile to the summit of Elden Mountain.

View from Upper Oldham Trail

LENGTH: 6.4 miles roundtrip

ELEVATION: 7,380'- 9,300'

RATING: moderate

BEST SEASON: April - October

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 147 miles one way

GETTING THERE:

West approach trailhead:

From Flagstaff, travel north on US180 to Shultz Pass Road (FR420) at milepost 218.6.

Turn right and go 0.5 mile, veer right onto Elden Lookout Road (FR557) and continue roughly 2.5 miles to the signed Lower Oldham-Rocky Ridge trailhead on the right. FR557 is maintained dirt, passable by sedan. NOTE: to shorten the hike, drive another mile up FR557 to the Upper Oldham trailhead where there's parking on the left across the road from the trail sign.

East approach trailhead:

From Flagstaff, travel east on US89 to just past the Flagstaff Mall at milepost 419.5. Turn at the Mt. Elden Trailhead sign.

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

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Hiking Arizona's "everglades"

CARNERO LAKE

Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest

Carnero Lake, June 2, 2012

Even to the casual observer, it's clear that Arizona boasts  a plethora of environmental diversity.  Over the years, I've hiked through deserts, chaparral, prairies, alpine meadows, volcanic highlands, river canyons, wildly contorted mountain peaks, coniferous forests and even tundra.  Now,  "everglades" joins the list.  What? Huh? In Arizona?  Yuppers--Carnero Lake is a swamp.  Located off AZ260 between Pinetop-Lakeside and Greer, this shallow, 65-acre lake is prone to summertime weed growth.  This green quagmire may frustrate anglers hoping to nab the stocked rainbow trout, but for camera-toting hikers, it's a beautiful destination with lots of opportunities to view wildlife.  A slim footpath-- with many spurs leading to the water --circles the spruce-and-aspen fringed lake.  Thick woodlands on the south side of the lake provide good cover for photo stalking.  Waterfowl are easy to spot among the reeds and on my visit, a huge Ferruginous hawk put on an acrobatic air show above the water.  Antelope, elk, black bear, squirrels and lizards also inhabit the area.  We did this hike as a double-header with the Greens Peak trail (see separate blog entry) for a pleasant afternoon of off-the-radar trekking.

LENGTH: 1.63-mile loop

RATING: easy

ELEVATION: 9035'

BEST SEASON: May - October

KID FRIENDLY: yes

GETTING THERE:

From Show Low, travel east on AZ260 to FR 117 near milepost 380.  Turn left (north) and continue 2.5 miles on FR117 to FR117A, turn right and continue 0.5 mile to the signed turnoff for the lake. The access road is rough, but still passable by sedan.

INFO:

http://www.azgfd.gov/h_f/documents/CarneroLakeGeneralDescriptionFoyer.pdf

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National Trails Day: June 2, 2012

Sign up to participate in one of the many National Trails Day events scheduled for this Saturday, June 2, 2012.
There are hikes, maintenance projects and ranger-led educational opportunities being offered statewide.  Check out this link to find an Arizona event near you:


http://www.americanhiking.org/NTDSearchResult.aspx?sId=3

Kaibab National Forest seeks volunteers for trail work

JUNE 16-17: ARIZONA TRAIL MAINTENANCE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

Kaibab National Forest

FROM: Jacqueline Banks, Public Affairs Officer, Kaibab National Forest

TUSAYAN, Ariz. – The Kaibab National Forest and the Arizona Trail Association are seeking volunteers to assist with maintenance of the Arizona National Scenic Trail on the Tusayan Ranger District June 16 and 17.

Volunteers will conduct trail maintenance on the Coconino Rim section of the trail between Russell Tank and Grandview Lookout.  Work will include clearing fallen trees, trimming tree limbs, cleaning water drainage features, and removing rock, pines needles and other debris from the trail.

Any person interested in volunteering is welcome.  Those under age 18 should be accompanied by an adult.  Trail work will take place all day June 16 and until noon on June 17.  Volunteers are invited to camp on the Tusayan Ranger District at the junction of forest roads 310 and 302 on the nights of June 15 and 16, if they so choose.

The Kaibab National Forest and Arizona Trail Association will provide tools and hard hats.  A large water tank will be available at the campsite.  Volunteers should bring food, snacks, day pack, and appropriate clothing.  Leather boots are encouraged, but closed-toe shoes are required.  Pants and long-sleeved shirts are recommended.

The Arizona National Scenic Trail is a continuous, 800+ mile diverse and scenic trail across Arizona from Mexico to Utah.  The Arizona Trail Association’s mission is to build, maintain, promote, protect and sustain the trail as a unique encounter with the land. 

Individuals interested in volunteering should contact Joe Welke, Tusayan Ranger District, at (928) 635-8219, or Tom Coulson, Arizona Trail Association, at (480) 326-0459.

Hiking among aspens on the Arizona Trail

Bismarck Lake to Geyler Tank

Arizona Trail Passage #34

Bismarck Lake May 26, 2012

Although it's fun to hike previously untried trails, there are a few that have commandeered my soul---keeping me coming back again and again.  Bismarck Lake is one of those trails. A breathtaking, thin air trek beneath the San Francisco Peaks, the trail cuts through damp forests of Limber pines, aspens and Douglas firs with intermittent meadows splattered in manic wildflower colors.  Just before encountering the lake, the trail emerges abruptly from the woodlands onto an expansive prairie with views of the peaks soaring 3000 feet into the clouds.  Here, mountain-borne breezes muddled with crisp, coniferous perfumes rage over knee-high grasses prompting countless hat-holding photo moments.  I could stand here for hours, soaking up what is--for me--a perfect place.  Within a few yards after entering the prairie, a sign points to a short spur path leading to the lake. As with most volcanic lakes---Bismarck is an eroded cinder cone crater---this one vacillates from a medium-size pond to muddy puddle, and yesterday, it was virtually non-existent.  Still, the side trip pays off with patches of water-loving blooms and animal footprints including elk, deer, raccoons and bear.  To extend the hike, head back to the sign and continue 0.2 mile east to the Arizona Trail junction.  On past trips, we've headed right (south) and hiked through an aspen wonderland to Snowbowl Road, so this time, we headed left with the objective of hiking out-and-back to Geyler Tank. We did this on May 26, 2012, an unseasonably cool, very windy day.  Temperatures for the day were 37-50 degrees with 40 mph wind gusts---heaven!

Here’s what we did:

From the trailhead, hike 1 mile to Bismarck Lake junction.  A short spur trail heads to the water, but we skipped the trip because there was no water in the lake.  From the lake, follow the trail east another 0.2 mile to the AZT junction.  Turn left (north) and continue 4 miles to FR418, cross the road and hike less than a mile to a large meadow west (left) of the trail at the base of an old volcano (Walker Lake is inside). Geyler Tank is located 0.2 miles west of the trail.

LENGTH: 12.2 miles roundtrip

RATING:  easy

ELEVATION: 8,500' - 8900'

GETTING THERE:

From Phoenix, go north on I17 to Flagstaff.  Connect with US180 and travel 10.2 miles north to milepost 225 and turn right onto Hart Prairie Road (FR151).  Follow FR 151 6.4 miles (passing by the Nature Conservancy) to FR 627.  Turn right and continue 0.6 mile to the trailhead. FR 151 and FR 627 are dirt and usually passable by sedan.
INFO: http://www.aztrail.org/passages/pass_34.html

MORE PHOTOS:

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Gladiator Fire video tour

Here's an excellent video that details the progression of the Gladiator Fire near Crown King:

http://www.crownkingaz.com/archives/crown-king-gladiator-fire-day-9-update-2/

NEWS UPDATES, MAPS & PHOTOS:
http://www.prescottenews.com/news/current-news/item/19984-gladiator-fire-wednesday-26-containment-plus-maps-photos#axzz1vtiV5XM0

One trail--many loops

LOWER OLDHAM-ROCKY RIDGE-EASY OLDHAM LOOP

Coconino National Forest

Loop trails are the big thing in Flagstaff’s Elden Mountain-Dry Lakes Hills area.  Every trail connects with another making for myriad hiking options, especially on the west side which was spared from the 2010 Shultz Fire.  Oldham trail #1 is an easy-to-access route leading to some of the most scenic and heavily traveled loops—most notably, the Brookbank and Sunset trails.  Pine, fir and oak trees shade much of the area and several experimental forests and aspen regeneration projects add interest for kids and forest-loving adults alike.  With so many choices, selecting an Elden-area loop hike is a tough decision but, this day, we decided to connect with the Lower Oldham, Rocky Ridge and Easy Oldham trails.

Rocky Ridge Trail

Here’s what we did:  Begin at Buffalo Park and hike 0.5 mile straight thru to the Lower Oldham trailhead—which is also a portion of the Arizona Trail (AZT).  Hike 0.4 mile to the first junction, veer right (northeast) and hike another 0.4 mile to the second junction at Pipeline/Fatmans trail.  Continue hiking northeast (follow the AZT signs) for another mile to the third junction where a sign for Rocky Ridge Access indicates that the AZT turns west (left) here.  This will be the return part of the loop, so continue 0.8 mile north (stay straight) to the big Lower Oldham trailhead on FR557 (Elden Summit Road).  From here, cross the road, pick up Rocky Ridge trail and follow it 0.8 mile to the turnoff for Rocky Ridge Access/AZT---this will be a 3-way junction.  Your path is located slightly downhill near a giant boulder.  Heading east, hike 0.3 mile back to Lower Oldham, turn right (south) and retrace your steps back to Buffalo Park.

Mount Elden seen from Lower Oldham trail

LENGTH: 7.1-mile loop

RATING: easy-moderate

ELEVATION:  7110’ – 7580’

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 146 miles one way

DOGS: dogs must be on leash in Buffalo Park

KID FRIENDLY?: yes

BEST SEASON: late April - November

GETTING THERE:

From Flagstaff, travel north on Fort Valley Road (US180) to Forest Ave.  Turn left and continue to the stop light at Gemini Drive.  Turn left and follow the signs to the park.

INFO & MAP: Flagstaff Ranger District, Coconino National Forest, 928-526-0866

http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=55138&actid=50

MORE PHOTOS:

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Bill Williams Mountain Watershed closed to entry

Hi Hikers, fire season continues to take its toll on Arizona  summer hiking destinations.

Due to extreme fire danger, Kaibab National  Forest has decided to CLOSE TO ENTRY the sensitive watershed area around Bill Williams Mountain south of Williams as of May 21, 2012. This means no access to Bill Williams Mountain Trail, Benham Trail, Bixler Saddle and other surrounding routes.The closure is bounded by Perkinsville Road (CR73) on the east, south to FR122, west to FR108 and north to I40.  Once the area has received sufficient rainfall, the forest service will consider re-opening access. CALL THE WILLIAMS RANGER DISTRICT BEFORE HEADING OUT TO HIKE. 928-635-5600
http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/kaibab/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=11653&actid=50
MAP:
http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5317872.pdf

Gladiator Fire closes parts of Prescott National Forest

Hikers,

You should re-think any plans to hike  Groom Creek, Wolf Creek, Poland Creek and Mt Union in the Bradshaw Ranger District.  That's because the Gladiator Fire burning near Crown King is still raging and smoke is very heavy. Review  the closure notice below and steer clear of the area!

View of the Bradshaw range from Spruce Mtn lookout

(From the National Forest Service press release:) An expanded Closure Order is in effect, as of May 20, 2012 at 6 p.m., for all Prescott National Forest, Bradshaw Ranger District land south of the following: Beginning at the southwest corner, Township 12 North, Range 3 West, Section 33; south of River Pasture, along Forest Road 72 west to FS Road 667, following Middlewater Creek to the south of Maverick Mountain, east to Forest Road 9403C and onto Forest Road 52B connecting to the Senator Highway (County Road 56). Senator Highway east continuing to FS Road 261 east of Mount Union Lookout towards County Road 58 through Breezy Pines, extending to Poland Junction. All roads leading into the community of Crown King are closed. Cleator – Crown King Road (County Road 59) is closed at Cleator. Senator Highway to Crown King (County Road 52) is closed at the junction with Poland Rd. (County Road 58). Mayer-Bolada Road (County Road 177) is closed at the Forest Boundary. Forest Road 711 is closed south of the Forest boundary at Cow Creek Forest Road 362 is closed south of the Forest boundary at Wagner. Forest Road 192 is closed. A Yavapai County fire ban is in effect across all fire ban zones. Prescott National Forest Campfire and Smoking Restrictions are also in effect. For AZ Fire Info & Restrictions Information call 1-877-864-6985 or visit http://wildlandfire.az.gov.

Sunflower and Gladiator Fires visible from space

Gladiator Fire as seen from  I17, May 19, 2012

If you can see them from space, they must be big.
Groan.  I'm having flashbacks from last year's Wallow Fire.   Check out the NASA site below:
http://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/NaturalHazards/view.php?id=77944

Barrier-free hiking on Flagstaff's McMillan Mesa

McMILLAN MESA

Flagstaff Urban Trails System/Arizona Trail

I've decided to call this one a sandwich hike. Like the great American lunch staple, the good stuff of this trek happens in the middle while the scenic equivalent of white bread bolsters the fringes.   The hike takes off near the main entrance of Buffalo Park, swinging south onto a route that's now part of the most urban passage of the Arizona Trail where there's a large sign with a tribute to Flagstaff educator and trail founder, Dale Shewalter.  Within a few yards, the trail crosses over Cedar Avenue on Matt Kelly bridge--which is named for a young bike rider who was killed by a drunk driver.

Past the bridge there's some serious ugly---a power plant and quarry. Still, this is billed as an urban trail, so I guess I don't have a complaint coming. Farther along, the wide, gravel route crosses McMillan Mesa-- the good stuff-- a grassy ridge sandwiched between downtown and the upper eastside of Flagstaff.  Sparsely populated with junipers, pines and firs, the view to the southeast is surprisingly lovely.  To the northeast, the busy city sprawls and carries on below. The trail is suitable for strollers, wheelchairs and walkers, making this a popular choice for multi-generational families.  Also, benches are placed at scenic spots along the way, including one that's perfect for train-spotting the BNST railroad that parallels Route 66. 

LENGTH:  1.5 miles one-way

RATING: easy, stroller-friendly, barrier-free

ELEVATION: 7,040'

DOGS: leashed dogs allowed

KID FRIENDLY?: yes

GETTING THERE:

Buffalo Park (North):

From Flagstaff, travel north on Fort Valley Road (US180) to Forest Ave.  Turn right and continue to the stop light at Gemini Drive.  Turn left and follow the signs to the park.

Hemlock Way (south):

From Flagstaff, travel east on Route 66 to Switzer Canyon Road.  Turn north (left) and go 0.6 mile to Turquoise Drive, turn right, go 0.3 mile to Ponderosa Pkwy, turn right and go 0.5 mile to Locust, turn left and go 0.1 mile to Apple, turn right and go 0.1 mile to Hemlock, turn left and continue 0.1 mile to the trailhead.

INFO: City of Flagstaff

http://flagstaff.az.gov/index.aspx?NID=1812

Arizona Trail Association

http://www.aztrail.org/passages/pass_33.html

MORE PHOTOS:

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