Payson fall color update: October 27, 2012

HORTON CREEK TRAIL # 285

Payson

Maple color below Horton Spring: Oct. 27, 2012

Fall color along the Horton Creek: Oct 27, 2012

I know, I know, we've all hiked this trail a million times, and yet, (unbelievably) I have never visited it during fall foliage season.  This gaping hole in my hiking repertoire was rectified today.  Issuing from a spring that gushes from a jumble of moss-embellished stone at the base of the Mogollon Rim, Horton Creek spills downhill through a mix of scrublands and deep coniferous-deciduous woodlands.  Fall color flaunts its best where trail #285 parallels the waterway.  Typically, in October, the creek is dry for the first mile or so, but then runs in cool, shallow cascades for the remainder of the hike.  Today, we were delighted by a rich display of mustard-colored boxelders, blaze-red maples and tawny orange sycamores.  Although peak color is days away for the lower trail, the high portion of the route is near prime right now.

Arizona sycamores along trail #285

The foliage is especially vivid near a series of tiny cataracts along the second and third mile  which are accessible via numerous spur paths leading to the stream where color bearing trees and shrubs dangle over liquid riffles mirroring  the warm palette in churning watercolor whorls. Don't skimp---explore along creek because in another week or so, the color show will be done for another year.

LENGTH: 8 miles roundtrip (to Horton Spring and back)

RATING: moderate---rocky grade, loose footing

ELEVATION:  5,360' - 6,420'

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 105 miles

TRAILHEAD FACILITIES: restroom

GETTING THERE:

From Phoenix, travel north on AZ87 (Beeline Hwy) to the intersection with AZ 260 in Payson.   Head east (go right) on AZ260 and continue 17 miles to Tonto Creek Road (a.k.a. Fish Hatchery Road and FR 289) on the left near milepost 268.  Follow FR 289 1 mile, cross the creek bridge and park in the Horton Picnic Site lot to the left.  Roads are paved all the way.  To find the trailhead, hike back down the road, cross the bridge and turn left onto a dirt road, hike the road a few yards to the sign for trail #285.

Cataracts on Horton Creek

FEES:  none for day hiking.

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

http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/tonto/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=35613&actid=50

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Sedona fall color update: late October 2012

A. B. YOUNG TRAIL #100

Oak Creek flows at the base of A.B. Young trail

Sedona

This hike has everything --water, high-desert ridges, a grueling climb and a pleasant traipse through a pine/oak forest to the historic East Pocket fire lookout.  Also, from late October through early November, the sycamores lining the lower part of the trail along Oak Creek come alive in vivid shades of amber and rusty gold.

The trail begins in the Bootlegger Day Use Area near site number two.  From there, descend the flagstone stairs to Oak Creek and follow the generic trail markers to the creek. Boulder-hop the water and head toward the stone retaining wall where there’s a metal “A.B. Young #100” sign.  The ascent begins immediately through a cool, creek-side environment that quickly transcends into a pine forest. After about the half-mile point, the trail leaves the shade and begins switch backing up steep sun-drenched cliffs on its way to the 7,196-foot West Rim of Oak Creek Canyon.  Many spectacular rock formations and great views of the narrow canyon open up as the trail gains elevation.  Once on the rim, follow the carins into the forest to the wooden “A.B. Young/Oak Creek” sign that marks the official end of the trail. To reach the East Pocket fire lookout, continue for just under a mile following a series of huge rock cairns. Staffed by a USFS worker during the fire season, visitors are welcome in the funky old 1930s-style wooden tower.

Submerged foliage

LENGTH:  6 miles round trip

RATING:  difficult

ELEVATION: 5,100’ – 7,196”

FACILITIES: restroom

FEE: a Red Rock Pass is required: there’s a permit kiosk at the trailhead that takes paper, plastic and coins. http://www.redrockcountry.org/passes-and-permits/index.shtml

GETTING THERE:

From Phoenix, take I-17 north to the Sedona-Oak Creek exit 298 for SR179.  Head left (west) on SR179 and continue to the Sedona “Y” intersection of SR 179 and US89A. Veer right (north) through the traffic circle and continue 8.8 miles to the Bootlegger Day Use Area near milepost 383. Roads are 100% paved.

INFO:  Red Rock Ranger District, Coconino National Forest, 928-282-4119

http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/coconino/recreation/red_rock/abyoung-tr.shtml

New trail in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve

MARCUS LANDSLIDE TRAIL

McDowell Sonoran Preserve

Marcus Landslide Trail: Oct. 20, 2012

approaching some "mushroom" rocks

A little bit of history was made this morning as stewards of Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve stepped out on the inaugural guided hike of the brand new Marcus Landslide Trail.  Freshly cut, the new route is an homage to the complex geology of the north side of the McDowell Mountains.  Colorful signs along the trail enlighten hikers about the surrounding terrain---including an explanation of how the area’s signature “mushroom” rocks formed.  But of course, the main attraction is the ubiquitous landslide.  I must add that, to really appreciate this trail, take one of the steward-led hikes.  Our leader today was steward Don, and I was blown away by all his knowledge and professional speaking skills.  Learn about upcoming guided hikes here: http://mcdowellsonoran.org/content/pages/guidedHiking

If you didn't know it was there, you'd probably never even notice this massive slump in the mountainside. Discovered in 2002 by a pair of local geologists, the nearly mile-long wreckage  is comprised of an estimated 25.8 billion pounds of rubble---that's enough material to fill Sun Devil Stadium six times.  The slide occurred during the  Pleistocene Ice Age about a half-million years ago when a colder, wetter climate may have instigated the slide which shaved 1,200 feet off the ridgeline releasing energy equivalent to an atomic bomb blast.   The trail, which is named for former ASU geography professor Melvin Marcus, loops among the slide's components giving a comprehensive overview of the magnitude and scope of the event. The hike takes off from the new Tom's Thumb Trailhead (officially opened Oct. 18, 2012) following an easy grade through typical desert scrub with views of the Fountain Hills area, Verde River and Superstition Wilderness.  Incredibly, the preserve receives no tax dollars and is funded entirely by contributions to the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy from hikers like you (and generous major contributors). This is pretty amazing when you consider the impressive facilities, quality of staff and meticulous trail maintenance.  So, when you’re checking out upcoming hikes, leave a donation to help ensure ongoing protection of our Sonoran Desert hiking trails.

Preserve steward, Don talks geology

LENGTH: 3.7-mile loop (4.2 miles with optional side trips)

RATING:  easy

ELEVATION: 2800’ – 2,500’

HOURS: sunrise to sunset daily

FACILITIES: restrooms, NO water

DOGS: leashed dogs are allowed on trails but not on guided hikes

FEE: NONE-- unless you take a connecting trail into adjacent McDowell Mountain Regional Park.  Then, it’s $2 per person---exact change required for the self-pay permit station.

GETTING THERE:  Tom's Thumb Trailhead:

From the loop 101 in Scottsdale, take the Pima/Princess Road exit 36 and continue 5 miles north on Pima to Happy Valley Road.  Turn right (east) and go 4.1 miles on Happy Valley to Ranch Gate. Turn right on Ranch Gate, follow it 1.2 miles then turn right onto 128th St. and continue 1 mile on 128th to the signed trailhead. Roads are paved (finished just this past week!) all the way.

Tom's Thumb trailhead

INFO:

McDowell Sonoran Conservancy: http://mcdowellsonoran.org/home

480-998-7971

McDowell Sonoran Preserve

http://mcdowellsonoran.org/trailhead/displayHike/10

Earthly Musings: the blog of geologist Wayne Ranney

http://earthly-musings.blogspot.com/2011/01/look-at-marcus-landslide-in-mcdowell.html

Arizona Geological Survey

http://www.azgs.az.gov/MarcusLandslide_2008.shtml

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New Tom's Thumb trailhead opens today.

Tom's Thumb: iconic pinnacle in the McDowell Mountains 

The long awaited Tom's Thumb trailhead was officially opened this morning.  In addition to providing convenient access to hiking and climbing in the northern reaches of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, the trailhead also serves as a gateway to the park's newest attraction--the Marcus Landslide Trail.  Sure to be a big draw for geology buffs and casual hikers alike, the 4-mile interpretive route explores Arizona's second largest landslide.  A special grand opening event is planned for this Saturday, Oct. 20, 2012 beginning at 8 a.m.. There will be guided hikes, climbing demos and lots of fun things to do in celebration of the return of "hiking weather" to the Valley.

INFO & MAP: http://mcdowellsonoran.org/trailhead/displayLocation/8

TOM'S THUMB HIKE: http://arizonahiking.blogspot.com/2010/02/toms-thumb.html

Off the beaten path Sedona fall color hike

BEAR SIGN TRAIL #59

Red Rock Secret Canyon Wilderness, Sedona

Although not apparent from the trailhead, the remote upper reaches of Bear Sign Trail host surprisingly rich woodlands of deciduous trees that transform into a canopy of color in early autumn. To find these hidden thickets, hike on the juniper-and-scrub-lined Dry Creek Trail to the Bear Sign junction, veer left and pick up the trail heading uphill. Much of the path parallels boulder-filled ravines lined with sycamore, willows and cottonwoods eking out a living where water collects among gigantic bounders. Throughout the hike, haphazard webs of Canyon grape vines sprawl in viral abundance forming delicate veils of diffused sunlight. An especially photo-worthy section of the route passes through a concentrated stand of Arizona cypress trees. The spindly trunks and shaggy bark of this tenacious species are marred by claw marks, scat and gnawed stumps-- the “bear signs” for which the trail is named. No worries though, the black bears that roam this area are shy creatures and will usually skulk off unnoticed when roused by approaching hikers. To learn more about hiking in bear country, visit: Southwest Be Bear Aware: http://www.bebearawaresw.org/

LENGTH: 3.5 miles one way

RATING: moderate

ELEVATION: 4,800 -5,450 feet

BEST TIME FOR FALL FOLIAGE:  mid-to-late October

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 135 miles

GETTING THERE:

From the "Y" intersection of AZ 179 and AZ89A in Sedona go left (toward Cottonwood) and continue 3.2 miles to Dry Creek Road. Turn right, go 2 miles to Vultee Arch Road (Forest Road 152), hang a right and continue 4.5 miles to the Dry Creek #52 trailhead located past the Vultee Arch parking loop on the left. A high clearance vehicle is required on FR 152.

FEE: Red Rock Pass--$5 per vehicle is required

INFO: Coconino National Forest, Red Rock District 928-203-2900

http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/coconino/recreation/red_rock/bear-sign-tr.shtml

Sedona fall color update: Oct. 13, 2012

WEST FORK OF OAK CREEK

Sedona

West Fork of Oak Creek: Oct. 13, 2012

Now that autumn's first freeze and snowfall have snuffed Flagstaff's aspen show, Arizona's annual fall foliage spectacular has migrated  south into Red Rock Country.  Brilliant color is blooming now in Sedona’s most famous canyon.  Today, we hiked under a canopy of blaze-red maples, tawny oaks and boxelders dripping in honey gold.  But, there’s still plenty of green getting ready to turn, so it looks like (frosty weather not withstanding) this week will be primo for autumn color. The rocky, but easy trail  is packed with 13 creek crossings (...that's 26 for a roundtrip hike) on stepping stones and logs. Shoes with good traction are a must and a trekking pole is helpful.  Also, plan to arrive early at the trailhead or else be prepared to wait for parking, as this world-celebrated trek attracts thousands of casual walkers (who rarely go more than a mile), day hikers and hard core canyoneers.  We even encountered a wedding party in full regalia---and hiking boots!

Oct. 13, 2012

LENGTH:  3.3 miles one-way (on trail) OR up to 14 miles (with wading, swimming & climbing)

ELEVATION:  5,280’ – 5,520’

RATING:  easy (on trail), moderate –difficult beyond trail’s end

GETTING THERE:

From Phoenix, go north on I-17 to exit 298 (Oak Creek-Sedona) for SR 179.  Go left (west) on SR179 and continue to the “Y” intersection with SR89A in Sedona.  Veer right (northeast) on 89A and go 10.5 miles to the Call of the Canyon Day Use Area (between mileposts 384 & 385) on the left (west) side of the road.  Roads are 100% paved.

Green woodland starting to turn, Oct. 13, 2012

FEE: $9 daily fee per vehicle. $2 per-person-daily-fee for walk-in or bike-in.

HOURS:  9 a.m. to 8 p.m. (summer), 9 a.m. to dusk (winter). The gate usually opens around 8 a.m.. Use the self-pay kiosk if an attendant is not available. The parking lots fills up quicky on weekends and high seasons---so arrive early.

INFO: Coconino National Forest, Red Rock Ranger District

http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/coconino/recreation/red_rock/westfork-tr.shtml, (928) 282-4119

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Maple color this week on the Mogollon Rim 2012

Bigtooth maple trees are turning red on Rim Road 300, connecting forest  roads and trails this week.  They fade fast, so get out there before this weekend's cool weather snuffs the show.

Maples along FR 139 on the Mogollon Rim

 
It's a good time to check out these trails:
Barbershop, U-Bar, Fred Haught, See Canyon, Horton Creek, Houston Brothers.

Flagstaff fall color update, Oct. 6, 2012: HURRY!

Flagstaff fall color has arrived fast and furious for 2012.  What a difference from 2011 when peak foliage color dilly-dallied until mid-October.  Not so this year.  The high elevations (above 10,000')  are already past peak in many spots, while mid-high locations (8,000'-9,000') are at peak NOW.  We drove Hart Prairie Road (7,000') today and observed that it's approaching peak color.  Hurry.

Bear Jaw Trail, 8,600', Oct 6, 2012

ABINEAU-BEAR JAW LOOP

Flagstaff

Past prime aspens at 10,000', Oct 6, 2012

An October drive up Flagstaff's Highway 180 reveals views of golden aspens on the lofty slopes of the San Francisco Peaks.  Yes, the first showings of autumnal color bloom up high, so to hike among leaves that blaze like day-glo paint you must climb the north face below Humphreys Peak.  There's a, app trail for that---Abineau-Bear Jaw Loop.  This rugged route begins in an innocuous alpine meadow but soon enters avalanche-scarred coniferous-aspen woodlands for a steady climb (unmitigated by switchbacks) that leads to a both-kinds-of-breathtaking ridge (10,280') below Arizona's tallest peak.  Here, the wind-addled tundra-like landscape is dotted with stands of white firs framing views of Northern Arizona's volcanic highlands. Beyond this highpoint, the route follows the serpentine path of Waterline Road where willowy aspens rustle and flourish along its flanks.  Whereas the Abineau leg of the loop is mostly about pines, spruce and fir, the Bear Jaw return is all about aspens, with glens so thick they mimic whiteout conditions. Here, on the downhill trek, mountain-borne breezes kick up flurries of heart-shaped leaves from the canopies into eddies of gold that tickle the air and carpet the forest floor.  It's really an awesome spectacle. 

HIKE DIRECTIONS:

Hike 0.4 mile on the access trail and turn right to begin on the Abineau Trail---which gets the climbing over quickest. Hike 1.9 miles uphill to the junction with Waterline Road (sign says no access to Humphreys Peak). Turn left here and hike 2.1 miles to the signed turn off for Bear Jaw Trail on the left.  Follow Bear Jaw 2.4 miles back to the first junction and retrace your steps 0.4 mile back to the trailhead on the access path. 

Bear Jaw Trail, 8700', Oct. 6, 2012

LENGTH:  7.2-mile loop

RATING: difficult

ELEVATION:  8530' - 10,280'

GETTING THERE:

From Flagstaff, travel north on US180 (Fort Valley Rd) to milepost 235.2 and turn right onto FR 151 (Hart Prairie Road, north access).  Continue 1.6 miles on FR 151 and connect to FR 418.  Drive 3.1 miles on FR418 to FR9123J  (signed for Abineau-Bear Jaw), turn right and go 0.6 mile to the trailhead.

Roads are semi-okay dirt, passable by carefully driven sedans. 

Near the top of Abineau Trail, Oct. 6, 2012

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

http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=55058&actid=50

FALL COLOR INFO & UPDATES:

http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/coconino/learning/nature-science/?cid=stelprdb5351327

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Fall color update: Mogollon Rim, Oct 4, 2012

Fall foliage is just beginning to emerge on the Mogollon Rim.  Today we noted lots of sulfur yellow in Boxelders, spotty groves of amber oaks and gold-kissed aspens on..... 

Oak color, October 4, 2012

HOUSTON BROTHERS TRAIL #171

Mogollon Rim

Wild geranium

The densely wooded terrain of the Mogollon Rim is riddled with water-sculpted canyons and bizarre fossiliferous limestone formations.  The fractured earth makes for an interesting mix of flat-floored forests and steep gorges where water collects and cool air settles in pockets of perennial, mossy dampness.  These secluded, moist microclimates feed communities of Big-tooth maples, willows, boxelders and oaks that burst out in flaming color palettes when nudged by the cool nights and low light of early autumn.  The Rim’s Cabin Loop system of trails wiggles among spring-fed meadows and water harboring draws that play host to autumnal splotches of honey-and-crimson-colored foliage. The best part about Rim country fall color is its relative rarity---it pops up willy-nilly  among the pines and firs making each "find" feel more special than the last.  Cabin Loop trails Barbershop, U-Bar, Fred Haught and--as we visited today---Houston Brothers--all dole out visually delicious color spots that add elements of treasure hunting thrills to the routes.

Fall color at Aspen Spring, Oct 4, 2012

LENGTH:  7 miles one-way

RATING: easy. follow the tree blazes where the path is faint.

ELEVATION: 7,000'-7,774'

GETTING THERE:
TRAVEL ALERT 10-5-2013: FR95 is closed between FR139G and 139A to repair the culvert over Houston Draw.  Do NOT attempt to drive thru---it's a major wreck.  You can park at FR139G and hike 0.5 mile on FR95 to the Fred Haught Trailhead or drive in from Rim Road instead.

From Payson, travel north on AZ87 (Beeline Hwy) to Clint's Well.  From here, continue 9.4 on AZ87 to just before milepost 300 and turn right onto FR95.  Follow FR95 6.5 miles to a bridge over East Clear Creek and veer right to stay on FR95.  Continue 4.5 miles to FR139A (a few yards past a sign for Houston Draw), turn left and go 0.2 mile to the trailhead marked by a sign for Fred Haught Trail.   Roads are good gravel/dirt with winding mountain grades—sedans okay.

INFO: Mogollon Rim Ranger District, Coconino National Forest

http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=54994&actid=50

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FLAGSTAFF FALL COLOR

INNER BASIN

Flagstaff

Entering Inner Basin, Sept. 29, 2012

It’s aspen overload time on Flagstaff’s Inner Basin Trail. This week should be the PEAK TIME to hike this trail, which twists uphill from beautiful Lockett Meadow, through corridors of white-barked aspens and then takes on an unrelenting uphill slog to a point on the Weatherford Trail where you can look back down on the route. Offering unsurpassed views of golden color from below, within and above, you’d be hard pressed to find a better trail for aspen leaf peeping. 

Inner Basin, Sept. 29, 2012

View of Inner Basin from Weatherford Trail

In addition to the glorious autumn color show, majestic lava-born slopes surround hikers with avalanche paths streaming from the desolate tundra above tree line into quiet aspen-and-fir ringed meadows thousands of feet below. For a fall color hike, it would be easy to get your fill within a few yards of the trailhead---but what's the fun in that?  The first 1.6-mile segment climbs 800 feet on a slender dirt path then merges with a wide, dirt service road.  It's here where the climb enters "spring alley" and becomes more difficult.  Jack Smith, Raspberry and Doyle springs are located close to the trail and make convenient breath-catching distractions. I usually bring a small empty bottle to fill at the spigot where untreated spring water runs spordically.  This area is the primary water source for the City of Flagstaff and you'll pass several maintenance buildings along the trail.  Past the buildings, the trail enters Inner Basin proper for wide-open vistas hemmed in by the San Francisco Peaks.  Beyond the Basin, the trail leaves the aspens behind and begins a grueling ascent through forests of white pine and Douglas firs.  The final .25-mile is marked by a series of switchbacks leading to Weatherford Trail and a beautiful scenic ridgeline with great views of the Painted Desert and the aspen forests below. We returned the way we came, however, if you're feeling energetic, you can continue another 3.5 miles and 1,643 feet to the roof of Arizona ----12,633' Humphreys Peak.

LENGTH:  4 miles one way

RATING: easy, then difficult

ELEVATION: 8,600' - 10,990'

DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 165 miles

GETTING THERE:

From Phoenix, travel north on I17 to the I40 junction in Flagstaff.  Head east on I40 and connect with US89 north.  Continue 17 miles north on US89 to FR 420 at milepost 431.2  (across from the turnoff for Sunset Crater).  Turn left here and veer left onto FR 552, following the signs 4.5 miles to Lockett Meadow.  The good gravel roads are narrow and winding with steep drop offs and no guardrails. Sedans okay, drive slowly and watch those curves. Trailhead parking is just past the campground.

FACILITIES: restrooms, camping (fee area), trailhead parking is free

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

http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=55110&actid=50

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2012 Fall Hiking Guide

Hiking and Beer

October 2012

Now, here's the article I was born to write. Looking to put a twist on the annual October Fall Hiking Guide, the editors at PHOENIX magazine asked me to provide 11 hikes near some of the best local breweries and wineries in Flagstaff, Prescott, Sedona, Cottonwood, Bisbee and Tucson. That was a no-brainer. However, I didn't get to do much drinking as associate editor Niki D'Andrea had the (tough job) task of writing the drinking part of the article. The result---your ultimate "hike one-hoist one" ode to autumn. Enjoy. Mare

ON SALE NOW

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

Beware of road work near some favorite Flagstaff fall color hikes

Road work on FR 515 (Hart Prairie Road) and FR418 will slow down access to several popular fall color hikes and drives including:  Wilson Meadow, Bismarck Lake, and some entry points for Arizona Trail Passage 34.  Construction will only take place Mondays-Thursdays through December 14, 2012.  Plan accordingly.

Hart Prairie, Oct. 1, 2010

From: "Magee, Brienne U -FS" <bmagee@FS.FED.US>
Date: September 26, 2012 12:40:19 PM PDT
To: <USDA-FS-NEWS@NEWSBOX.USDA.GOV>
Subject: SOUTHWESTERN-NEWS-RELEASE: Coconino National Forest Information

Construction to begin on Hart Prairie Road (Forest Road 151)

Flagstaff, AZ – Visitors to the Hart Prairie area this fall should expect delays while traveling on Hart Prairie Road (Forest Road 151) and Forest Road 418; Road construction efforts will be taking place starting October 1. 

Delays of up to two hours may occur. Travelers with high-clearance vehicles can use FR 794 - located approximately five miles north of the FR 151/Highway 180 junction - as an alternate route. FR 794 is not maintained for passenger vehicles.  

Contractors will work Mondays through Thursdays, dawn to dusk, as weather permits. The project could last until December 14.  Activities include improving drainages, road reconditioning, and resurfacing with crushed aggregate on eight miles of FR 151, as well as five miles of FR 418 from the FR151/418 junction to the east.

For additional information, contact the Flagstaff Ranger District at 928-526-0866.

PRIEST DRAW

PRIEST DRAW

Flagstaff

Aspens on Sept. 22, 2012

As the annual autumn equinox (Sept 22) brings the promise of cooler temperatures in the Valley, it also heralds in a brief season of hybrid summer-fall hiking in Arizona's higher elevations.

Limestone cliffs

During the final week of September, high country trees break with whispers of a warm autumnal palette above meadows awash in a slurry of hanger-on summer blooms and past-prime grasses. This glorious dichotomy of balmy sun and biting breezes serves up perfect trekking with a side of camera-ready photo opportunities.  An interesting area to explore this subdivision of hiking nirvana is Priest Draw.  Although it's pretty much an off-the-radar kind of place for hiking, the area's wildly contoured limestone walls make it a major "draw" for the sport of bouldering.  Complementing the surrounding vegetation, a bank of caves, roofs, tunnels and pocked-and-cracked walls result in unmitigated visual overdose.  Add to that the hordes of mat-packing climbers hanging upside down and scaling the rock superfly style, and you've got a hike of extraordinary interest.  The draw delves through woods and fields for roughly 1.5 miles to a point where the cliffs disappear.  Here, footpaths continue on sans the manic mix of geology, athleticism and natural elements on a seasonal cusp.

Priest Draw

LENGTH: 3 miles roundtrip

RATING: easy

ELEVATION: 6,900' - 6,650'

GETTING THERE:

From Phoenix, travel north on I17 to Lake Mary Road exit 339, which is south of the I40 interchange just before entering Flagstaff.  Turn right, and at the bottom of the off ramp, turn right again.  Continue 5.4 miles south on Lake Mary Road (FR3) to Crimson Road---this is on the right hand side of the road just past the Canyon Vista Campground turnoff.  Turn right on Crimson and then make an immediate left onto CR 132.  Continue 3 miles on CR132 (which is good gravel) to a dirt road on the right signed "Priest Draw parking area".  This is FR238, a deeply rutted (watch that entry drop), unmaintained road where a high-clearance vehicle is required.  Follow FR238 0.2 mile to the first (small) parking apron or to 0.3 mile for the main parking corral.   AREA IS DAY USE ONLY.

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Not so secret Secret Trail

SECRET TRAIL

Coconino National Forest

the overlook

No, really, the name of this trail is "Secret Trail". Blazed by mountain bikers and realigned by the forest service, this old/new trail explores the rolling terrain west of Flagstaff's Dry Lake Hills area.  From the trailhead sign, head north (left when facing the sign) to the wooden sign marking the start of the hike. In less than a mile, you'll encounter Orion Spring---look for a vivid green draw full of ferns.  The spring was not running on Sept. 15^th, however, it does trickle after heavy rains and the area stays moist enough to foster a carpet of wildflowers. The pine-shaded trail is marked by arrows tacked to trees that help navigate among the many social (unofficial) trails intersecting the route. You’ll also notice where the forest service has blockaded some of these paths.   Along the way, the trail dips into shallow draws and passes among gigantic boulders.  At the 3-mile point, a stony corridor opens up to a beautiful overlook.  Here, a rocky ledge falls away to reveal views of Elden Mountain and a dense forest of aspens just beginning to show the blush of autumn.  Beyond the overlook, the trail continues another 0.3 mile to a 3-way junction marked only by generic arrows.  Off to the left, look for an old cabin/hunter blind near a massive rock outcropping. Past here, the trail meets the Upper Moto Trail which veers south to connect with the Fort Valley Trail System.  We returned the way we came.

Aspens starting to turn gold, Sept 15, 2012

LENGTH:  6.6 miles (out and back)

RATING: moderate

ELEVATION: 8,070' - 8,275'

GETTING THERE:

From the traffic signal of Route 66 and Humphreys St Flagstaff, turn left onto Humphreys St and go 0.6 mile to the US 180 junction.  Turn left and travel 3 miles north on US180 (Fort Valley Road) to between  mileposts 218 and 219 and turn right onto Shultz Pass Road (FR 420).  Follow FR 420 for 0.5 mile to a fork, veer left to stay on FR420 and continue another 5 miles to the Sunset Trailhead on the right.  FR 420 has a few bumpy spots, although high clearance is the best option, we've gotten through in carefully-driven sedans in dry conditions.

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Barrier-free Mogollon Rim hike

MOGOLLON RIM INTERPRETIVE TRAIL

Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest

Mogollon Rim overlook

paved part of the trail

This trail has been languishing on my to-do list for decades.  Each time I've sped by the trailhead on my way to other White Mountain hikes, I'd give it a well-intended "some day" nod.  As a single trail, it's not long enough to justify a drive from the Valley, so this past week, I added it  to my Country Club Trail-Woodland Lake agenda for a single day, three-fer hike.  Visitors are greeted at the trailhead by an information kiosk featuring a map and lots of "didjaknow" historical facts.  The first half-mile of the trail is paved, barrier-free and winds through a shady Ponderosa pine forest and over the first of four wood bridges spanning an irrigation canal.  Fourteen signed "stops" line the route,  comprising the interpretive part of the trek.  Although some of the plaques are missing, the ones still intact describe the forestry, geology and human history of the area.  The paved portion of the trail ends at a scenic sandstone ledge overlooking the Mogollon Rim.  It's not as magnificent as say the Rim Vista Trail near Payson, but it's still impressive.  Beyond the ledge, the hike is an easy stroll on sandy paths with willows, flowering shrubs and Alligator junipers.   I'd recommend this hike for families with kids,  those with mobility challenges----and also, as an add-on destination for other Pinetop-Lakeside area trails.

bridge over irrigation ditch

LENGTH: 1-mile loop

RATING: easy, partially barrier-free

ELEVATION: 6,800'

GETTING THERE:

From Show Low, head east on AZ 260 (a.k.a. White Mountain Blvd) and  immediately after entering the Pinetop-Lakeside town limits and just past Camp Grace, turn right at the big masonry "Pinetop-Lakeside sign between mileposts 347 and 348. The trailhead is at the end of the parking area near some power lines.

INFO: Lakeside Ranger District, 928-368-2100

http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/asnf/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=45017&actid=50

http://www.wmonline.com/attract/trails/615.htm

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Lockett Meadow Road to re-open 9-15-12

From: "Magee, Brienne U -FS" <bmagee@FS.FED.US>

Date: September 10, 2012 1:47:13 PM PDTTo: <USDA-FS-NEWS@NEWSBOX.USDA.GOV>Subject: SOUTHWESTERN-NEWS-RELEASE: Coconino National Forest Information

Lockett Meadow Road reopens 8 a.m. Saturday

Flagstaff, AZ – The Flagstaff Ranger District will be opening Lockett Meadow Road (Forest Road 552) to public use starting Saturday at 8:00 a.m.

Lockett Meadow Road is winding and extremely narrow, and visitors are urged to use caution while in the area and to expect delays. Contractors will continue to utilize the road and portions of Lockett Meadow to haul and stage construction materials for the ongoing Waterline Road reconstruction efforts. Flaggers will be in place Monday through Friday to block traffic at the top and bottom of Lockett Meadow Road while heavy equipment is traveling the road.

Construction activities will not occur on weekends, thus no personnel will be directing traffic; however, drivers should be especially cautious on weekends, as high visitor traffic is expected – drive slowly, be alert, and be prepared to stop for passing vehicles. The road is not suitable for trailers

Lockett Meadow Campground will also be open for free day-use and camping starting Saturday morning. Camping and campfires are only permitted in the designated camp sites, and no trash or water services will be available. Visitors must practice Leave No Trace principles – Pack it In, Pack it Out - remove all trash from the area upon departure. Sites are available on a first come, first served basis, and camping is limited to 14 days.

Both the Locket Meadow Road and Campground will close seasonally if the road becomes too wet to sustain safe vehicular traffic, or with predicted heavy snowfall.

For additional information, contact the Flagstaff Ranger Station 928-526-0866.

A jaunt with jackrabbits at Veterans Oasis Park

VETERANS OASIS PARK TRAILS

Chandler

Bird of Paradise plants frame the San Tan Mountains

Alas, another weekend of summer high country hiking was thwarted by thunderstorms.  With my Flagstaff plans put on hold and the weather forecast for Phoenix looking pretty good for at least a few hours in the morning, I decided to head off to the green trails of Veterans Oasis Park in Chandler today.  Anchored by an urban fishing lake surrounded by picnic areas and playgrounds, the park also features a series of wetlands created with five recharge basins that hold reclaimed water. A maze of trails wind among the pools and a variety of vegetation zones---mesquite bosques, hummingbird/butterfly habitats, chaparral and water-loving riparian plant populations keep things interesting.  Two hilltop viewing areas provide good overviews of the site and the swarms of waterfowl that nest in the shallow basins.  The lake circumference trail is paved and barrier-free while the wetland trails are level dirt/gravel.  An unexpected delight on the trails were the dozens of Black-tailed jackrabbits playing hide-and-seek with my camera. I had a blast photographing them as well as myriad vociferous birds and a flock of Turkey vultures soaring above the wetlands.

LENGTH: 4.5 miles of inter-connected trails

RATING: easy

ELEVATION: 1270' -1311'

FACILITIES: restrooms, drinking fountains, horse watering station, dog poo bag posts

DOGS: must be on leash and kept out of the water

HOURS:

Park: 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. daily

Preserve: 6 a.m. to sunset daily

Environmental Education Center: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday and Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. Tuesday - Thursday.  Closed weekends and holidays.

FREE admission

Great Blue Heron (left) looks over a  recharge basin

GETTING THERE:

From Phoenix, travel east on Loop 202 to exit 44 for Gilbert Road.  Go 3 miles south to Chandler Heights Road, turn east (left) and continue 1 mile to just past Lindsay Road.  The entrance is on the north (left) side of Chandler Heights Road.

4050 E. Chandler Heights Road, Chandler, AZ 85249,

INFO: City of Chandler, 480-782-2890

http://www.azgfd.gov/h_f/urban_lake_veterans_oasis.shtml

http://www.chandleraz.gov/Content/VOP_Equestrian_Trails.pdf

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