[nomadkona]

I am looking for a good 1-2 day backpack trip over the labor day weekend. I am new to AZ and I am looking for a little guidance. Thanks

[joe bartels]

to HAZ!

What's your experience and what are you looking to see?

[nomadkona]

I have some experience. Most of my trips were back east in west virginia and PA.

I haven't taken any trips in AZ as of yet. I guess I am looking for a scenic trip. I would prefer a trail that is somewhat marked.

Any suggestions would be great.

[Filterman]

Check out the Cabin Loop Trail on the Mogollon Rim. Beautiful country there. You can take the Fred Haught trail to the U-Bar trail to Barbershop trail or you can shorten it by taking the Houston Bros. trail throuth the center of the loop. There is a map on the Fred Haught trail page. I did this hike over five days but it surely can be done in two. There are some steep canyons to go through but nothing too difficult and remember, what goes down must come up. Be prepared to get rained on. Aspen spring and Dane canyon were probably my favorite parts of this trail and of course getting back to the truck near the edge of the rim just in time for a sunset. Enjoy.

[Trishness]

I was going to suggest Cabin Loop also~~~This was my first backpacking trip and the trail is easy to follow with just a little elevation gain and water so you don't need to pack it all it with you. Since this trip would be at 7,000 feet, I'd recommend staying in Payson overnight to acclimate to the elevation.

The Fred Haught section to Aspen Spring is really nice and about 7 miles.

[te-wa]

since you are new to AZ Im gonna think you are looking for variety, a hike that has gorgeous views, domes, cliffs, and valleys. There are a bunch of hikes that just mosey through Ponderosa pines, PUDs (pointless ups and downs) pines and more pines. I dont think there are any hikes that can show the complete variable terrain of our state, but here are 2 that will give you a forest on top and a riparian campsite amongst a high desert-shrub area. Of course, these are only off the top of my head and others might not agree that these are worthy, but I liked 'em.
Seasonal for the month of August, of course.

1) Highline trail from Washington Park east to Tonto fish hatchery. Expansive and wonderful views especially at sunrise. 20 minutes northeast of Payson

2) Sycamore canyon via Kelsey trail to Geronimo Springs. Short, but steeeeep! 30 minutes southwest of Flagstaff.