Water + Shade =
This was a great antidote to the excessive heat warning in Phoenix.

We started off on the trail for the beginning of the hike, but soon migrated down to the creek and hiked alongside it for as long as we reasonably could before returning to the trail to go the rest of the way to the spring. We hung out at the spring for a while and had lunch before making the trip back out. This time we just took the trail all the way down.

While the entire length of the trail itself was moderately busy all day, we seemed to be the only ones hiking down by the creek. I don't understand this. It was only slightly longer going this way, but it went by faster. Much of the official trail is rocky, somewhat less than interesting and it was hot hiking in the sun. But at creek side, it was shady, cool and beautiful... and, isn't the creek what you came to see anyway? Well, it was nice having it all to ourselves.

A very enjoyable day with great company! Thanks, Angela, for driving!