Unlike other areas I considered hiking today, winds were destroying juvenile thunderstorms over the Bradshaws as they formed. I guess I'll hike in my backyard today...

The humidity was intense as I pushed up the north face of Maverick Mountain, sweating buckets but enjoying the tall pines and lush greenery. Once on the ridgeline, I received my reward: great views, shade from writhing clouds and a welcome, cooling breeze. The undulating ridge with its steep climbs, however, kept the sweat coming. A few people on dirt bikes and quads buzzed past, but otherwise the trail was deserted. After passing through a patch of bluish-tinged white firs, I began the final climb up to Mount Tritle.

Atop Mount Tritle I took a short break, and placed a register next to the rock cairn Stonehenge. My luck with the weather appeared to have run out, as two dark clouds had begun to grow rapidly above the ridge. I cut my visit to the summit short and began my descent, very much hoping to beat any possible lightning. Once off the ridge and back on trail #65, I relaxed a bit, and the growing thunderstorm clouds broke apart. Back at the trailhead I roamed around a bit, poking around old mine dumps, and looking for rocks.

I think Mount Tritle is one of the best hikes in the Prescott area. Great scenery, big views, and a healthy climb. I know I had a great time.