I had a burning need this past week to exit our continuing 100F degree PHX area days for the hills. My first choice was the Mogollon Rim- Cabin Loop car camping area off FR139 at my favorite remote campsite area at 7500ft elevation. I had very few objectives for this one week trip except to enjoy cooler temps, relax, eat well, and to one day check-out how Autumn 2011 was progressing in the Big Tooth Maple pockets within this "Upper Buck Spring Canyon" hiking area.

In late Sept 2010, almost the exact same visit dates this year, I was about two weeks too early for prime Autumn colors. Much to my surprise this 2011 season and visit, prime Autumn colors were well on their way and most all within a .50 mile hike in.

Sweet is was and still is if, contingent of foretasted weather conditions and the right vehicle, you consider planning a visit soon..