This hike was not on my list, or even my radar, but seeing the pictures and not having hiked the area were the lure. Since I had to be at work this afternoon was limited to a three and a half hour window which I felt was adequate time to hike a trail this easy. At the TH well before sunrise, bout 0700, it was pretty cold, 41 degrees. Morning light on the hills and mountains were gorgeous. Interesting patterns of erosion in Cottonwood Creek and cool green lichen were a treat through the early going. Made really good time with the first two miles but then I hit a snag, lost the trail somewhere near the old jeep road. As long as I stayed near the wash I was good but I didn't see where the trail continued and after a while of exploring (knowing I had to allow time to get home to go to work) I decided it was best to return the way I came. Will return soon to complete the loop.