As soon as you cross the creek you start climbing and going up for about two miles. Then you have a have a long walk across the mesa but are rewarded with beautiful views. The trip is well worth it when you get to the ruins. What a view! Then turn around and head 7 miles back. Saw a bald eagle on the Verde and pronghorn on the way in and then two snakes and deer on the trail. This one is well worth the effort.