username
X
password
register
for free!
help
ArticlesGuidesRoutes
 
Photosets
 
 Comments
triplogs   photosets   labels comments more
1 triplog
login for filter options
May 28 2012
avatar

 Routes 69
 Photos 454
 Triplogs 112

68 male
 Joined Mar 20 2010
 Mesa, AZ
Blue Ridge - AZT #27Payson, AZ
Payson, AZ
Hiking avatar May 28 2012
garyc57Triplogs 112
Hiking15.60 Miles 1,240 AEG
Hiking15.60 Miles   6 Hrs   30 Mns   2.40 mph
1,240 ft AEG40 LBS Pack
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners partners
AZPopeye93
Before this trip, I was a "trail virgin". I learned a lot of lessons on this trip.

1) Pack only the essentials. My pack was way too heavy. We were planning on hiking further and carried all the food and snacks we thought we would want. We could have cached most of the food, and carried less.

2) I underestimated the effect altitude would have on me. Every climb had me huffing and puffing. Fifty steps forward, wait 3-4 minutes to catch my breath, repeat.

3) I must get in better shape (and I don't mean "round" :oops: ). (See # 2)

My son and I started about 9:00 and took several breaks (see #1). The weather was clear and sunny. There was a slight breeze to keep us cool. The trail was in great condition, and we rarely needed to refer to our GPS for directions.

We hiked until around 6:00, and set up our tent just after the East Clear Creek "gorge". We took the precaution of hanging our packs on a limb away from the tent. We had no visitors during the night.

We ate and hit the trail around 7:00 the next morning. From then on it was easy hiking. The trail was almost always flat and easy, with the one big descent into the Blue Ridge Campground.

The camp hosts at the campground were very friendly and encouraging.

All in all, we enjoyed the hike and had a good time.
wildflower observationwildflower observationwildflower observationwildflower observationwildflower observation
Wildflowers Observation Light

water 1 out of 5water 2 out of 5water 3 out of 5water less than max General Springs Gallon per minute Gallon per minute
Plenty of water, especially further down the canyon.
_____________________
 
average hiking speed 2.4 mph

WARNING! Hiking and outdoor related sports can be dangerous. Be responsible and prepare for the trip. Study the area you are entering and plan accordingly. Dress for the current and unexpected weather changes. Take plenty of water. Never go alone. Make an itinerary with your plan(s), route(s), destination(s) and expected return time. Give your itinerary to trusted family and/or friends.

helpcommentissue

end of page marker