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Hike from First Water Road to Saddle by Peak 2891 by AZLumberjack  This is a short and easy hike from a creek bed crossing along the First Water Trail to a saddle that is visible to the Southeast from the road and returning to the start. The short hike can be done at any time of the day but the afternoon hours would provide the better lighting for photographing the scenery. If you choose to hike in the early morning, expect the sun to shine in your eyes and spoil your best photos. Four Peaks is visible from many portions of the trail as is the nose of the Flat Iron. Soon after leaving the road, there are well traveled horse trails that continue almost to the wilderness fence line. From this point the trails end and you will have to find whatever wildlife trails might be around. For best results, cross the mostly North flowing creek so you are on the East side. Once the trail gets steeper, walk on the flats where the creek has etched out a creek bed from the solid rock. This area should be a grand experience when the waters are flowing. There is a series of several riffles and pools for a long stretch and should be a photographer's dream. Continue to follow the creek, switching sides occasionally, to the saddle. From this nice flat area, you are looking down on the creek that flows from Massacre Falls and the confluence of a second stream that has it's origins well up by the 5024 peak of the mountain. The waters of the combined streams feeds into First Water Creek. The coordinates of the saddle are 33.466767 by -111.446167 From this saddle it is possible to hike down and over to Massacre Falls and return via the Massacre Falls trail. A second continuing hike could take you to the First Water T H, or as a last choice, return the way you came in. This is a beautiful area and once you leave the horse trails, you should not expect to meet other hikers as there are no trail markers to direct them. Enjoy your hike and please keep the wilderness pristine. Leave No Trace and +Add a Triplog after your hike to support this local community.
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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.
