Connector Trail #80, AZ

Overview
Connector Trail #80 bridges the gap between Pumpkin Trail #39 to Bull Basin Trail #40. This trail is easy on the lungs, requires your attention for route-finding, and has a few washed-out areas.


Prologue
The recent 2017 Boundary Fire and 2000 Pumpkin Fire have left the terrain and flora in what most consider an undesirable state of torched forest. It is unlikely a target destination.Hike
From the west, Connector Trail #80 begins 1.1-miles along Pumpkin Trail #39, up from the sedan-accessible Pumpkin Trailhead when the road is dry. Cairns help navigate the faint trail. I recommend having the Official Route loaded in your device or app of choice because the trail is difficult to follow in at least one area.

The trail heads south, rising 100 feet, and contours just below 8,200 through a large ravine that leads up to Pumpkin Ridge. There are several washed-out sections the trail crosses. Most will be able to jump across the ruts but use your best judgment on what is the safest approach for yourself. Tread across one of the broader ravines is just in poor condition.

Next, the trail goes back north easing around a ridge and into Bull Basin. After hiking across the upper end of the basin, it ends about 0.9-mi up Bull Basin Trail #40 at a signed junction.

Synopsis
A famous HAZ'r declared this the easy miles of our loop so others might look forward to it more than myself.

Short Lasso Loop
Pumpkin > Connector > Bull Basin > Kendrick > Pumpkin

Long Lasso Loop
Kendrick > Pumpkin > Connector > Bull Basin > Kendrick

2022-10-12 joebartels