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Practice Trail Finding Skills by Desertboots This trail can best be described as a difficult easy hike. It's the East end of the Coffee Flat trail, which can also be accessed from Peralta Trailhead via the Dutchman Trail. There is a description of it under Dripping Springs from Peralta. I say difficult because you spend half your time looking for a trail. You start off at the gate. It is bolted shut, so you have to climb over the gate itself. Once over the top, you descend rapidly into Fraser Canyon via the ranch access road, and the JF Ranch area. When you finally hit bottom you are at JF Ranch. This is still a working ranch, and private property, so I didn't go nose around too much. Plus, I have a fear of cows, so I stayed as far away as I could from them critters. Along the fence line is the actual trail head for Coffee Flat. Go through the barb wire gate there and follow the fence line till the fence runs out. Here is where the games begin. You will go into the wash and cross in and out of it numerous times. You have to look for cairns, but if you don't see any right away after dumping into the wash, just follow the wash. If you ever lose the trail, just follow the wash. You can walk in the wash, as I did for many lengths. Remember, The Wash is The Way! There is one section that follows what was a wagon train road back before I was born, a real long time ago. Here is the one and only place where the trail leaves the wash and rises up significantly. You will go through lots of Cat claw, You will encounter Prickly Pear Gauntlets. You will see many strange things. I was expecting to run into Bilbo, Frodo and perhaps, Gandalf. After about 3.5 miles, you'll get to an area where there are a dozen or so Willows in the middle of the wash. This is Whetstone Springs. There was water here as you can tell by the photo, but the cattle had fouled it so badly, I don't even think it could be filtered. Soon you will reach the intersection with the Red Tanks Trail # 107. You are pretty much there at Dripping Springs. There wasn't much dripping going on when I was there. Across from where the springs allegedly drip, there are a couple of caves up in the canyon wall. I basically looked around and had lunch before heading back. There's an Arby's there (just kidding). It was very very remote out there and I was all alone. I was thinking about this right at the time the alien spacecraft landed and....oops, did I say that? Not really, friends and neighbors. I'm just kidding. But it was a perfect setting for something like that to happen. But no space aliens this trip, darn it all.... You just follow the same "trail" back to where you came from. NOTE: One thing about hiking on range land where cattle are present. The cattle tend to make their own trails. As long as folks keep the wash in sight, they'll be okay. There aren't cairns in some palces and you get confused. Check out the Official Route and Triplogs. Gate Policy: If a gate is closed upon arrival, leave it closed after you go through. If it is open, leave it open. Leaving a closed gate open may put cattle in danger. Closing an open gate may cut them off from water. Please be respectful, leave gates as found. 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.
Most recent Triplog Reviews
Dripping Springs from Woodbury
This was another fine hike we got ourselves into...
We decided to take the JF / Woodbury route to Coffee Flat Trail instead of 172B road from the trailhead. A nice choice but we distracted ourselves too long and missed our turn and so we did a “Heidi” bushwhack across to get where we needed to be. I am not sure “Heidi” bushwhack is an actual hiking term, but I use it to describe something that involves almost no obstruction in getting across the land in between oneself and one’s target location. Cattle grazing has probably helped make the hillside less cumbersome to cross and no doubt added to the distribution of wildflowers.
Back on track, we made it to the ranch and headed out on the Coffee Flat Trail. Water running the entire way but not to a negotiation issue level. The views were nothing less than “Wow!” and while we didn’t see wildlife, plenty of varied track was left in the mud along our route.
Toward the intersection with Red Tank Trail, evidence of fall beauty could be found under foot, making this a possible return trip in a different season. Lovely water running all over the red rocks at the tanks. Due to the water level, we did a little bushwhack to Dripping Springs which was a full waterfall.
As we turned back, we ran into more hikers who told us they were going back via Randolph Canyon. That may have to be my variation for the next trip. We also saw some cowboys from South Dakota out for a ride.
The trip back was a bit faster paced but no less enjoyable. We hiked the road out and that was a bit of a cardio climb. That, along with the little gate climb over, provided a little bitty boot camp experience for the finish.
I am sure the basic and sad rule of HAZenomics applies to days like this... “If your boot is on one trail, it cannot be on another.” But if one must put a boot down somewhere, this is a very good “where” to be.
We decided to take the JF / Woodbury route to Coffee Flat Trail instead of 172B road from the trailhead. A nice choice but we distracted ourselves too long and missed our turn and so we did a “Heidi” bushwhack across to get where we needed to be. I am not sure “Heidi” bushwhack is an actual hiking term, but I use it to describe something that involves almost no obstruction in getting across the land in between oneself and one’s target location. Cattle grazing has probably helped make the hillside less cumbersome to cross and no doubt added to the distribution of wildflowers.
Back on track, we made it to the ranch and headed out on the Coffee Flat Trail. Water running the entire way but not to a negotiation issue level. The views were nothing less than “Wow!” and while we didn’t see wildlife, plenty of varied track was left in the mud along our route.
Toward the intersection with Red Tank Trail, evidence of fall beauty could be found under foot, making this a possible return trip in a different season. Lovely water running all over the red rocks at the tanks. Due to the water level, we did a little bushwhack to Dripping Springs which was a full waterfall.
As we turned back, we ran into more hikers who told us they were going back via Randolph Canyon. That may have to be my variation for the next trip. We also saw some cowboys from South Dakota out for a ride.
The trip back was a bit faster paced but no less enjoyable. We hiked the road out and that was a bit of a cardio climb. That, along with the little gate climb over, provided a little bitty boot camp experience for the finish.
I am sure the basic and sad rule of HAZenomics applies to days like this... “If your boot is on one trail, it cannot be on another.” But if one must put a boot down somewhere, this is a very good “where” to be.
2019-02-16 ThirstyLizard
Dripping Springs from Woodbury
Headed out for a nice day in the Supes. Our group of four plus two dogs started hiking from the Woodbury TH around 10am and headed for Randolph Canyon. There was a nice flow of clear and cool water. From there we worked our way down canyon as we rock hopped and pushed through sporadic brush. It's easy going for the most part and very scenic. We took a short break by Randolph Spring and then took our lunch by Dripping Springs. We then started our return up Fraser Canyon. It's easy going again as there is less water and good trail for most part. We passed the JF Ranch and then followed the road back to our TH. We were done by mid afternoon. This was a really nice hike with a great group. We had perfect weather and it was great getting out. Thanks Kyle for driving.
2017-02-11 John9L
Dripping Springs from Woodbury
trans-Supes (Miles to First Water)
Originally planned to take a couple of days to do the Highline from end to end in Payson, but weather nixed that last minute as the first snow system of the year blew in 3-6". So, decided the day before to divert to the Supes and do a trans-Superstitions hike from east to west, and I decided on Miles as the start and First Water as the end.
There are lots of possibilities for something like this. Actually, if we had had a little bit more time, I would rather have taken a route that included Rogers Canyon Trail rather than the forest road between Rogers TH and Woodbury E TH, but we needed to shave off a few miles. Weather was nice for our trip, but we knew we only had a day and a half, as my friend Bill needed to get to another appointment, thus the cuts. My first time out on the trail with him, great company!
Spent the night at Miles Trailhead, just as the weather system was finishing up in the state. It actually still had more rain to get out of its system before daybreak, but we kept dry. Sure did make our start on day 1 a bit wet though, all the water on the grass and bushes had our pants, shoes and socks soaked through after we started out the next morning. Just before sunrise, checked out the property a little bit before starting on the trail. Was surprised to see a fairly new grave on the Miles property, dated 2014. Then stated down the West Pinto. At first the creek was dry, but once we passed Oak Flat the creek started building up a pretty nice flow. Past Oak Flat, there still was the sketchy trail for a few miles, requiring the GPS a few times. Saw a couple of whitetail deer on the trail, lots of bear scat (some fresh), punched through the catclaw and other bushes. We were able to make the high point of the trail, then descend to Rogers Spring, check it out and get to Rogers Trough TH by 11:30.
Bill and I coasted down the forest service road to Woodbury's eastern trailhead, seeing our only person for the day here...an ATV'er on the forest road. Once on Woodbury, much of it was intuitive, cross-country hiking, not any well-defined trail. I checked out the homestead again, whereby this time the bear scat of course was more like ... cow scat. Went around JF Ranch to hit the Coffee Flat Trail, which basically just follows Fraser Canyon's wash from the ranch to Dripping Spring and beyond before becoming an actual trail. Descended into Barkley Basin (love that view of all the saguaros in the basin!), then over to Miners Needle and the Dutchman Trail to get to Peralta. Bill had some foot trouble, all the water and wet feet on the trail led to some pretty nasty blisters that he ended up needing to have a doctor tend to (yikes!). Arriving at Peralta at 5:20, we decided to pause there for the afternoon, crashing nearby until sunup the next morning.
That next morning was a quick half-day, heading up Bluff Springs Trail from Peralta to the Terrapin, and then over Bull Pass Trail to the Dutchman Trail and out. On our second day, we didn't run into anyone until we were on the other side of Parker Pass, just a couple of miles from First Water TH. Did see another whitetail out there on day 2, though.
Trip took a bit longer than expected due to my friend's blisters, but not too bad at all. Had some nice breaks to sit down and admire the scenery, and give him a chance to go at his own pace and catch up to me. 10:45 day 1, 6:06 day 2.
There are lots of possibilities for something like this. Actually, if we had had a little bit more time, I would rather have taken a route that included Rogers Canyon Trail rather than the forest road between Rogers TH and Woodbury E TH, but we needed to shave off a few miles. Weather was nice for our trip, but we knew we only had a day and a half, as my friend Bill needed to get to another appointment, thus the cuts. My first time out on the trail with him, great company!
Spent the night at Miles Trailhead, just as the weather system was finishing up in the state. It actually still had more rain to get out of its system before daybreak, but we kept dry. Sure did make our start on day 1 a bit wet though, all the water on the grass and bushes had our pants, shoes and socks soaked through after we started out the next morning. Just before sunrise, checked out the property a little bit before starting on the trail. Was surprised to see a fairly new grave on the Miles property, dated 2014. Then stated down the West Pinto. At first the creek was dry, but once we passed Oak Flat the creek started building up a pretty nice flow. Past Oak Flat, there still was the sketchy trail for a few miles, requiring the GPS a few times. Saw a couple of whitetail deer on the trail, lots of bear scat (some fresh), punched through the catclaw and other bushes. We were able to make the high point of the trail, then descend to Rogers Spring, check it out and get to Rogers Trough TH by 11:30.
Bill and I coasted down the forest service road to Woodbury's eastern trailhead, seeing our only person for the day here...an ATV'er on the forest road. Once on Woodbury, much of it was intuitive, cross-country hiking, not any well-defined trail. I checked out the homestead again, whereby this time the bear scat of course was more like ... cow scat. Went around JF Ranch to hit the Coffee Flat Trail, which basically just follows Fraser Canyon's wash from the ranch to Dripping Spring and beyond before becoming an actual trail. Descended into Barkley Basin (love that view of all the saguaros in the basin!), then over to Miners Needle and the Dutchman Trail to get to Peralta. Bill had some foot trouble, all the water and wet feet on the trail led to some pretty nasty blisters that he ended up needing to have a doctor tend to (yikes!). Arriving at Peralta at 5:20, we decided to pause there for the afternoon, crashing nearby until sunup the next morning.
That next morning was a quick half-day, heading up Bluff Springs Trail from Peralta to the Terrapin, and then over Bull Pass Trail to the Dutchman Trail and out. On our second day, we didn't run into anyone until we were on the other side of Parker Pass, just a couple of miles from First Water TH. Did see another whitetail out there on day 2, though.
Trip took a bit longer than expected due to my friend's blisters, but not too bad at all. Had some nice breaks to sit down and admire the scenery, and give him a chance to go at his own pace and catch up to me. 10:45 day 1, 6:06 day 2.
2015-11-05 azdesertfather
Dripping Springs from Woodbury
Campaign TH to First Water TH
Due to coaching obligations, I was not able to maximize my MLK day weekend this year and had to settle for a Sunday to Monday over-night somewhere. I chose the Supes a place that I don't have a lot of
familiarity with ;
I chose your pretty standard Campaign TH to First Water TH over-nighter for the pups and myself. I was able to enlist the help of Chumley to set up my shuttle who surprisingly was very cool with the idea of waking up at 430 in the morning to drop me off at Campaign TH. I told Chumley that I thought I could make it across the supes in 32-34 miles, 35 tops. I think I may have missed a trail or two in my estimation
A very uncharacteristic mileage estimation by myself, very uncharacteristic, Kyle, and Chumley will attest to my usually very accurate trail estimation numbers.
Day One: 20.6 miles
Campaign Trail: Campaign Trail is always pleasant to me. I met a very large group of CCC employees out of Flag and they are in process of a multi day trail clearing project of Campaign Trail, might be a good time to hit trail, if you have never been.
Reavis Gap The trail is in great shape! Trail seems to be seeing some decent traffic this winter. Water everywhere, water on trail, water in secondary washes, water flowing at intersection with Pine Creek.
Reavis Ranch Trail (S): Ranch was dead, signs of over-night campers but everyone gone. Hike south was great, one of my favorite sections of trail in Supes. Water flowing nearly the entire way to saddle. I met a guy who said the reason he was hiking his dog out here was because of Blanco and Cup, I guess they have some fans, not to stroke their egos.
Roger's Canyon: Standard Roger's Canyon conditions, a little busy around the ruins. Water conditions very disappointing, the antithesis of the conditions I encountered earlier in day and far below other winters for comparison. However, on bright side Roger's Canyon Trail seemed to have been the recipient of some recent trail work and the climb to Tortilla Divide was pretty much brush free.
JF Ranch Trail: Camped near wilderness boundary at last available spot with water. Initially I planned to camp near this really pictureseque spot just before Dripping Springs, but I could tell Cup was beat. I figured I could make up those lost miles with an earlier start and I could also get Cup some extra rest for day two.
Day Two: 21.6 miles
Cup woke up relatively spry I packed up camp quickly devoured some oatmeal and coffee and hit the trail just before six.
Woodbury Head-lamped it not much to report.
Coffee Flats: I ran into two guys camping at Dripping Springs who immediately greeted Cup and Blanco by name, yup more fans :roll: Both guys were members on HAZ, but they said they don't really post much one username had a lot letters and numbers in it and I think the other one had a pirate it in it, I can't remember, but good guys, chatted for a minute and then continued mission. The cows have really done a number on this otherwise beautiful area.
Dutchman Trail I spent a lot of time on this trail on the second day and still can't think of anything nice to say, just a means to an end in the instance of this trip. Actually, did not mind the Dutchman, its just not my favorite trail in the Supes. Water conditions were great along trail, met some cool horsemen, a few hikers, and enjoyed the nice trail.
Bluff Springs Trail: short and sweet, lots of water took a dedicated break to filter and rest dogs.
Terrapin Trail: I did dread the Terrapin a little, because not the most ideal trail for making good time and it has seemed to drag on from past trips. However, it was a blur today, seems as quick as we started it we were finishing and getting back on the Dutchman again. Water levels good, but have seen better, but generally flowing up to divide on each side. Trail is over-grown in a few spots, and enough acacia to make you wish you wore pants, I know because I wore shorts.
Final Notes: An excellent way to see the Supes if you ask me, especially, if you are in a rush. It was very cool to go from the Pines to the desert to the riparian area of Fraser and essentially see all the Supes have to offer. I may have had a tremendous miscalculation in miles, however, I was correct in choosing the east to west direction of travel as my assumption that I would be losing more elevation then gaining. The profile really highlights the difference in elevations of the Eastern and Western Supes. I did choose the most dog friendly trails I could think of and Cup responded well. I was little worried about her the way she dragged herself into camp the first night, but she bounced back admirable and walked out right next to me at four o'clock on the dot today.
familiarity with ;
I chose your pretty standard Campaign TH to First Water TH over-nighter for the pups and myself. I was able to enlist the help of Chumley to set up my shuttle who surprisingly was very cool with the idea of waking up at 430 in the morning to drop me off at Campaign TH. I told Chumley that I thought I could make it across the supes in 32-34 miles, 35 tops. I think I may have missed a trail or two in my estimation
A very uncharacteristic mileage estimation by myself, very uncharacteristic, Kyle, and Chumley will attest to my usually very accurate trail estimation numbers.
Day One: 20.6 miles
Campaign Trail: Campaign Trail is always pleasant to me. I met a very large group of CCC employees out of Flag and they are in process of a multi day trail clearing project of Campaign Trail, might be a good time to hit trail, if you have never been.
Reavis Gap The trail is in great shape! Trail seems to be seeing some decent traffic this winter. Water everywhere, water on trail, water in secondary washes, water flowing at intersection with Pine Creek.
Reavis Ranch Trail (S): Ranch was dead, signs of over-night campers but everyone gone. Hike south was great, one of my favorite sections of trail in Supes. Water flowing nearly the entire way to saddle. I met a guy who said the reason he was hiking his dog out here was because of Blanco and Cup, I guess they have some fans, not to stroke their egos.
Roger's Canyon: Standard Roger's Canyon conditions, a little busy around the ruins. Water conditions very disappointing, the antithesis of the conditions I encountered earlier in day and far below other winters for comparison. However, on bright side Roger's Canyon Trail seemed to have been the recipient of some recent trail work and the climb to Tortilla Divide was pretty much brush free.
JF Ranch Trail: Camped near wilderness boundary at last available spot with water. Initially I planned to camp near this really pictureseque spot just before Dripping Springs, but I could tell Cup was beat. I figured I could make up those lost miles with an earlier start and I could also get Cup some extra rest for day two.
Day Two: 21.6 miles
Cup woke up relatively spry I packed up camp quickly devoured some oatmeal and coffee and hit the trail just before six.
Woodbury Head-lamped it not much to report.
Coffee Flats: I ran into two guys camping at Dripping Springs who immediately greeted Cup and Blanco by name, yup more fans :roll: Both guys were members on HAZ, but they said they don't really post much one username had a lot letters and numbers in it and I think the other one had a pirate it in it, I can't remember, but good guys, chatted for a minute and then continued mission. The cows have really done a number on this otherwise beautiful area.
Dutchman Trail I spent a lot of time on this trail on the second day and still can't think of anything nice to say, just a means to an end in the instance of this trip. Actually, did not mind the Dutchman, its just not my favorite trail in the Supes. Water conditions were great along trail, met some cool horsemen, a few hikers, and enjoyed the nice trail.
Bluff Springs Trail: short and sweet, lots of water took a dedicated break to filter and rest dogs.
Terrapin Trail: I did dread the Terrapin a little, because not the most ideal trail for making good time and it has seemed to drag on from past trips. However, it was a blur today, seems as quick as we started it we were finishing and getting back on the Dutchman again. Water levels good, but have seen better, but generally flowing up to divide on each side. Trail is over-grown in a few spots, and enough acacia to make you wish you wore pants, I know because I wore shorts.
Final Notes: An excellent way to see the Supes if you ask me, especially, if you are in a rush. It was very cool to go from the Pines to the desert to the riparian area of Fraser and essentially see all the Supes have to offer. I may have had a tremendous miscalculation in miles, however, I was correct in choosing the east to west direction of travel as my assumption that I would be losing more elevation then gaining. The profile really highlights the difference in elevations of the Eastern and Western Supes. I did choose the most dog friendly trails I could think of and Cup responded well. I was little worried about her the way she dragged herself into camp the first night, but she bounced back admirable and walked out right next to me at four o'clock on the dot today.
2015-01-18 friendofThundergod
Dripping Springs from Woodbury
In December'07 while vehicle camping under Byous Butte for Christmas week with friends (re: my then typical holiday week at "Camp Grasshopper" http://hikearizona.com/photo=117175 ), one of our planned day hikes was to attempt the upper mining section down to Whetrock Canyon to visit the old wrecked "Modern Dairy- Globe,AZ" milk truck that I had only seen in 
HAZ pictures- 
http://hikearizona.com/photo=37459
Here is a quote from my Dec 26th 2007 trip log:
"It was a beautiful blue sky day with no wind as we topped-out at the saddle. Heading down the backside of this saddle it was only about .125mls before this old, rocky mining road became completely washed-out and disappeared with bushwhacking required to reach the lower mine and our planned stopping point at that old Dairy Truck. Just too much of a hassle for us to enjoy continuing."
In hindsight now 6+ years later, that rocky old, washed out, bushwhack mining road really did not disappear. What happened is that shortly after the 1st mine adit (see my posted GPS Route), the old road took a 90 degree turn to the right downhill, and I just missed it and continued straight "into a blood sucking jungle" 
.
Honestly I never thought I would have the opportunity again to correctly hike this loop, but thanks to the invite from our HAZ- friendofThundergod(Lee), his long time Supes backpacking buddy-Jim, and Oregon Hiker(Larry) offering to drive us, I was off on another Whetrock Canyon adventure. This time a much more enjoyable visit and success!
http://hikearizona.com/photo.php?ID=413970
HAZ pictures- http://hikearizona.com/photo=37459
Here is a quote from my Dec 26th 2007 trip log:
"It was a beautiful blue sky day with no wind as we topped-out at the saddle. Heading down the backside of this saddle it was only about .125mls before this old, rocky mining road became completely washed-out and disappeared with bushwhacking required to reach the lower mine and our planned stopping point at that old Dairy Truck. Just too much of a hassle for us to enjoy continuing."
In hindsight now 6+ years later, that rocky old, washed out, bushwhack mining road really did not disappear. What happened is that shortly after the 1st mine adit (see my posted GPS Route), the old road took a 90 degree turn to the right downhill, and I just missed it and continued straight "into a blood sucking jungle" .
Honestly I never thought I would have the opportunity again to correctly hike this loop, but thanks to the invite from our HAZ- friendofThundergod(Lee), his long time Supes backpacking buddy-Jim, and Oregon Hiker(Larry) offering to drive us, I was off on another Whetrock Canyon adventure. This time a much more enjoyable visit and success!
http://hikearizona.com/photo.php?ID=4139702014-04-27 Grasshopper
Dripping Springs from Woodbury
Due to car trouble, had to change plans. The creek along Coffee Flat is flowing in sections. Speaking of which, I'm changing the trail sign to say Coffee Hills next time I'm out there, where's the flat part?
Set up camp at Dripping Springs and did the Randolph-Fraser Loop. Short hike out Sunday.
Saw a HAZ sticker on a tan pickup at the Peralta lot.
Set up camp at Dripping Springs and did the Randolph-Fraser Loop. Short hike out Sunday.
Saw a HAZ sticker on a tan pickup at the Peralta lot.
2011-01-16 nonot
Dripping Springs from Woodbury
This was the second time this year I've gone in from the Woodbury TH to Dripping Springs via Fraser Canyon. The 1st time we did it as a true loop hike back up through Randolph Canyon was not that enjoyably (due to a too warm a day), but this 2nd trip doing it as a lasso loop(see my pic set comments and posted GPS Route) was very enjoyable!
The water was running all the way down Fraser Canyon(Coffee Flat TR#108) which made for some great photo opportunities and the blue sky with some neat clouds around added to the beauty of this hike. Once the Coffee Flat TR entered Frasier Canyon, I stayed mostly in the creek drainage and off the actual trail to avoid cat-claw but mainly to take advantage of the enjoyable water scenes. About half way down the canyon I found what I am pretty sure is a chunk of real SILVER(that was embedded in a piece of quartz rock). I took a pic of it in my posted pic set-
http://hikearizona.com/phoZOOM.php?ZIP=82540 Let me know what you think!
We had two awesome hikes out of the four hikes we did during our New Years Week camping trip under Byous Butte and this was one of them! The most awesome one was on New Years Day and I am now awaiting my new HAZ hike description to soon be posted so I can issue the pic set and trip log.
Do you all remember this HAZ Guy- viewtopic.php?f=2&t=3401 Well, I have been chatting with Randy (from Tucson) since this forum thread in June'08, and I convinced him to join us for this, our planned last night of camping under Byous Butte. He drove up early Saturday with his friend Jeff to checkout the Devil's Chasm area in the Sierra Ancha, then headed over to our place in the afternoon. I promised them a gourmet Italian meal from Hank's Hilton if they would bring firewood for payment. They did and we had a nice visit, campfire, and a full blown Italian with desert and more.. Also, Jeff is now in his final preparations for beginning the Pacific Crest Trail in two months.. Good luck Jeff!! http://hikearizona.com/phoZOOM.php?ZIP=82559 
The water was running all the way down Fraser Canyon(Coffee Flat TR#108) which made for some great photo opportunities and the blue sky with some neat clouds around added to the beauty of this hike. Once the Coffee Flat TR entered Frasier Canyon, I stayed mostly in the creek drainage and off the actual trail to avoid cat-claw but mainly to take advantage of the enjoyable water scenes. About half way down the canyon I found what I am pretty sure is a chunk of real SILVER(that was embedded in a piece of quartz rock). I took a pic of it in my posted pic set-
http://hikearizona.com/phoZOOM.php?ZIP=82540 Let me know what you think!
We had two awesome hikes out of the four hikes we did during our New Years Week camping trip under Byous Butte and this was one of them! The most awesome one was on New Years Day and I am now awaiting my new HAZ hike description to soon be posted so I can issue the pic set and trip log.
Do you all remember this HAZ Guy-
viewtopic.php?f=2&t=3401 Well, I have been chatting with Randy (from Tucson) since this forum thread in June'08, and I convinced him to join us for this, our planned last night of camping under Byous Butte. He drove up early Saturday with his friend Jeff to checkout the Devil's Chasm area in the Sierra Ancha, then headed over to our place in the afternoon. I promised them a gourmet Italian meal from Hank's Hilton if they would bring firewood for payment. They did and we had a nice visit, campfire, and a full blown Italian with desert and more.. Also, Jeff is now in his final preparations for beginning the Pacific Crest Trail in two months.. Good luck Jeff!! http://hikearizona.com/phoZOOM.php?ZIP=82559 2009-01-03 Grasshopper
Dripping Springs from Woodbury
Completed this out and back to Dripping Springs and beyond as part of a larger, future scheme. Very happy with the results. A great remote part of the Superstitions. Located several, fresh campsites, where thoughtless people just left stuff behind, not only garbage but clothes, gloves, packs. Guess they discarded what they no longer needed. At least they put the fires out.
2008-02-25 AZLOT69
Dripping Springs from Woodbury
Day 1:
Wake up early to get to the shuttle. As I pick up my pack, I notice that it is soaking wet...I find out I didn't properly seal my water bladder the night before. With no time to do much about it, I quickly shake it out, reseal the bladder, and towel off the outside of the pack and the puddle. In my haste, I didn't even think to refill the 1.5 liters or so that had drained out.
Met everyone at Miles Trailhead. We head out west on the West Pinto Creek Trail on a cool morning. The hiking is pretty easy, most of it is shaded and in the creek bed. Piece of cake.
At Oak Flat we head north and begin the long climb up the Campaign Trail to get to the Campaign Divide. It looks like the trail has been worked on recently near Oak Flat. There's new trail signs and the trail has been cleared wide...for about the first mile. After that, the trail gradually disintegrates and turns into an all out bushwhack as you approach the divide. Bring your kevlar hiking gear. This was a substantial climb, luckily it wasn't too hot.
We take the rest of Campaign downhill in Campaign Creek until we get to the pines at the Fire Line Intersection. You lose both half of the elevation you gained going up to the divide, and a pint of blood to this other half of the Campaign.
Fireline goes west, up and over Mound Mountain. What better way to get to Reavis Ranch than to climb over the tallest mountain in the Supes with a backpack... Actually, I really liked the Fireline trail. Nearly the entire trail is in the shade and the views are pretty darn good. It is also clear of thorns.
Up at the top, I took a side trip to see Circlestone. It was rather interesting, though it should be cleared of the trees so you could really get a feel for the place and the commanding lookout it has. I also took a look at Mound Mountain. It looked like about a 300 foot climb, but it was both very steep and heavily choked with vegetation. Running low on time and motivation, I passed up the summit. I'll file Mound Mountain peak in my "to do when you are absolutely out of other things to do" file.
Down Fireline to Reavis Ranch, ending with finding water at Reavis Creek. Filtering water that night, I spooked a skunk, or the skunk spooked me. Luckily he was not an angry fellow and the scene played out without any mishaps.
At night, I was finally able to dry out my soaked gear over the fire.
I consumed about 4.5 liters of water, temps ranged mid 40s to upper 70s, or at least that's what it felt like.
Day 1 Water report:
No water sighted on West Pinto Creek to Oak Flat
No water sighted on Campaign Trail to Divide
No water sighted on Campain Trail Divid to intersection with Fireline
No water sighted on Fireline Trail
Water at Reavis Ranch-The creek at Reavis Ranch is flowing...slowly.
(Other hikers indicated they were searching for water at "unmapped springs" near Oak Flat, no idea if they were successful)
Day 2:
Wake up at Reavis. Meant to start out at 8, actually got moving at 9. Headed south on Reavis Trail. This is one beautiful section of trail. Good views, no catclaw, good shade for awhile, what more could you ask for. Eventually, you begin a steep descent down Grave Canyon to get to Rogers. After the last switchback, look for a cairn on the west right as you have gone 50 feet in the creekbed for Reavis Grave.
At the bottom, we continue down Rogers Canyon. There's a little catclaw here and there, but nothing unmanageable. I scoped out the creek for water hiding under boulders and rocks, finding none. I checked out the ruins again, but had to continue on soon enough. The last eighth of a mile to Angel Basin goes through a catclaw forest, so now is a good time to don the kevlar full body armor.
We head south from Angel Basin. You may have a difficult time locating the continuance of Roger's Canyon through here. This is called foreshadowing. The fact that you can't find the trail means that...yep, it's rarely travelled and never maintained. Experienced Supes hikers know that this means one thing: bushwhacking through thorny hell. The portion of Rogers Canyon that climbs up to JF is the worst official trail I have seen in the Supes. The catclaw, shrub oak, and occasional prickley peak are ridiculous. Its not until you hit the switchbacks near the top of Tortilla Pass that it begins to relent. The record-breaking heat wasn't helping either. So fit your gas powered hedgeclippers and self-contained air-conditioner in that ultralightweight pack of yours
At JF, we continue on south and the trail is marginally better. When I hit the Randolph Canyon intersection, I find about half of our group. Apparently they decided to wait for most in the group to catch up. Worried that people wouldn't be able to make it to Dripping Springs, especially since some opted to take Frog Tanks instead, they have been waiting. Some had cached gear in Stiller's car at Woodbury, but with no car keys, couldn't retrieve it yet.
Waiting there, eventually Wally arrives with the keys. Looking at our watches, we decide there is no way the remaining members could make it to Dripping Springs before dark, so we leave a note and head to Woodbury to camp.
I looked around at the windmill and cows at the Woodbury Ranch site and continued on. Since Stiller had extra water in his car, even the people who hadn't cached water could partially refill, so it worked out for everyone.
I consumed about 6 liters of water. Temps ranged from the lower 40s to upper 80s, or at least that's what it felt like. At night, there was a localized hurricane apparently headed right over Woodbury as there were 30-40 mph winds from 6PM to 7AM the next morning.
Day 2 water report:
Water at Reavis Ranch, no water on Reavis Trail once you leave the creek that runs along the first mile of the trail.
No water in Grave Canyon
No water in Rogers Canyon
No water in Angel Basin
No water on western Branch of Rogers Trail
No Water on lower JF Trail south of Rogers Trail
No water at woodbury ranch
Water found in Stiller's car.
(Other hikers report finding water in Fish Creek off of Frog Tanks)
Day 3:
Pack up your gear or watch it fly away in the wind. It never got cold but the wind prevented anyone from sleeping well, especially those in tents. Started out hiking the road to JF Ranch. Passed the ranch and went onto the Coffee Flat Trail. Pretty easy stuff, just stay in the creekbed.
We found water along Coffee Flat Trail, so everyone was able to top off. This relegated the trip to Reeds Water as unnecessary. We keep going until we get to Dripping Springs. Don't count on Dripping Springs for refilling your water. Some people ate breakfast, but I continued on Red Tanks.
Heading north, you bake in the sun on a day for record heat in November. Oh, and there is abundant catclaw as well. The climb is pretty steady once you climb out of the creekbed, until you finally top out at the Red Tanks Divide. I had to rest in the shade of a boulder for 20 minutes to cool down as I felt the oncoming signs of heat exhaustion. (I was thinking I was talking to people who weren't on the hike, when I realized that, I knew it was time to take a break.)
A short time later, I summit over the divide and head down through catclaw hell to get down to the creekbed. Holy Criminey, those thorns are sharp. I swear they have purposely routed that trail through the worst sections of the catclaw just to screw with you. Do many people do this trail? Not by the looks of it.
When I finally drop into the upper labarge creek area, I had to wander around for about 30 minutes to find where the hell you are supposed to go. It's hot out and there are creeks and side trails everywhere. I eventually back track to where I began and start following the creek beds. By the third one I saw a cairn and followed it to the signs at the intersection of Hoolie and Red Tanks.
You begin the steep climb up into Upper Labarge Box. I catch up briefly to some of the people ahead of me, but then take a break and am on my own again. Upper Labarge Box is pretty interesting, but the trail is precarious along the upper portion of the northern cliffs. I pass up climbing to Herman's cave, which I have done before and wouldn't recommend, and continue on down the canyon.
Finding the intersection with Whiskey, it is a fairly level walk along Red Tanks. This portion is definitely in worse shape then when I hiked it last year. There is more catclaw and there are several camping areas with side trails going every which way that have obscured where the hell the true trail is supposed to continue.
Eventually I make it to LaBarge Spring, where we decided to camp for the night, versus continuing on to Charlesbois.
I consumed about 6.5 liters of water. Temps ranged from the lower 50s to the low 90s, or at least that's what it felt like. I slept like a baby that night.
Day 3 water report:
Water found on Coffee Flat Trail.
Dripping Springs was Dripping, but not really useful.
Stagnant water found in Randolph Canyon intersection with Red Tanks.
No water seen in upper Red Tanks to Upper Labarge Box.
No water seen in Upper Labarge Box. (Some hikers reported seeing a pool somewhere, I might have missed it, it may not be accessible.)
No water sighted along Red Tanks from Whiskey Spring to Dutchman.
LaBarge Spring was flowing at about a liter a minute.
Day 4:
Wake up and find people ready to head out. We march on the Dutchman. I found the Peralta master Map, but I zoned out and didn't really scope out Charlesbois, Needle Canyon, Marsh Valley, or Hidden Valley like I had wanted to. It got gradually hotter and hotter, but I finished before it go too hot. Then, waited at the trailhead for everyone else to finish.
I consumed about 4 liters of water. Temps ranged from the mid 40s to the mid 90s, or at least that's what it felt like. I finished before it got quite that hot though.
Day 4 Water report:
No water sighted along Dutchman.
(Other hikers reported that Charlesbois is flowing, but the trough is nearly empty.)
It was great hiking with all of you. This was a great trip, even though the weather in November didn't cooperate with our plans. I had almost all of these trails on my wish lists and can't believe we did them all in 3 and a half days.
Wake up early to get to the shuttle. As I pick up my pack, I notice that it is soaking wet...I find out I didn't properly seal my water bladder the night before. With no time to do much about it, I quickly shake it out, reseal the bladder, and towel off the outside of the pack and the puddle. In my haste, I didn't even think to refill the 1.5 liters or so that had drained out.
Met everyone at Miles Trailhead. We head out west on the West Pinto Creek Trail on a cool morning. The hiking is pretty easy, most of it is shaded and in the creek bed. Piece of cake.
At Oak Flat we head north and begin the long climb up the Campaign Trail to get to the Campaign Divide. It looks like the trail has been worked on recently near Oak Flat. There's new trail signs and the trail has been cleared wide...for about the first mile. After that, the trail gradually disintegrates and turns into an all out bushwhack as you approach the divide. Bring your kevlar hiking gear. This was a substantial climb, luckily it wasn't too hot.
We take the rest of Campaign downhill in Campaign Creek until we get to the pines at the Fire Line Intersection. You lose both half of the elevation you gained going up to the divide, and a pint of blood to this other half of the Campaign.
Fireline goes west, up and over Mound Mountain. What better way to get to Reavis Ranch than to climb over the tallest mountain in the Supes with a backpack... Actually, I really liked the Fireline trail. Nearly the entire trail is in the shade and the views are pretty darn good. It is also clear of thorns.
Up at the top, I took a side trip to see Circlestone. It was rather interesting, though it should be cleared of the trees so you could really get a feel for the place and the commanding lookout it has. I also took a look at Mound Mountain. It looked like about a 300 foot climb, but it was both very steep and heavily choked with vegetation. Running low on time and motivation, I passed up the summit. I'll file Mound Mountain peak in my "to do when you are absolutely out of other things to do" file.
Down Fireline to Reavis Ranch, ending with finding water at Reavis Creek. Filtering water that night, I spooked a skunk, or the skunk spooked me. Luckily he was not an angry fellow and the scene played out without any mishaps.
At night, I was finally able to dry out my soaked gear over the fire.
I consumed about 4.5 liters of water, temps ranged mid 40s to upper 70s, or at least that's what it felt like.
Day 1 Water report:
No water sighted on West Pinto Creek to Oak Flat
No water sighted on Campaign Trail to Divide
No water sighted on Campain Trail Divid to intersection with Fireline
No water sighted on Fireline Trail
Water at Reavis Ranch-The creek at Reavis Ranch is flowing...slowly.
(Other hikers indicated they were searching for water at "unmapped springs" near Oak Flat, no idea if they were successful)
Day 2:
Wake up at Reavis. Meant to start out at 8, actually got moving at 9. Headed south on Reavis Trail. This is one beautiful section of trail. Good views, no catclaw, good shade for awhile, what more could you ask for. Eventually, you begin a steep descent down Grave Canyon to get to Rogers. After the last switchback, look for a cairn on the west right as you have gone 50 feet in the creekbed for Reavis Grave.
At the bottom, we continue down Rogers Canyon. There's a little catclaw here and there, but nothing unmanageable. I scoped out the creek for water hiding under boulders and rocks, finding none. I checked out the ruins again, but had to continue on soon enough. The last eighth of a mile to Angel Basin goes through a catclaw forest, so now is a good time to don the kevlar full body armor.
We head south from Angel Basin. You may have a difficult time locating the continuance of Roger's Canyon through here. This is called foreshadowing. The fact that you can't find the trail means that...yep, it's rarely travelled and never maintained. Experienced Supes hikers know that this means one thing: bushwhacking through thorny hell. The portion of Rogers Canyon that climbs up to JF is the worst official trail I have seen in the Supes. The catclaw, shrub oak, and occasional prickley peak are ridiculous. Its not until you hit the switchbacks near the top of Tortilla Pass that it begins to relent. The record-breaking heat wasn't helping either. So fit your gas powered hedgeclippers and self-contained air-conditioner in that ultralightweight pack of yours
At JF, we continue on south and the trail is marginally better. When I hit the Randolph Canyon intersection, I find about half of our group. Apparently they decided to wait for most in the group to catch up. Worried that people wouldn't be able to make it to Dripping Springs, especially since some opted to take Frog Tanks instead, they have been waiting. Some had cached gear in Stiller's car at Woodbury, but with no car keys, couldn't retrieve it yet.
Waiting there, eventually Wally arrives with the keys. Looking at our watches, we decide there is no way the remaining members could make it to Dripping Springs before dark, so we leave a note and head to Woodbury to camp.
I looked around at the windmill and cows at the Woodbury Ranch site and continued on. Since Stiller had extra water in his car, even the people who hadn't cached water could partially refill, so it worked out for everyone.
I consumed about 6 liters of water. Temps ranged from the lower 40s to upper 80s, or at least that's what it felt like. At night, there was a localized hurricane apparently headed right over Woodbury as there were 30-40 mph winds from 6PM to 7AM the next morning.
Day 2 water report:
Water at Reavis Ranch, no water on Reavis Trail once you leave the creek that runs along the first mile of the trail.
No water in Grave Canyon
No water in Rogers Canyon
No water in Angel Basin
No water on western Branch of Rogers Trail
No Water on lower JF Trail south of Rogers Trail
No water at woodbury ranch
Water found in Stiller's car.
(Other hikers report finding water in Fish Creek off of Frog Tanks)
Day 3:
Pack up your gear or watch it fly away in the wind. It never got cold but the wind prevented anyone from sleeping well, especially those in tents. Started out hiking the road to JF Ranch. Passed the ranch and went onto the Coffee Flat Trail. Pretty easy stuff, just stay in the creekbed.
We found water along Coffee Flat Trail, so everyone was able to top off. This relegated the trip to Reeds Water as unnecessary. We keep going until we get to Dripping Springs. Don't count on Dripping Springs for refilling your water. Some people ate breakfast, but I continued on Red Tanks.
Heading north, you bake in the sun on a day for record heat in November. Oh, and there is abundant catclaw as well. The climb is pretty steady once you climb out of the creekbed, until you finally top out at the Red Tanks Divide. I had to rest in the shade of a boulder for 20 minutes to cool down as I felt the oncoming signs of heat exhaustion. (I was thinking I was talking to people who weren't on the hike, when I realized that, I knew it was time to take a break.)
A short time later, I summit over the divide and head down through catclaw hell to get down to the creekbed. Holy Criminey, those thorns are sharp. I swear they have purposely routed that trail through the worst sections of the catclaw just to screw with you. Do many people do this trail? Not by the looks of it.
When I finally drop into the upper labarge creek area, I had to wander around for about 30 minutes to find where the hell you are supposed to go. It's hot out and there are creeks and side trails everywhere. I eventually back track to where I began and start following the creek beds. By the third one I saw a cairn and followed it to the signs at the intersection of Hoolie and Red Tanks.
You begin the steep climb up into Upper Labarge Box. I catch up briefly to some of the people ahead of me, but then take a break and am on my own again. Upper Labarge Box is pretty interesting, but the trail is precarious along the upper portion of the northern cliffs. I pass up climbing to Herman's cave, which I have done before and wouldn't recommend, and continue on down the canyon.
Finding the intersection with Whiskey, it is a fairly level walk along Red Tanks. This portion is definitely in worse shape then when I hiked it last year. There is more catclaw and there are several camping areas with side trails going every which way that have obscured where the hell the true trail is supposed to continue.
Eventually I make it to LaBarge Spring, where we decided to camp for the night, versus continuing on to Charlesbois.
I consumed about 6.5 liters of water. Temps ranged from the lower 50s to the low 90s, or at least that's what it felt like. I slept like a baby that night.
Day 3 water report:
Water found on Coffee Flat Trail.
Dripping Springs was Dripping, but not really useful.
Stagnant water found in Randolph Canyon intersection with Red Tanks.
No water seen in upper Red Tanks to Upper Labarge Box.
No water seen in Upper Labarge Box. (Some hikers reported seeing a pool somewhere, I might have missed it, it may not be accessible.)
No water sighted along Red Tanks from Whiskey Spring to Dutchman.
LaBarge Spring was flowing at about a liter a minute.
Day 4:
Wake up and find people ready to head out. We march on the Dutchman. I found the Peralta master Map, but I zoned out and didn't really scope out Charlesbois, Needle Canyon, Marsh Valley, or Hidden Valley like I had wanted to. It got gradually hotter and hotter, but I finished before it go too hot. Then, waited at the trailhead for everyone else to finish.
I consumed about 4 liters of water. Temps ranged from the mid 40s to the mid 90s, or at least that's what it felt like. I finished before it got quite that hot though.
Day 4 Water report:
No water sighted along Dutchman.
(Other hikers reported that Charlesbois is flowing, but the trough is nearly empty.)
It was great hiking with all of you. This was a great trip, even though the weather in November didn't cooperate with our plans. I had almost all of these trails on my wish lists and can't believe we did them all in 3 and a half days.
2007-11-06 nonot
