Route Editor
Route Scout
Brush with nature by joebartels  Notice Tony's Ranch is closed to visitors as directed by the United States Army Corp of Engineers. Overview Hike from the origin of Haunted Canyon down to Tony's Cabin and back. The trail is overgrown and requires attention crossing the dry creek dozens of times. This hike isn't for casual backpackers. It is the best option for solitude to Tony's Cabin or to capture the essence of Autumn. Summary The trail is easy to find from the saddle that seperates Woods Camp Canyon and Haunted Canyon. I started down in the fog. Considering this was my first time in the area I was relying heavily on GPS. One moment I could see a mile away. Then seconds later I could taste the damp clouds drifting past. It was awesome. Almost immediately I encouted a corral of sorts. On the return trip I ventured around (aka got off track) and discovered one and maybe two springs with pipes to water troughs. Who knows, maybe this is the last resting and watering stop before heading down into the desert below. Soon after the corral you will pass a triple water trough ( trôf ) and a gateway. The trail makes an abrupt dash up and across the mountain side. Trust panned out as it was the route to take. If you look at the map I included you might get thoughts of shaving a half a mile off this hike. The slope is solid manzanita so I'd probably forget those thoughts. Now as to why the trail cuts up the mountain... There's a ten foot waterfall that's being avoided. This trail was definitely cut with horses in mind. It's good to remember the true trail only goes where horses can travel. The trail drops slightly more in the beginning and then levels out the last half mile. Aside from the waterfall bypass there aren't any strenous ascents/descents. I recommend going when it's cool enough to comfortably wear jeans. The trail is overgrown nearly all the way with the exception of the last half mile or so to Tony's Cabin. I wore shorts and dearly paid the price, nevertheless I'm still smiling because it was a fun area to experience. The trail crosses the dry creek dozens of times. Sometimes it's subtle and sometimes it seems wrong but it always seemed to work out from what I could tell. Just keep thinking horses and it makes perfect sense. The final stretch to Tony's Cabin is pure heaven. If it doesn't touch your soul it's probably missing. 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.
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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.
