Also, I should mention that I chose 80/Apache Trail as our route into Tonto NF because it looks like an awesome drive. We'll be renting a minivan in Phoenix, most likely. If there's more stuff to do by entering farther south on 60, we would certainly consider that.

the farmington does fish nicely! I am starting to learn the ropes of fly fishing, and having the river so close was a big plus for us moving to this area Okay, Joe. I put together a map of sorts to help anyone willing to offer suggestions. I am attaching the map to this message. I've got guidebooks,...

thanks guys. I like the idea of keeping it flexible. Guess we kind of need to, and like was suggested, check the weather prior to our departure. yeah, did some driving calculations -- looks like superstition area would add a few hours to the total commute from PHX to GC. Split over a few days, I'm s...

thanks Joe I was hoping you would chime in. I saw your name on one of the top contributor listings. What's camping at Oak Creek like? You make it sound like a not-so-good thing... :) Is it worth looking at the national forest area... superstition wilderness, etc. I wonder if it's any warmer down the...

Hello all, nice to be here. I'm leading a small Connecticut group (5) flying into Phoenix late February. We have a couple days to make our way up to Grand Canyon for a 5-day hike there, starting 3/1/11. The GC hike is all planned out, but the two days leading up to it are not. I'm looking for ideas ...