Backpacing over Christmas

[Dorte]

Hi,
My partner and I will be in Arizona over xmas, and would appreciate tips for a 3-4 day backpacking trip anywhere in Arizona. Unfortunately Havasu Falls is closed!Any ideas?
Cheers,
Dorte

[azbackpackr]

Is it still closed? The website says they will not take reservations until Nov 1. Did you call them?

Weather may be a factor, especially up high. How about the Canyon? Hermit-Tonto-Bright Angel is nice. The Superstitions have a lot of lower elevation options. You could hike the inner canyons of the Catalinas for several days, too, and stay pretty low.

[Jim]

Hmmm, I wouldn't mind packing over that time frame...

[nonot]

Being Arizonans, many of us are desert dwellers avoid the cold. Hence the most popular winter backpack spots tend to be in the low elevation desert areas - Cave Creek, Superstition Mountains, White Canyon Wilderness, Four Peaks, Arivaipa, and other areas near western Tucson, Phoenix, and generally low desert. If you are not opposed to a little snow you options expand somewhat. Considering you indicate you are a Canadian, then areas like the Grand Canyon will provide excellent backpack opportunities, possibly some of the Highline trail, as well as eastern Tucson areas in the Catalinas. Most of southern AZT might be enjoyable. The Mazatzals are an option though trail maintenance is sporadic, and some trails were damaged by a fire several years ago.

[Dorte]

Thank you for your suggestions. I'll do some reseach on the suggested trails, and I'll call Havasu for sure.

[josssmith]

I would also suggest the Highline trail. It is 51 miles but can easily be done in 4 days, and it is just beautiful.