Baldy Loop Backpacking

[erock]

I'm planning on doing the Baldy Loop as a two day backpacking trip later this summer with some friends. Anyone have info on where some good camping spots are along the way? I'm thinking of starting from the east trail and looping it clockwise. Thanks!

[azbackpackr]

There are lots of good campsites, but for the ones higher up you may need to carry in your water. The prettiest campsites are along both East and West forks of the Little Colorado. The least crowded trail is the east. The west trail gets a lot of traffic from fly fishermen, hikers, backpackers, horse packers, etc. But you can always find somewhere to camp. There is lots of room.

[sam_hikes]

Seems like most camp along the LC on the West Baldy where you go 4 miles along it whereas you only see the LC for a short distance along the East Baldy trail. Also, on the subject of Mt Baldy, ADOT just re-opened both hwy 261 & 273 today after using their snow blaster to clear the usual drifts on 273.

[sam_hikes]

FYI - Frank Carl Patane, 60, of Tucson, was last seen on Aug. 11, 2011 while hiking the West Baldy trail. Story I recall was he was staying at a lodge in Greer who reported him overdue-a couple reported passing him on the trail and his signature and vehicle were found at the trailhead.

Last I heard the family had increased the reward to $20k below...

http://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews ... 56.pdf.pdf

[azbackpackr]

I've thought about searching, but never have.

[erock]

Thanks for the info on camping. And also about Frank - I remember hearing about that in the news. I'll be sure to keep an eye open.