Looking for full day loops

[johnhaws]

Hey everyone~

I'm brand new on here and I am planning to be in Phoenix in the middle of March. My wife and I would love to take on a few challenging loop hikes within 100 or so miles from town. Any suggestions? Challenging to us would be 6+ hours and elevation changes would be welcome.

We are also into rock climbing/bouldering so if anyone has any suggestions for that we'd love to hear it too.

Cheers!
John & Jen

[joebartels]

Hey John,

Probably throw these at the top of your list.
Weaver's Needle Loop
Bluff Spring Loop & Weaver's View

You can click on the gold "TrailDEX" link upper left any page and manipulate all kinds of setting including "loops", "distance", "Phoenix" or "Tuscon" would be your target.

[Vaporman]

As for rock climbing, it'll start getting a little toasty up there, but I recommend The Pond of Queen Creek Canyon for its long pumpy routes or Pancake house of Upper Devils Canyon if you want more afternoon shade. Climbing topos can be purchased at the local REI.

[johnhaws]

Joe B~

Thanks for the tip. I feel kind of sheepish now about my post after seeing the TrailDex and how specific it can be.

I'm thinking of giving Queen a try. . .I'll bring plenty of chalk.

Thanks guys!

[Reavishiker]

Last May we hiked the Icehouse trail up and the Sixshooter Canyon down. This is outside of Globe Az on Mt. Pinal. The trail starts in a high desert area and takes you up 3000 ft through Pine and Aspen trees. At the top, is the organized campground that is usually sparse. We decided to to camp on a Friday night in our VW bus up there. Then we drove down to the trail head, hiked up. Had lunch at the top, then hiked down the Sixshooter Canyon. This is by far the most awesome hike I have done locally. Globe is not too far, and the views are great. I'll dig up photos and see if I have GPS info to post this weekend.