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I have some diehard backpacking / fishing buddies coming into Phoenix at the end of May and they are looking for a good overnight backpacking trip that has a few good fishing holes along the way. Does anybody have some suggestions?

PS: I have already taken them to Hellsgate / Tonto Creek area.

Thanks in advance,


Matt

I've run into a similar situation with some friends. With the Grand Canyon out of the question (only have two days and don't want to be rushed), I was thinking maybe something that will connect with the Verde River Trail 11. Like, maybe Red Creek to the Verde River Trail, then I don't know after that. Then again, I don't know if one would have to cross the river from Red Creek to hit the verde trail, and the river's probably a little high right now. Tramway/Maxwell Loop in West Clear Creek would be good, but I already have a day trip planned on the Maxwell Trail in June. Hmm... Anyone else have ideas?

For that matter, might as well bounce a sturdy vehicle to Sheep's Bridge and just go up the Verde trail (which is like 27 miles all told). If you're worried about the heat, head down to the Verde via Deadman's Mesa ( near Strawberry). The trick is getting back out...

Tony

Thanks for the ideas. We decided on Wet Beaver Canyon Loop. I don't know how the fishing will be, but it sounds like a lot of fun. Does anyone know what the water levels will be like on Memorial day?

Matt

bradfeldt wrote:We decided on Wet Beaver Canyon Loop. I don't know how the fishing will be, but it sounds like a lot of fun. Does anyone know what the water levels will be like on Memorial day?

While the water level won't be "high", you'll still be swimming a great deal regardless. The water will probably be very cold as well. As far as fishing, I know that there is small-mouth bass in Wet Beaver Creek, as well as some kind of suckerfish, (like a Sonoran Sucker or something like that. They were big.) I'm not sure about trout, but it wouldn't surprise me.