HikeArizona.COM

Thinking of heading up to the Big Ditch tomorrow and spending the 4th at the canyon (apparently, with the masses). Mather is full; Desert View seems like it will almost certainly be full. Going to see if we can get a FC/FS campsite at the Ten-X campground, but I'm not optimistic. Barring that, it's dispersed camping. Any suggestions on a good location for a dispersed camping overnighter in the area?

A few good spots along FR 328 and its offshoots.http://hikearizona.com/map.php?QX=4087

In addition to FR328 on the west side, the east side offers beautiful ponderosa forest and lots of open space. FR688, FR302, FR303, and FR310 and FR301 all offer great dispersed options. 310 parallels the Coconino Rim and the AZT as well, and Grandview Lookout is a nice spot to visit if you're on the east side.

Make sure to download the Kaibab National Forest Motor Vehicle Use Map here: http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/kaibab/ma ... rdb5392529
It features all the roads open to motorized travel in the area. Options available for your computer, Garmin, or smartphone.

You are only permitted to drive and park 30-feet off any road marked on the map. Roads not marked on the map are closed and motorized travel is not permitted and can result in a ticket and fine.

Thanks, Chumley. Already had the MVUM downloaded and printed a copy as well. :-)

I'll just agree with Uncle Chums suggestions and add in that I have a shower in Tusayan if you need one before you head home :p

We have stayed on FR688 a few times. Only a little way in. It served it's purpose. We could get up and be in the Park hiking early. You do here the copters flying over until dark and the firewood is picked clean.

Hippy wrote:. . . I have a shower in Tusayan if you need one before you head home :p

You are very gracious, thanks for the offer but most folks can get to Mather campground and use the commercial showers. If I remember right it's just a $1.50. You don't need the dirt and commotion in your house. I think folks should show you respect and clean up before they take advantage of your hospitality. Jes' sayin'

I'm pretty sure I can handle a little dirt in my shower. The offer stands. I'd enjoy a visit and some trail chat anyway. People out here don't hike so I rarely get to chat trails n hikes n routes.

Also last I checked Mather's showers are $2 in quarters for 3 minutes. Your choice. I'm not demanding anyone to visit and use my shower haha it was a kind gesture to any of my fellow HAZzers. Even Chumley.

At the camper services showers (near Mather CG & laundry) showers run $2.00 for 8 minutes. A towel is included.

Hippy wrote:The offer stands. I'd enjoy a visit and some trail chat anyway.

Thanks again for the offer, @Hippy. As I mentioned in my triplog, I do have my eye on the Battleship as a day hike destination in the near future. I may hit you up for some tips if/when I get another trip put together.