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| Backpack | 15.75 Miles |
2,947 AEG |
| | Backpack | 15.75 Miles | 2 Days | | |
| 2,947 ft AEG | | 43 LBS Pack | | |
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| partners | | Baldy 2012
Heading east out of Safford on highway 191 on Friday evening, I drove through the Black Hills and soon came to a stop near Black Jack Canyon to enjoy an amazing sunset over my old favorite Big Lue Mountains. Awhile later I resumed my journey, which took me east, then north, through Mule Creek, Glenwood, Luna, and finally Alpine. I drove into the White Mountains toward Big Lake, trying to assess the Wallow Fire damage in the glow of my headlights.
Arriving at Sheep's Crossing trailhead, I pulled out my tripod for a few star shots while getting my backpack ready. I finally set off down the West Baldy Trail around midnight, under the light of my headlamp. I arrived at John and Jason's campsite a little before 2 am, quietly set up my tent, then took one last star photo before going to bed.
Saturday morning I awoke to Jason's hello, and the three of us were soon hiking up the West Baldy Trail, bound for Mount Baldy's summit. We enjoyed perfect conditions on top, met SkyIslandHiker, reveled, watched clouds build, and signed the register before heading back down to our camp for an afternoon of slothfulness by the Little Colorado River.
After a brief rain shower and the usual Mountain House dinner, a lone elk appeared at the meadow's edge at sunset. It watched us for a moment before disappearing into the trees.
Well after dark, a set of low, widely spaced, reflective eyes watched us from the woods on the other side of camp. We walked across the meadow to investigate, but the mystery creature quickly vanished. I cursed myself for having forgotten my game camera. Oh well. One last star photo then it was off to bed.
Sunday morning, Jason and John were up early to begin their hike back to the trailhead. I lingered in camp alone until noon, deep in thought, not wanting to leave this wonderful place of refuge. I finally set off under a mix of blazing sun and increasing quantities of clouds. Back at the trailhead, I began the long drive westward to home through Show Low, Heber, and Payson.
Another great trip. These kind of outings need to happen more often.  |
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Wildflowers Observation Light
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| "…you never know when a hike might break out" -Jim Gaffigan |
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