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| Hiking | 28.20 Miles |
4,617 AEG |
| | Hiking | 28.20 Miles | 14 Hrs 23 Mns | | 1.96 mph |
| 4,617 ft AEG | | 12 LBS Pack | | |
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| no partners | | Dan and I hiked this passage over two days. Stopping at Gapgage Wash (mile 13) the first day and continuing on from that location the second day.
This is a perfect example of the need for a backup plan when you do these hikes. We had a flawless plan to leave a vehicle at each end of the passage and one at mile 13 with supplies to camp out and water for the second day. This was a 3 person plan. At 6AM on Saturday morning, two of us are sitting at the trailhead and the third member calls to say he isn't going to be able to make the trip. Ugh! After reviewing all the possible scenarios, we opted for some creative vehicle juggling.
On day one, we left one vehicle at mile 13 and drove the other to the Tiger Mine TH. From there we hiked north to mile 13. We drove back to Tiger Mine TH and took both vehicles to the Freeman TH where we spent the night. On day two, we drove one truck back to mile 13 and hiked the second half of the passage to the Freeman TH. Lucky for us, we both have 4x4 trucks so running up the Gapgage wash was not a problem and quite fun. I think a 4x2 could make it, but the sand may cause problems is spots. Should anyone desire my GPX file for getting to mile 13, just let me know.
The hike itself was great. Gradual elevation gains and great views along the way. The temperature was in the low 80's and windy, but just enough wind to keep you cool. In two days, we passed two other people on the trail. Both within 5 miles of the Tiger Mine TH on day one. We got passed by a biker heading North and a fast moving girl headed south.
The trail itself was in good condition, with plenty of markers and Cairns along the way. There were a few spots where the trail was hard to spot because of new growth from recent rains. Nothing we couldn't handle. We didn't see a single snake on the trail, but we did get to spend some quality time with a large Gila monster on day two.
Looking back, we probably could have done this section in one day, but there is no way we would have had time to enjoy the journey. Another great AZT hike! |
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