| |
|
| | |
|
| Hiking | 4.76 Miles |
1,580 AEG |
| | Hiking | 4.76 Miles | 3 Hrs 45 Mns | | 2.00 mph |
| 1,580 ft AEG | 1 Hour 22 Mns Break | 10 LBS Pack | | |
|
|
| |
| Linked |
|
none
[ show ]
| no linked trail guides |
| Partners |
|
none
[ show ]
| no partners | | Traveled up the switchbacks to what must be that spectacular vista called "Gila View" by some. It's the one with the big cairn on top. If this vista doesn't have an official name it should. What a grand view to the south, to the Gila River, to that strange outcropping on the desert floor called Pima Butte and beyond.
The first white men to venture into central Arizona Territory, the Walker Party, traveled just below the vista, heading for the Gila Gap between what is now South Mountain and the Estrellas.
A few days ago, I'd looked up the switchbacks and thought they looked dauntingly steep. From a small ravine, the trail ascends 757 feet in el to Gila View over .82 mi, according to my GPS. That averages out at 923' a mile, just below my standard for "very steep." To my surprise, it wasn't that strenuous. Made it up to the vista in 40 minutes, including a 5-10 min water break.
It was windy the higher I went, and I was dressed too lightly for the cool air. But the trail from start to finish is a work of art and a hiker's delight. Narrow, winding and with remarkable views at every turn. Stayed at the vista too long and decided to turn-around here. The rest of the Pyramid to the north looked neither challenging nor exiciting. I'll finish it off another time. Maybe from Telegraph. Fairly busy in late afternoon. Counted 16 hikers, three runners and two bikers before getting back to the West Chandler Blvd deadend. |
| _____________________
| | |
|
|
|
|
|
| |
Route Editor
Route Scout
