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| Hiking | 4.60 Miles |
750 AEG |
| | Hiking | 4.60 Miles | 4 Hrs 30 Mns | | 1.19 mph |
| 750 ft AEG | 39 Mns Break | 15 LBS Pack | | |
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| no partners | | I had hiked the Bluff Springs Trail many times with many destinations. I had heard about a trail in Barks Canyon. I did some reading in Carlson's book as well as hikearizona.com. My hike began at 6:30 A.M., giving me plenty of time, I hoped.
The trail north of the wash began as a gentle incline and was well cairned. I reached the first saddle and took in the spectacular views. The lichen laced mountain to the west was magnificent. I found the cairned trail and made my way to the wash below. I explored the area to the south but knew I would be hiking the north side of the wash north and west to another saddle.
Having reached the top I had some decisions to make. I saw a huge round boulder with a cairn on top, but it seemed to be taking me in the wrong direction. I thought I had to be farther north before heading east, but decided to bushwhack down and follow a wash eastward.
Following the wash, animal paths, and an old trail with sporadic cairns brought me to a familiar looking valley. To the south was the landmark mountain bordering the Barks Canyon wash. To the east were boulders I recognized as being on the Bluff Springs Trail not far from the junction with the Terrapin trail.
I hiked up from the wash to the trail. I immediately dropped my backpack and rested a few minutes. The hike back to Peralta was ordinary.
I look forward to hiking Barks again, maybe with a hiking partner, to aid in decision making near the salt slick area. Also, someone with whom to share this incredible experience. |
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Route Editor
Route Scout
