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| Hiking | 9.36 Miles |
1,524 AEG |
| | Hiking | 9.36 Miles | 4 Hrs 6 Mns | | 2.43 mph |
| 1,524 ft AEG | 15 Mns Break | | | |
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| no partners | | This was an out and back hike from the Highline TH just below the Tonto Fish Hatchery to Horton Spring. I was looking for a beat the heat hike somewhere along the Highline trail, preferably a section I hadn't been on. I saw a triplog posted by @jamminaz from Aug 4th that met both requirements so I decided to give it a go.
As I drove through Payson, the temps were in the low 70's with nary a cloud in the sky. Probably a little cooler at the TH. Perfect. After crossing over Tonto creek, just as the trail bends back left and up the hill, I saw a use trail continuing to the south. I took the use trail to see what might be down that way. It ended about a third of mile later next to the creek where there was a nice fishing hole, a good place to take a dip or to have a picnic. Maybe all three.
Back to the hike. The trail is in good shape overall, excellent in spots, overgrown with tall grass in the middle section, but easy to follow. This section of trail seemed more exposed than other sections I've been on, providing nice views of the rim to the north and expansive views to the south. That was great on the way out, but on a warm day, that exposure could be a problem. It was warm and I certainly felt it on the way back  .
No matter if it was warm or not, it was still a great day to be out. With only two hikes this year of 10 or more miles, this was a stretch for me. I felt it when I finally got home. No complaints, though; I had a great time and that's all that matters. |
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