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| Hiking | 11.52 Miles |
1,737 AEG |
| | Hiking | 11.52 Miles | 5 Hrs 18 Mns | | 2.23 mph |
| 1,737 ft AEG | 8 Mns Break | 8 LBS Pack | | |
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[ show ]
| partners | | I met Linda to a beautiful, clear, 54 degree, 6:30 am start.
The Supes are incredibly green and colorful right now. The major color flora players (in order of qty) are Brittlebush, Globemallow, Phlox, Desert Marigold, Fairy Duster, Fleabane, Lupine, Owl Clover, Blackfoot Daisy, Desert Chicory, Poppy. I'm not a huge fan of Globemallow, but the sheer number of them contrasting with the green grasses were quite impressive.
We headed on a CCW loop, easily crossing the flowing First Water Creek a couple two or 3 times. On the turn up Little Boulder Canyon to the arch, the water as also flowing nicely. We were able to keep our feet dry all the way. I don't think I've ever hit the start of the bottom part of the route correctly. The climb is steep, loose and overgrown (grasses) in many spots.
Scurrying around the top of Palomino Mountain is my favorite portion of this hike. The views and geology are top notch. Especially with all the green and flowing water out there.
I'm not a huge fan of the Black Mesa Trail #241. It didn't seem as bad going up, but the windless heat was starting to build. There are fields of Globemallow on this track that just don't quit. Quite impressive. We both commented that it did not feel like we were in the Superstitions.
It's going to be hell out here in a few weeks. The Foxtail is mature and will start drying out very soon. There is a bumper crop this year that will make off trail travel a PITA. It was 86 degrees when we finished just before noon.
Good times as always hiking with Linda, especially with all the complements she through my way today. She must be softening up in her golden years. |
| _____________________
There is a very fine line between "hobby" and "mental illness."
Dave Barry  |
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