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Mule Mountain - 1 member in 1 triplog has rated this an average 4 ( 1 to 5 best )
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Jan 11 2009
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 Guides 170
 Routes 148
 Photos 5,914
 Triplogs 2,097

48 male
 Joined Apr 12 2004
 Tucson, AZ
Mule MountainTucson, AZ
Tucson, AZ
Hiking avatar Jan 11 2009
PrestonSandsTriplogs 2,097
Hiking3.00 Miles 850 AEG
Hiking3.00 Miles   2 Hrs   30 Mns   1.20 mph
850 ft AEG
 
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
Craving a small scale adventure, I headed west-southwest from Blackjack Campground, and bushwhacked up a subtle ridge rising from the 6327' point near highway 78. Once on top of the relatively flat mountain, occasional open patches in the snowy juniper-pinyon forest provided some great views to the south and east. Arriving at the summit's basaltic rim, the mountainside fell away to the highway, over 1000 feet below, revealing an outstanding view to the west. I started a register, although I know no one else will ever come up here besides me ;) After enjoying the view, I scouted for a descent route, and gave the south ridge of the mountain a shot. This turned out to be the sweet route, with a few cliffs and views galore to keep things interesting. A large white tailed deer bounded up the rocks as I went down. At the bottom of the ridge, I stumbled onto the old highway alignment, and followed it back, returning to my truck by starlight. With the heater chasing away the high country's January chill, I drove down the highway listening to disturbing folk music (if there is such a thing), while watching a fiery moon rise in my rear view mirror. It was an afternoon and evening well spent.
 Geology
 Geology [ checklist ]
[ checklist ]  Basalt
 Culture
 Culture [ checklist ]
[ checklist ]  Benchmark
_____________________
"…you never know when a hike might break out" -Jim Gaffigan
 
average hiking speed 1.2 mph

WARNING! Hiking and outdoor related sports can be dangerous. Be responsible and prepare for the trip. Study the area you are entering and plan accordingly. Dress for the current and unexpected weather changes. Take plenty of water. Never go alone. Make an itinerary with your plan(s), route(s), destination(s) and expected return time. Give your itinerary to trusted family and/or friends.

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