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12 triplogs
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Apr 04 2010
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 Guides 1
 Photos 154
 Triplogs 12

53 male
 Joined Dec 04 2005
 Phoenix, AZ
Flatiron Hike - SuperstitionsPhoenix, AZ
Flatiron Hike - Superstitions
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Apr 04 2010
Jame • Triplogs 12
Hiking5.40 Miles 2,780 AEG
Hiking5.40 Miles
2,780 ft AEG
 no routes
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
This was my hiking partner's first ascend to Flatiron and as usual, it turned out to be an excellent hike!

Unfortunately, we came across graffiti on the way up Siphon Draw. It may have been there before, but I don't remember seeing it last month. It's pathetic to think that someone actually used a stencil to spray paint a rock.

Despite not bringing our rock climbing shoes, we tried some bouldering in hiking boots...it didn't quite feel the same. ;)

Another interesting thing we spotted was a white cross on the south side of Siphon Draw in between the canyons near the top of the cliff. Did someone fall there? Never seen it before. Wasn't able to zoom in far enough to photograph it.

As we hiked down, it was getting near sunset and were able to take some cook pictures with the sun contrasting the rocks. Also, by the time we hit the road, I found this cool Lost Dutchman sign which screamed PHOTOGRAPH with the sun behind it.
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Mar 28 2010
avatar

 Guides 1
 Photos 154
 Triplogs 12

53 male
 Joined Dec 04 2005
 Phoenix, AZ
N Mountain Preserve off E ThunderbirdPhoenix, AZ
N Mountain Preserve off E Thunderbird
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Mar 28 2010
Jame • Triplogs 12
Hiking10.00 Miles
Hiking10.00 Miles
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
As a native Phoenician and growing up in the north valley, I've spent countless summers during my youth at North Mountain! However, as time went on and I moved on to more challenging 'adult' things, I lost the allure to this special place until this weekend!

It had been at least 20 years since I treked the North Mountain Preserve. After a little story telling of the old CLOUD NINE restaurant in the Preserve, my hiking buddy who is from California was eager to check out the ruins.

We started the hike up the North Mountain service road across from The Pointe Hilton. I told her about all the yellow ribbons that everyone tied to the chain link fence around the towers at the beginning of the first gulf war in 1991.

We hiked around the towers and down the mountain to intersect Trail 100. From there we went up to the ruins.

It brought back so many memories of me and my friends hanging out there in the mid-eighties. Even though this hike couldn't compare to those fond memories, this hike turned out to be something special all to itself.

We decided to go off trail and hike down the east side of the ruins, alondside the debris where the owners discarded their trash from the 50s... We were AMAZED at the old junk we found on the way down. Everything from 1950's Pepsi-Cola bottles to old fire extinquishers! It was totally cool!

Also found was this cool old FOR SALE sign from LOOK REALITY. The address was partially faded but the remaining numbers coincide with CLOUD NINE's location. Could this have been one of the few signs the owner posted after his business went up in flames? For those of you who dont know, CLOUD NINE only lasted for a few years before it mysteriously burned down in the late 50s. It was only open for business for a few years. I had the privilege of working with an old man back in the early 90s who ate there one time. Very cool!

We also came across several deep caves hidden on the side of the mountain out of view. What's amazing is that there was stuff in the caves from years ago! Old blankets, glasses and cookware. How in the world did others stumble upon theses caves? I mean, these caves were really well hidden by MAJOR vegitation. We just happen to come across them by accident. Who lived here and why? This high up? Weird...

Once we got to the bottom, we worked our way back over North Mountain on the south side. I think this is Trail #46? Too many pics to post them all!!

Overall, great adventure!
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Dec 25 2009
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 Guides 1
 Photos 154
 Triplogs 12

53 male
 Joined Dec 04 2005
 Phoenix, AZ
Queen Creek Cyn / AtlantisGlobe, AZ
Queen Creek Cyn / Atlantis
Globe, AZ
Climbing avatar Dec 25 2009
Jame • Triplogs 12
Climbing
Climbing
 • Unknown Unknown
 no routes
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
Rock climbing on Christmas? Who would have thought?

Since the family was out of town, I decided to hook up with my inaugral rock climbing partner - Hikergirl81 and hit Atlantis out in Superior, AZ! We had a great time. COLD, but great!

We arrived around 10am and met up with two other climbers who arrived in Arizona this morning during a nationwide road trip from New York. Both were novice climbers, but we're eager to climb.

Because of the cold, I was only able to lead two routes before my fingers went numb! Giggling Marlin and Neptune. Once the anchors were set, the New Yorkers top roped them. Hikergirl kicked butt and also lead Giggling Marlin - Nice Job - very smooth! ;)

While we were there, I made four discoveries!

1.) Santa's sled from 1970 had crached in the rocks below. See pictures. Upon closer inspection, a Coors beer can was found wedged in the rails. Shame on you Santa!

2.) Someone left their finger tape. Finders keepers....

3.) a 1970 RC Cola soda can with a Jack Youngblood LA RAMS picture on it - SCORE!!!!

4.) A vampire spear head!
 Culture
 Culture [ checklist ]
[ checklist ]  Automobile Remains/Wreckage
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Nov 21 2009
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 Guides 1
 Photos 154
 Triplogs 12

53 male
 Joined Dec 04 2005
 Phoenix, AZ
Red Rocks, NV 
Red Rocks, NV
 
Climbing avatar Nov 21 2009
Jame • Triplogs 12
Climbing
Climbing
Lead  • Sandstone Excellent
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
This was my first trip to Red Rock Canyon, Nevada which is located about 20 minutes west of the strip. The area encompasses about 20,000 acres of pristine climbing sandstone within the Mojave desert.

The owner of Ape Index Rock Climbing Gym in Peoria, AZ cordinated the trip with a few of his members. Amos (owner), Chris, Matt and I grouped up and climbed together the entire weekend.

We arrived in Vegas Friday night and climbed our butts off Saturday and Sunday. By the time the trip was over, I was spent!

We spent Saturday at "The Gallery" which consisted of 5.9+ - 5.13b climbs on top of a large rock plateau that has full sun all day long. Chris and I lead the climbs up to 5.10b - "Pump First, Pay Later", but were fortunate to have the opportunity to top rope a 5.11c that Amos set up for us. Thanks buddy. We need the training!

Day two was spent at "The Black Corridor" which is nestled in a narrow canyon divided by an upper and lower tier. Despite the lack of sun, it was definately better climbing than The Gallery.

I was happy to lead my hardest route to date - "Heavy Hitter 5.10c." Despite taking a 15 foot fall at the top which Amos captured on video - pictures to come, I managed to finish it unscathed except for a nice rope burn on my right arm.

Overall we had a great time and plan to return someday soon!
 Culture
 Culture [ checklist ]
[ checklist ]  Fraley Pose
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  3 archives
Nov 14 2009
avatar

 Guides 1
 Photos 154
 Triplogs 12

53 male
 Joined Dec 04 2005
 Phoenix, AZ
Queen Creek Cyn / AtlantisGlobe, AZ
Queen Creek Cyn / Atlantis
Globe, AZ
Climbing avatar Nov 14 2009
Jame • Triplogs 12
Climbing
Climbing
 • Unknown Unknown
 no routes
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
Well Chris, Randy, Julie and I ventured out to Atlantis again this morning and gambled on a day with no rain. Fortunately we got lucky - at first. Then not so lucky.....

According to reports, Superior got sprinkles throughout the night but was clearing by morning. I even called Circle K and asked the clerk how the weather was! She said it was partly cloudy but looked promising.

When we got there, it was cold and cloudy, but no rain.

We quickly unpacked and I started leading the first route. Not sure the name, but it was to the right of the main entrance to the other routes.

By the time we finished that route, the winds came and the dark grey clouds moved in.

We both chickened out on leading KGB with the possibility of rain so we led Giggling Marlin and switched anchors on top of KGB.

By the time I hit the KGB crux, the rain was coming down! The rocks felt as slick as glass. It was time to call it a day. Thank God I pulled out my trusty river rafting dry bag from the attic and turned it into my new climbing bag!

I took few pictures of climbing and more of the area. As you can see in the pics, there are several abandoned old cars that apparently crashed here decades ago. Some remnants of the mining boom from years past.

Next weekend it's Red Rocks Nevada!
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  3 archives
Nov 09 2009
avatar

 Guides 1
 Photos 154
 Triplogs 12

53 male
 Joined Dec 04 2005
 Phoenix, AZ
McDowell Mountains Sven Slab, AZ 
McDowell Mountains Sven Slab, AZ
 
Climbing avatar Nov 09 2009
Jame • Triplogs 12
Climbing
Climbing
Abseil  • Sport • Granite Good
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
Well I had no clue there was rock climbing at the McDowell Mountain Preserve.

This area is known as Sven Slab and hosts a bunch of routes; Primarily 5.6 - 5.11c. All are granite face sport routes except for some other areas which are strictly trad climbiing - Tom's Thumb (see pic).

This area is essentially on the north side of the Preserve and can be acessed through the Troon North residential neighborhood in North Scottsdale. Approximatley 115th Street and Alameda Road.

Practiced my rappelling and multi-anchor systems.
 Fauna
 Fauna [ checklist ]
[ checklist ]  Harris Hawk
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Nov 07 2009
avatar

 Guides 1
 Photos 154
 Triplogs 12

53 male
 Joined Dec 04 2005
 Phoenix, AZ
Queen Creek Cyn / AtlantisGlobe, AZ
Queen Creek Cyn / Atlantis
Globe, AZ
Climbing avatar Nov 07 2009
Jame • Triplogs 12
Climbing
Climbing
 • Sport • Unknown Unknown
 no routes
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
Well this was my first outdoor rock climbing experience and I must say I wouldn't have had nearly as much fun if it wasn't for Chris, Randy and Julie. Thanks guys for making this happen for me!

We arrived at 7:30am and froze our butts off! I think the tempature was about 60 degrees but with the 20 MPH winds, it was MUCH colder. As the day went on, the winds finally subsided and the sun came out - warming up to the mid 70s.

This was the order of routes for the day. All cleaned! :)

1.) Giggling Marlin 5.9
2.) Neptune 5.10a
3.) KGB 5.10b
4.) Diaper Rash 5.10a

After a full day of climbing we were beat. On the way home we found an abandoned recliner on the side of the road - it SCREAMED photo shoot!

Overall, I had a great first time experience and wished another friend of mine was with me - you know who you are! BTW Chris, thanks for letting me lead belay today. I needed the practice.
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Oct 24 2009
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 Guides 1
 Photos 154
 Triplogs 12

53 male
 Joined Dec 04 2005
 Phoenix, AZ
F.I.N.S., AZ 
F.I.N.S., AZ
 
Hiking avatar Oct 24 2009
Jame • Triplogs 12
Hiking2.00 Miles
Hiking2.00 Miles
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
I'm surprised to read that FINS is not listed on HikeAZ. FINS is located in the Estrella Mountain Ranch Community of Goodyear. It's technically on private property owned by Newland Community but during the past decade, there's been a mutually agreement to use it for hiking.

It was constructed by local residents years ago for mountain biking and has some of the best singletrack in Maricopa County! FINS stands for Fantasy Island North Single Track - if you were curious.

As a last minute decision this morning, I headed out to Verde Hot Springs from the ever so packed REI garage sale in Paradise Valley...As I left Phoenix, it hit me like a ton of bricks! - I'm supposed to sell my tickets at the Coyotes game at 5pm!!! Very disappointing. I really wanted to check out those hot springs. Troy and Mike, if you're reading this, you're lucky I turned around so you can watch your Ice Capades!

I chose FINS as a close alternative to get out of the house and enjoy the outdoors. The trail isn't the most photogenic place but it makes a good close hike.

I've ridden this place many times on my mountain bike but always wanted to hike it instead.

This was Bailey's first trip since injuring her left paw on my last hike. Since then, she's been fine but after this hike, her left paw pad became raw and sore. I really need to invest in dog boots. Sorry dog.

This was also the first hike since buying my new camera - The ever so rugged Panasonic TSI which is shock and water proof. It took great photos and learned it has HD video recording on it too.

Overall, this was a great quick 2 hour trip.
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Oct 17 2009
avatar

 Guides 1
 Photos 154
 Triplogs 12

53 male
 Joined Dec 04 2005
 Phoenix, AZ
Ford Canyon Trail - White Tank MountainsPhoenix, AZ
Ford Canyon Trail - White Tank Mountains
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Oct 17 2009
Jame • Triplogs 12
Hiking4.50 Miles 1,170 AEG
Hiking4.50 Miles
1,170 ft AEG
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
Note to self: DON'T borrow a friends camera without checking to see if the memory card is full!!!

Argh! Got to the trailhead and took two photos before it was full. Live and learn...

I had originally planned to drive up to Sedona for a day hike but my son fell sick and that limited me on time. So I decided to do something close to where I live.

This was my dog's first hike - Bailey. She was spent by the time we reached the end.

Overall, it was a fun day hike with many missed photo opportunities. Came across of family of desert toads near the end that would have made for some good photos. Maybe next time.
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Oct 04 2009
avatar

 Guides 1
 Photos 154
 Triplogs 12

53 male
 Joined Dec 04 2005
 Phoenix, AZ
Flatiron Hike - SuperstitionsPhoenix, AZ
Flatiron Hike - Superstitions
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Oct 04 2009
Jame • Triplogs 12
Hiking5.40 Miles 2,780 AEG
Hiking5.40 Miles
2,780 ft AEG
 no routes
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
It has been nearly 15 years since I last hiked Flatiron. This morning, I was in the mood for something different than my weekly South Mountain National Trail mountain bike ride and decided to head out east for the Superstitions!

The tempature was around 88 degrees but it was extremely windy and cloudy. Flatiron looked quite ominous during the approach on US 60 - I was beginning to have doubts because of the possiblity of rain. But then again, the rain would have made it that much more fun!!

I only passed a handful of hikers and had the entire top to myself.

Took several photos on this trip to include some tree graffiti, a squirel and imaginary images in the bark of a tree...

The rain never came and overall, I had a great solo hike. Granted it was 15 years ago, but I don't remember it being as steep as it was today. I must be getting old!
 Flora
 Flora [ checklist ]
[ checklist ]  Jojoba  Machaeranthera
_____________________
 
Mar 14 2008
avatar

 Guides 1
 Photos 154
 Triplogs 12

53 male
 Joined Dec 04 2005
 Phoenix, AZ
Broken Arrow Trail #125Sedona, AZ
Broken Arrow Trail #125
Sedona, AZ
Mtn Biking avatar Mar 14 2008
Jame • Triplogs 12
Mtn Biking20.00 Miles 400 AEG
Mtn Biking20.00 Miles
400 ft AEG
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
This was my first mountain bike ride in Sedona. Since that time, it's become a monthly obsession for me. The weather, trails and scenery are just awesome.

Dave Bryant and I rode Bell Rock to Broken Arrow and then to Templeton. It was about 20 miles total.

We came across a river which we weren't expecting. It was nice to relax and take a break there for lunch.
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Dec 14 2007
avatar

 Guides 1
 Photos 154
 Triplogs 12

53 male
 Joined Dec 04 2005
 Phoenix, AZ
National Trail - South MountainPhoenix, AZ
National Trail - South Mountain
Phoenix, AZ
Mtn Biking avatar Dec 14 2007
Jame • Triplogs 12
Mtn Biking14.00 Miles
Mtn Biking14.00 Miles
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
This was my first trip to National Trail on my mountain bike. I didn't take many photos because I fell too many times! Now, I ride National Trail every Sunday for my weekly ride. It's one of the top 10 best mountain trails in the country by Mountain Bike Action magazine. Pretty cool when it's in your backyard!
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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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