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31 triplogs
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Apr 27 2024
avatar

 Routes 1
 Photos 356
 Triplogs 31

44 male
 Joined Nov 23 2007
 Tempe, AZ
La Barge Lowest LoopPhoenix, AZ
La Barge Lowest Loop
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Apr 27 2024
bballard • Triplogs 31
Hiking6.30 Miles 900 AEG
Hiking6.30 Miles
900 ft AEG
 no routes
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
Including your 3-year old son and the dog on a fairly straightforward itinerary can certainly up the ante! The water was quite high this day compared to other times I've visited this canyon. There were a few swimmers and obstacle navigations that made our time very interesting! Took a shortcut out of the canyon and the trail all the way back. Otherwise a great time and memorable experience.
_____________________
 
Sep 22 2023
avatar

 Routes 1
 Photos 356
 Triplogs 31

44 male
 Joined Nov 23 2007
 Tempe, AZ
Rincon PeakTucson, AZ
Rincon Peak
Tucson, AZ
Backpack avatar Sep 22 2023
bballard • Triplogs 31
Backpack16.00 Miles 4,719 AEG
Backpack16.00 Miles2 Days         
4,719 ft AEG
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
On the cusp of cooler weather, this was a really enjoyable solo overnighter to Happy Valley. Hauling water, I started rather late on Friday and made my way quickly to the clean and impressive dry camp. FYI a lot of skunk activity. The next day was pleasant but a longer journey than expected to the peak and back. Wonderful experience overall & summit! I scouted Kerry's backcountry climbing route up the north face for a possible follow-up someday. Saw deer, rattlesnake, tarantula victim to hawk, the aforementioned striped friends, turkey, and zero humans.
 Named place
 Named place [ checklist ]
[ checklist ]  Rincon Peak
_____________________
 
Dec 04 2021
avatar

 Routes 1
 Photos 356
 Triplogs 31

44 male
 Joined Nov 23 2007
 Tempe, AZ
Elephant Head / West SideTucson, AZ
Elephant Head / West Side
Tucson, AZ
Climbing avatar Dec 04 2021
bballard • Triplogs 31
Climbing
Climbing
 no routesno photosets
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners partners
RedwallNHops
RedwallNHops said it well! A great day out! Some useful advice to not get lost: when you see the second cable, do not follow it up to the left to it's end. Stay in the main gully right past a very lush section and head up the next obvious chute left. The rest is good adventure climbing. A big day, not the greatest pure climbing moves or rock quality, but a true AZ gem :)
_____________________
 
Oct 15 2021
avatar

 Routes 1
 Photos 356
 Triplogs 31

44 male
 Joined Nov 23 2007
 Tempe, AZ
Mazatzal Peak SummitPayson, AZ
Mazatzal Peak Summit
Payson, AZ
Backpack avatar Oct 15 2021
bballard • Triplogs 31
Backpack11.75 Miles 4,400 AEG
Backpack11.75 Miles2 Days         
4,400 ft AEG
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
I treated this trip as an alpine overnight, parking and heading out a little after noon. Hardly anyone out on Barnhardt Trail on this Friday. The scramble through manzanita was stressful but doable! Peak and views were gorgeous. The southern descent was challenging in a different way- make sure to find the best option around cliffs and rocky outcroppings, oh and plenty more manzanita jungle. One down climb helped shortcut the journey. Made a pleasant camp on the saddle at dusk. Beautiful morning hiking out. First time up this peak and it did not disappoint! Will have to try Suicide Ridge next time.
 Culture
 Culture [ checklist ]
[ checklist ]  HAZ - Hike HAZard
 Named place
 Named place [ checklist ]
[ checklist ]  Mazatzal Peak

water 1 out of 5water 2 out of 5water 3 out of 5water less than max Y Bar Spring Gallon per minute Gallon per minute
Flowing good.
_____________________
 
Sep 25 2021
avatar

 Routes 1
 Photos 356
 Triplogs 31

44 male
 Joined Nov 23 2007
 Tempe, AZ
Garden CreekNorthwest, AZ
Garden Creek
Northwest, AZ
Canyoneering avatar Sep 25 2021
bballard • Triplogs 31
Canyoneering13.50 Miles 4,500 AEG
Canyoneering13.50 Miles
4,500 ft AEG
 no routesno photosets
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners partners
RedwallNHops
Awesome day out, finally getting down this canyon! Good cold water flow, chilly in the shade and hot in the sun on the way up. A big day made easy with friends who know what they're doing :y:
_____________________
 
Jan 23 2021
avatar

 Routes 1
 Photos 356
 Triplogs 31

44 male
 Joined Nov 23 2007
 Tempe, AZ
Cavalry Trail #239Phoenix, AZ
Cavalry Trail #239
Phoenix, AZ
Backpack avatar Jan 23 2021
bballard • Triplogs 31
Backpack3.40 Miles 300 AEG
Backpack3.40 Miles2 Days         
300 ft AEG
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   linked  
Boulder Canyon Trail #103
Dutchman Trail #104
Partners none no partners
This was a trip to revisit my favorite wilderness, to complete a journey through one of the few un-burned areas, keeping my spirits high. And during one of the heaviest storms of the winter to date. It did not disappoint. I remembered Cavalry being a really impressive area and wanted to camp there, but the rain held off long enough there were no opportunities to collect nearby, so Charlebois it was, which made for a long day.

I thankfully stayed dry through the consistent downpour overnight but woke up to a lot of tent condensation. A dry spell tempted unprepared hikers that I ran into on the way out- hopefully they managed the wicked forthcoming hail storm unscathed.

dry Boulder Creek - Superstition WA Dry Dry

water 1 out of 5water 2 out of 5water 3 out of 5water less than max Boulder Creek at #103 / #236 Jct Medium flow Medium flow

water 1 out of 5water 2 out of 5water 3 out of 5water 4 out of 5 Charlebois Spring Gallon + per minute Gallon + per minute

dry White Rock Spring Dry Dry
_____________________
 
Dec 12 2020
avatar

 Routes 1
 Photos 356
 Triplogs 31

44 male
 Joined Nov 23 2007
 Tempe, AZ
Hackberry Spring from Horse LotPhoenix, AZ
Hackberry Spring from Horse Lot
Phoenix, AZ
Backpack avatar Dec 12 2020
bballard • Triplogs 31
Backpack2.55 Miles 344 AEG
Backpack2.55 Miles2 Days         
344 ft AEG
 no routesno photosets
1st trip
Linked   linked  
Hackberry Spring Loop
Partners none no partners
This was the choice for my 6 month old's first backpacking trip! And it did not disappoint. Low mileage and water availability were key to testing out the gear. Actually we went on a newly signed adjacent trail to the west, not the old road. Mom and Jacob stayed warm in the tent while I thoroughly enjoyed the incredible Geminid meteor shower!

water 1 out of 5water less than maxwater less than maxwater less than max Hackberry Spring Dripping Dripping
nice clear pool and slow drip that may have been helped out by recent rain.
_____________________
 
Nov 21 2020
avatar

 Routes 1
 Photos 356
 Triplogs 31

44 male
 Joined Nov 23 2007
 Tempe, AZ
West Clear Creek Trail #17Camp Verde, AZ
West Clear Creek Trail #17
Camp Verde, AZ
Backpack avatar Nov 21 2020
bballard • Triplogs 31
Backpack8.20 Miles 2,741 AEG
Backpack8.20 Miles
2,741 ft AEG
 no routesno photosets
1st trip
Linked   linked  
West Clear Creek & Blodgett Canyon Loop
Partners partners
bcollins
A pleasant, surprisingly warm, and secluded one-nighter clockwise around Blodgett to West Clear Creek Trail. My first time on an AZ classic! A tip to aspiring backpackers- be creative & seek previously camped spots on the "esplanade" if the main locations by the creek are already taken. We had neighbors thrashing about in the brush by the water for a less than desirable camp.
_____________________
 
Aug 29 2020
avatar

 Routes 1
 Photos 356
 Triplogs 31

44 male
 Joined Nov 23 2007
 Tempe, AZ
Old Baldy - Super Trail LoopTucson, AZ
Old Baldy - Super Trail Loop
Tucson, AZ
Backpack avatar Aug 29 2020
bballard • Triplogs 31
Backpack12.80 Miles 4,050 AEG
Backpack12.80 Miles2 Days         
4,050 ft AEG
 no routesno photosets
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
So excited for my first time up Wrightson, even 80 to 90% chance of severe thunderstorms could not deter! Plenty of people on the trail to Josephine Saddle, filling water at Sprung, then on to the circumference around the peak. Keeping in mind possible places of refuge if the skies should open up, I lucked out and made it to Baldy Saddle, my preferred camp spot for the night just in time. And the storms did not disappoint, but I managed to stay safe and mostly dry. Once they settled down, a fiery sunset amidst a spectacular display of thunderclouds and lightning will not be forgotten. Summit and back to the car early the next day.

dry Baldy Spring Dry Dry

water 1 out of 5water less than maxwater less than maxwater less than max Bellows Spring Dripping Dripping
Good pool of water, and slightly dripping from the pipe.

water 1 out of 5water less than maxwater less than maxwater less than max Sprung Spring Dripping Dripping
clear water and a very slow drip.
_____________________
 
May 07 2020
avatar

 Routes 1
 Photos 356
 Triplogs 31

44 male
 Joined Nov 23 2007
 Tempe, AZ
Chiricahua Peak from Rustler Park THTucson, AZ
Chiricahua Peak from Rustler Park TH
Tucson, AZ
Backpack avatar May 07 2020
bballard • Triplogs 31
Backpack12.00 Miles 1,282 AEG
Backpack12.00 Miles4 Days         
1,282 ft AEG45 LBS Pack
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   linked  
Crest Trail #270B - Jct Sdl to Monte Vista Pk
Crest Trail #270C - Jct Sdl to Sentinel Peak
Partners partners
bcollins11
Wonderful 4-day backpacking escape exploring the crest trail for the first time! We bagged peaks and springs, saw plenty of white-tail deer, sweated and froze our butts off between daytime highs and nighttime lows. An AZ classic!
 Culture
 Culture [ checklist ]
[ checklist ]  Summit Register Log

water 1 out of 5water 2 out of 5water less than maxwater less than max Anita Spring Quart per minute Quart per minute
Beautiful small but deep holding pond with clear cool water. Noticeable flow beyond.

water 1 out of 5water less than maxwater less than maxwater less than max Bear Wallow Spring Dripping Dripping
The tank was full but kind of cloudy. Not enough water to filter down course.

water 1 out of 5water less than maxwater less than maxwater less than max Booger Spring Dripping Dripping
The concrete tub was full but kind of cloudy. Barely enough water flowing down stream to filter.

water 1 out of 5water less than maxwater less than maxwater less than max Eagle Spring Dripping Dripping
Very small flow but really nice large clear pool of tasty water contained in the concrete trough. There's an easy to miss short trail to the right of the sign!

dry Headquarters Spring - Chiricahua Dry Dry
Damp area and dark murky water in trough. Not appealing to drink.

water 1 out of 5water 2 out of 5water less than maxwater less than max Hillside Spring Quart per minute Quart per minute
small amount of flow and minimal but clear supply in the tank.

dry Juniper Spring Dry Dry
Not much going on here, but really pretty location.

water 1 out of 5water 2 out of 5water 3 out of 5water 4 out of 5 Ojo Agua Fria Gallon + per minute Gallon + per minute
Wonderful abundant flow from PVC piping direct from spring.

water 1 out of 5water 2 out of 5water less than maxwater less than max Tub Spring Quart per minute Quart per minute
The trough was disconnected, but a good enough flow was found in the adjacent watercourse.
_____________________
 
Jan 26 2018
avatar

 Routes 1
 Photos 356
 Triplogs 31

44 male
 Joined Nov 23 2007
 Tempe, AZ
Tortilla Super LoopPhoenix, AZ
Tortilla Super Loop
Phoenix, AZ
Backpack avatar Jan 26 2018
bballard • Triplogs 31
Backpack23.00 Miles 3,500 AEG
Backpack23.00 Miles2 Days   12 Hrs      
3,500 ft AEG
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
I came back for some unfinished business on these trails after getting rained out a few years ago. An incredible, remote backpacking loop in the Superstitions! Friday night was a late night start hiking FR 213 which put me camping at the Cedar Basin area on the Hoolie Bacon Trail. From there the next day it was following the loop clockwise, hitting the very scenic view at Horse Ridge saddle before dropping into Horse Camp Basin. After joining the Red Tanks trail, the upper LaBarge Box never disappoints. Then it was cruising along the dry stream bed- hardly a drop of water to be seen in any of the creeks which is crazy for this time of year. LaBarge and Charlebois are thankfully dependable of course.

After topping off, I huffed it up to a high knob on the Peters Trail to make my second night camp with a wonderful panoramic view centered on Bluff Springs Mt. A fierce windstorm complimented the very full moon that night. Then it was off to explore Peter's canyon for the first time. This is a beautiful experience in the Supes, offering a lot of variety in terrain. Backpacking solo allows one a great chance to reflect and take in the subtle details of the environment. Only one group of three gentlemen were encountered. Highly recommended!

dry Brads Canyon Dry Dry

dry Cedar Basin Canyon Dry Dry

water 1 out of 5water 2 out of 5water 3 out of 5water 4 out of 5 Charlebois Spring Gallon + per minute Gallon + per minute

dry Horse Camp Spring Dry Dry

water 1 out of 5water 2 out of 5water 3 out of 5water less than max LaBarge Spring Gallon per minute Gallon per minute

dry Night Hawk Spring Dry Dry

water 1 out of 5water less than maxwater less than maxwater less than max Peters Mid-Upper Along Trail Pools to trickle Pools to trickle
_____________________
 
Jan 15 2017
avatar

 Routes 1
 Photos 356
 Triplogs 31

44 male
 Joined Nov 23 2007
 Tempe, AZ
Whiskey West - Red Tanks LoopPhoenix, AZ
Whiskey West - Red Tanks Loop
Phoenix, AZ
Backpack avatar Jan 15 2017
bballard • Triplogs 31
Backpack13.40 Miles 2,150 AEG
Backpack13.40 Miles2 Days         
2,150 ft AEG
 no routesno photosets
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
With a lot of rainfall over the previous couple of days, and more in the forecast, I lead my wife out into the Supes this MLK weekend with just a slight feeling of trepidation. Overall, we were very lucky, with slight amounts of rain, and the only downpours occurring later in the night while under the cover of our tent.

The views were surreal, with cloud formations cloaking the mountains, a dynamic presence giving us incredible perspectives the entire way. Both needles, Picacho Butte, Music Mountain and Bluff Springs Mountain were all uniquely beautiful given the dark clouds and ominous wispy fog and mist.

We camped at a really nice high spot, 20 yards off the trail a bit east of Trap Canyon. Upper LaBarge Creek swelled significantly during the night as the rain came down hard. Sure enough crossing the creek with the trail towards LaBarge Spring proved to be really challenging and we veered off a couple times to test our fate with cat-claw. The rest of the trip was straightforward, with the clouds finally breaking towards our completion of the loop. Another memorable journey into the heart of the desert.

water 1 out of 5water 2 out of 5water 3 out of 5water 4 out of 5 Bluff Spring Canyon Heavy flow Heavy flow
more water than I've ever seen in the Superstitions

water 1 out of 5water 2 out of 5water 3 out of 5water less than max LaBarge Spring Gallon per minute Gallon per minute

water 1 out of 5water 2 out of 5water 3 out of 5water 4 out of 5 Trap Canyon Heavy flow Heavy flow

water 1 out of 5water 2 out of 5water 3 out of 5water 4 out of 5 Whiskey Spring Canyon Heavy flow Heavy flow
with recent rainfall, more water than I've ever seen in the Superstitions
_____________________
 
Nov 04 2016
avatar

 Routes 1
 Photos 356
 Triplogs 31

44 male
 Joined Nov 23 2007
 Tempe, AZ
Royal Arch LoopNorthwest, AZ
Royal Arch Loop
Northwest, AZ
Backpack avatar Nov 04 2016
bballard • Triplogs 31
Backpack35.00 Miles 8,000 AEG
Backpack35.00 Miles4 Days         
8,000 ft AEG
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners partners
bcollins11
Most likely my favorite backpacking trip ever! But we knew we were in for it when the rangers warned us we were seeking an aggressive itinerary by completing the loop in 3 nights.

Drove up late Thursday evening in the rain (worried about the road) but no problems. Debated the Outback, but glad we had the very high clearance Tacoma for big rutted sections on the reservation. Incredible camp at SE2 on the edge of the rim- a breathtaking way to view the dawn light as we hurried out.

Beginning of the loop was super easy and fast. Cached some water at the junction, which is recommended. We avoided the "ledge" by going to the right and didn't even debate the trickier section. Once down in this area it becomes actual (non-technical) canyoneering = slow going. The potholes were full of water, better the further you went. But our goal was to make it to the arch night one.

Debatable routes, down-climbing and pack-lowering are unavoidable. Again... very... slow... going... we realized why this is not recommended. If we had reached water in the royal arch creek, we would have camped on the spot. But it was dry and the spring is far along almost right next to the arch. After nightfall we finally reached it and camped nearby.

A truly epic location, we slept in and enjoyed the beautiful arch, the water, and inspiring views below the drop-off before carefully backtracking to the trail to head out. The next section down to the rappel is magnificent- sweeping views as you exit the royal arch canyon into the basin of the Colorado with incredible panoramas. The rappel was actually pretty straight-forward, with a perfect anchor carved into the adjacent rock. We tied harnesses out of webbing and were well-prepared.

Toltec was a pristine deserted beach, no humans in sight. In fact we didn't see anyone for almost three days on this trip- a rarity in this age. The route to Elves Chasm is challenging, even without packs. Definitely a very special grotto in an otherwise arid world.

Day three: we loaded our packs with water and picked our way eastward to make it up along the Tonto Trail. Tough going until the plateau is reached, and some very challenging step-ups and scrambling sections to break-out. Once on the real trail everything changes and you can pick up speed, albeit through the long winding and gorgeous route of the Tonto. We set up a dry camp in a saddle directly north of Tyndall Dome. A fantastic view into Shinumo Amphitheater and beyond.

The rest of the trip back to the rim was challenging, but as expected- equally energy draining and magnificent. Route finding everywhere is pretty good once you hone-in your cairn spotting skills. This is an incredible trip that combines many challenging aspects of Grand Canyon backpacking into a breathtaking and incredibly remote journey. In my opinion, the Royal Arch Loop is an example why this is the greatest national park of all, because so many different adventures lie around each and every facet of this other-worldly geography.
 Named place
 Named place [ checklist ]
[ checklist ]  Elves Chasm  Royal Arch - GCNP
_____________________
  1 archive
Mar 05 2016
avatar

 Routes 1
 Photos 356
 Triplogs 31

44 male
 Joined Nov 23 2007
 Tempe, AZ
Mount AjoSouthwest, AZ
Mount Ajo
Southwest, AZ
Hiking avatar Mar 05 2016
bballard • Triplogs 31
Hiking9.00 Miles 2,800 AEG
Hiking9.00 Miles   7 Hrs      1.29 mph
2,800 ft AEG
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners partners
bcollins11
Phenomenal day hiking Mt. Ajo. Saw a friendly guy walking to Tucson on our drive to the trailhead(!) But the weather was great. After we got through the first section of real trail quick enough, we decided to make a run for the summit. The path is cairned extremely well- very easy route finding. Other than a few sections of loose rock, the journey was a lot more accessible than we thought it would be. Phenomenal 360° views all around from the ridge and peak. Absolutely loved Bull Pasture on the way back.

Our first trip to Organ Pipe- but this has to be one of the best / most accessible excursions in the monument. Highly recommended.
wildflower observationwildflower observationwildflower observationwildflower observationwildflower observation
Wildflowers Observation Isolated
_____________________
  1 archive
Apr 23 2015
avatar

 Routes 1
 Photos 356
 Triplogs 31

44 male
 Joined Nov 23 2007
 Tempe, AZ
New Hance TrailNorthwest, AZ
New Hance Trail
Northwest, AZ
Backpack avatar Apr 23 2015
bballard • Triplogs 31
Backpack20.00 Miles 4,435 AEG
Backpack20.00 Miles4 Days         
4,435 ft AEG
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   linked  
Tonto Trail: New Hance Trail to Grandview Tr
Partners partners
bcollins11
Fresh off our first trip into the canyon last fall- my friends and I could not resist the urge to plan another! This time BJ, Shep, and I descended the New Hance trail- a painful knee-buster! We ran into a couple large groups at Hance Rapids where we spent our first night and witnessed kayaks running the rapids. Beautiful beach-side spot to appreciate the river in all it's glory. The next day it was on to the Tonto heading west, where we ran into our first bout of rain. Sporadic at first and windy, it didn't bother us much. Second night was also busy at Hance Creek. Plenty of water and a great side excursion up the canyon. The wind that night was intense, knocking our tents around, but not too much rain. On our third day we made our way around to the beautiful Page Spring and loaded up on water for the excruciating trek upwards to our last camp on Horseshoe Mesa. After setting up amidst bouts of rain, we headed off to Cave of the Domes. What an adventure exploring a real cave for the first time! On the way back the real rain hit, and throughout the evening all night... Grandview Trail up the next day to our bike-shuttle.

Wonderful journey. The magic of the canyon once again cannot be described in words. The intense weather only added to the mystique- views of cloud formations and rain constantly filtering our views and perception of light, shadow, contrast, color, and depth. Cannot wait until we are lucky enough again to immerse ourselves in this world.
 Fauna
 Fauna [ checklist ]
[ checklist ]  American False Wolf Spider  Kingsnake
wildflower observationwildflower observationwildflower observationwildflower observationwildflower observation
Wildflowers Observation Substantial
beautiful and constant display of many wildflowers.

water 1 out of 5water 2 out of 5water 3 out of 5water less than max Hance Creek Medium flow Medium flow
flowing really well.
_____________________
  1 archive
Feb 22 2015
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 Routes 1
 Photos 356
 Triplogs 31

44 male
 Joined Nov 23 2007
 Tempe, AZ
Brown's PeakPhoenix, AZ
Brown's Peak
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Feb 22 2015
bballard • Triplogs 31
Hiking5.20 Miles 2,064 AEG
Hiking5.20 Miles
2,064 ft AEG
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   linked  
Amethyst Trail #253
Four Peaks Trail #130
Partners partners
bcollins11
Finally made my first summit of Brown's with bcollins11! We foolishly and optimistically thought the clouds would "burn off" later on this cold day. And my friend had only shorts and t-shirt, but that wouldn't stop us. The road is quite the test of patience. We mistakenly followed a group out the parking lot down the Four Peaks trail when we meant to go straight up Brown's. (Just because you see people camping, don't assume they're not directly on the trail). But we took what I believe was the start of the Amethyst trail when we realized we were off track according to GPS. Reconnected to the main trail after a challenging ascent. This area isn't described well, but I believe it to be the blue route on the map attachment.

WOW the clouds were mystical, magic, and magnificent. Halloween special effects. They would come and go and offer ominous glimpses at and around our destination. They broke just so slightly at the peak to offer rewarding views, but we didn't get any complete panoramas. Safety George recommended our climbing helmets for the chute, which we donned, and were nice to have, if not for the added warmth. Great day. We survived the 4 wheelin', shootin', beer drinkin' masses on the way back.
_____________________
 
Feb 07 2015
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 Routes 1
 Photos 356
 Triplogs 31

44 male
 Joined Nov 23 2007
 Tempe, AZ
Marsh Valley LoopPhoenix, AZ
Marsh Valley Loop
Phoenix, AZ
Backpack avatar Feb 07 2015
bballard • Triplogs 31
Backpack16.25 Miles 2,330 AEG
Backpack16.25 Miles2 Days         
2,330 ft AEG
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
Solo backpacking is an experience unlike any other. A man and his thoughts... self reliance and awareness. An amazing retreat for clarity and contemplation. The Marsh Valley Loop has been on my list for awhile, and I figured this would be a good choice since it's nearby many other areas I've already visited, pretty far out, yet a new experience.

Gorgeous, very warm weekend in the Supes. Water water everywhere from recent rainfall and especially the previous weekend. Did the loop clockwise and tried to follow many of the sights highlighted in Carlson's & Stewarts Guide to the Superstition Wilderness. (great book, crazy to follow at times). Saw a couple other big groups of people in the beginning, and once I was away from them there was good solitude until near the end of the loop.

I tried to find the holding corral and old camp nearby the junction of Cavalry Trail and La Barge Creek. Apparently there are 4' wide walls I was unable to find. Anyone else have better luck? Was still fun stomping around off trail hunting for mysterious things. But exhausting.

Then I went partly up Squaw Canyon. Tried to find any evidence of the old Z Trail that Crazy Jake apparently used. Didn't find much for a trail, but it was a beautiful vantage point. On the way back a 7' monument is described, and I did find a huge rock cairn, perhaps 3' tall. Not sure if that's what they meant, but I enjoyed finding something significant that far off track.

Dropped pack and set up camp nearby Cavalry and Dutchman junction. Then took off for Charlebois spring which I've never been to. Frogs all around, cool to see a turtle splash down in the water. Again, tried to find the petroglyphs described right nearby, but no luck. The book says they're even signed. Must have been delusional from a long day on the trail. Oh well, it gives me a future goal.

Nice camp. Surprising how fast the cold settles in after sunset. Heard a roaring/screaming sound before going to bed. My best guess is a big cat mating call... mountain lion? Unsettling to say the least, but pretty far away. There was a responding call as well.

Sleep, yoga, more exploring. I WAS successful in finding the massively long rock wall nearby the wash down from the Dutchman and Cavalry junction. Very impressive. Then tried to find the old prospector's claim sign 6+5 up above. To no avail of course. Off-trail hiking becomes super strenuous and exhausting, physically and mentally. I did find what I thought was the horse trail shortcut nearby that area.

Went up Bull Pass trail and Black Top Mesa on the way home. Probably did over 20 miles all said and done. Overall amazing trip. Supes never disappoint. Gorgeous. Concerning how warm it was for February. Achilles really sore afterwards though unfortunately, so I might have overdone it :-P Until next time...

water 1 out of 5water 2 out of 5water 3 out of 5water less than max Boulder Creek - Superstition WA Medium flow Medium flow
for the Superstitions, a medium flow is a lot of water. Heavy rains consistently over the previous weekend really helped the situation everywhere.

water 1 out of 5water 2 out of 5water 3 out of 5water less than max Boulder Creek at #103 / #236 Jct Medium flow Medium flow

water 1 out of 5water 2 out of 5water 3 out of 5water less than max First Water Creek - Upper Turnoff Medium flow Medium flow

water 1 out of 5water 2 out of 5water 3 out of 5water less than max First Water Creek at Second Water Trail #236 Medium flow Medium flow

water 1 out of 5water 2 out of 5water 3 out of 5water less than max Little Boulder Canyon Medium flow Medium flow

water 1 out of 5water 2 out of 5water 3 out of 5water less than max Second Water Canyon Medium flow Medium flow

water 1 out of 5water 2 out of 5water 3 out of 5water less than max West Boulder - Dutchman Crossing Medium flow Medium flow
_____________________
 
Jan 24 2015
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 Routes 1
 Photos 356
 Triplogs 31

44 male
 Joined Nov 23 2007
 Tempe, AZ
Elden Lookout Trail #4Flagstaff, AZ
Elden Lookout Trail #4
Flagstaff, AZ
Hiking avatar Jan 24 2015
bballard • Triplogs 31
Hiking5.40 Miles 2,422 AEG
Hiking5.40 Miles   4 Hrs      1.35 mph
2,422 ft AEG
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   linked  
Fatmans Loop Trail #25
Partners none no partners
Somehow convinced my casual hiking friends to go from the "easy two mile loop" to the top of the lookout trail and back. No matter how much flack they gave me afterwards… hey, I didn't hold a gun to their heads! :) Nice day, beautiful views. Some snow and ice on trail but overall very passable. Which is probably somewhat concerning seeing how little snow Flagstaff has gotten so far this winter.
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Jan 04 2015
avatar

 Routes 1
 Photos 356
 Triplogs 31

44 male
 Joined Nov 23 2007
 Tempe, AZ
First Water Upper Creek LoopPhoenix, AZ
First Water Upper Creek Loop
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Jan 04 2015
bballard • Triplogs 31
Hiking7.20 Miles 710 AEG
Hiking7.20 Miles   6 Hrs   30 Mns   1.11 mph
710 ft AEG
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
Fantastic and challenging day hike below the beautiful snow dusted Superstition Ridgeline. The trail started off cold, finding spots of snow and ice along the way, but warmed up nicely in the afternoon. A good amount of water in First Water creek, certain pools very full, with some flow in between. Although the biggest waterfall was dry, other falls were flowing and very scenic. Things became fairly difficult towards O'Grady Canyon, especially for the wifey who stated she would never do this type of hike again. (eek!) Although some areas were okay to traverse and there were sporadic cairns, it was hard to link together a straightforward route, diverging in and out of the creek, into catclaw and thick vegetation from time to time.

Perhaps we missed the beginning of the Tim's Saddle (?) "trail" which would have helped. One word of caution- it is easy to continue your way down O'Grady Canyon at this point but you must pick your way up the slope towards Tim's saddle unless you want to take a longer loop. A faint trail does become more defined in this area the higher you hike. I'm glad I had a GPS route to get back on track here.

Overall a wonderful exploration into a remote area of the Supes nearby the frequented Dutchman trail.

PS: came across a funny New Years balloon just beyond the First Water canyon. Seemed to be purposely placed next to the trail… or an amazing coincidence?! :)

water 1 out of 5water 2 out of 5water 3 out of 5water less than max O'Grady Canyon Medium flow Medium flow
Decent amount of pools, some large.

water 1 out of 5water 2 out of 5water 3 out of 5water less than max O'Grady Creek Medium flow Medium flow
Good amount of water and pools from recent storms.

water 1 out of 5water 2 out of 5water 3 out of 5water less than max Upper First Water Creek Medium flow Medium flow
Large pools and some flow. Melt-off and run-off from previous storms.
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Dec 12 2014
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 Routes 1
 Photos 356
 Triplogs 31

44 male
 Joined Nov 23 2007
 Tempe, AZ
Tortilla Out and Back, AZ 
Tortilla Out and Back, AZ
 
Backpack avatar Dec 12 2014
bballard • Triplogs 31
Backpack13.00 Miles 3,500 AEG
Backpack13.00 Miles3 Days         
3,500 ft AEG45 LBS Pack
 no routesno photosets
1st trip
Linked   linked  
Hoolie Bacon Trail #111
Peters Trail #105
Partners partners
bcollins11
Like any backpacker worth their salt, we ignored warnings of the impending storm and marched right into the heart of the Supes. The fear of our wet condition on Saturday morning however turned our Tortilla Superloop plan into the "Tortilla out and back a couple times" plan. I prefer to avoid mutiny, so my big mileage trip will have to wait for the future.

My Grand Vitara & lack of 4 wheeling experience created an opportunity for an additional 3 miles right off the bat via FR 213. At the trailhead we were greeted by friendly bow hunters on the first day of the season. Hearty folks, I commend their efforts. First camp above Night Hawk Spring, back the next morning, second camp near Kane Spring. Thankfully Friday evening and Sunday were dry but mother nature pounded us Saturday early/late morning with her anticipated mega-storm. We encountered a kind soul clearing Peters Trail and building cairns Sunday afternoon. Overall the trails were fairly well defined but pretty full with lovely cat-claw.

It was a rewarding feeling to withstand heavy rain, cooler temps, and wet gear. A different adventure with every Supes trip. Beauty in all forms and conditions. Looking forward to the next opportunity.

water 1 out of 5water 2 out of 5water 3 out of 5water less than max Cedar Basin Canyon Medium flow Medium flow
Observed some water in pools and perhaps slight flow the night prior to a big storm. The next day after the rainfall it was flowing quite well. Yellow color to the water after filtering - either from soil runoff or because my filter needs to be changed.

water 1 out of 5water 2 out of 5water 3 out of 5water less than max Kane Spring Gallon per minute Gallon per minute
Flowing really good after heavy storm the night prior.

dry Night Hawk Spring Dry Dry
Was hopeful to camp here and have water but none was flowing at an otherwise wet time in the Superstitions overall. Cedar Basin Canyon nearby had available water at this time however.
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average hiking speed 1.25 mph
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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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