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Nov 20 2008
avatar

 Guides 15
 Routes 2
 Photos 1,591
 Triplogs 81

89 male
 Joined Dec 11 2002
 Gold Canyon, AZ
Hidden Valley from Buena VistaPhoenix, AZ
Hidden Valley from Buena Vista
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Nov 20 2008
OhOh7 • Triplogs 81
Hiking4.00 Miles 850 AEG
Hiking4.00 Miles   4 Hrs      1.00 mph
850 ft AEG
 no routes
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
There may be sometime in my life when I recognize that taking various medications changes one's physical self in a major way. Last week I went with Dan and his grand daughter up cardiac hill and down to the Lower Barks Canyon. I fought my way down that series of boulders and bush whack material finally gettig to the Dutchman trail and the entire experience knocked me out of everything for an entire day.

So, my neighbor Bob had not ever been to Hidden Valley through Fat Man's Pass so I thought that would be e much easier hike for this week. Wrong again. I have been up that Mormon trail many times. Parts are a bit steep but nothing major. This time I felt like I was climbing the Matterhorn!!! I was told the medications would make me lathargic and fatigued but did I listen??? Of course not. I certainly paid the price! I guess the major rule would be, if you are at all sick, don't do the climbing hikes.

Anyway, Bob enjoyed the Hidden Valley and all the rock formations and we did have a good day. When I returned home I hit the bed for a couple hours and did the jacuzzi and the mineral ice and today feel half way better.

I like to go from the tunnel end and end up through the fat man's pass. Everyone writes this one up but it is a very scenic 4 miles--basically right in the middle of Phoenix!
_____________________
Life is what is happening while you are making other plans.
 
Nov 12 2008
avatar

 Guides 15
 Routes 2
 Photos 1,591
 Triplogs 81

89 male
 Joined Dec 11 2002
 Gold Canyon, AZ
Barks Lower Canyon LoopPhoenix, AZ
Barks Lower Canyon Loop
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Nov 12 2008
OhOh7 • Triplogs 81
Hiking4.00 Miles 900 AEG
Hiking4.00 Miles   6 Hrs      0.67 mph
900 ft AEG
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
If you read about the guy who was headed for Bluff Springs Mountain Summit (azpride) you will see he refers to my map and questions about Lower Barks Canyon. My handle is OhOh7. Anyway he directed us up over one more hill before we went down to the start of Lower Barks Canyon. Someone-maybe azpride-put a nice carin there for us so we headed SW down the canyon. True it is very easy to see but I am not the brightest hiker in the forest so the carin was very helpful!

Of course we had gone up cardiac hill and followed the Bluff Springs trail to the Barks Lower Canyon Loop. Now ladies and gentlemen, remember I am just about 74 and I am basically a trail hiker. This ain't no trail hike!! It is boulder city for most of the way. There are a few pools and a few flat places but it is classified as a 4 and I would double that for me.!!!

It is written up as 4 hour jaunt-took me 6. This canyon route is an ankle turner is I ever saw one. Fortunately I went slow enough that I did not even fall once! If you have not hiked the trails in the area do not try this one first-get more off trail experience.. Someone said it is like the Cave trail. Well, I think it is much more difficult that the Cave Trail and I have been both ways on that one. Jumping from boulder to boulder and doing a bit of bushwhacking leads you down the canyon. You know it will end at the Dutchman trail—which it did. I was so tired I debated crawling the remainder of the Dutchman to the parking lot—BUT, I made it with only slight traces of blood from catclaw and jutting rocks. Several places I had to incorporate my famous butt slide but was able to negotiate most of the canyon. Toward the bottom I found on the NW side a semblance of a trail so was able to follow it to the Dutchman. A bit easier than the boulder hopping which I had had enough of!

On the positive side, wow, the rock formations and long wall slides are so fantastic. The frequent pools add great scenery. Dan brought his grand daughter, about 11 years old. Of course I was envious the entire way as she jumped and scrambled and when we hit the Dutchman Trail she even ran all the way to the top!! I shall never be young again, damn it! She even ran up a few of the rock slopes.

If you have off trail experience and boulder hopping does not other you, this is a fantastic route as the scenery is even different from other Supes trails. Being in a canyon there is lots of growth of bushes and trees. I took a few photos I will post but they really do not show the astounding grandeur of the canyon. This is one of the few routes in the Western Supes that has lots of foilage. We even saw 2 rock climbers on a NW face that looked dangerous to us. They must know what they were doing. Joe's GPS route is quite accurate. Total was just over 4 miles for me on my GPS. This is not an easy one but I feel good now that I have done it!!
_____________________
Life is what is happening while you are making other plans.
 
Nov 04 2008
avatar

 Guides 15
 Routes 2
 Photos 1,591
 Triplogs 81

89 male
 Joined Dec 11 2002
 Gold Canyon, AZ
Sunrise Arch - Goldfield MtnsPhoenix, AZ
Sunrise Arch - Goldfield Mtns
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Nov 04 2008
OhOh7 • Triplogs 81
Hiking1.00 Miles 1,364 AEG
Hiking1.00 Miles   4 Hrs      0.25 mph
1,364 ft AEG
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
Just had to go back to the Sunrise Arch. One major reason is that the water level in the Salt now is very low. In October they cut back the flow. In the summer they let it loose for the tubers and boaters.

I read the chart where it said the current water flow from the dam was 8 to 10 cu. ft. sec. That seemed reasonable to cross. Otherwise you have to start from the Blue Point Trailhead and it ads quite a few miles.

This hike is a major uphill climb all the way to the arch. However from the Water Users trailhead to the arch is really only about one half mile. Please do not let this factor mislead you! Your first job is to cross the river. There are lots of very slippery rocks all covered with green slime. Step by step we selected a route and started across the 100 feet or so of river. Several places we were up to our knees in water for a few step. Certainly did not look that deep! So with boots wet and pants legs wet we reached the other side. This part of the hike was quite a bit harder that I thought it would be.

You will note in the photos that Ted Tenny, who joined our jaunt, was fighting his way through ferns and river growth. Dan and I selected another route that was a bit easier. However Andy blithely took off his boots and socks and waded across without water damage. To each his own. As I recall he also dances through fire coals but that may be a myth!

We then took off following a horse trail for awhile when I was leading, as a photo shows. From then on folks it is really up hill and Ted led the way-some trail remnants and some bushwhacking. Folks, it ain't easy!!! I had also completely forgotten that I had taken several medications and I was rather stupid to try such a climb. The water was pouring off me. I had been to the arch before and through it etc. so I stopped about 100 feet from it to try to regain my sapped strength from the meds. Ted, Dan and Andy went on into the arch and took photos. Some are mine and some are what Ted took.

Actually coming down is somewhat more of a challenge than going up. There is lots of scree and very little trail. I know I can only count this as a mile hike but you really have to put up with some elements of all types-including a king snake that crossed our path.

The arch is spectacular and even if you have to go the long way from the Blue Point Trailhead, you should go see it. It is the largest arch in the Goldfields. Very hard to see from the highway unless you know exactly where to look as it is backed by a rock cliff that blends in. There is a saguaro growing on top of the arch. So, your choice—either wade the river for the shorter way or go from Blue Point Trailhead but be sure not to miss this one. The hike says quite short but it is a definitely challenge. Oh, if you are really skilled and daring go through the arch, down into the first canyon and turn right and climb hand over hand to Sky Island. More than I can handle!!
_____________________
Life is what is happening while you are making other plans.
 
Oct 24 2008
avatar

 Guides 15
 Routes 2
 Photos 1,591
 Triplogs 81

89 male
 Joined Dec 11 2002
 Gold Canyon, AZ
Lost Dog Wash to Taliesin OverlookPhoenix, AZ
Lost Dog Wash to Taliesin Overlook
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Oct 24 2008
OhOh7 • Triplogs 81
Hiking4.40 Miles 380 AEG
Hiking4.40 Miles   3 Hrs      1.47 mph
380 ft AEG
 no routesno photosets
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
What a summer! After my brother's suicide (pretty well confirmed now) and my wife's death I had turned away from hiking for obvious emotional reasons. Then Labor Day, the big surprise, at the corner of Goldfield and Superstition roads when a man towing a 16 foot trailer with off road vehicles tried to beat me across the intersection. He had a stop sign and I did not. Fortunately I had slowed because I knew that intersection was very dangerous so I was going less than 30 mph at the time but could not avoid smacking him between the cab and trailer. (Bear with me-in a minute I will get to some hikes)

The air bags went off in my Cherokee and I thought I had died right there. Basically I slammed him amidships. My black Cherokee was totaled with the front end a mess and the right side all smashed in when I tried to avoid the crash. Anyway, air bags hurt when they hit your chest! I climbed out of the Cherokee and was really shaken up. The officer that arrived a but later asked me some questions and I have no idea what they were. Later this was straightened out in court.

My chest, right leg and back were hurting. Fortunately Andy lives nearby and came and took the dogs I had and then drove me home. The next day I had to be taken to the hospital with the various pains. Fortunately they found a bruised sternum, right leg and back. Nothing terribly serious.

Now the question—could I hike? After dealing with insurance companies night and day a few weeks later I joined Andy and Kathleen to do all the new trails on Silly Mountain.. When we got to the lower saddle we followed the trail and continued east around the final hill—some bushwhacking required-before we rejoined the regular trail system. This meant that our total distance was just about 4 miles. The actual trail system is just a bit over 2.5 miles. Of course I was on some pain killers for my back and leg BUT, I made it!

So, October 16 I joined Stephenie at Jacob's Crosscut to see how that would feel with much less medication. Maybe to go to the pinnacles .After a mile (to the shortcut to the pinnacles) I had to turn around. Not ready yet for a regular hike..Back and legs not up to the task. Did the 2 miles anyway.

Now to the hike at hand----several had talked about the Lost Dog Wash to the Taliesin Overlook.. It did not look too steep so Andy and I tried it. Total up and back is 4.4 miles and it is a very nice hike. It slowly climbs up toward the overlook with a few ups and downs and a very well kept trail. There are quit a few people who use this trail but we did not feel it was crowded at all. Actually there are several trail patterns one can take so you could go over 12 miles if you wanted to do a shuttle or just wander around.. We chose to go up the Lost Dog Wash to the overlook and then return. Excellent desert foliage from cholla forests to staghorn with a number of trees and saguaros. The various trails are very clearly marked in the foothills of the McDowell Mountains. Although close to Fountain Hills there are many places where you are quite alone in the mountains. We made it and the up and down route was just enough for my back and legs.

I am not saying I am back into the "hike schedules"but at least I did go 10.2 miles in October after smashing my jeep all to hell!!! Try this area. You will like it. Oh, the court decided I was not at fault at all in the accident!
_____________________
Life is what is happening while you are making other plans.
 
Aug 12 2008
avatar

 Guides 15
 Routes 2
 Photos 1,591
 Triplogs 81

89 male
 Joined Dec 11 2002
 Gold Canyon, AZ
Lost Dutchman State Park LoopPhoenix, AZ
Lost Dutchman State Park Loop
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Aug 12 2008
OhOh7 • Triplogs 81
Hiking2.87 Miles 555 AEG
Hiking2.87 Miles   1 Hour   30 Mns   1.91 mph
555 ft AEG
 no routesno photosets
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
Today was a major day for me. My wife died of severe pnumonia August 5 and her desire was to be cremated somewhere near the Superstitions. Of course laws say we an not be exact about these places and the general dumping of such material is certinly frowned on for good reasons.

Joycelyn was not a hiker. She did make it to an arm on Silly Mountain once and even went up the Dutchman from Peralta to the top turn into Barks Canyon.--Then turned back. Herlegs would not be able to do any climbing.

At the Lost Dutchman Park she was able to slowly move aong some of the lower trails.She was able to circle the campground, the Saguaro use are and the Cholla use area. She even got upto the start of the Siphon Draw.

This day was a rememberance of Joycelyn WE walked the tails she had done and threw to the winds some of her remains. We damaged nothing but we did have our little ceremoney that was very successful and rewarding to us.

When youd drive by Lost Dutchman Park remember that a very fine lady lives there now in th shadow of the Superstitions.

Roger G.Dickey ohoh7
_____________________
Life is what is happening while you are making other plans.
 
Aug 04 2008
avatar

 Guides 15
 Routes 2
 Photos 1,591
 Triplogs 81

89 male
 Joined Dec 11 2002
 Gold Canyon, AZ
Silly Mountain Trail SystemPhoenix, AZ
Silly Mountain Trail System
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Aug 04 2008
OhOh7 • Triplogs 81
Hiking1.00 Miles 412 AEG
Hiking1.00 Miles   2 Hrs      0.50 mph
412 ft AEG
 no routesno photosets
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
This will be a rather strange triplog. I have not hiked for quite awahile due to illnesses in the family. Today I went on the new trails to the top of Silly mountain and sat there looking all directions and basically comtemplating my life.

A year ago I lost a son to colon cancer. Last May 10 I lost a younger brother to a heart attack. This spring has beena terrible time trying to keep my wife Joycelyn alive due to conjective heart failure and other failing organs.

This morning I was informed that her organs are failing and she is not accepting oxygen and I will lose her in the next couple days.

Of course this hurts but for some reason I felt I muct go up Silly mountain to look at the world from there. It may not men much to many of you seasoned climbers and hikers but hiking has been such a godsend to me. I know I have agravated some of you and I am very, very sorry. I meant no harm. I have had many enjoyable times hiking with a number of you.

I have no children and no other relatives. I am quite alone. Of course it will take awhile to try to regain some semblance of calm but I do thank some of you who have been kind and considerate.

Yes, I know I have treated some of you badly. I did not mean any harm. Right now my 3 losses hve hit me very hard. Time will heal. This e mail in HAZ is the only way I knew to contact some of you.
_____________________
Life is what is happening while you are making other plans.
 
May 01 2008
avatar

 Guides 15
 Routes 2
 Photos 1,591
 Triplogs 81

89 male
 Joined Dec 11 2002
 Gold Canyon, AZ
Hidden Valley from Buena VistaPhoenix, AZ
Hidden Valley from Buena Vista
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar May 01 2008
OhOh7 • Triplogs 81
Hiking7.00 Miles 850 AEG
Hiking7.00 Miles   5 Hrs      1.40 mph
850 ft AEG
 no routes
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
There are many different ways to get to Hidden Valley at South Mountain in Phoenix. Thursday was one of those glorious days in early May when the sun was warm but the breeze kept things cool. We did a combination of the Mormon trail, National trail, Hidden Valley trail, National trail again and the Geronimo trail. This is actually a 7 mile distance. We started at the 24trh street large parking lot—BTW, go during the week. Everyone fills the lot fast on weekends. First climb the mile plus up the Mormon trail past the loop that goes to the left and on to the National trail. We then went left on the National trail to the junction with Hidden Valley that is clearly marked. Right turn into Hidden Valley, through the tunnel, then over 2 rock obstacles and on over the Fat Man's pass. This time I had a photo taken of me going through that squeeze!

The Hidden Valley trail again joins the National trail and we turned left toward Buena Vista lookout. Fascinating views of the valley on both sides and astounding rock formations. Once at the Buena Vista lookout (parking lot there) we then went north to the Geronimo trail that takes us back down to the valley. The Geronimo trail can be fairly steep in places with quite a few switchbacks but it goes through some interesting rock formations. The only drawback is once you reach the end of the Geronimo trail you have to make your way back to the 24th street lot which involves some backyards and pavement. However, the total trip this way is 7 miles and it offers a very diverse selection of views and terrain.

You will probably notice by the few photos that I was hiking with a very beautiful woman that made the hike even more enjoyable. Even though she called me "daddy" a couple times and I introduced her to some as "my daughter", her presence added much to the enjoyment of the hike and the day. This was just another variation of the Hidden Valley route and for this one the weather was quite perfect!
_____________________
Life is what is happening while you are making other plans.
 
Mar 13 2008
avatar

 Guides 15
 Routes 2
 Photos 1,591
 Triplogs 81

89 male
 Joined Dec 11 2002
 Gold Canyon, AZ
Papago Buttes - Papago ParkPhoenix, AZ
Papago Buttes - Papago Park
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Mar 13 2008
OhOh7 • Triplogs 81
Hiking2.50 Miles 100 AEG
Hiking2.50 Miles   2 Hrs      1.25 mph
100 ft AEG
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
All this time and I had never hiked at all in Papago Park. I have been to the zoo and the fabulous botanical gardens but never had messed around near the buttes. So, on picnic day today we took the little dogs and first went to the Hole in the rock and climbed up there for the views and photos. My wife and I thought we were pretty good for our ages until we met an 86 year old woman who had just been up to the hole in the rock!! Wow. We then noted that the zoo parking lot was full and went across the highway to the park. Very beautiful with ramadas, nice trails and very clean. We lunched at a clean table and walked the trails around the buttes and again marveled that this beautiful park is in the center of Phoenix. The trail system does go all the way around the golf course but we did not want the little dogs to wear out.It makes a very nice loop.
_____________________
Life is what is happening while you are making other plans.
 
Mar 06 2008
avatar

 Guides 15
 Routes 2
 Photos 1,591
 Triplogs 81

89 male
 Joined Dec 11 2002
 Gold Canyon, AZ
Superstition Peak 5057 Loop via HieroPhoenix, AZ
Superstition Peak 5057 Loop via Hiero
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Mar 06 2008
OhOh7 • Triplogs 81
Hiking6.50 Miles 2,300 AEG
Hiking6.50 Miles
2,300 ft AEG
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
I put this hike under Superstition Peak Loop because it fits the best there. Although the goal was an up and back to the ridgeline via the Hieroglyphic Trail it certainly would be misleading to simply include it under the Hieroglyphic heading.

Well, I have crawled my way up the Flatiron 3 times and to the NW top once. I have huffed and puffed my way up Carney 3 times and on to the ridgeline once. Wednesday I was invited to go beyond the Hieroglyphic trail up to the ridgeline. To me this was just as hard, if not harder than the other 2. Beyond the spring area there are numerous carins to guide you. This route gains 2300 feet in 3.2 miles. I did NOT make it to the ridgeline. The last push to the top is at a 45 degree angle and I was worn out by then. Three others went on to the ridgeline and came back down to meet me. I am certainly not ashamed at my stopping point. Not bad for 73 years old as I was just less than 400 feet vertical from the ridgeline and about 1000 linear feet. That 45 degree slope bothered me—no real trail and lots of scree.

I mentioned the carins. There really is a trail route one can follow for much of the climb. Sometimes the trail is well defined and other times defined by the plentiful carins. Once you reach the Hieroglyphic spring area, which is the real end of that basic hike, you go to the right of the large cave in a huge boulder and the carins start. It is basically a continuous climb and a number of times I had to use my hands to get up rock shelves. Two or three times one of my hiking partners pulled me over some rough spots. The route rolls generally up along the right side of the creek for almost 3 miles then drops down to cross and follow the creek bed. Things get quite rough from here on. Boulder hopping, climbing and route finding while watching the carins. Add to that this is where it starts to get quite steep. I made it to within a quarter mile of the ridgeline so I climbed the real steep part for awhile-until my reasonable mind told me to stop.

Now let me go to the real positive part. Even as far as I went the hike was very well worth it! This is one of the most picturesque canyons in the Superstitions with some of the largest hoodoos. Until you get past the spring area and on around the corner you can not see these astounding rock formations. We could see the ridgeline route and also to Superstition south top very clearly. Even if you only make your way part the "corner" just above the spring area, it is very well worth the extra effort as long as you are this far.

I realize that many people do this trail to see the petroglyphs (mistakenly called hieroglyphics somewhere in history) and they are striking as well as the pools. But for some sheer grandeur go on a ways above that area. You really can not get lost as there seem to be more carins than on any other trail I have been. It is not really a trail but more of a route. And, if 45 degree slopes don't bother you go on to that top and there is a definite junction with the main Superstition Ridgeline trail. I am certain there are many who could do this up and back with relative ease but it is a definite long climb with many obstacles. Someday I would like to see that top area but I can accept accomplishing what I did as I thoroughly enjoyed that rocky scenery. I wish more flowers had been out but they are starting in places.
_____________________
Life is what is happening while you are making other plans.
 
Mar 02 2008
avatar

 Guides 15
 Routes 2
 Photos 1,591
 Triplogs 81

89 male
 Joined Dec 11 2002
 Gold Canyon, AZ
Cave Creek TH to Spur Cross TH ShuttlePhoenix, AZ
Cave Creek TH to Spur Cross TH Shuttle
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Mar 02 2008
OhOh7 • Triplogs 81
Hiking6.50 Miles 1,450 AEG
Hiking6.50 Miles   4 Hrs      1.63 mph
1,450 ft AEG
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
Our original plan (couple years back) was to do trail #4 from Seven Springs recreation area down to the Spur Cross TH. At that time it was about 10 miles and mostly downhill following Cave Creek through the canyon. Yesterday we finally got around to doing some of this but we did an out and back for two reasons. First the TH at the NE end is just over a half mile longer and the TH at the SW end is 2 miles farther. This would make the total distance 12.5 miles. Second there is water in Cave Creek and in places rushing quite fast. To do the entire hike would require 8 creek crossings, not possible without some major wading in the water. If you want to do the entire 12.5 miles the trail is really not difficult and an October or November schedule (according to the ranger office) would probably reveal stepping stones to make all the crossings with convenient rock hopping.

Our hike was more of an investigative venture and formed our opinion that we could do the 12.5 miles in 8 or 9 hours. Many of you could do it faster but I have to push things to do 1.5 mph. Again this trail 4 would lend itself to a fairly good gait.

This terrain is completely different from the Superstitions where I live and do most hiking. The hills are rounded and really remind you of being in another state. The bad Cave Creek fire a fire few years back still has the land scarred but it is recovering. We went in about3.5 miles and then returned. You basically follow Cave Creek as it wanders toward the Spur Cross area. There are a few other trails that go off of trail 4 but most have some major climbing while trail 4 gradually goes the flow direction of Cave Creek. The writer known as "Four Peaks" give a detailed mile by mile description of the total hike that seems very accurate. Of course we had to get to the crested saguaros (in the photos) and in doing so we did 2 creek crossings that were a bit of rock hopping.

Beautiful hike with rolling hills, creek and mountain views and good companionship. I think I will try the entire route in the fall!
 Flora
 Flora [ checklist ]
[ checklist ]  Saguaro - Crested
_____________________
Life is what is happening while you are making other plans.
 
Feb 23 2008
avatar

 Guides 15
 Routes 2
 Photos 1,591
 Triplogs 81

89 male
 Joined Dec 11 2002
 Gold Canyon, AZ
Coronado MesaPhoenix, AZ
Coronado Mesa
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Feb 23 2008
OhOh7 • Triplogs 81
Hiking5.00 Miles 870 AEG
Hiking5.00 Miles   4 Hrs      1.25 mph
870 ft AEG
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
This is a variation of the Coronado mesa trip that Joe has taken. He started just off the FR 80 that goes to Horse mesa Dam. As he says the first right turn goes to a parking area and even a road (rough) that goes up the mesa a bit. His trip went from there over Coronado mesa to the edge of the Lower Fish Creek canyon. He then went out to some overlooks and back to the TH.

Our trip started at Tortilla TH and went about 5 miles ending at the Horse mesa road lot where Joe started. Part of our hike was below the Apache trail (SW of the road) and the rest above the Apache Trail (North of the road). All of the hike was off trail. We left the Tortilla TH and went west and down to parallel the Apache trail went down to an old jeep road (not well defined) for awhile and back up toward the highway, across the highway and directly out NE to the canyon edge. Wow! As many have said, if this canyon were in any other state it would be a national park! When you drive the Apache trail down Fish Creek hill and on toward Apache Lake, you miss this lower canyon, its sheer walls and deep side canyons.

The view from the several vantage points of that canyon is quite astounding. The route taken is not really very hard with just a few hills to climb but there is a place where you can climb some rocks out to a narrow ledge and look down, down, down, Lots of photos were taken but, like the Grand Canyon, trying to catch the depth and grandeur by film is impossible. I was disappointed at the photo results because it flattens cliffs and spires. Anyway one can catch the general beauty of this area.

The first part of the route shows many canyons, the gash for Tortilla Creek and some pretty wild looking terrain. Once you cross the highway and go up the mesa the overlooks are amazing. If you just would like to se the Fish Creek canyon from Coronado Mesa, go as Joe did. By parking some cars at Tortilla TH and the others at the Horse mesa site the hike is a nice off trail journey offering quite a diverse topography. Care must be taken at the canyon edges. Those drop offs are extreme. You would hardly bounce! I have tried to include a map as I am just starting to do some GPS tracking. Hope it gets included.
_____________________
Life is what is happening while you are making other plans.
 
Feb 17 2008
avatar

 Guides 15
 Routes 2
 Photos 1,591
 Triplogs 81

89 male
 Joined Dec 11 2002
 Gold Canyon, AZ
Mormon Loop TrailPhoenix, AZ
Mormon Loop Trail
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Feb 17 2008
OhOh7 • Triplogs 81
Hiking4.00 Miles 1,375 AEG
Hiking4.00 Miles
1,375 ft AEG
 no routes
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
Hidden Valley at South Mountain is a startling place! I note that HAZ does not have a hike labeled this from the Mormon trail TH at the end of south 24th street. Maybe there should be one although it does involve much of the Mormon trail itself. I like to take out of towners (called snowbirds) on this hike for several reasons. First the access is easy at the south end of 24th street where the lot has about 30 parking places. Second there is a formidible climb from the TH up to the junction of Mormon, over to the National trail and then into Hidden Valley by via either the east of the west. Third, the natural tunnel in Hidden Valley, Fourth, the rock formations are spectacular--right in the middle of a city and you don't "feel" it. Fifth, there is a bit of scrambling over smooth rock and through or around a major rock pile and Sixth, sideways through the fat man's pass.

I have done this several times as part of longer south mountain hikes but never on a weekend. we saw about a thousand dogs and owners on the trails and a million trail bikers--some with very, very expensive machines and a couple going too fast for the trail! The loop through Hidden Valley is written as a separate hike in the book "60 Hikes Within 60 Miles" It is about 4 miles long with a bit of everything. The last part of the Mormon trail to the National Trail is steep, but only for a short time. Even with all the weekend people the hike was very enjoyable. Great one to take newcomers. Oh, for the first time I actually went through fat man's pass. All the previous times I had gone over the top or around. I sucked in the gut and made it through!!!
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Feb 09 2008
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 Guides 15
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 Photos 1,591
 Triplogs 81

89 male
 Joined Dec 11 2002
 Gold Canyon, AZ
Silly Mountain Trail SystemPhoenix, AZ
Silly Mountain Trail System
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Feb 09 2008
OhOh7 • Triplogs 81
Hiking1.00 Miles 412 AEG
Hiking1.00 Miles
412 ft AEG
 no routesno photosets
Linked   none no linked trail guides
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This is more informational than a hike report. I do this Silly Mountain with my dogs several times a month. A couple months back committees from Apache Junction and Gold Canyon decided to try to "clean up" the scar left years ago by motorized climbing contests and make this more of a park. They started by fashioning new trails over and around Silly mountain. Today I took the dogs and found many great new trails. It is now estimated that there are about 4 miles of such trails with easy access. One set of new ones is a complete circumference of the Silly Mountain "range". you no longer have just the 3 routes to the top saddle. In fact the new trails do not use any of the older rocky routes. Once you reach the top saddle from a trail that goes south at the white signs you now have the choice of continuing over several very nice hills and working your way back to the highway 60 area then back to the main lot.

I only write this up for those who have not been to Silly Mountain for awhile. Go again and try many of the new trails done by many volunteers.
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Life is what is happening while you are making other plans.
 
Feb 08 2008
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 Guides 15
 Routes 2
 Photos 1,591
 Triplogs 81

89 male
 Joined Dec 11 2002
 Gold Canyon, AZ
Camp Creek FallsPhoenix, AZ
Camp Creek Falls
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Feb 08 2008
OhOh7 • Triplogs 81
Hiking3.00 Miles 600 AEG
Hiking3.00 Miles
600 ft AEG
 no routes
1st trip
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Wow! What a surprise this is. You can not imagine from the main road what amazing rock formations and general scenery awaits you if you go down Blue Wash and turn left at Camp creek to the falls. We did this the same day as the Canyon Lake Massif (I know the miles between are many but we had to arrange to eat at El Encanto in Cave Creek and since both hikes are short in distance we did both in the same day).

Anyway, on a tip from a friend we did not stop at the hilltop parking area designated for Blue Wash but went on to the bottom of the hill and parked where we followed the actual creek bed all the way to Camp Creek. The sign there says :Blue Wash" This route is really quite easy and far more scenic that the "horse trail" from the hilltop parking area.

There is one place on the Blue Wash creek bed where the bed drops off about 12 feet and one has to go to the right up and over then down to resume the creek bed route. There are numerous miniature waterfalls along this route and very, very science fiction looking rock formations. It is very evident when you reach the junction with Camp Creek Lots of water flowing today, We did not know exactly how the waterfall filled into the stream so we did go back and forth across the flowing water on rocks and jumping a but. I can tell you know that, if you almost reach the Camp creek, turn left through a short brush covered area (even a faint trail) you will come out on the Camp Creek bed and can go all the way to the waterfall without any water sloshing.

We heard the waterfall way before we got to it. What a sight! Photos again will be up in a day or so. One can get very close to the picturesque several directions fall of the water and also you can easily go up top and wander around above the fall. The area begs to have photos taken. We obliged.

On the return trip, before we got to the 12 foot cliff, we turned left up a well marked trail obviously populated by people and horses and followed it up over hills to the hilltop parking area. We did this just to vary the loop a bit. I highly recommend going down the creek bed first and back up the other trail. I did use my GPS to track the 9/10 mile from the car to the Camp creek junction but would not have to as it is very clear that Blue Wash dumps into Camp creek and you simply go left a quarter mile to the waterfall.

Again, what an astounding area of rocks and water. Thousands of people travel the road from Carefree and there are even many very expensive homes nearby. However, this is one place if you did not know it was there you would never guess that the creeks and mini falls culminate in the Camp creek waterfall that is an artists dream. Sure it is a drive away but be certain to do this some time. You will be amazed.
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Life is what is happening while you are making other plans.
 
Feb 08 2008
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 Guides 15
 Routes 2
 Photos 1,591
 Triplogs 81

89 male
 Joined Dec 11 2002
 Gold Canyon, AZ
Canyon Lake Massif - Peak 2276Phoenix, AZ
Canyon Lake Massif - Peak 2276
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Feb 08 2008
OhOh7 • Triplogs 81
Hiking1.90 Miles 480 AEG
Hiking1.90 Miles   1 Hour   45 Mns   1.09 mph
480 ft AEG
 no routes
1st trip
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We had seen this towering massif many, many times going to Canyon Lake, on past to hiking points on the Apache Trail. Joe said there was a convenient way to get up there so we had to try it. First of all it starts on a service road to transmission towers. Do not try this without a good 4WD with good clearance. The 6/10 of a mile from the junction of Mormon Flar Dam road and Highway 88 is extremely rough and rocky. As Joe said one should really hoof it but I wanted to "baptize" my 4WD and this certainly did it! Once you reach the base of one of the towers (the only place you can turn around) you look toward your right and can see a break in the large cliff that looks like a possible route to the top of the massif. There is actually some semblance of a trail that climbs and winds toward the top. For over 500 feet the angle of ascent is about 46% and I had to take it slow to be positive on places with loose scree.

Once you reach the top it levels out quite a bit and the views are astounding. I will post some photos later. The sudden climb right out of the box for a guy like me that worries about heights was a bit of a challenge but I did make it to the top and coming back down was done with much care. Many of you can do this without much trouble at all. Of course most are younger than I. if you do not have a 4WD park near the mailbox and hike to the transmission tower and then up to the top of the massif. It does not take too much time and is really worthwhile. don't skip these views of lots of the Supes area, Weaver's needle and the Flatiron.
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Life is what is happening while you are making other plans.
 
Jan 24 2008
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 Guides 15
 Routes 2
 Photos 1,591
 Triplogs 81

89 male
 Joined Dec 11 2002
 Gold Canyon, AZ
Robbers Roost - SuperstitionsPhoenix, AZ
Robbers Roost - Superstitions
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Jan 24 2008
OhOh7 • Triplogs 81
Hiking6.20 Miles 2,500 AEG
Hiking6.20 Miles   7 Hrs      0.89 mph
2,500 ft AEG
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
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One more goal attained! Wednesday 4 of us led by Irv Kanode left our cars at the "new" Carney Springs parking area and headed to the fence start of Carney Springs trail. Our destination was Robbers Roost on Dacite mesa. Of course the climb up to West Boulder Saddle sapped me quite a bit-as it always has, but we made it after being joined by Dan who arrived late and virtually "ran" up the trail to catch us at the false saddle.

Dan had to return to be back by a certain time so the 4 of us continued on east. Although there are various carins and a rather spotty trail route the direction goes toward the NE for a couple hundred yards and then goes SE up a drainage wash. The actual Robbers Roost is about one mile from West Boulder Saddle and it is not an easy mile picking your way around boulders, crossing the wash in places and doing a bit of up hill travel heading toward a gap at the top of the wash. Once you reach the top of the wash there is a surprising small flat area with views of the valley. Once thing that surprised me on Dacite mesa was that it is not like a true "mesa" with a rather flat top. Dacite mesa is covered with hoodoos, spires, strangely shaped rocks and king size boulders. As you go nearer the slot wash leading the robbers roost you are right among those rock outcroppings. There is nothing very flat about this mesa. It also is much larger than one would think when viewing it from the valley floor.

Rather than attempt to give directions to the actual robbers roost I refer you to the GPS charts and writeups by our extremely competent guide, Irv Kanode.on this web site. I will mention that it seems like many have tried to place carins all over the place after you climb up the wash. From there on there are several ways one can get to robbers roost but some of the carins will put you over the top with a tough way to get down. Irv even said he has tried several ways and finally found the easier way. At what is called the Chiminaya which resembles a very large one popular throughout the SW, stay to the left and aim for a lone tree. When at the lone tree turn west and start down a crevice with large boulders ahead of you.

This place is not easy to find even if you have been there. You go down the crevice, then to the left and through some rock "avenues" and then down to the right and finally a short drop down to the roost itself. I have tried to use photos posted soon to show the route and the astounding rock formations. I have wanted to get there for a long time. A long steep climb followed by some trail and some bushwhacking will reward you with the roost. Again please be aware that there are many carins all over the area but if you stay on the left to the tree and then down the "shute" you will get there. Great day and good hike. Every time I go up Carney I wonder if I will ever try it again. I suppose I will after a long leg rest. Must work out more on the exercise equipment!!

It took us 7 hours as we stopped alot and also messed around at the roost plus lunch. Most can do this faster but I enjoy the routes and the amazing Superstitions scenery.
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Life is what is happening while you are making other plans.
 
Jan 17 2008
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 Guides 15
 Routes 2
 Photos 1,591
 Triplogs 81

89 male
 Joined Dec 11 2002
 Gold Canyon, AZ
San Tan Mountain Regional ParkPhoenix, AZ
San Tan Mountain Regional Park
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Jan 17 2008
OhOh7 • Triplogs 81
Hiking6.00 Miles 166 AEG
Hiking6.00 Miles   4 Hrs      1.50 mph
166 ft AEG
 no routes
1st trip
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I said the first time that we wanted to come back and do the trails to the north side of the park. We had previously done parts of the GoldMine trail, the San Tan trail and the Moonlight trail. This time we went NW on the Goldmine trail and joined the San Tan trail that climbs out of the valley up Goldmine Mountain. This is really a nice hike. Some uphill with lots of scree but generally a nice route with some excellent views of Phoenix to the north and East to the Superstitions. We were impressed at all the improvements that have made to the park. The trails are now signed and well marked and the walking is fairly easy on the flat areas even though very rocky on the climbs. There are about 8 miles of trails in the park and only just over a mile of that would constitute as a climb. One amazing thing is the extreme population growth south on Ellsworth through Queen Creek. Looks like soon the entire area will be houses. The traffic is horrible on Ellsworth but they are trying to widen the road. There are some very interesting views of the valley as you get to the top of Goldmine Mountain. Now we have completed this park. Good short workout. All was fine except for the 6 bucks to enter the place!!!
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Life is what is happening while you are making other plans.
 
Dec 19 2007
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 Guides 15
 Routes 2
 Photos 1,591
 Triplogs 81

89 male
 Joined Dec 11 2002
 Gold Canyon, AZ
Jacob's Trail #58Phoenix, AZ
Jacob's Trail #58
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Dec 19 2007
OhOh7 • Triplogs 81
Hiking5.50 Miles 340 AEG
Hiking5.50 Miles   5 Hrs      1.10 mph
340 ft AEG
 no routes
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Five of us plus one backpacked son left the broadway Trailhead to go up to the Cave/mine and then up Monument Canyon for a way and back. We decided to go to the homestead ruins first to explore beyond the chimney and obvious home site. We started up the left side of the canyon and came to some difficult obstacles so we tried the middle of the canyon where we found a regular field of very large boulders. Passing over them we then tried up the right side for a few hundred yards. From there we could see a couple places that looked like mine tailings but we did not want to bushwhack our way to those sites about a half mile beyond. We returned to the homestead site, rested and backtracked to the Broadway cave trail, climbed to the cave and had lunch, rested and then returned the way we had come. About a year ago I had done this hike to the cave and this time it seemed even more steep. Could it be I am getting older??? Fun day with good friends, lots of laughter and the little boy actually took a nap on his dad's back on the way down to the car. I asked Andy if he would carry me so I could catch a nap but he declined my request!! Our time shows that we hike for enjoyment and not speed. Many stops to enjoy the Saguaro forest and everything so green after the recent rains.
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Life is what is happening while you are making other plans.
 
Dec 05 2007
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 Guides 15
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 Photos 1,591
 Triplogs 81

89 male
 Joined Dec 11 2002
 Gold Canyon, AZ
Lost Goldmine Trail - Cloudview to LG THPhoenix, AZ
Lost Goldmine Trail - Cloudview to LG TH
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Dec 05 2007
OhOh7 • Triplogs 81
Hiking6.36 Miles
Hiking6.36 Miles   4 Hrs   20 Mns   1.47 mph
 no routes
Linked   none no linked trail guides
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Today was one of the most beautiful hiking days one could have. The rain last weekend caused every desert plant to come alive and this trail, while quite easy and overlooked by many, is one of the most striking desert trails you can find. Add to that a short trek (over a recent fence) up to the Dacite Mine and the total distance east to west was 6.36 miles. The well marked trail to the mine has had a rather broken fence for a long time. I guess the powers that be want to discourage visitors so a new fence is there.

Anyway, Bob and I met Dan and we went to the mine, then, with our flashlights, went into the mine for quite a distance. Dan and Bob went a bit farther than I but I measured my steps and went about 370 feet into the mine. I turned around and the entrance looked very far away. I had always wanted to go in there but never wanted to go alone.

The remainder of the hike to the Hieroglyphic trailhead was simply a joy of nature. There are more Saguaros on this hike than any other I have seen. We even saw a few plants with flowers-guess they though it was spring. The weather was perfect and the desert was lush. We did it as a shuttle but did meet a couple of people who were doing an out and back-12 miles a bit much for me in one shot.
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Life is what is happening while you are making other plans.
 
Nov 27 2007
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 Guides 15
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 Photos 1,591
 Triplogs 81

89 male
 Joined Dec 11 2002
 Gold Canyon, AZ
Peralta to Fremont SaddlePhoenix, AZ
Peralta to Fremont Saddle
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Nov 27 2007
OhOh7 • Triplogs 81
Hiking6.00 Miles 1,366 AEG
Hiking6.00 Miles   6 Hrs      1.00 mph
1,366 ft AEG
 no routes
Linked   none no linked trail guides
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Took 2 neighbors up Peralta, out to the pine tree and back down the Cave Trail. I hope this has not discoutaged them from hiking! I had forgotten how difficult the Cave Trail was but we did make it to the cave down the shute and over the "bathtub" then slid on our butts down several places. Fortunately someone has placed many carins after passing the rock climbing clifs so wending our way down to Bluff Springs was not that difficult. We logged 6 miles on the trip. I think the 7% climb up Peralta tired them out and that short trek out to the pine tree always seems longer than they say it is. The views of the canyons and cliffs are always spectacular and expecially the balancing rocks on the way down to Bluff Springs.
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Life is what is happening while you are making other plans.
 
average hiking speed 1.21 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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