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Sep 17 2010
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 Photos 11
 Triplogs 2

44 female
 Joined Aug 08 2010
 Surprise, AZ
Black Rock Long Loop - White Tank MountainsPhoenix, AZ
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Sep 17 2010
GoddessLil1031Triplogs 2
Hiking1.30 Miles 120 AEG
Hiking1.30 Miles   1 Hour      1.30 mph
120 ft AEG
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
I do these hikes with my kids. This time I went when the older ones were at school. I had my two year old in her umbrella stroller. It was really rocky so I had to carry her (and the stroller) at times, so it was slow going. All in all I liked it.
The short loop is handicap accessable so if you're looking for easy stroller access you should try that one instead.
This trail was still family friendly. Had my 6 year old been there I have no doubts she could have done it. It's a lot more private than the waterfall trail, which you still have access to on the long loop. There were nice veiws across the valley, and since the trail was so quiet we saw more wildlife. There's two spots to see petroglyphs. And though rocky, it wasn't very hilly.
A nice afternoon hike with the fam.
* The lady at the info center also said that the nature center they've been building will FINALLY be open on Monday.
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Aug 07 2010
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 Photos 11
 Triplogs 2

44 female
 Joined Aug 08 2010
 Surprise, AZ
Waterfall Trail - White Tank MountainsPhoenix, AZ
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Aug 07 2010
GoddessLil1031Triplogs 2
Hiking2.00 Miles 170 AEG
Hiking2.00 Miles      45 Mns   2.67 mph
170 ft AEG
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
This was my second time hiking this trail. The first was with all four of my kids, and this past time was just with my youngest. I've found I can get my umbrella stroller all the way to where you climb up to see the water fall.
There's lots of benches along the way for lounging and enjoying the scenery. They also have educational signs teaching about everything from local wild life and plants to the tribe that used to inhabit the mountain.
While the big high light of the trip is the water fall, an added bonus is several petroglyph sites (ancient writings). There are also more signs there explaining what they mean. The kids got a big kick out of that.
As we got higher and higher up the mountain, the views become more and more stunning. About halfway up, you can turn around and see all the way across the Valley. Further up you become surrounded by the mountain and are walking along next to the dry river bed. Keep a close eye on the kids as you near the top b/c the path is next to a rather sharp drop into the river bed. The path is wide enough to traverse safely, so don't be too worried.
I have seen the waterfall in both dry and wet conditions, and considered it worth it both times. When dry, it's more of a water trickle. However you can see all the smooth curves worn into the rock over the years. Almost like God took a paint brush and painted it. Expect to get wet after a rain (your shoes at least) and be careful of slippery rocks.
I fully recommend this trail for families. I know my family will do this trail again. Also, great for beginners of all ages.
I plan on hiking all the paths at White Tanks over the next few months so stay turned for more entries!
 Flora
 Flora [ checklist ]
[ checklist ]  Jojoba
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average hiking speed 1.98 mph

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

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