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Apr 14 2016
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 Guides 1
 Photos 16
 Triplogs 3

35 female
 Joined Feb 07 2016
 Tempe, AZ
Needle Rock Recreation AreaPhoenix, AZ
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Apr 14 2016
NorthWestTriplogs 3
Hiking2.58 Miles
Hiking2.58 Miles
20 LBS Pack
 no routesno photosets
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
I headed out here yesterday for a training hike to get back on my feet after an illness. This is a great area with lots of water access, and very lovely this time of year. Road is accessible by car without much trouble. Sometimes there are people out here on ORV's or fishing, but it's usually pretty quiet. To access the trailhead, follow the river to the left, and immediately duck left under the large tree. You will see the trail. It leads up and over some very cool rock formations, from here you pretty much just wander along the river, or up and down the hills if you want more of a workout. We did see a diamondback out here, so dog owners and hikers, be aware! Very pretty spot with lots of wildlife in the spring.
wildflower observationwildflower observationwildflower observationwildflower observationwildflower observation
Wildflowers Observation Substantial
Many blooming cacti and assorted flowers
_____________________
Hold my beer and watch this!
 
Mar 25 2016
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 Guides 1
 Photos 16
 Triplogs 3

35 female
 Joined Feb 07 2016
 Tempe, AZ
Hellsgate 37 ( North ) to Tonto CreekPayson, AZ
Payson, AZ
Backpack avatar Mar 25 2016
NorthWestTriplogs 3
Backpack14.10 Miles 3,200 AEG
Backpack14.10 Miles2 Days         
3,200 ft AEG25 LBS Pack
 no routesno photosets
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
I joined several people and some dogs to do the Hellsgate Trail to Tonto Creek. This was a beautiful, challenging hike with some lovely views and knee-crushing hills.

I would rate this hike as dog friendly, providing that your dog is in excellent shape. You will need to be cautious about the heat and water, as we found little to no water along the trail. My dog did ok on the way in, but on the way out his paws started cracking and blistering, as well as the dog of my companion. The other 2 dogs on the hike did fine, they had tougher pads. The sharp rocks are hard on pups delicate feet, so be aware! There is a small pond about 3/4 of the way in that is good for them to jump in and cool off, but I did not attempt to filter the water, as it was very swampy and full of mosquitoes.

Tonto creek is lovely and cold! Very refreshing after the long hike in. Be prepared to get wet crossing. Several large, flat areas to pitch your tents, and possibly could hang hammocks if you were creative, as there were some small shrub trees. There's also a nice, large fire ring already established.

The last 1 mile or so of the hike is VERY steep and slippery rock, almost scrambling. I was severely scolding myself for not bringing hiking poles.

This was a lovely hike that I would do again, but would leave the dog at home this time.
_____________________
Hold my beer and watch this!
 
Feb 17 2016
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 Guides 1
 Photos 16
 Triplogs 3

35 female
 Joined Feb 07 2016
 Tempe, AZ
Brown's PeakPhoenix, AZ
Phoenix, AZ
Hiking avatar Feb 17 2016
NorthWestTriplogs 3
Hiking3.00 Miles 2,064 AEG
Hiking3.00 Miles   2 Hrs      1.50 mph
2,064 ft AEG
 no routes
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
Partners none no partners
Took the route to Brown's peak today via El Oso road. The road was in reasonable condition for a passenger car. I took the Beanie (my low clearance '03 Toyota Matrix) and it made it fine, minus a couple front fender scrapes. Beautiful views on the way up and the road was fairly well maintained and dry.

There was one other car at the trail head, but didn't run in to the owner. Took the Brown's Peak trail straight ahead. It was about 65 degrees, breezy and sunny. I got a ways up the trail before getting turned around by snow, maybe about a mile in? I didn't have a GPS to measure. Could have possibly continued with crampons. The trail is very nice, but there is some downed brush and trees that need to be cleared for the season. There are several great, level campsites along the trail and one at the trail head. I would love to come back in a month or so when the snow is gone and get the summit.

Watch out for rattlers! Saw a big one sunning itself in the road.
 Fauna
 Fauna [ checklist ]
[ checklist ]  Gopher Snake
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Hold my beer and watch this!
 
average hiking speed 1.5 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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