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| no partners | | Ran into many newbies backpacking the baldy loop during my 3 days on the mountain. Both trailhead lots were full+ but not that many on the trails--did not check the overflow east baldy lot at the really cool & nearby Gabaldon Horse Campground which has some interesting paths as well as connection to the east baldy trail.
I've only seen 1 bear in the past 25 years hiking baldy and that was off trail near the east trail a couple years ago. On day 2 someone asked me about having to worry about baldy bears and I laughed!
HOWEVER, on day 3 a couple lost their pack with the fob to their honda accord as a bear ran off with it. The couple explained they were camped off the crossover within sight of Lee Valley Reservoir on Sunday when the guy awoke to a crash and found his gal missing and bear with her stuff. He yelled at the bear which dropped the pack but then it ran off with the goods as he grew concerned about his lady. Appears she was nearby viewing the lake and saw it all. Note to self as they said they couldn't find a large enough tree nearby and maybe the vicinity of the lake was a problem?
Not sure how they were able start their car as they were going to call AAA ft to get her apartment keys from the car before returning to Phx for her extra fob? drawbacks of keyless starting cars with fobs I guess? Maybe they had car towed as it was gone at 3pm when I returned.
Baldy East trail is in good shape regarding deadfall but trail crew timed out and had to leave 15 trees between miles 4-5 which are easy to navigate. Some reports I heard said West Baldy trail was completely free of deadfall as of Saturday but I wonder if they also ran out of time there too and had to leave some deadfall?
Bugs were not a problem at all on Friday but I started getting bit on Sat & Sunday so be prepared.
Weather was horrible as I missed out on hiking in 110F in Phx and instead had to suffer with afternoon TH temps of about 75F each day. No rain but drizzles nearby since monsoons haven't hit baldy yet. |
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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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