Picketpost Mountain, Superior Arizona

The trail pretty much follows the shadowline

Picketpost has been on my list for a couple years now.  I finally made it out and hiked to the top of this fortress shaped mountain in Superior, Arizona.  I would not recommend this trail for the casual hiker,  as it gains 1,990 feet in elevation in 2 miles with exposed ledges and some scrambling.   The trail starts out simple enough and then heads up through a chute leading to the flat top of Picketpost.  This trail has a steep accent and exposed ledges in some locations. That being said this was a great hike that I enjoyed immensely.  The biggest challenge for me was avoiding all of the cactus as the trail is not very maintained.

Most of the trail is this slippery gravel surface

To located the trail drive east on the US 60 from Apache Junction towards Superior, Arizona at approximately mile post 221.  Look for the sign directing you to the PicketPost Trail on your right (south).  Take this road and follow it past an old windmill.  The road will T shortly,  turn left follow to the end to the trailhead.  The drive is only a few minutes from the highway.  Upon exiting I followed the old jeep trail through the gate for about .5 miles.  The road stays to the right of the dry stream bed for about .5 miles.  Look for a cairn that marks the trail leading across the stream bed towards Picketpost Mountain to the left.  Follow this trail directly towards the mountain.  The trail then begins to gradualy climb at this point in the lower foothills of picketpost.  Pay attention to the rocks in this area, there are beautiful quartz shards scattered all over the area.  Follow the trail up the side of the hill, which was burned out from a fire a while back.  The trail then crosses over a small ravine and you are on the side of Picketpost Mountain.  From here the trail heads pretty much straight up the side of the mountain with a few switchbacks.

The Chute

As you head up the trail you will have a few sections requiring you to scramble up and over rocks, the trail will lead to your right toward the long chute.  This is the route up the mountain.  As you near the chute be careful of your footing.  The hardest section is here as you have to scramble over several rocks and a few are exposed ledges.  Follow the cairned trail and faded paint arrows up the chute.  Several trails branch off but my recommendation is to stay on the trail to the left.  Once you get up this rocky section you will have a steep section full of cacuts and slippery loose rocks leading up to the black cliffs directly above you.  Again use the trail to your left as it makes for a less steep accent.   At this point you are near the top, continue up the trail and you will shortly be on top of the mountain.  Keep following the trail across the top of the mountain to a small rocky hill.

Another view of the Chute

On top of this is the summit and a mailbox where you can sign in to register your accomplishment. The view from up here is great.  You get a 360 degree view of the desert below.  On a clear day you can see all the way to Camelback Mountain in Phoenix, the Superstitions, Four Peaks, and to the south Mt. Lemmon above Tucson.  In my opinion the descent on this trail is much more challenging as the trail is covered in loose rock which is difficult to gain your footing on in some sections.  Make sure of your footing and take your time on your way back down to avoid any falls.  Remember when you are near the steep black cliffs to stay on the trail that leads the farthest to your right as you did on the way up.  As this will be a less steep descent before you enter the chute.  I hiked this trail out and back in 4 hours. 

Length: 4.3 miles out and back
Elevation Gain: 1,990 feet
Difficulty: Difficult
Season: Fall, Winter, Spring
Kids: Not recommened under 12 and only if they really enjoy hiking and are not afraid of heights
Fee: None
Hiking Time: 4 hours
Note: Exposed ledges, heights and loose rock
Gear: Hiking shoes with excellent traction

Cat Peak Loop - Usery Mountain Park.

 After work this week I felt like a nice hike to get out and enjoy the amazing fall weather in Arizona. I headed up to one of my favorite trailheads and one I really don't think people know that much about. The trailhead is at the North end of Meridian Road in East Mesa. The trail head allows access into the Tonto National Forest and links up with the Pass Mountain Trail, which also cuts through Usery Mountain Park. The great thing about this trailhead, you can access the Pass Mountain trail and other Usery Mountain Park trails such as Cat Peak without paying the entrance fee. 'Nuff said.

Cat Peak

To locate the trailhead; exit the US 60 on Ellsworth road and drive north. Turn right on Southern and then left on Meridian. Follow to the end of the road. You can't miss it as you will run right into it. To hike the Cat Peak Loop you must find the Pass Mountain Trail and head south. This can be a tad tricky if you are not paying attention. There are several spur trails leading off in the area. Upon leaving your car cross into the Tonto National Forest Boundaries through the access gate. Follow the well worn trail to your left. You will wind about 200 yards and come to a 4 way split in the trail. Take the trail straight ahead of you marked by a large cairn. You will then come to the edge of a ravine. The trail goes left here or straight down the ravine. Follow the trail into the ravine and up the other side. You will then come to another fork. This is the Pass Mountain Loop trail. For this hike to Cats Peak take the trail to your left. The trail winds around the to the south of the Pass Mountains. The trail is lined with saguaros and other cactus. I would suggest hiking this trail in the evening as the colors in the cactus come alive in the evening sky. The trail is pretty easy and dips in and out of a few drainage's. This is a great hike to take your kids on or family from out of town to show them the area.

Cholla Forest

After hiking about 1.5 miles you will come to another fork that is marked with a sign for Cat Peak Trail. Follow the trail through the gate entrance to your left. Cat Peak is a loop around two peaks. I opted to head to my right. One interesting section is just after you round the first turn in the hill and near the back side. There is a large Cholla "forest" that the trail cuts right through. This would be a great place for low light photography. The trail then curves around to the back of the peak and you come to another sign marking the trails intersection with The Blevin's Trail. Follow the sign to your left and continue with the loop. 

View from Cat's Peak Pass

A few hundred more yards and you come to another sign. You can go straight and keep heading on the main loop or head to your left following the Cat Peak Pass Trail. I opted for this route, hoping the trail would take me to the top of the peak. I was wrong. The trail climbs just a bit and then heads down again linking back up with the loop trail. One nice advantage to this option is you get a nice view of the Superstition Mountains as you crest the small hill. Follow the trail to the right and you will soon be back where you started at the Cat Peak Loop starting point. Head back to your right along the Pass Mountain Trail to the trail head.

There is nothing to grand on this hike, but it is a great evening hike to enjoy the cactus and the views of the Superstition Mountains.  

Hike Details:
Length:  4 miles 
Elevation Gain: 160 feet
Difficulty:  Easy
Kids:  All ages recommended
Hiking Time:  1-2 hours
Fee:  None if accessed off Meridian Road.   

Angels Landing - Zion National Park

Angels Landing

If you are not afraid of heights, sheer cliffs, drop-offs of 1,000+ feet on both sides, rocky terrain, and 1,500 feet elevation gain in 2 miles then this hike is for you.  You will be rewarded with a killer view of Zion Canyon and the personal satisfaction when you are back down on the canyon floor of looking up at the behemoth of Angels Landing and saying  "I stood on top of that!"  Back when I attended college in Southern Utah, I hiked this many times.  But I recently did it again for the first time since 1998.  I had forgotten how gnarly the "neck" part of the hike is out onto Angels Landing.  This hike is extremely rewarding and one of my all time favorites. 

In my prior post I posted a video of part of the hike.  You can check it out to get an idea of what this "experience" is like.  Again, like I said earlier it is not for anyone afraid of heights or even beginner hikers.  There have been numerous deaths due to falls off of the trail on Angels Landing.  If you trip up or slip in some of these sections you could fall over 1,000 feet.  It isn't a hike to take lightly.

The trail is located in Zion National Park.  One of the most beautiful places in Utah.  You access the trail from across the road from the Grotto Picnic area.  If you look across the road and look to your right you will see a towering sand stone formation jutting out from the main canyon wall, this is Angels Landing and at the end of this hike you will be standing on top of that narrow neck. The trail is a total of 5 miles out and back. The first 2 miles of this hike is spectacular in its own accord.  It's the last half mile out on the narrow neck that you start entering a high risk zone.

A really bad picture of "Walter's Wiggles"

The hike begins relatively flat for the first half mile.  The trail then begins to ascend right up the side of the cliff.  The trail at this point has literally been carved into the sandstone wall.  The trail switchbacks up and opens up into a canyon called Refrigerator Canyon.  This is a narrow canyon and its name describes it perfectly.  Due to it's location and how narrow it is it stays shaded most of the day.  This is a beautiful canyon, lined with trees and plants.  This section is flat, which gives you a bit of reprieve from the hike up the side of the cliff you just did. The trail then heads to your left and to a section called "Walter's Wiggles."  This is a great part of the trail, tight switchbacks zigzag up the side of the cliff again, they were built using rock and are quite an impressive feat of trail building.  This section is a bit of a lung burner.  Here is a better photo of Walter's Wiggles. Upon reaching the top you are on Scout Lookout, which is 2 miles from the trailhead.  The trail head in two directions here.  one heads to your left to the West Rim Trail and the other to your right out onto the neck of Angels Landing.  This is also a great spot if you do not have the stomach to head out on the neck to sit and relax, enjoy the view and head back down the trail.  For those who need a bit more the "fun" is about to begin.

First obstacle. 

The trails first obstacle to get out on the neck is one, if you don't feel comfortable doing you probably should not go any further as the obstacles along the neck are similar to this one and some more challenging.  Most of this section of the trail is lined with chain, to give you added comfort and a bit of a helping hand as you navigate your way along 1,000 foot drop offs.  The first obstacle heads out onto an exposed sandstone slab lined with chains you must move up and around.  Making a mistake along here, is not an option.  Watch your feet and take your time.  One added element to this trail is the the amount of use it receives.  Plan on plenty of people with all skill levels making their way out and back.  At times you have to wait to let them by as the trail is very narrow. 

You then come to a narrow section, where the trail is literally as wide as your wingspan with drop off's on each side.  This part is amazing, but again watch your feet.  You then head to the left of the neck and right along the edge of the cliff.  This section is in the video.  If you are afraid of heights then you will know it at this spot.  Past this section you will look up and see the trail heading up along the narrow neck.  There are several obstacles that must be maneuvered along this section.  One, that got my heart pumping and scared me was a section where you are on an exposed cliff and have to step up into a carved step and grab the chain.  Don't look down!  I hiked this with my brothers and of course the goal was to not touch the chains the entire hike.  They succeeded.  I did not. You will have half a mile of these obstacles and then you come out on top of Angels Landing.  It is incredible.  The neck is wider and allows for you to relax and take in the amazing 360 degree view of Zion Canyon.  Take your time up on top to just sit and take it all in.  There is a reason this is called Angel's Landing.  It is beautiful. 



As you get ready to head back down, keep two things in mind.  When you walk over and look at what you scrambled up and realize you have to go down it, it is a bit daunting.  TAKE YOUR TIME!!!  Your legs will be tired and most of the obstacles are more difficult to navigate going down than up.  Once you get across the neck and back to Scout Lookout turn around and look at what you just accomplished.  You will amaze yourself with what you accomplished.  It is a great feeling.  It's all down hill from here back to your car which is great on the lungs, but tough on the knees and toes.  Check out this link to see specific points on this photo.

This is one of my all time favorite hikes.  You get a bit of a adrenaline rush, a great work out and an incredible view.  Those three pack a punch you don't want to miss. 

Hike Details
Length: 5 Miles
Elevation Gain: 1488 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Kids: Not recommended
Hiking time:  5 hours
Fee: $25.00 per vehicle Zion Natl Park entrance fee
Trail Access: April 1st - October 30th Zion Canyon is accessed via shuttle. Private cars are allowed in Zion Canyon the rest of the year. Park at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center to ride the shuttle and get off at the Grotto shuttle stop. The rest of the year, when the shuttles are not operating, drive into the canyon and park at the Grotto.

Looking back down the neck you hiked across and up

Angels Landing- Video

Lower Salt River Float

One of the most popular recreations near the Phoenix Metro area is floating the Lower Salt River.  After living in the valley for 7 years I finally took a day and floated down the river.  This is a low stress, kick back and enjoy the day type of float trip.  There are a few "ripples" but for the most part it is pretty smooth all the way down.  There are two ways to do the float.  One you can contact the local company that runs a bus load full of people, with there large inner-tubes, music, and beer.  The company will drop you off and pick you up at the end of your float.  I for one like my way instead.  Get up as early as you can, before "that" crowd gets there and have the river to yourself, along with the abundant wildlife

In order to do this you will need two cars or someone willing to shuttle you and obviously a sturdy raft, or kayak.  There are several outdoor stores  in the valley that will rent you equipment for the day if need be.  Check Sport Chalet or REI.  The portion of the river that I floated started at the rest area before the Stewart Mountain Dam, just below Saguaro Lake.  We floated approximately 9 miles to the Phon D Sutton Recreation Area.  It took us about 4 hours of leisurely making our way down the river.

Along the river you will see plenty of wildlife, especially if you are up early before the crowd.  During our float we saw many bird species including: hawks and herons.  Other birds you may see include:  Bald eagle, osprey, peregrine falcon, egret, and waterfowl  We were also able to see several wild mustangs that roam the area in a large herd.  Other animals you may see in the area are: Bighorn sheep, deer, javelina, coyotes, foxes, and beavers. 

Keep in mind you will need a Tonto Pass, you may purchase a day pass at most convenience stores near the river. To reach the river drive nort on Power Rd from the US60 or 202.  Power Rd will turn into Bush Hwy which follows the course of the river.

Also keep in mind that although this is a very mild river unfortunately many people have lost their lives while on this section of the river.

The river is not always flowing at enough rate to run. Check this site before heading out for up to date water flow rate.  The best rates to float are 1200-1800 cubic feet per second.

Salome Jug- Canyoneering

Warning: Technical Canyon

• Hiking time: 5 hours
• Estimated hiking distance: 5.1 miles
• Elevation gain: 650 feet
• USGS Topo Maps: Armer Mountain, Greenback Creek
• Difficulties: Much swimming, some downclimbing, one large (30ft) rappel into a deep pool and one small rappel
• Special equipment: Harnesses and rappelling gear, 80ft rope, 20ft webbing, one rappel ring, drybags
• ACA Rating: 3B III

View of Salome Jug from the hiking trail

Second to last Swim.  The water was cold here

Located on the far Northeastern side of Roosevelt Lake is a slot canyon known as Salome Canyon or simply, "The Jug."  This canyon requires technical know how, including rappels.  Please do not attempt unless you are properly outfitted. Also check weather conditions- the last place you want to be when it is raining  is in a slot canyon. The Salome Creek has cut through the granite rock and formed a mile long slot canyon.  It starts out relatively easy, with boulder hopping and wading in the stream, but quickly cuts into the granite becoming narrower and deeper the further down the canyon you go. There are numerous sections that must be swam.  The two longest sections of swimming coming at the very end where the slot opens up into a ravine.  The longest swim is nearly 100 yards. Several natural water slides are found throughout the canyon which make for a good time sliding down and into the pools.

The best time to do this trip is May, June and September.  We did the trip in September.  The water level was fairly high due to rain the previous week.  There is one 30 foot rappel towards the end of the canyon.  This is the fun one.  You have several options.  - if the water level is high enough, you could jump- but I'm to much of a wimp for that.  2- rappel of the chains to the right of the waterfall or 3- have some fun and have someone belay you right down the waterfall.  I opted for this, it was loud and the water was strong, but you couldn't wipe the grin off my face.
We also used the rope to belay off a small 10 foot drop off.  During the last storm it appeared a flash flood had washed away a previous route.
This trip is exhausting.  It is also cold, as you are in the water while in the canyon nearly the entire time.  However; we did not use wet suits- it is not that cold, especially in September. Once you finish the slot canyon you have a hike up and out along an old jeep road back to your car.

Trailhead Directions

Me under an Awesome Rock

From the intersection of State Highways 87 and 188 about 60mi northeast of Phoenix, Arizona, drive southeast on SR 188 for 19.4mi through  Punkin Center to mile post 255. Turn left following the sign for the A+ Cross Road and note the odometer reading. The dirt road drops down into the wide river valley and, after about a mile, crosses the stream at a broad ford where the water is usually only about six inches deep. On the other side continue on the good dirt road following the posted sign for Salome Creek. At a fork where dirt roads go left continue straight as the road becomes asphalt. This asphalt road ends at a boatramp and campground but, about 1.8mi before that (and 2.3mi from SR188), you must turn left onto a dirt road signposted A+ Cross Road. This turn is easily missed but if you arrive at the boatramp just backtrack 1.8mi. The dirt road winds in and out of various drainages as it climbs. Soon the imposing mass of Dutchwoman Butte comes into view ahead to the east. As you come to the last ridge between you and the Butte, you will easily find the A+ Cross Trailhead, 10.1mi from SR188 at 33^o46.24'N 111^o8.17'W. The parking area is on the left side of the road. Except in winter, the ford and the dirt road are passable in a 2WD vehicle but a high ground clearance, 4WD vehicle is preferable.
  
Trail 

30 foot waterfall into "The Jug"

The trail leading to the slot canyon is an old jeep trail.  It heads down into the ravine on your right.  It is a 2.4 mile hike until you reach the slot canyon.  You will see a sign that says "Salome Wilderness Area."  Walk up the path a ways and follow one of the numerous spur trails to the creek.  You can find many easy access points into the slot canyon as it pretty much starts from nothing.  Head into the creek and start finding your way downstream.  The further you go, the more difficult, hence more fun, the hike becomes.  The slot canyon is only 1 mile.  But it is slow going. Once you reach the waterfall you are nearly out of the canyon.  Rappelling off this is the highlight of the trip.  The swim after the rappel is close to 100 yards.  You will reach a small landing and see the opening of the slot canyon, which pools into a ravine.  The last swim is long but head towards the tree on the far right of the pond.  Exit and you will see a trail heading into the brush.  Follow this trail, marked by cairns, up the hill.  This trail will meet up with the old Jeep trail you hiked down.  By the time you reach the top you are going to be dry as remember it is a 2 mile hike up and out.  

This trip will definitely be on the yearly to do list. However, I plan on camping someone in the area the next time around, as driving back to the valley after this trip makes for a very very long day.

Tonto Natural Bridge, Payson Arizona

View into the Bridge

  

Under the Bridge

I've been up to Tonto Natural Bridge a few times since moving to Arizona and I have to say it is worth the drive from the valley. Unfortunately this State park is on the Arizona budget hit list, but that is another conversation entirely.  Check the website for information on park hours Lets hope that we don't lose access to this amazing spot. Tonto Natural Bridge is located Northwest of Payson, Arizona.  It is the world's largest known travertine natural bridge. The bridge, which looks more like a tunnel, is 150 feet wide and 183 feet high. Four hiking trails descend down to the bridge.  Click here for a link to a map of the trails in the park  My prefered hike is to hike down the "Gowan Trail, which leads you to the canyon floor and the opening of the bridge.  You can then hike under the bridge, which is akin to hiking through a tunnel.  It is 400 feet long and requires a bit of scrambling and steady feet.  Not recommended for anyone afraid of exposed edges.  If you don't feel up to scrambling through the tunnel you can enjoy the water fall coming off the top of the bridge and the pools waiting to be explored.  Once you are through the bridge continue to follow the trail up the canyon as it winds away long the creek.  This is a beauitful spot, with an incredible amount of vegetation.  Small waterfalls trickle down the side of the canyon in various spots.  The trail will wind up out of the canyon and you will end up on top at the Pine Canyon Trailhead.  The trail is only 1 mile in length and is a loop trail.  However, you can spend an entire day in the canyon exploring and playing in the pools. Driving Directions from Phoenix 
North on AZ 87 to Payson
Continue through Payson on AZ 87
Head 9 Miles and you see a road on your Left Marked Tonto Natural Bridge, follow this road to the park.

Kids working their way under the bridge