Yesterday (4/30) we took a hike on Black Canyon #114 in the Prescott National Forest in AZ near where we are camped. The forest service directions to the trailhead were not clear but we found it because we have a forest service road map we picked up at the Camp Verde ranger station last week. The pamphlet says this is a 6.5 mile trail, and we headed off with that in mind for a 13 mile hike. We went a bit further according to my phone and didn't find an "end" to the trail, but we enjoyed the trail immensely, in spite of the unclear directions. It was about 75° and sunny, a bit hot for this trail since there's not much shade. The trail climbs up about 2000' elevation gain but the switchbacks are long and not too steep, making it a nice gradual climb. The trail winds around hillsides with fabulous views of the canyon and surrounding forests, and I highly recommend it. If you happen to be near Camp Verde, Cottonwood or Sedona, consider this hike. We were alone on the trail on a Sunday afternoon until we saw one hiker start the trail our last mile. We particularly like trails where few people hike. Because it's in the national forest, Rocket can hike with us and off leash because no one was around. To keep him cool, we had him heel most of the way out and let him go on the return. There is only one spot with running water for him to cool off in, but we carried water for him. We ended about an hour before sunset and the sun began to slip behind the mountains the last few miles, so we had more shade near the end. I decided to just post photos of the varied vegetation rather than write a narrative of our journey. I was delighted to see the flora change in areas from walnut and oaks to cactus and sage. Many of the cacti in AZ are flowering now, and we noticed other wildflowers we've not seen before. We'll hike in this area again today and then head north towards Flagstaff and the Grand Canyon. Wishing you all a week of beauty and joy. Peace be with you. |
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AuthorFormer documentary film producer, wife and mother of one...I'm taking time off to see the US with my husband Terry. Here's where I'll write about our adventures RVing until the money runs out! Archives
August 2021
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