| when | April 5, 2025 Saturday |
| where | Cordes Junction |
| the hike |
Join me on this dirt road hike that displays scenery of the high grasslands of the Prescott
National Forest. Heifer Pasture is a quiet place where the only sounds that can be heard are
birds rustling in the bushes or the bellows of domestic cattle. The hike begins on a hilly
rangeland 6.4 miles (approximately) east of Interstate I-17 and Dugas Road. While the pasture
can be explored by way of a maze of forest roads that are used by ranchers, equestrians and
ATV hikers, this rough two-track dirt road is also great for hikers who appreciated solitude, far-
reaching vistas, volcanic bluffs, and mesas.
The trailhead begins on FR 9650R past Estler Peak which is the opposite side of the trailhead. We will hike past 9602S to the west to the Heifer Pasture Well. FR 9650R intersect FR 9601X where we will bear to the left (west). At approximately 3.6 miles we will encounter FR 9709P to our east that runs parallel to Dry Creek. We will stop for lunch in a rocky creek bed approximately four miles which is settled between Reimer Peak and another unnamed peak of approximately 4,750 feet. After lunch we will head back to the cars. Pace: Moderate. Solid hiking boots are highly recommended. Layered clothing (this trail can become windy), a broad brimmed hat (shade is very limited), 2 liters of water, and rain gear are highly recommended. |
| distance | 7 - 9 miles |
| time | 4- 6 hours |
| EC | +-600' elevation change |
| elevations | 4100' (trailhead) to 4,750' (ridge) |
| rating | "B" Rate yourself as a hiker. |
| dogs allowed | no |
| cost | Sharing gas expenses with the driver. The club also allows voluntary contributions of $5 per non-member. |
| weather | Camp Verde |
| leader | Email the leader to confirm. Please include your cell number, in case we need to contact you the day of the hike. |
| meet |
7:30 AM in the
McDonald’s carefree off I -17 at 3140 W Carefree Hwy, Phoenix, AZ 85086. |
| drive | From Interstate 17 north of Cordes Junction, take exit 268 (Orme/Dugas Road). Turn right at the bottom of the off ramp and go approximately. 6.4 miles to Forest Road FR 9650R on the left. Park in a turnout that is available on a flat dirt surface several yards into FR 9650R to your left (west). Dugas Road is maintained dirt suitable for all vehicles. No restrooms |
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