| when | March 18, 2017 |
| Trip Report : January 1, 2011 | |
| Trip Report : February 19, 2000 | |
| where | Tonto National Monument |
| the hike |
Well-preserved cliff dwellings were occupied by the Salado culture during
the 13th, 14th, and early 15th centuries in Tonto National Monument.
The first half of Upper Ruins trail goes through a wash as it steadily gains elevation. If there has been recent rainfall, we may do a little boulder-hopping across the wash. The second half of the trail is steeper with a number of switchbacks and several sets of steps cut into the rock. After the upper ruins hike, we will explore the Lower Cliff Dwellings. There is an amazing variety of colorful wild flowers in good years (February to March), and a lush riparian area which supports large Arizona Walnut, Arizona Sycamore, and hackberry trees. It also serves as a home for native animals such as whitetail and mule deer, mountain lion, bobcat, three rattlesnake species and many more. Bring your camera. Required: • Sturdy hiking boots • At least 3 liters of water • Rain poncho • Hat, sunblock, sunglasses Recommended: • Lunch or snacks • Your smiles :) |
| distance | Upper Ruins: 3 miles round trip; Lower Ruins: 1 mile round trip. |
| time | 4-5 hours for both the Upper and Lower Ruins. |
| EC | +-950' elevation change for both the Upper and Lower Ruins. |
| elevations | 2,800 feet at the Visitor Center to 3,400 feet at the Upper Ruins. |
| on trail | 100% |
| rating | "C" Rate yourself as a hiker. |
| dogs? | no |
| cost | All passengers are expected to share gas expenses with their driver. The club also allows voluntary contributions of $5/non-member. |
| weather | Roosevelt |
| meet | 6:30 AM at Home Depot in Mesa on the southeast corner of Power and US 60. |
| drive | Take U.S. 60 east through Florence Junction, Superior, and Miami. Continue to the AZ 188 turnoff before Globe. Go north on 188 almost 30 miles to the Monument. |
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| updated February 21, 2019 | © Copyright 2019, Arizona Trailblazers. All rights reserved. |