Arizona Trailblazers Hiking Club
Parker Creek Trail Day Hike
| when |
Trip Report :
September 19, 2009
|
| |
Trip Report :
May 20, 2006 |
| where |
Sierra Ancha Wilderness northeast of Roosevelt Lake |
| the hike |
This is a scenic forest hike through a riparian habitat surrounding
the south fork of Parker Creek. The trail climbs almost 2,000 feet
through four distinct vegetation zones, several talus slopes, and some
interesting geological formations. Near the top of the trail we will
be rewarded with spectacular views of Roosevelt Lake and the Four Peaks
Wilderness area.
Forest fires swept through the Sierra Anchas several years ago, but
spared most of the forest surrounding the Parker Creek Trail.
Devastation from the pine bark beetle has also destroyed some trees
along the trail. The trail terminates at the junction with Forest
Road 487. We will stop here for a lunch and rest break, before hiking
back down the mountain to the trailhead.
Required:
• Sturdy hiking boots
• At least 3 liters of water
• Rain poncho
• Hat, sunblock, sunglasses
Recommended:
• Lunch or snacks
• Camera
|
|
| distance |
7 miles round trip |
| time |
4-5 hours |
| EC |
+-1,900' elevation change |
| elevations |
5,100' (trailhead) to 7,000' (trail’s end) |
| on trail |
100% — Parker Creek Trail #160 |
| rating |
"B"
Rate yourself as a hiker. |
| dogs? |
no |
| cost |
Sharing gas expenses with the driver.
The club also allows voluntary contributions of $5 per non-member. |
| weather |
Young |
| meet |
7:00 AM at
Home Depot in Mesa on the southeast corner of Power and US 60.
|
| drive |
| • |
Drive east on U.S. 60 through Florence Junction, Superior, and Miami.
In Claypool make a left at the junction with State Route 188 to Roosevelt Lake.
This is the last traffic signal before Globe, just past Wal Mart, and directly
across from Judy’s Cookhouse to your right. |
| • |
Follow SR 188 for 15 miles to the Young turnoff on State Route 288.
Drive north on SR 288 for 19.5 miles and watch for the small turnoff
sign on your right marked “Trail 160”.
This sign is very easy to miss, so if you find yourself at 20 miles
or more from the 188/288 junction, turn around and go back. SR 288 is
now paved all the way to the trailhead and suitable for all vehicles.
|
| • |
There is limited parking for about 8-10 vehicles at the trailhead,
depending on the ratio of large trucks and SUVs to small cars.
Plan on arriving as early as possible.
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