| when | December 28, 2024 Saturday |
| Trip Report : October 20, 2013 | |
| where | Camp Verde |
| the hike |
Join me on this hike south of Camp Verde that will feature a five-mile loop featuring
switchbacks, stream crossings, and a waterfall off the main path. The trail head is present at a
large dirt parking outfitted with outdoor grills, covered picnic tables, and a pit toilet. We will
begin in a counterclockwise direction on Copper Canyon Loop Trail #504. We will climb 519
feet; about 300 feet of this comes in the first mile weaving up a set of long switchbacks to the
ridgeline. The gain in elevation is subtle, nothing drastically steep. However, after one or two
switchbacks you will be surprised when you look down to see how far away your car looks in the
trailhead parking lot. It is at the top of the ridge where views of I -17 will appear. The ridge line
displays an interesting blend of desert and mountain terrain with views of the red-rock geology
of Sedona and in winter the snowcapped peak of Mt. Humphrey, northwest of I-17.
About 2.5 miles into the loop, you will encounter Copper Falls where water flow is seasonal (unfortunately water was not present when hiked on 11/23/24). You will run into a few ponderosa pines, southern sycamores in the creek, scrub oak, and an occasional pinion pine. A good spot for a lunch break is available by a large tree trunk that acts as a bench. Back on the main trail the path is very smooth, with only a few jutting rocks to impede your way. You will encounter a large round rusted brownish/red tank that may have been used to store water in better times. Pace: Moderate. Solid hiking boots are highly recommended in addition to layered clothing (the trail can become windy), a broad brimmed hat (shade is limited), 1.5 liters of water, and rain gear. |
| distance | 5 miles |
| time | 4 hours |
| EC | +-600' elevation change |
| elevations | 3243' (trailhead) to 3,600' (ridge) |
| rating | "C" 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 |
8:30 AM in the
McDonald’s carefree off I -17 at 3140 W Carefree Hwy, Phoenix, AZ 85086. |
| drive | Exit 285 off of I-17 at General Cook Trail just before Camp Verde.From Phoenix heading north on I-17, get off at Exit 285 at the General Crook Trail Exit. Head east on General Crook Rd. to Highway 260. Turn right and go three-tenths of a mile and turn right on Oasis Road. After 0.3 of a mile, turn right onto FR 136. The trailhead is apx. 0.8 miles ahead with a picnic area, a pit toilet and covered ramadas. |
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