when | Trip Report : April 4, 2015 | ||||||||
where | Mayer | ||||||||
the hike |
The Grapevine Trail is a natural wonder and officially-designated
botanical area. It passes through a forest of oak, walnut, and boxelder trees, features
springs and creeks, and is only 60 miles from Phoenix. Most people pass right by
without ever knowing it’s there. But you’ll know, and starting from 3500
feet elevation above Phoenix should ensure cool temperatures.
The hike begins at a parking area 1.3 miles from the actual trailhead. High-clearance vehicles could travel this stretch, but not without being scratched by the overgrown vegetation. So we’ll just call it a trail and hike it. The Grapevine Trail itself starts at a group of alder trees surrounding an information kiosk. A small “Trail 4” sign marks the beginning. From here the hike extends 2.5 miles up a canyon and provides excellent views of Prescott Valley and the riparian gorge below. From atop the canyon it continues through cool tree cover, two gates, and several creek crossings before ending the at the area’s main spring. We’ll return by the same route. For more information and photos, check out these Web sites: • Mare Czinar’s Hiking Blog • ArizonaHiking.org Required: • Sturdy hiking boots • At least 3 liters of water • Rain poncho • Hat, sunblock, sunglasses Recommended: • Lunch or snacks • Camera Update from Tim Tablada: The Grapevine Trail #4 was greatly effected by the Goodwin fire of early/mid 2017. It has all burned down. It might be nice in a decade or two. I was there today (10/07/17). |
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distance | 8 miles | ||||||||
time | 5 hours | ||||||||
EC | +-1800 feet elevation change | ||||||||
elevations | 4750 to 6320 feet | ||||||||
type | Out and back. | ||||||||
starting at | Grapevine Trail Parking Area | ||||||||
on trail | 100% — Grapevine Trail #4 | ||||||||
rating | "B" Rate yourself as a hiker. | ||||||||
dogs allowed | no | ||||||||
cost |
Share gas expenses with the driver. The club also allows voluntary contributions of $5 for non-members. |
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weather | Mayer | ||||||||
meet | 8:00 AM in the Fry’s parking lot on the SW corner of I-17 & Bell Road. Park behind Denny’s, near the entrance to the Deer Valley Park & Ride. | ||||||||
drive |
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Schedule of Events | Arizona Trailblazers Home Page |
updated October 8, 2017 | © Copyright 2017, Arizona Trailblazers. All rights reserved. |