| when | November 30, 2024 Saturday |
| when | Trip Report : January 13, 2024 |
| Trip Report : October 22, 2022 | |
| where | Superstitions |
| the hike |
Off Hwy 88, past Tortilla Flat.
This hike begins near the concrete utility cube about midway between Tortilla Flat and the Apache Trail overlook. The route descends into the north branch of Apache Trail Canyon, ascends a ridge, then descends into the south branch of same canyon. This route avoids the two rappels listed in other descriptions. After entering the main canyon, we will encounter a mile or more of boulder tangles and two rabbit hole tunnels. After passing through the narrowest part of the canyon, we will meet the old Apache trail road for the last two miles, terminating at the mesquite flat dispersed camping area. We can leave a vehicle there to shuttle the drivers back to the starting point, or make it a loop and hike two miles back up the old Apache Trail road. We kept our feet dry the last two times I have done this hike. Since the recent rains in December, we may get wet feet this time, so be prepared for that. Since this hike is in a narrow canyon, we will need to postpone and reschedule if rain is forecast. A note on difficulty: this hike is not long, but I am rating it A+ based on scrambling and boulder-hopping. Participants will need agility, flexibility, and sure-footedness. This photo album is from a few years ago will give you a good idea of what to expect: from a few years ago. Required: • Sturdy hiking boots that you don’t mind getting wet • Headlamp (for tunnels) • At least 2 liters of water Recommended: • Gloves • Bicycle helmet or something similar • Camera |
| distance | 5 miles one way |
| time | 4 hours |
| EC | 1000' elevation change |
| type | one way or loop |
| starting at | Concrete utility cube on north side of hwy 88. |
| on trail | Mostly off-trail, last 2 miles on old road. |
| rating | "A+" Rate yourself as a hiker. Limit: 15 hikers |
| dogs allowed | no |
| cost | Sharing gas expenses with the driver. The club also allows voluntary contributions of $5 per non-member. |
| weather | Apache Junction |
| leader | You must email the leader to confirm. Limited to 15 hikers. |
| meet | 8:00 AM at the Home Depot in Mesa on the southeast corner of Power and US 60, near the Burger King. |
| drive | About 2 miles past Tortilla Flat, the concrete cube on north side of hwy 88. |
| Schedule of Events | Arizona Trailblazers Home Page |
| updated November 12, 2024 | 3© Copyright 2024, Arizona Trailblazers. All rights reserved. |