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Thompson Peak Day Hike McDowell Mountains January 22, 2017 by Debbie Rowray |
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 Trailblazers on Thompson Peak. [photo by Quy] Quy, Tom, Tamar, Darrell, Nancy, David, Pamela, Colleen, Michelle, Mark, Debbie, Michael |
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On a fine Sunday morning, January 22nd, 2017, a group of us climbed up the very steep and challenging Thompson Peak. Starting off with the wonderment of quartz rock and gorgeous desert landscape on Dixie Mine Trail, we could see her majestic, towering peak calling our names in the distance. |
 What a lovely day for hiking! |
 Crested Saguaro. |
 We’ve got a big climb ahead. |
 Let’s stop and enjoy the view. |
 This is serious climbing, folks. |
 Yes, there is a road up to Thompson Peak. |
 This road doesn’t give me cramps. |
 Onward and upward. |
 Where the pavement ends. |
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With all hearts pumping vigorously, we climbed to the top to enjoy lunch and the massive 360 degree views of the valley below. The wind at the top was chilly after such a workout! |
 Are we almost there? |
 Stop and breathe. |
 The view from the top. |
 Let’s take a break here. |
 What a view! |
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After descending the mountain, we ventured through a wash to see the history of Dixie Mine and numerous shafts dug into the mountains, as well as some very distinct petroglyphs. Once back to the cars, I noticed a beautiful crested saguaro near the parking lot. How neat, and not seeing it prior? I must have been excited to climb and was not paying attention. |
 The McDowell Mountain at their best. |
 Trails are well signed. |
 You’ve come a long way. |
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Kudos to all who climbed this peak! It is no small feat, and not for the weary. I had a wonderful time and I appreciate Michael for asking if I would like to help lead this hike. |
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Arizona Trailblazers Hiking Club, Phoenix, Arizona
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updated February 22, 2017