Trailblazers standing beside the AZT sign. [photo by John]

There were 4 hikers from Phoenix, 3 hikers from Prescott, and 1 hiker from Strawberry who made the early start to join the 2 hikers from Munds Park for the 9 am meeting at the trailhead. The group of 10 hikers trekked 9.5 miles of the Arizona Trail from Gooseberry Springs Trailhead to Mormon Lake. The weather was great with a slight breeze as we hiked along the ponderosa forest. There were several sightings of a very large herd of elk which moved along the valley below before eventually crossing the trail ahead of us. The group stopped for a snack break and hung out while catching up on what was new with friends. The hike terminated at the end of Navajo Springs trail which is convienently next door to the pizzeria in Mormon Lake where everyone relaxed while the carpool drivers were driven back to the trailhead where the hike started to retrieve their cars. At the conclusion of a great lunch and chatting the group parted for the long journey back to the valley and home.