The first Trailblazers hike of 2004 was to the IQ Arch in the southern Goldfields. Starting from Willow Springs Trailhead we climbed up to the arch with a handle, standing next to a rock pedestal. Together they spell “IQ” upside down. After climbing up to the arch we bailed out on the east side of the ridge and walked downstream, heading north toward Wishbone Junction.

We followed a little streambed that was sometimes rocky, sometimes gravely, sometimes choked with prickly brush.

Any doubts about our direction disappeared when we saw Helmet Rock ahead of us. We looped by Helmet Rock and Prevention Gap on our way back to Willow Springs Trailhead.

The IQ Arch is one of two Goldfield arches that are visible from the road. As you are driving west on state route 88 from Canyon Lake to Apache Junction, look ahead and to the right just after you pass milepost 204. The arch is up on a rocky ridgeline. You will see it for only a moment.

This hike for Intelligent and lighthearted hikers was off trail: some minor league bushwhacking and boulder hopping, plus amazing close-up and panoramic views of the Goldfield Mountains.