A dozen hikers assembled at Meridian Trailhead, then drove to Usery Pass for a one way hike of 5 miles over named and unnamed trails in the Tonto National Forest.

The approach to the Pass Mountain Trail from Usery Pass was once a dirt road. You have to use your imagination to see where it was, but it led to the Chester McGill homestead which was up on the mountain many decades ago.

There’s nothing left now. But the environment is disturbed enough that you can tell something was once there.

We stop on the northeast side of the mountain, where Ted points out the highest peaks of the Goldfields from south to north: peak 3269, Dome Mountain, Panorama Peak, peak 3076, and peak 3097. The Four Peaks, Mount Ord, and Stewart Mountain are clearly visible in the distance. On the east side of Pass Mountain we enjoy outstanding views of peaks 3195, 3195 (both on Bulldog Ridge) and nearby peak 3004.

The pass, 2590', is the high point of our route. Everyone stops for a water and snack break.

Then we head on down the Pass Mountain Trail, with fine views of the Superstitions, Picketpost Mountain, Dromedary Peak, the Catalinas, and the quintessential western town of Apache Junction.

Finally we cross Sand Canyon to finish the hike at Meridian Trailhead.

A dozen amiable hikers enjoyed the pleasant weather and heartwarming companionship: Bill Ruppert, Kathy Webster, Debbie Johnson, Steve Shaw, Cody Mermin, Marnie Shepperd, David Pendegran, Mike and Grace Haverty, Dan Varner, Stephen Trombitas, and hike leader Ted Tenny.