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Post by Deleted on Nov 8, 2015 11:14:08 GMT -8
I'm planning a trip for early March to escape the winter here in Canada. Partner and I have done quite a lot of hiking in the Southwest but usually in the summer. We want something that will be decently warm at the beginning of March - not into winter camping!
I came across the Superstition Wilderness and thought this seems like a good option. Easy to access quickly by plane and rental car so we can spend more time hiking.
Any ideas for a good 4-5 day itinerary? we should be able to average about 15+ miles/day. Although I know water is an issue..
Any ideas welcome. Or if you have a good idea in another area then please do share!
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BigLoad
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Post by BigLoad on Nov 8, 2015 16:30:47 GMT -8
There are quite a few options. Some version of the Charlebois Loop is a good starting point. With side trips, you can stretch it out to whatever length you want. There are two good water sources along the way. Another popular option is something that uses Reavis Ranch as a base. There are two good one-day approaches, and another that can take up to a day and a half. Numerous side trips are possible from the ranch, including two that have ruins. There is reliable water at the ranch. The best place for routes and up-to-date conditions is hikearizona.com/ |
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Post by trekkerman on Nov 8, 2015 17:37:06 GMT -8
You are going to the right place at the right time. Get your self a good guide book on the area. Usually March is warm and pleasant. You might consider getting a camping reservation at Lost Dutchman State Park (Arizona State Parks) It's on the east side of Phoenix near Apache Junction and would serve as a good place to get your bearings the first night upon your arrival. If you are even considering the LDSPark get your reservation as soon as you know your date of arrival. Don't wait. LDSPark books up since half the winter-weary people in western North America want to be in southern AZ in the winter. (It's only $5 if you cancel your reservation)
Trekkerman.com
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swmtnbackpacker
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Post by swmtnbackpacker on Nov 10, 2015 10:54:59 GMT -8
Water may or may not be a problem if El Niño holds, plus AZ gets an extra rainy season around then. Worst case, look up the perennial sources (like Reavis ranch) and emergency sources.
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null
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Post by null on Dec 6, 2015 6:41:26 GMT -8
The Superstition Wilderness is my favorite destination, so good choice. That said, a few things: - Expect it to be cold most nights, sometimes down to freezing. In March 2006, we got about 8" of snow at Rogers Trough one night
- Expect it to be hot during the day. In March 2015, we had several consecutive brutal days of 100 degrees
- 15 miles is pretty aggressive mileage in the Supes. If all the terrain was like the Perralta Trail or the Reavis Ranch Trail, sure hike 15. But there are plenty of overgrown trails in which pointy leaved oaks block your progress and pierce your skin (Red Tanks Trail in 2015). The oaks from each side of the trail grow over the trail and into each other so you have to look down at your feet to find the trail. In 2013, the Bull Basin Trail had the same issue. Same with the Cline Trail (Four Peaks) in 2011. These trails do get maintained but not every one of them every year. Furthermore, the treadway on trails such as the LaBarge Box are rocky up and downs with lots of divots.
Have fun! Steve |
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BigLoad
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Post by BigLoad on Dec 6, 2015 18:34:12 GMT -8
I agree that 15+ miles is more than most people would tackle in the Supes, especially in seasons of short daylight and when carrying much water.
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Post by red dog on Dec 7, 2015 6:49:47 GMT -8
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RedDoug
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Post by RedDoug on Dec 11, 2015 18:03:39 GMT -8
Depends on when you start in March. If the weather is right I plan to start the AZT as soon as possible. If I am still around, if you pay for gas I"ll spot your car at the Peralta TH and then drive you out to the eastern end of the Supers and drop you off at Miles TH. You could be back to your car in about 5 days. A little longer hike, I could spot your car at Picketpost Mtn and then drive you out to First Water TH and you hike back to your car. You could do that in 5- 6 days if you push it. This route covers the first 2 segments of the Enchantment Trail if you want to do the research. But really, if I am over this valley fever stuff and breathing again, as soon the weather is right for southern AZ, I am off on the AZT. Both the suggested routes would involve close to 200 miles by the time I am all done spotting and stuff. 1 full tank of gas and $20 for lunch......  |
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