Backpacking in the Arizona (Sonoran) desert at low/moderate elevation. The Superstition Wilderness is located east of Phoenix. Expect to see a lot of red rocks, cactus, etc. The wilderness has a well developed trail system and is quite popular (in winter). Water sources may be few and far between.
Itinerary (tentative)
Day 1 (Sunday, January 19th): Drive to Lost Dutchman State Park (https://azstateparks.com/lost-dutchman/) and meet/car camp there.
Day 2: Backpack from First Water Trailhead to Charlebois Springs (reliable water); 8 miles, +1225-1006
Day 3: Leave camp set up at Charlebois and day hike a loop around Bluff Spring Mountain with views of Miner’s Needle and Weaver’s Needle; 10 mi, +1608 – 1692
Day 4: Backpack from Charlebois to Kane Spring; 11mi, +2280 -1582
Day 5: Backpack from Kane to Charlebois; 6 mi, +1090 – 1855 or to Second Water; 12 mi
Day 6: Back to First Water Trailhead; 6-8 miles, +1006 -1225
Drive home in evening
Important notes:
Weather may reschedule or cancel this trip. Itinerary is tentative, flexible, and may change depending on the water availability, ranger advice, and group preferences. This trip will be conducted at a relaxed pace with no more than 12 miles each day. Your trip leader walks slowly, likes to stop and breathe and appreciate nature, and take pictures. This is a trip in the desert – there will only be water at the camps, be prepared for both heat and cold (snow is possible). The days will be short and the weather can be unpredictable.
DISCLAIMER: Hike at your own risk. Be prepared and self-sufficient. Be responsible for yourself and your safety. Make good decisions. With any trip, things can change, reservations can get lost, the unexpected can happen. A go-with-the-flow attitude is always a good thing, and most importantly, let’s all have fun! Make sure you are in good enough physical shape for the distance, elevation changes, and terrain. The hike leaders in this group aren’t professional hike leaders. By signing up for these events, you agree not to hold the Meetup organizers responsible for whatever happens to you on these events. The hiking group does not certify the expertise of the organizers, the event or assistant organizers (hike leaders) and…We are NOT responsible for any possible losses or injuries.
