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2008 Grand Canyon Chapter Outings CalendarThe Sierra Club is a nationwide organization with an active local outings program for members and nonmembers alike. You're invited to explore the beauty of Arizona while making friends and possibly finding new life enriching interests. Attached is a list of upcoming outings. Find one that appeals to you and phone the leader for more information. For general club information or to receive a complimentary copy of the Arizona newsletter phone the Sierra Club at: (602) 253-8633. Enjoy and Explore ArizonaSierra Service OutingsSEP 6 (SAT) Hopi trail work. Join us on Hopi land to help restore ancient trails and springs in preparation for the annual Hopi Water is Life Run. This is a rare and fantastic opportunity! All you need is a pair of good shoes, water bottle, snacks, and sunblock – we’ll provide the rest. Contact Stacey Hamburg at 928-774-6514 or stacey.hamburg@sierraclub.org for more info. Flagstaff SEP 20 (SAT) Hopi Paatuwaqatsi (Water is Life) Run. The Paatuwaqatsi Run is a special public event open to anyone who is interested in running for the cause of water and life. The run will take place in the heart of Hopi country and will pass through the ancient village of Walpi. To register, go to http://www.waterisliferun.org. If you are not a runner but still want to be a part of this event, we always need volunteers to man water stations and assist the runners. Contact Stacey Hamburg at 928-774-6514 or stacey.hamburg@sierraclub.org to volunteer. Polacca Three ways to celebrate National Public Lands Day! SEP 27 (SAT) Fossil Creek cleanup. This amazing creek had been deprived of water since 1908 due to diversions to hydropower facilities. Full flows were restored in June 2005 when the dam was decommissioned, providing ideal wildlife habitat and recreational opportunities. The area is now being loved to death, however, and needs your help! Join us for a fun day and help clean up this important resource. For more information, contact Tiffany Sprague at 602-253-9140 or tiffany.sprague@sierraclub.org. Strawberry SEP 27 (SAT) Little Saddle Mountain trail maintenance trip. This will be our fourth trip working on this trail. We may be able to finish up with a little luck as much of this trail is a very old wagon road and requires minimal maintenance. We will be doing brush removal and some sawing of tree limbs. Tools provided. This trail has special significance to the Sierra Club as we were able to save it from destruction by the Arizona Department of Transportation in the mid 1990s during the realignment negotiations for State Route 87 (Beeline highway). This trail climbs into the Mazatzal Wilderness Area and features a nice riparian section ascending through alternating layers of basalt and volcanic ash deposits. Contact Jim Vaaler at 602-553-8208 or jimvaaler@msn.com. Phoenix SEP 27 (SAT) “Close the Gap – Finish the Arizona Trail” – San Francisco Peaks. The longest gap in the AZ Trail is the San Francisco Peaks Passage near Mt. Humphrey’s. Be a part of this great effort along with Flagstaff area Arizona Trail Association trail stewards. Tools, lunch, and prizes provided. Walk in to work site. Work will be at about 9000’ elevation. Reserve by Sep. 14. Contact Stacey Hamburg at 928-774-6514 or stacey.hamburg@sierraclub.org. Flagstaff Other OutingsSEP 6 (SAT) “B” Kendrick Peak (7 mi. RT, 2400’ EC). At 10418’ Kendrick Peak is the 8th tallest peak in AZ offering a splendid vista for the peak bagger and day hiker alike. Located 21 mi. north of Flagstaff. Contact Frank Schaffner at 928-556-1564. Flagstaff SEP 6 (SAT) “B” Romero Canyon Pools Loop Hike (6 mi., 1500' EC). We will get an early start on this hike in the Santa Catalina Mtns., beginning with an ascent on the Romero Canyon Trail to the popular Romero Canyon Pools. Then, as we rock-hop and boulder-scramble downstream to other pools and waterfalls, we will have an opportunity to observe the rich diversity of plant life in this riparian area. This hike is for agile hikers who are comfortable with rugged, off-trail hiking. Contact Gary Hendrickson at 480-423-3898 or ghendri450@aol.com. Phoenix SEP 13 (SAT) “B” Crystal Canyon (San Carlos Reservation) Water Hike (7 mi. RT, 800’ EC). Join us for this water-hike adventure that few have experienced. “Crystal,” as it is known in the canyoneering community, is a “secret” canyon on the reservation. We will forego the technical sections, playing in the upper and lower falls. Starting on the plateau (4300’) for a 2-mi. trek to the canyon edge, then dropping 400’ through a steep section in the canyon wall in to this perennial paradise. Heading downstream 1.5 mi. will bring us to the falls. A $10 tribe recreation permit is required. This hike is all off trail, and one section is very steep. There will be plenty of rock-hopping, scrambling, creek crossing, swimming, and pushing through brush – not an easy hike. Limit of 15. Contact Darrell Foster at AZ-Outdoorsman@cox.net (preferred) or 602-569-5549. Phoenix SEP 13 (SAT) “C” Drew Canyon Hike (6 mi., 1478’ EC, 5 hrs., moderate pace). You will enjoy seeing and discovering this beautiful trail through ponderosa pine, oak, juniper, and aspen. We will make a small crossing over Christopher Creek before climbing to the highlands overlooking the majestic Mogollon Rim. It’s a gradual ascent that will require some lung power. This is monsoon season, so bring a poncho in case of rain. Contact Chris Tesner at 480-614-1799 or tesolight@yahoo.com or co-leader/mentor Bruce Arter at 602-505-9948 on the day of the hike. Phoenix SEP 13 (SAT) “C” Horton Creek (7 mi. RT, 500’ EC, moderate pace). Open to both families and dogs. This trail is 20 mi. east of Payson on Hwy 260, near Fossil Creek. We will depart the valley at 7 a.m., follow the Horton Creek Trail to Horton Springs, and return to the TH in the early afternoon. Contact Brian Crawford at KL7JDQ@amsat.org (preferred) or 480-882-8755. Phoenix SEP 17 (WED) “C” Spur Cross Preserve, Bev’s Wednesday Hike. Enjoy walking though a giant saguaro cactus forest. Examine remnants of early civilization along Cave Creek. Brunch after at Big Earl’s in Cave Creek. Contact Bev Full at bfull@cox.net. Phoenix SEP 17–21 (WED–SUN) “A” Slot Canyon Extraordinaire, Part 2 – Zion and Coyote Buttes. We will leave on Wed. and explore the South Coyote Buttes where erosion has created fantastic sandstone sculptures, patterns, and colors. After an early start, the next day we will start our 2-day backpacking trek through the world famous Zion Narrows. Wading and occasional swimming will be in order. Incredible canyon walls, waterfalls, and lush vegetation will be observed along with amazing geology. On Sat., an all-day hike to Zion’s spectacular “Subway” will be in the offing. Strong agile hikers will enjoy this scrambling, swimming, and canyoneering adventure. Limit of 10. Contact Mitch Stevens at 520-991-1199 or mitchstevens@qwestoffice.net. Tucson SEP 19–23 (FRI–MON) “B” Grand Gulch Primitive Area. Drive to Grand Gulch Fri., pack in Sat., explore Sun., pack out Mon. and drive back to Phoenix. View recently discovered ancient ruins. An amateur archaeologist will be with us to give interpretation. Contact Bev Full at bfull@cox.net. Phoenix SEP 20 (SAT) “C” McDowell Mtn. Road Adopt-a-Highway Cleanup Project (3 mi. RT, 300’ EC). Our 5-mi. stretch of scenic blue highway meanders through the eastern foothills of McDowell Mtn. Regional Park. Nestled between Four Peaks and the Superstition, McDowell, and Mazatzal Mtns., there’s no finer place in the Sonoran Desert to provide this community service. We may visit “McGinty’s Hidden Spring,” a secret and seldom seen Shangri-La, known only to Adopt-a-Highway alumni. We’ll finish before noon, leaving the afternoon free. Each trip participant receives an official Adopt-a-Highway tshirt and gloves courtesy of Maricopa County’s Adopt-a-Highway program! Contact Michael Brady at 602-534-1355. Phoenix SEP 26–28 (FRI [night]–SUN) “A-“ Aravaipa Canyon – East Side Backpack (14 mi. RT, min. EC). Located 3 hours from Tucson, 3.5 hours from Phoenix, Aravaipa Creek is one of the last free-flowing streams in Arizona. Meet on Fri. night at a nearby campground for an early start on Sat. morning. We expect to explore a portion of the main canyon as well as Hell Hole (slot canyon), camping at their junction. No trail, multiple stream crossings. Bighorn sheep and other wildlife a possibility. Sat. night potluck. $15 fee. Reservations required. 9 person limit. Contact Jim McPherson or Elna Otter at 520-212-9736 or sailormobile@yahoo.com. (Note: this canyon is under consideration as part of the Tucson/Phoenix I-10 bypass.) Tucson SEP 28 (SUN) “C” Upper Verde River Issues – Stillman Lake and Verde Springs (4 mi, 200' EC). Entering through private property (with permission), we will hike down to the Verde River, then upstream along the shore of Stillman Lake. We should see lots of birds and petroglyphs. Then we will hike down the Verde into the new Nature Conservancy property to view beaver dams and Verde Springs. Easy, pretty, and cool hike, lots of fun and info! The Verde River is one of the 10 most endangered rivers in the U.S. We will review several conservation issues on this educational hike: endangered species, pollution by sludge disposal, cement kiln, and water resources. Reservation required. Contact Gary Beverly at 928-636-2638 or gbverde@cableone.net. Flagstaff OCT 4 (SAT) “B” Reynolds Creek (8 mi, 2800’). Climbing switchbacks and traversing scenic Knoles Hole, we’ll hike through rich old growth forests. Stands of maple and aspen will add fall colors before we reach the site of the 10,000-acre Coon Creek Fire, where the importance of old growth trees will be demonstrated. We’ll also visit Reynolds Falls and Workman Falls if time permits. This trail was recently maintained by the Sierra Club. Contact Michael Brady at 602-534-1355. Phoenix OCT 10–14 (FRI–TUES) “C” Green River, Labyrinth Canyon Canoe/Kayak Outing. Leave Fri., drive to Monticello, Utah. Canoe Sat., Sun., Mon. Take out Tues. at noon and drive back to Phoenix. Cost for this trip is $190 and includes shuttles, permits, canoe rental, and all food while on the river. Mining interests are threatening this stretch of the Green River. This portion of the Green is also included in the Utah Wilderness Act, which will be presented to Congress for passage in 2009. Contact Bev Full at bfull@cox.net. Phoenix OCT 11 (SAT) “C” Lockett Meadow/Inner Basin Trail (6 mi. RT, 1000’ EC). A perennial favorite. An autumn hike through golden-leafed aspen and fir trees. We'll hike along a less known soft bottomed forest trail, all the while celebrating the autumn season. Located 22 mi. north of Flagstaff. Contact Frank Schaffner at 928-556-1564. Flagstaff OCT 11 (SAT) “C” Courthouse to Broken Arrow Day Hike (7 mi., 1000' EC). Learn the natural and cultural history of Sedona’s Red Rock country as we hike around Courthouse Butte and on north to Broken Arrow TH. We’ll swing by the western slopes of Munds Mtn. to visit Chicken Point, the Devil’s Dining Room, and other unforgettable landmarks along the way. Contact Ted Tenny at 480-396-3389 or PotsdamDan@cox.net. Phoenix OCT 12 (SUN) “B” Grand Canyon Hike (9 mi. RT, 3000’ EC). Never hiked the Canyon before?! For all of you who have long promised yourselves that you would get up to Grand Canyon for a hike, this is your chance. Join me on the Bright Angel Trail down to Indian Gardens with a potential additional jaunt to Plateau Point. Contact Stacey Hamburg at 928-774-6514 or stacey.hamburg@sierraclub.org. Phoenix OCT 15 (WED) “C” Cave Creek Park, Slate Trail. Examine the geological formations along the trail and take note of early mining activity. Brunch after at Big Earl’s in Cave Creek. Contact Bev Full at bfull@cox.net. Phoenix OCT 18 (SAT) “C” McDowell Mtn. Road Adopt-a-Highway Cleanup Project (3 mi. RT, 300’ EC). See description of Sep. 20 outing on pg. 11. Contact Michael Brady at 602-534-1355. Phoenix OCT 18 (SAT) “B” West Fork of Oak Creek (Sedona) Water Hike (12 mi. RT, 400’ EC). This is NOT the traditional West Fork hike. We will go well beyond where the trail and crowds end, wading and scrambling deeper into this magnificent canyon that is known for its spectacular fall colors. We’ll start at the Call O’ the Canyon TH (5300’) north of Sedona, following the trail for a few miles before continuing on beyond its end. The pools and red sandstone (Supai Formation) throughout the canyon, along with abundant fall foliage, are a photographer’s dream. Strong, agile hikers will enjoy this water-hiking adventure. We will have creek crossings up to 4’ deep. Limit of 15. Contact Darrell Foster at AZ-Outdoorsman@cox.net (preferred) or 602-569-5549. Phoenix OCT 18 (SAT) “C” Seven Springs Hike. Hike along Cave Creek to the pools. Optional lunch afterward in Cave Creek. Contact Louis Lantz at louis85331@msn.com. Phoenix OCT 18 (SAT) “C” Chicken Point via Broken Arrow TH (3–4 mi. RT, 200’ EC). Moderate hike culminating at Chicken Point with spectacular fall Sedona views. Contact Nancy Reynolds at 928-649-3065 or nsreynolds51@gmail.com. Sedona OCT 18 (SAT) “B” Carr Peak Fall Colors (6 mi. RT, 1830’ EC). Hike to the summit of Carr Peak, the second highest peak in the Huachuca Mtns., as we observe what should be a spectacular aspen display of autumn color. We will learn about forest regeneration as much of this area was burned by forest fires in 1977 and 1991. We will also discuss the continuing impact of illegal immigrants on the ecology of the sky islands and other lands near the border. Contact Mitch Stevens at 520-991-1199 or mitchstevens@qwestoffice.net. Hikers with dogs are welcome to participate in this outing. Phoenix OCT 19 (SUN) “C+/B-“ Alamo Canyon (<6 mi. RT, small EC). We will explore Alamo Canyon on the south side of the proposed Tumacacori Highlands Wilderness Area. Expect water, rocky terrain, and lush vegetation. We will learn why we want to protect this area and hopefully see some endangered Chiricahua leopard frogs. A representative from Sky Island Alliance will be with us to talk about the wilderness proposal and to answer questions. Bring plenty of water and a lunch. Contact Drew Milsom at 520-906-2436. Tucson OCT 19 (SUN) “B” Face Mtn. Day Hike (10 mi. RT, 2000' EC). This area is an old Bureau of Land Management (BLM) wilderness study area (WSA). Under the Bush administration, these areas are now referred to as “areas having wilderness characteristics.” This unbroken and pristine expanse of Sonoran Desert is now an “at risk” area and is within the confines of the Sonoran Desert Protection Proposal study area. It will be important that new wilderness designations be an integral part of this proposal that is being promoted by the Sonoran Institute and the Arizona Wilderness Coalition. This huge crescent-shaped “study area” west of the Phoenix metropolitan area has many BLM WSAs within its boundary. Contact Jim Vaaler at 602-553-8208 or jimvaaler@msn.com. Phoenix OCT 25 (SAT) “C” Treasure Loop Halloween Night Hike (2.5 mi. RT, 500’ EC). Lost Dutchman State Park, Apache Junction, pace slow or moderate depending on ghosts who may appear. $5 entrance fee per car. Boo! Pirates wanted to find lost Dutchman gold hidden in Treasure Loop. Legends tell how Jacob Waltz the Lost Dutchman returns to haunt his trails every Halloween. Pirates will be searching for gold and ghosts. Perhaps Jacob’s ghost will appear and share his hidden secrets under a vampire moon. Surprises await you, my lads. Bring flashlight. Contact Donna Butler at donnatakeahike@yahoo.com. Phoenix OCT 25 (SAT) “B” Perkinsville Bridge to MC Canyon along Upper Verde River (7 mi, 300' EC). After shuttling vehicles (some 4WD, 17 mi.), we’ll bushwhack up the Verde River 7 mi. through a very pretty part of the river. There is no trail; be prepared to push through the brush, wade the river, and climb around cliffs. This will be a long day, but there is outstanding scenery and photography; fall color should be excellent. The Verde River is one of the 10 most endangered rivers in the U.S, so we’ll learn about the conservation issues threatening this wonderful river. Ask for photos. Reservation required. Contact Gary Beverly at 928-636-2638 or gbverde@cableone.net. Flagstaff OCT 25–26 (SAT–SUN) “B+” Four Peaks Backpack. This trip into the Four Peaks wilderness area will be about 8 mi. per day with a 2500’ ascent the first day. We will hike up the Chillicut Trail and come out on the Four Peaks Trail at the Lone Pine Saddle TH. We will either do a car shuttle or a key exchange. Our planned camp will be at Chillicut Spring, which is located right next to one of the largest alligator junipers in the state. We think it survived the Lone Fire of about 12 years ago. Contact Jim Vaaler at 602-553-8208 or jimvaaler@msn.com. Phoenix OCT 31–NOV 2 (FRI [night]–SUN) Holistic Retreat. Enjoy getting to know some of our members from the Southern California chapters at one of the club-owned facilities. This annual event is held in giant woodlands of the Laguna Mtns., about 70 mi. east of San Diego off I-8 with a great group of like-minded tree huggin’ folks. The weekend will include hiking a part of the Pacific Crest Trail, a Halloween dance/party, as well as lectures on a variety of holistic topics. Workshops include massage, acupuncture, yoga, cultivation/use of herbs, nutrition, and health. Join us for all or part of the weekend. For registration and carpool information, contact Brian Crawford at KL7JDQ@amsat.org (preferred) or 480-882-8755. Phoenix NOV 1 (SAT) “B+” LaBarge Mtn. Day Hike (8 mi., 1800’ EC). On this mostly on-trail peakbag, we will ascend to the rarely visited 5077’-high summit of LaBarge Mtn. in the eastern Superstitions. We’ll gain 1200’ of elevation on the J F Trail and the other 600’ on the off-trail stretch. Expect steep and slippery slopes, abundant brush, and spectacular views. Gloves recommended. High-clearance vehicles required. Drive 60 mi. from Tempe. Call Ken McGinty at 602-265-2854. Phoenix NOV 1 (SAT) “B” Aravaipa Canyon East (10 mi., min. EC). Discover a beautiful oasis in the middle of the Sonoran Desert. Soaring and colorful rock walls, lush vegetation, a perennially flowing stream and abundant wildlife are the drawing cards. We will discuss riparian ecology and study the fascinating geology showcased in this unique gorge. We will explore a side canyon and observe such wonders as hanging gardens, flourishing springs, and a spectacular natural arch. There are 7 permits available. Contact Mitch Stevens at 520-991-1199 or mitchstevens@qwestoffice.net. Phoenix NOV 1–2 (SAT–SUN) Canoe/Kayak the Colorado River through Topock Marsh and Gorge. Drive to Moabi Park near Needles on Sat. to our group campground. Canoe Sun., lunch on the river, then drive home arriving Sun. night. Cost of the trip includes group meals at the campground, lunch on the river, canoe or kayak rental, and shuttles. Cost is $95 to use canoe and $110 to rent a kayak. Contact Bev Full at bfull@cox.net. Phoenix NOV 2 (SUN) “A” Plateau Point Ruins or Ruination? (12 mi. RT, 3100’ EC, moderate pace) Grand Canyon National Park, South Rim. This is an exploratory hike down the Bright Angel Trail to Indian Gardens and beyond to find some reputed ruins below Plateau Point. Some off-trail hiking with mild exposure is anticipated. We will be comparing and contrasting periods of natural quiet with the intrusive disruption of noise from air tourists. Weather permitting. Contact Rob and Kathleen Jones at 928-214-0043 or wildvagabond@yahoo.com. Flagstaff NOV 8 (SAT) “B+” Quien Sabe Peak Day Hike (12 mi., 1200’ EC). On this strenuous and exploratory on- and off-trail hike north of Cave Creek, we’ll ascend to one of the area’s high points: the 4884’ summit of Quien Sabe Peak. Expect steep and slippery slopes, vicious vegetation, possibly wet feet, and superb views. Drive 40 mi. one way from Scottsdale. Contact Ken McGinty at 602-265-2854. Phoenix NOV 8 (SAT) “C” Mtn. Bike Ride Four Peak Wilderness (10 mi RT). We will cycle on roads at the base of beautiful Four Peaks mtn. range located outside of Fountain Hills. This is an easy bike ride with little elevation change...totally fun. Show up with dirt bike, helmets, and great attitude. Contact Donna Butler at donnatakeahike@yahoo.com. Phoenix NOV 9 (SUN) “A” GC Corridor Loop-de-Loop (15 mi. RT, 3500’ EC, moderate pace). From the South Rim of Grand Canyon, we will day hike down the South Kaibab to the Tip-off, lateral across the Tonto Trail to Indian Gardens, and return to the rim on the Bright Angel Trail. We will continue observing natural quiet vs. the disquieting noise pollution of air tours so we may formulate letters to the National Park Service about natural quiet in the Grand Canyon backcountry. Weather permitting. Contact Rob and Kathleen Jones at 928-214-0043 or wildvagabond@yahoo.com. Phoenix NOV 22–23 (SAT–SUN) “A” Lime Creek Backpack. This trip will be about 10 mi. and 1000’ of EC per day. We will hike the full length of Lime Creek, starting near Horseshoe Lake and ending at Ranch 51 on the road north of Seven Springs Campground. Over 50% of this trip will be off trail in nature, with intermittent sections of old travelways present. This is arguably the best Inventoried Roadless Area on Tonto National Forest and has extremely lush riparian conditions as well as archaeological values that need to be protected. Sat. night will be spent at the “Lime Creek Hilton.” Contact Jim Vaaler at 602-553-8208 or jimvaaler@msn.com. Phoenix National Sierra OutingsAmerica's public lands and wilderness need your support, and hands-on teamwork is a great way to give something back. For more information about Sierra Club's National Outings, please visit http://whistler.sierraclub.org/TripSearch. LegalismsOutings are rated for degree of difficulty and risk by the leader. As a guideline, outings are classified as follows: "A" More than 16 miles or more than 3,000 feet elevation change. "B" 8 to 16 miles and between 1,500- 3,000 feet elevation change "C" 3 to 8 miles, 500 to 1,500 feet. "D" Less than 3 miles and 500 feet. RT means round trip; OW means one way; EC means total elevation change; Name of city after the date means city of origin of the group hiking.
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