trek to Rainbow Bridge, March 2006 (revised to Sycamore Canyon)

[articulate]

http://www.markdstephens.com/images/rainbow_bridge2.jpg
I've got an adventure in the works for March 11 through 14 (or so) to go see this sandstone wonder on the Navajo Nation. And I'm open to enjoying this with some friends, old and new.

Facts: Rainbow Bridge is the Earth's largest free-standing rock arch at 290 feet tall - almost the size of the Statue of Liberty. She spans the river by 275 feet, and makes her home on the Navajo Indian Reservation as a sacred site to Native Americans. Backcountry permits from the Navajo Nation are required, and as a sacred site there is no camping at the Bridge. This region hosts several incredible canyons that are worth the hike alone, so we'll take in much more than Rainbow Bridge.

Plan A: 2 nights on the trail. Drive to Rainbow Lodge (requiring 4wd) on Friday, hike to a camping spot a few miles from the Sandstone Wonder. Day trip to the bridge early Saturday morning, and explore some canyons on the way back to camp. Hike out on Sunday and make our weary way back to civilization. The hike is about 13 miles one way with an elevation gain of about 2600 feet. Since Friday would likely be a short day of hiking, I don't see any sense to getting all the way to the Bridge in one push. The camping is reportedly better in the canyons before the Bridge anyway.

Con to Plan A: Due to the remoteness of Rainbow Lodge, cars get broken into with serious frequency. This is a major consideration, so I'm also formulating Plan B...

Plan B: Axed.....

Advantage to Plan A is a higher level of adventure
Advantages to Plan B are safety of vehicles and two opportunites at Rainbow Bridge, rather than one.
I'm going to entertain the idea of renting a vehicle large enough for the group in case of a break-in. Reports say not to leave valueables in the car at the trailhead because they will get stolen. It's a good measure to bring a car that is not one of our precious expedition/adventure means of travel.


So, who is interested? Here is an arial view as well:
http://www.markdstephens.com/images/rainbow_bridge.jpg

Cheers!
Mark

Available to 10 harebrained adventurers:

Mark (that's me...)
Brooke (mi esposa)
Brian (goodtimes)
Meredith
Byron
Josh
Chuck (Ursidae69)
Brian (wolfsoul)

[goodtimes]

Depending on my work schedule, and *assuming* I don't have any classes that I can't miss (tests, etc), I'd be up for it. Spring break is right around there too....which would make planning easier for me......let me see what the dates are for spring break.......

March 11 - 19th. I'd have to be back in Tucson on the 19th (sunday)---but I have thursdays and fridays off.....so if I give my boss enough notice, I should be able to have him schedule that weekend as my weekend off.....giving me 4 days for the trip.

Question about the weather though......what elevation are we looking at? I just postponed a trip through Aravaipa canyon that same week due to the high probibility of cold weather (I hear there is no way to avoid getting wet in aravaipa----wet + cold = miserable).

[Ursidae69]

I'm really interested in this, but there is a good chance I'll be having knee surgery the end of February. I'll watch this thread. Always wanted to go there. On a side note, I sure wish I could have hiked the Glen Canyon before Lake Powell.

[articulate]

...I'd have to be back in Tucson on the 19th (sunday)---but I have thursdays and fridays off.....so if I give my boss enough notice, I should be able to have him schedule that weekend as my weekend off.....giving me 4 days for the trip.

Question about the weather though......what elevation are we looking at? I just postponed a trip through Aravaipa canyon that same week due to the high probibility of cold weather (I hear there is no way to avoid getting wet in aravaipa----wet + cold = miserable).
Hey Brian - I'll have to be back home on the 19th as well. If we stick to hiking Friday, Saturday and back out on Sunday are you comfortable driving all the way back to Tucson from Page after hiking out that morning?
Elevation: At the Bridge 3600'. The hiking trail, though, goes up to about 6200'. I would expect it to be cold at night, and cool during the day. Aravaipa is dramatically different, as you spend most of the day in the water there. I don't think there are any water crossings to Rainbow Bridge.

New-Found detail: The tour boat option is only going to work if we start the trek on Thursday and come out on Saturday. The earliest boats leave from the marina near Rainbow Bridge in the afternoon; therefore getting a boat back on a Sunday lands us at the vehicles in the evening. We mortals with normal jobs have to be prepared to sell goods and services to the consumer world bright and early on Monday morning. :(

I think Plan A is the way to go. :rappel: It's a greater level of adventure anyway, and it's easier on the time schedule.

Cheers,
Mark

[goodtimes]

As long as it isn't any worse than hiking 13 miles on day #2 of the "death valley death march", then driving from death valley to Los Angeles that afternoon, and getting cleaned up and back to school and work the next day.......(hard to imagine it being worse than that....)

[BajaTaco]

Sounds like an awesome adventure. I can't commit right now, but am definitely interested. Might I suggest people somehow meeting somewhere with secure parking, and driving a single, insured rental vehicle in to the Rainbow Lodge trailhead. The rental cost could be split amongst the travelers.

[whitethaiger]

My kind of trip! Unfortunately there are lots of things scheduled for March, but they might not all happen. So I'll follow this one...

I've been to the bridge a couple of times by boat, once with a tour and once with a little rental. The second trip was fun because we could explore some side canyons as we liked, pull up in a little cove and take a swim, etc. This might be an option for this group also. When we did it 10+ years ago with 5 adults and 2 kids it was about the same price as using the tour boat only much better :p

[articulate]

I'm really interested in this, but...
Alright! I expect quite a few folks will say the same thing, which is why I'm posting this up several months in advance.

I really like Senor Taco's idea of renting an expendible vehicle for parking at Rainbow Lodge. I never would have thought of that on my own: GRACIAS. Since doing the boat option is going to contrain our flexibility, Plan A with a rental vehicle is rock solid.

I'll update the first post to get a list of for-sures and lurkers (Goodtimes, where do you stand?). I'll cap it at 10 adventurers. As the plan develops, we'll work out a meal thingy where we'll divide up the dinners for another level of fun so each of us won't have to pack in every scrap of food for every meal.

Spank me.
Mark

[goodtimes]

Alright! I expect quite a few folks will say the same thing, which is why I'm posting this up several months in advance.

I really like Senor Taco's idea of renting an expendible vehicle for parking at Rainbow Lodge. I never would have thought of that on my own: GRACIAS. Since doing the boat option is going to contrain our flexibility, Plan A with a rental vehicle is rock solid.

I'll update the first post to get a list of for-sures and lurkers (Goodtimes, where do you stand?). I'll cap it at 10 adventurers. As the plan develops, we'll work out a meal thingy where we'll divide up the dinners for another level of fun so each of us won't have to pack in every scrap of food for every meal.

Spank me.
Mark

I should be able to work it out with the boss. If not I can always quit....so put me down as a definate. I also REALLY like Chris's idea about the rental. There may be some logistical obstacles to overcome with 10 people and 10 packs. (2 rentals????)

As for food....I am open to group meals and the such, but this may not be easy considering we will all be carrying the food on our backs instead of in our coolers and fridges. I very rarely "cook" while backpacking. The closest I get to cooking on the trail is boiling water for some dehydrated food for dinner. Otherwise I don't really eat.....I snack on this and that through the day, and only eat dinner if the weather is favorable (exactly the opposite of what I do when I am in civilization....which is seek out the nearest mexican joint and gorge myself on Carne Asada....)

sorry, I won't spank you. but my dog would be happy to beat you with her tail. :insert smilie of your choice here:

[pskhaat]

My boy is being born late Feb, can't postpone 'till later in the year = better weather? I'd want to take my other son, how long are the hikes so I can know how long I have to carry him :ylsmoke:

[goodtimes]

The hike looks to be about 13 miles each way. Later in the year would not be good for me, as I have several trips planned that will interfere....

[articulate]

(Note: first post in the thread is editied....)

Good people of ExPo: Due to the fact that I'm hitched to a foxy blonde, and I wish to remain that way, I've had to change the dates. Specifically I've bumped it a weekend earlier to the 11-14 of March.

All my apologies :o I'm a-might bit abashed for having to do this.

I'd much rather do the trek in April, but other stuff is in the way. pskhaat, I wish I could go the other direction on the calendar....

Thanks,
Mark

[goodtimes]

I can still do that weekend, but it will be a late start on Friday. My classes don't end until 2:00~ish on Fridays next semester. BTW, that is 2:00 in Tucson....so there is no way for me to beat rush hour traffic in Phoenix. Just something to keep in mind as we firm up plans.

[articulate]

I can still do that weekend, but it will be a late start on Friday. My classes don't end until 2:00~ish on Fridays next semester. BTW, that is 2:00 in Tucson....so there is no way for me to beat rush hour traffic in Phoenix. Just something to keep in mind as we firm up plans.
That's postive. Cool. What do you think of starting the hike on Saturday and making our way home on Monday? I understand you have a pretty tight work/school schedule, yes?

I think it's viable to drive the whole way on Friday and car-camp it at the trailhead. Wake up Saturday and we're already at the trail. Starting the hike on Friday won't work anyway. The drive is substantial.

Also, if anyone wants to check out some details, this trek is listed in Canyoneering Arizona: Hiking and Exploring the Streambeds, Gorges and Slots of Arizona by Tyler Williams as well as a new book by Bruce Grubbs, Backpacking Arizona: From Deep Canyons to Sky Islands.

I'm looking forward to seeing this crazy monolith.

Later,
Mark

[goodtimes]

Since the "new" weekend is the first of Spring Break, getting home on Sunday isn't as big of an issue. I will just let my boss know that I will need that monday off. It shouldn't be a problem.

[Scott Brady]

Bummer, I will be in CA that week :(

Have fun guys!!!

[articulate]

I have paperwork "in the mail" for backcountry permits coming to me. Also, I've spoken to a few other friends and folks about the trek with the typical response of, "yeah, sure I'll go." We'll see.

Otherwise, we're basically waiting for the weekend to come and anyone to join in. :victory:

I'll work up a little map action and a better itinerary shortly. :box:

Cheers,
Mark

[Wanderlusty]

On a side note, I sure wish I could have hiked the Glen Canyon before Lake Powell.

If this drought keeps up, you may still get that chance....

Well, probably not, but I know that it was really low in March when we went thru there, and it certainly hasn't gotten any wetter out that way.

[articulate]

Ok, I've now got several other folks lined up for the fun (see first post).

While it's still weeks away, here is my schedule:

Friday 10th: Leave phoenix by 5:00 pm and drive to Tuba City. I've made a hotel reservation at Quality Inn Navajo Nation, Phone: (928) 283-4545.

Saturday 11th: Up early-ish and drive to the trailhead (approximately 1.5 hours). Hike 7-8 miles in to Cliff Canyon after a steep descent of 1700 feet in 1.3 miles. Pick up water and continue on to select a camp site before Redbud Pass. If we're feeling good and have plenty of hours left, we can continue into Redbud Creek after climbing up a gnarly slot canyon (about another mile) and camp there.

Sunday 12th: Day hike 4 miles (one way) to Rainbow Bridge, at personal leisure. Back to camp.

Monday 13th: Hike out, drive home. I'm considering going to bed extra early on Sunday and waking around 2:00 am to make the hike out since the drive back will be pretty long. I've done this on other backpack trips and I like the method.

I've attached a map of the trail for kicks and giggles - it's not a detailed topo. Also, the other picture is of Redbud Pass, the "gnarly" slot canyon between the 2 good areas to camp.

Since the above is so heavy on tech facts, let's not underestimate the important stuff. This trail traverses through some of the most gorgeous sandstone canyons in the Navajo Nation. The hiking will be extraordinarily rewarding.

Cheers,
Mark

[goodtimes]

I gave my boss notice that I will be out of town that weekend, returning on Monday. My class schedule has changed a bit (for the better!). I only have one class on Fridays now, I am out by 10:00am. I do have a test that day (which is 30% of my final grade), so I can't skip out totally....BUT! I will be able to make it to PHX in time for lunch.

With regards to the early exit idea on Monday morning.....any idea about the luminosity we are expecting? I rather enjoy moonlight hikes (had a AWESOME moonlight backpack trip down Marble Canyon in Death Valley a couple years ago)....but if the terrain is exceptionally rough and it is too dark to see well....I avoid moving much at night with a load on my back. It might be a good option though....I am usually in bed early on backpacking trips anyway.

This is gonna be a cool trip! I do have a couple questions though (responses will not affect my attendance, just need to make sure I cover all the bases).

We discussed finding a psuedo-secure parking site, and car-pooling in a rental vehicle or two to the trail head, as vehicle security is a concern in the area. Is this still the plan? Do we have alternate plans? Or are we all just going to risk leaving our vehicles at the trail head?

Second, do you know of any restrictions on animals? Some areas (such as Aravaipa canyon, for example) they are not allowed. As most people know, I travel with my dog...She is overly friendly and a true pleasure to have on the trails (just watch out for the tail from HELL! :smilies27 ).

[BMAN]

Unfortunately I will be attending the TTORA AzRocks event the following weekend and am planning that weekend for all of the finishing touches on prepping the rigs for the TTORA event. Hope you guys have a great time! Take plenty of pics!

[articulate]

I will be able to make it to PHX in time for lunch.
Excellent!!!


With regards to the early exit idea on Monday morning.....any idea about the luminosity we are expecting? I rather enjoy moonlight hikes (had a AWESOME moonlight backpack trip down Marble Canyon in Death Valley a couple years ago)....but if the terrain is exceptionally rough and it is too dark to see well....I avoid moving much at night with a load on my back. It might be a good option though....I am usually in bed early on backpacking trips anyway.
Hmm, I have no idea about moonlight. Good point though. We will make the final decision when we are there - to get a good idea of how everybody feels about it and what the trail is actually like. Fair?


This is gonna be a cool trip! I do have a couple questions though (responses will not affect my attendance, just need to make sure I cover all the bases).

We discussed finding a psuedo-secure parking site, and car-pooling in a rental vehicle or two to the trail head, as vehicle security is a concern in the area. Is this still the plan? Do we have alternate plans? Or are we all just going to risk leaving our vehicles at the trail head?

Second, do you know of any restrictions on animals? Some areas (such as Aravaipa canyon, for example) they are not allowed. As most people know, I travel with my dog...She is overly friendly and a true pleasure to have on the trails (just watch out for the tail from HELL! :smilies27 ).
Vehicle: I've started to waiver on the rental. I can be persuaded, but I'm just presuming that all I'm leaving in the car is water and comfy shoes, and a change of clothing. If we could rent a Suburban or something with some size, that would be ideal. Maybe I can make a phone call or two today.

As for the dog: The permit I got from the Navajo Nation says pets are allowed so long as they are on a leash. I think it'd be awesome to have your pooch along; that would be fun. So have at it. :sunny:

One caveat about that, though, is that we'd definately have to separate into two vehicles. My problem is that I'm alergic to dog and cat dander (asthma). Being on the hike and at camp will be just fine for me - and I love dogs; we hiked for seven days this past summer with a dog and I had no problems, plus I enjoyed it. Don't confuse my alergic reaction with a disdain for dogs - that's not the case. If I go to someone's house or ride in their car (with dogs/cats), my asthma works up and hangs around for hours. SO....piling into one vehicle with your dog in it will be detrimental to my health/performance for the first leg of the hike.

I hope that's cool with you....? Don't let that determine whether or not you'll bring the pooch.

Later,
Mark

[goodtimes]

Ok, I'll plan on bringing the mongeral....I don't think we will all fit into one vehicle anyway...not with all of our gear anyway. As time draws near, we'll figure it out. An option would be to transport people in a large rental (suburban, passenger van, etc), and gear in a truck.....unless someone knows somewhere to rent a 15 passenger van (do you need a special endorsement in AZ to drive that large of a van? some states you do.....)

Final decision on the dog will be much closer to the trip....I'm still evaluating her knee injury from last year. She has not been on any long hikes since then, but it is improving as time goes on...still not sure if she is up to that long of a trek though.

As for the early hike out, I'm good with waiting until the trip and seeing how everyone feels at that point.

[datrupr]

Brian, there is no restrictions on a 15 pass. van in AZ. As long as you have a drives license you can drive one.

[articulate]

I don't think you have to have a special license for a 15 passenger. I'll see about rental costs. Work is crazy today, so I won't get to it until Monday. Time is on our side right now.

For fun, I did get this image from Josh, one of the other hikers. It shows about the last 3 miles of the hike, which is in that winding canyon:
http://www.markdstephens.com/rainbow_bridge/Rainbow_Bridge_satelite.jpg

Hiking in this red rock wonderland should be way cool.

Later,
Mark

[articulate]

Hey looky there....Aaron has the skinny on the 15 passenger vans.

Thanks, Aaron.

Mark

[datrupr]

Anytime Mark, glad I could be of some help:D

[goodtimes]

That image is f'in sweet Mark! I am SO looking forward to this trip!!!!

[Ursidae69]

I'm still going back and forth. I'm not sure of two things, my cardiovascular shape for doing this hike and my vacation time I am trying to save right now. I would have to take Friday and Monday off. I might just wait for the trip report. If Brian ends up making it, I know I'll be able to make it when I plan a trip there. :p

[articulate]

I'm still going back and forth. I'm not sure of two things, my cardiovascular shape for doing this hike and my vacation time I am trying to save right now. I would have to take Friday and Monday off. I might just wait for the trip report. If Brian ends up making it, I know I'll be able to make it when I plan a trip there. :p
Understood. It'd be cool to have you (or anyone else) along for the fun. Especially that you're the Navigation Winner, 2005 Expedition Trophy. We want to see how good you really are. :beer:

We gonna have lots o' photos.

:)

Mark

[goodtimes]

Chuck, you'll be able to make the trip. It isn't that much longer than the fish creek trip. Don't be a wuss.:shakin:

[Ursidae69]

Yeah, I was talking to some folks this afternoon about this trip at work and I think I don't want to miss this trip. :)

You can move me to the confirmed list. I'll just drive in late on Friday and avoid vacation that day.

Mark,
You okay with non forum members going? The guy that went to Baja with me and Goodtimes might want to go. I asked him about it today. Also, do I need to do anything with the permits or just pay you?

[goodtimes]

Yeah, I was talking to some folks this afternoon about this trip at work and I think I don't want to miss this trip. :)

You can move me to the confirmed list. I'll just drive in late on Friday and avoid vacation that day.

Mark,
You okay with non forum members going? The guy that went to Baja with me and Goodtimes might want to go. I asked him about it today. Also, do I need to do anything with the permits or just pay you?

Good to hear you came to your senses Chuck. I was going to ask the *other* Brian if he was interested...you beat me to it.

[goodtimes]

Sun and Moon, Rise and Set Time Results

Data for March 13, 2006
At Latitude 37:0.00N and Longitude 111:0.00W
In Time Zone: 7
Daylight Savings Time is Off

Sun Rise: 6:37:53
Sun Transit: 12:33:25
Sun Set: 18:29:33
Sun Rise: 6:36:25 Tomorrow

Moon Rise: 16:34 Yesterday
Moon Set: 6:13
Moon Rise: 17:33
Moon Set: 6:35 Tomorrow
Moon Declination: 12.4
Full Moon: Tuesday March 14, 2006 at 16:28
Partial Lunar Eclipse at: 16:41
Magnitude: 1.023
'Transit' is the time at which the Sun/Moon is directly south.


************************************************** *

Looks like the moon will be cooperating for the oh-gawd-30 hike out option.

[articulate]

Yeah, I was talking to some folks this afternoon about this trip at work and I think I don't want to miss this trip. :)

You can move me to the confirmed list. I'll just drive in late on Friday and avoid vacation that day.

Mark,
You okay with non forum members going? The guy that went to Baja with me and Goodtimes might want to go. I asked him about it today. Also, do I need to do anything with the permits or just pay you?
Yeah, buddy!!!!!!

OK, saw-eeeeeettttt!!!!

Nearly everybody on the trip is not a bonafide forum member; no worries, amigo. Frankly, I've got some "green" backpackers coming along, and I think a larger group would be a ton of fun. Particularly since I can make some new friends for future wacky adventures. :D

While I have the permit applications, I have not sent in the paperwork for the permits yet...just in case something like this would happen. All I have to do is indicate the number of people, send the dinero and we're good. One set of paperwork is good for a group of people, so doing separate permits is not necessary.

It boils down to $5 per person per day for hiking, and $5 per person per night for camping. We'll square up on the trip. No worries.

I figure this:

Saturday, Sunday, Monday hiking: $15 each
Saturday and Sunday nights: $10 each
$25 per person total


Within 2 weeks, though, I'll need to have a hard number of committed trekkers. I'll send in the permit application and money around the 20-23 of February. You guys cool with that?

Chuck, you're down as confirmed. Should your buddy want to come, I'm all for it. Like I said, the other 4 people I have are not forum members either. 3 of them are "green" but heathy/athletic/enthusiastic.

This is getting exciting....!!!!! I'm just happy that some people wanted to come along. Despite that we've never met, Chuck, I'm certain we'll have a ton of fun.

Cheers,
Mark :shakin:

[articulate]

Sun and Moon, Rise and Set Time Results

Data for March 13, 2006
At Latitude 37:0.00N and Longitude 111:0.00W
In Time Zone: 7
Daylight Savings Time is Off

cut greek, greek, greek, more greek....


************************************************** *

Looks like the moon will be cooperating for the oh-gawd-30 hike out option.


That's positive. I'm glad you looked that up...! While I have no idea how to translate that into how "full" the moon will be and at what location in the sky, I trust that since you approve we're in good shape. :)

Later,
Mark

[goodtimes]

Moon Rise: 17:33
Moon Set: 6:35 Tomorrow
Moon Declination: 12.4
*******************************************

The moon will rise at 5:33pm Sunday afternoon (about one hour before sunset), and will set at 6:35am Monday morning (about the same time as sunrise). It will be 12.4 degrees above the equator, while we will be some 37 degrees above the equator....so it won't travel directly overhead, but rather a lower path across the sky (to the south of us), but there is a full moon one day later (tuesday the 14th), so we should have decent light if we decide on the early hike out.

And no, I didn't know all that crap, I had to have one of my best friends (google) tell me about it. If I can't hit it with a hammer, I don't know much about it....:p

[Ursidae69]

This is getting exciting....!!!!! I'm just happy that some people wanted to come along. Despite that we've never met, Chuck, I'm certain we'll have a ton of fun.

Cheers,
Mark :shakin:

I agree, this is going to be one cool trip. That sat/aerial photo really got me, that last mile or so of winding canyon before the bridge looks cool as hell. Looking forward to meeting you Mark. :archaeolo

[Ursidae69]

I was just browsing the info at the Navajo Nation website and it says:


The Navajo Nation is not responsible for any theft or accidents during your visit. Parking your vehicles in isolated areas will not be monitored or surveillanced. You may however, obtain permission to park your vehicles at local residence. They may request a small fee.

I wonder if we could pay someone to watch the cars by parking at their house? I think the trailhead is near some homes, but I'm not certain.

[WolfSoul]

Hi Mark,

I'm friends with Chuck and Brian (don't feel sorry for me, feel sorry for them!) and both have told me about this trip, and it sounds awesome! I'll need to do a little finagling (sp?) at work to try to leave early on Friday (the worst day for me to be gone), but it shouldn't be a huge deal. So if I can work that out, I am *DEFINITELY* interested in this. So if there's still an opening, put me into the "almost completely definitely going" category.

If it weren't likely to be so cold, my wife would have wanted to come as well. As it is, (based on my search, low/mid 30's at night) she's hesitant. :-D

Anyway, let me know if there's a slot for me.


Take care,

Brian

[articulate]

Hi Mark,

I'm friends with Chuck and Brian (don't feel sorry for me, feel sorry for them!) and both have told me about this trip, and it sounds awesome! I'll need to do a little finagling (sp?) at work to try to leave early on Friday (the worst day for me to be gone), but it shouldn't be a huge deal. So if I can work that out, I am *DEFINITELY* interested in this. So if there's still an opening, put me into the "almost completely definitely going" category.

If it weren't likely to be so cold, my wife would have wanted to come as well. As it is, (based on my search, low/mid 30's at night) she's hesitant. :-D

Anyway, let me know if there's a slot for me.


Take care,

Brian

!Bueno! Glad to have you along.

This sounds excellent; I'll put you down. What a shame your wife doesn't want to come due to the cold nights...but I understand. I say try to talk her into it!

I'm not sure how late you work on Fridays...or how far you have to travel (are you coming from Santa Fe as well?), but come as late as necessary. Friday is just for getting to Tuba City. I've made a hotel reservation at Quality Inn Navajo Nation, (Phone: 928- 283-4545) for one room with 2 queens; Perhaps I should secure another room.

Chuck, Brian, Brian: You guys cool with that?

Chuck, regarding leaving the vehicles near a house and paying, I think that sounds fine. It's probably a gamble since we aren't certain if there are houses near the trailhead. I'm game, though. The worst case scenario is that we park at the trailhead and leave nothing of value in the cars. I'm OK with that.

If you guys want, I'll check on a 15 passenger van rental on Monday. I gather it might approach $350. Frankly, I'm OK with parking my truck at the trailhead. Any other thoughts on this?

In summary: Want me to reserve another room? Thoughts on van rental/vehicle parking?

Cheers, boys!
Mark

[Ursidae69]

Wolfsoul lives a few miles from Goodtimes, I'm sure they'll carpool from Tucson. I will probably leave from work around lunchtime and headout. It will be easier for me to go the northern route through Farmington, Shiprock, then follow 160 down to Tuba City. I guess I'll pull into town around 6pm"ish", probably later, it is a pretty scenic drive in places on that route.

On the hotel, I'll call them on Monday. Expedia says that they have some tent camping at that hotel, I might just crash in back of truck if the room rates are high. So, I wouldn't make a reservation for a 2nd room yet. If I make one, I'll post it here so you know.

On the vehicles, I am okay with leaving my truck, I have full covereage. I'll just leave all the goodies out, GPS, Ipod, sat radio, etc. The Ham radio can't be taken out, but I can cover it with a towel or something. Let's just play it by ear, the van thing is too much.

I'm wondering if I should buy my new SLR before this trip! Just not sure I want the extra weight in the pack!

[goodtimes]

Mark, I have invited one more person, but no word from him yet. If he comes, it is likely that myself, "the other Brian" and Jeff will all come from tucson together...we'll see. I'll probably be making a later departure than planned earlier, to give Brian and Jeff (if he comes along) more time to get out of work, etc. I'm OK with leaving the trucks at the trail head if that is what we want to do. I just think we should figure it all out before the last second, so we can all plan accordingly (there is no "brazillian" in me).:wavey:

[WolfSoul]

Ok, I've done a little playing with my new DeLorme topo software, and I'm going to try to attach a couple of files here. I've reduced them down to fairly small files (about 200k). The originals are closer to 500-700 K, and I'd be more than happy to e-mail them to anyone. I can also email the Delorme Transfer File to anyone who has the DeLorme software.

At any rate, I think I've picked the right trail/route. Mark, let me know if this is the right trail . . . Starting on the SW flank of Navajo Mountain.

One file is a map view of the trail and a profile. The other file is a 3-D view of the trail, as viewed from the west looking east.

Um. Ok. The manage attachments button isn't doing anything. So . . . . I put the files up on my web page. You can get to the files by going to the following URLs: (edit: I compared the small file image with the large file image and couldn't tell the difference, so removed the links to the larger files)

http://www.thebeckoning.com/explorations/hikes/backpacking/rainbowbridge2006/route-profile-sm.jpg

http://www.thebeckoning.com/explorations/hikes/backpacking/rainbowbridge2006/3-d-route-sm.jpg


Goodtimes, I should know tomorrow about what I'll be able to swing for the Friday of the trip. It should be about 6 hours to Tuba City, depending on traffic. Would you be ok for a target of leaving Tucson at around 2pm? I will try to shoot for an earlier start, but think I can at least get that much.



WolfSoul

[BMAN]

WOLFY YOU OLD DOG!

Damn, now I wish I COULD make time for this one. How's life treatin ya?

[goodtimes]

The only problem with leaving Tucson that late is the traffic in phoenix. And remember, I drive slow.....in the end, we'll leave whenever we leave, and still have a great weekend. But earlier would be better on the nerves......

[WolfSoul]

WOLFY YOU OLD DOG!

Damn, now I wish I COULD make time for this one. How's life treatin ya?

Hey Bman, you Hellbilly Hick! :wavey: Life's treating me real well, and keeping me REAL busy. How about yourself?



Goodtimes, yeah, I hear ya about Phoenix traffic. I think in order to miss it we'd have to leave Tucson no later than 1pm on a Friday. And even that might be too late. There are a couple of options for getting through that may be a bit faster though. We'll figure it out.


WolfSoul

[articulate]

Here's what I gather:


Screw the van
We'll convene in Tuba City on Friday night or Saturday monring; you can elect to camp or get a hotel room
Those trail profiles kickass!


That is one serious DROP when you see it on an image. That must be the 1700 foot descent/ascent in 1.3 miles. Getting up that thing on the way out will be the real test, eh? Thanks for making those images.

Since I have to send in the permit application by the middle of next week with the total number of people in our group, get a hard yes or no from anyone you've invited by then.

Cheers, boys!
Mark

[Ursidae69]

I called and the rooms are 89 plus 11% tax for the two queens. Camping is 15 bucks. I think I might camp, but it depends on the other guys. I guess we could get 4 to a room and split it at 25 bucks each. That puts two on the floor though, and hearing Goodtimes snore all night... :shakin: I think I'll opt for the 15 dollar camping and crash out in my truck. Maybe we can carpool from the hotel too, minimizing vehicles at the trailhead. I doubt the hotel would mind leaving a truck a few days in their lot.

[WolfSoul]

[SNIPPED]
That is one serious DROP when you see it on an image. That must be the 1700 foot descent/ascent in 1.3 miles. Getting up that thing on the way out will be the real test, eh? Thanks for making those images
[SNIPPED]
Cheers, boys!
Mark

Yeah. It's going to be a climb. I've done worse (3500 feet in about 2.5 miles with 70 lbs of pack weight), but it's going to be a rough one nonetheless. :Wow1: I don't plan on having a 70 lb. pack this time though!!


Has anyone been able to find decent weather stats for Rainbow Bridge for mid-March? What I've found has been scant. In Page, it looks like averages in the mid-30s for the low. Not sure how representative Page's weather will be for where we'll be though.


WolfSoul

[goodtimes]

Mark, I'll track down Jeff this weekend (at least I'll try). If I can't get an answer out of him, we'll have to boot him off the list. Put me down as a definate.....

Wolfie, I swear, you carry dead bodies out into the wilderness to dispose of them...there is no way you can need 70+ pounds of crap on a backpacking trip (even when you figure in the "wife" factor).:smilies27

[WolfSoul]

Mark, I'll track down Jeff this weekend (at least I'll try). If I can't get an answer out of him, we'll have to boot him off the list. Put me down as a definate.....

Wolfie, I swear, you carry dead bodies out into the wilderness to dispose of them...there is no way you can need 70+ pounds of crap on a backpacking trip (even when you figure in the "wife" factor).:smilies27


Good luck trying to track Jeff down. If you manage though, tell him to call me, because I've been leaving messages for him for a week!

The "wife factor" is definitely a part of the pack weight. Though I tend to carry a lot even without her. I'm working on that though. I need a 12-step program for heavy packers. :-D On my Kofa NWR backpacking trip this weekend, for example, I think I've got my gear weight down to about 40 lbs for a 3-day trip. Of course, there isn't any water out there, so I'm going to have to carry it all. So I'll end up with a 60 pound pack to start anyway, but at least I'll end the trip pretty light!

[goodtimes]

When I did the Death Valley death march, I carried all my water, and went in under 40 pounds....total! I do wish I would have taken more water though.....I burned through the 100 oz in the camelback, and the 1/2 dozen or so 1 liter bottles pretty quick....we were only on the trail for ~1.75 days (26 miles).

[goodtimes]

Ok, I just got off of the phone with Jeff, he and his "significant other" will not be able to make it. So, the only people who will be coming along with me (carpooling from Tucson) have already posted in this thread. Still no decision on the dog, but I am leaning away from bringing her due to the length of the trail, and her injured leg. But anyway....no need to wait on my account before purchasing the permits.

[articulate]

Ok, I just got off of the phone with Jeff, he and his "significant other" will not be able to make it. So, the only people who will be coming along with me (carpooling from Tucson) have already posted in this thread. Still no decision on the dog, but I am leaning away from bringing her due to the length of the trail, and her injured leg. But anyway....no need to wait on my account before purchasing the permits.
Gotcha. Ok, so I count a total of 8 people. You can see the first post for the full list -but I've included you, Chuck, and Brian. Yes, that two Brians.

This is going to rule. I'm exceptionally glad that you fellas are coming.

Who's stoked?!


Mark

[WolfSoul]

Who's stoked?!



:wavey: Me! Me! Me! :wavey:


The Missus is definitely out on this one, so just me and the other Brian will be in the Tucson contingent.

Brian D.: I got a half day for Friday, so I'll be able to roll out of work at noon. I'll be all packed up and ready to go before then. We can talk at some point soon to coordinate the particulars.

[articulate]

Ok boys!

I've been busy getting myself and the truck ready for the Camino del Diablo trip, but I think we're well set for Rainbow Bridge.

I have the permit paperwork in the mail with payment back to the Navajo Nation. We'll be bonafide. Also, it turns out that the cost per person is $5 per hiking trip, and $5 per night for camping. That's $15 a piece.

We need to be prepared to filter water. I have one unit, and it sounds like all or some of you might have one as well. Es bueno.

Oh yeah, bring your nipple warmers 'cause it's going to be cold at night. :Wow1:

Be well,
Mark

[goodtimes]

Sounds good Mark. I have a filter I will bring (as always). Any idea on the availiability of water? How long is the longest stretch w/o water available to filter (read: how much water to we need to carry)?

I'll try to stop and pick up a couple maps next week (never leave home without them). Any other special considerations?

[Ursidae69]

The weather last year for March 10th and 11th was in the 60s for highs and in the 20s at night. Yes, it will be cold! Doubt there will be much firewood available either. Wolfsoul likes heavy packs, he can pack in some wood for us. :shakin: With this years warmer weather, we might be a little warmer, but who knows.

I'll bring my MSR filter, used it last weekend on my river trip and it worked great. I'll start off carrying at least 4 liters if water. Maybe more if it is determined to be necessary.

Mark, I can PayPal you the $$$ anytime or pay you when we meet. Either way is fine. I'll just sleep in the back of the truck, I called the hotel again and they said I don't need a reservation for the camping.

Looking forward to the trip, even though it will probably be a pretty challenging hike. :D

[articulate]

Sounds good Mark. I have a filter I will bring (as always). Any idea on the availiability of water? How long is the longest stretch w/o water available to filter (read: how much water to we need to carry)?

I'll try to stop and pick up a couple maps next week (never leave home without them). Any other special considerations?
Sorry to keep you guys hanging here....

The only water sources are in Cliff Canyon and at the lake. We are camping in Cliff canyon, but all of my sources say that the camping areas do not have water - there is a spring about 2 miles into that canyon, but evidently the camp sites are elsewhere. In the least, be prepared to carry enough to get you to camp.

Refer to wolf's picture here: http://www.thebeckoning.com/explorations/hikes/backpacking/rainbowbridge2006/route-profile-sm.jpg
On the profile of elevation change (at the bottom), you can see the big drop. That drop takes us into Cliff Canyon, then we climb out of that canyon the next day where you see the sharp right turn on the topo map portion.

When they say that water is at the lake, I don't know if they mean the cruddy sludge-water that is in the lake or if there is suitable drink at the dock.

Chuck, while I appreciate the notion to send dinero by paypal, that's not necessary. We'll square up on the trip.

The hiking is going to be within a lot of red rock wonders and vistas. This should knock our socks clean off.

Later,
Mark

[goodtimes]

Looking over the USGS 7.5 quad.....this is gonna be awesome. The canyon system in that area looks to be simply stunning. BTW, if anyone still doesn't have it, but wants it, the "rainbow bridge" quad covers all but the first mile or so of the trail.

[Ursidae69]

The extended forecast is not looking that great. I saw a chance of rain/snow right before we arrive. Hope that gets better as next weekend approaches. I'm really looking forward to this trip and I hope the weather cooperates with us. :exclaim:

[Desertdude]

Mark - This trip looks grand! We will be in Death Valley with the Norcal guys and testing out the 80 series LC


Have a great trip - We love that country :camping:

[Ursidae69]

The weather is not improving. The latest is rain/snow all weekend. :smilies27

[goodtimes]

crap. If it is going to be that cold, I need to "aquire" some gear...I have virtually no cold weather gear, and virtually no wet-weather gear. At this point, the dog is going to have to stay home.....my bivy isn't big enough for her, and I'm not going to leave her out in the snow all night (I'm mean, but not THAT mean!).

[WolfSoul]

Maybe, as a hydrologist for a flood control district, I'm overly cautious, but rain and hiking in narrow canyons does not appeal to me. We have pictures of what happens to such people here. :-|

I can picture the headlines now: Pima County Flood Expert Washed Away! :-D

I'm not generally one to let rain stop a trip, (hiking in rain *CAN* be fun) but given the terrain, it may not be wise to be hiking there. I wonder how much rain is likely . . .

[Ursidae69]

I attached the weather from www.weather.com for the Rainbow Bridge Nat Mon.

It has improved slightly, with Monday being not quite as bad. You know how weather is, it might change over the next few days leading up to the trip. But, it's still not looking good and I didn't even think about the whole slot canyon safety issue.

[articulate]

I attached the weather from www.weather.com for the Rainbow Bridge Nat Mon.

It has improved slightly, with Monday being not quite as bad. You know how weather is, it might change over the next few days leading up to the trip. But, it's still not looking good and I didn't even think about the whole slot canyon safety issue.
Hmph.

Well, thanks for posting it up. I suppose we have to hang in there for the next couple of days. If it is raining, I'm afraid that's going to cancel the trip. boo hoo. I'm prepared for the cold, but we all know the danger of slot canyons when it rains.

We need a smiley with his fingers crossed.

I've got someone flying into town for this one, too. Regardless, I'll be backpacking somewhere this weekend.

Mark

[goodtimes]

Mark, lets quickly come up with "Plan B". I REALLY want to do the original hike, but the weather may say no. If the weather is cold, I will have to spend alot of $$$ for gear that I will rarely use (I'd prefer not to do this...I like what little $$$ I have to be spent on things I will get alot of use from). Lets have plan B, just in case we need it. Like you, I intend on backpacking *somewhere* this weekend!!!!!!

[WolfSoul]

I'm going to be busy tonight, but late tonight I'll try to post some alternatives. It looks like there's only a 10% chance of rain in Phoenix and Tucson this weekend, so I'll be focusing on southern AZ.

One place off the top of my head is the Eagletail Wilderness. No water there though, if I remember right.

With a large group like we'll have, the Pajarita Wilderness, (right down on the Mexico border) becomes a safer option. It's a relatively small area, and a fairly short hike, but supposedly a really nice area. Kicker there is that there's some potential for feet wet in one or two spots, depending on how much water is there. As dry as it's been down here lately, we might be ok though. I think there's a biological station there, so if I can find a number for them, I'll give them a ring to find out the water situation.

[articulate]

I'm going to be busy tonight, but late tonight I'll try to post some alternatives. It looks like there's only a 10% chance of rain in Phoenix and Tucson this weekend, so I'll be focusing on southern AZ.

One place off the top of my head is the Eagletail Wilderness. No water there though, if I remember right.

With a large group like we'll have, the Pajarita Wilderness, (right down on the Mexico border) becomes a safer option. It's a relatively small area, and a fairly short hike, but supposedly a really nice area. Kicker there is that there's some potential for feet wet in one or two spots, depending on how much water is there. As dry as it's been down here lately, we might be ok though. I think there's a biological station there, so if I can find a number for them, I'll give them a ring to find out the water situation.
DUDE!!!! Sweeet!!!

Southern Arizona sounds great. I was thinking the same thing for an alternative...although it's pretty dang far for Chuck. If you would check out the Pajarita Wilderness for us, I'd be greatful. If the hike is short, we can pare the trip down to a single night and hit some killer Mexican food on the way home. Hmmmm?

I'm getting excited about the alternative, too! I made a little goal that I would do the Rainbow Bridge hike in 2006, so I will be going there in Fall if this one falls through.

Mark

[Ursidae69]

If we end up doing Alternative B, I'll probably not go. Southern AZ is too far for the time I had. I need to save $$$ anyway for this Brazil trip I'm taking in June. I might need to sell an organ soon of the price goes up anymore! (Inside joke with Wolfy). :ylsmoke:

[articulate]

If we end up doing Alternative B, I'll probably not go. Southern AZ is too far for the time I had. I need to save $$$ anyway for this Brazil trip I'm taking in June. I might need to sell an organ soon of the price goes up anymore! (Inside joke with Wolfy). :ylsmoke:
Yeah, sorry about that. :(

Although Rainbow Bridge isn't 100% cancelled YET. The fat lady has not sung. The worm is still in the bottle.

On another note, I've heard excellent things about the Gila Wilderness area of New Mexico. Hot springs!!!!

Let's plan it up!

Mark

[Ursidae69]

Yeah, sorry about that. :(

Although Rainbow Bridge isn't 100% cancelled YET. The fat lady has not sung. The worm is still in the bottle.

On another note, I've heard excellent things about the Gila Wilderness area of New Mexico. Hot springs!!!!

Let's plan it up!

Mark

I was planning on doing some Gila trips this summer. That depends on whether or not the forest closes though. I plan to go to the Blues Festival Memorial Day weekend in Silver City, party it up, then head up in the Gila and camp for a few days pending fire restrictions. :ylsmoke:

[articulate]

I have a feeling that we're screwed: screwed by the weather (http://www.weather.com/outlook/recreation/outdoors/tenday/AZNPRABR:13)

Sorry guys. :(

I'm into exploring the Parajita Wilderness (http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/coronado/forest/recreation/wilderness/pajarita.shtml), though. Here's a page for one of the two hikes involved out there: Sycamore Canyon (http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/coronado/forest/recreation/trails/sycamore_border.shtml).
The area seems like it's pretty cool. Thoughts?

Mark

[Scenic WonderRunner]

Mark,

I've been watching your thread with interest. I would have liked to join you, but I just can't park my truck and walk away from it for days at a time. Plus, the WonderRunner is in the hospital again.

Too bad about the weather messing things up.

Let me know when you consider doing the Gila Wilderness. I've been checking it out on maps for idea's of places to explore this summer. Camping and doing day hikes works for me. Also saw the hot springs!:sunflower


Gila National Forest (http://www2.srs.fs.fed.us/r3/gila/recreation/recactivity.asp?activity=wild)

Recreation Hot Springs (http://www2.srs.fs.fed.us/r3/gila/recreation/recactivity.asp?activity=spring)

WOW!......now THIS is HOT (http://www.gilahot.com/)!


Hiking the Gila Wilderness...........some trail info! (http://www.americaswonderlands.com/Gila.htm)




Aloha!.............Mark

[BajaTaco]

I have hiked Sycamore, it's a sweet little canyon. Some really cool rock formations back in there including a hole you can barely (if at all) squeeze through.

My wife and I have explored a fair amount of the Gila including some incredible backpacking. I have been to a lot of the hot springs. That whole region is spectacular (and HUGE).

[goodtimes]

Sorry guys, but I am just slamed with work this week. I won't be much help with the planning, but would like to do *something* this weekend. Sycamore Canyon is one that I will eventually do...so I would definately be up for it this weekend, although it is pretty short, IIRC (6 or 7 miles????). Not sure about the other one you linked to (no time to be surfing...computer programs still have to be written). Even if we end up doing shorter hikes (even a one-nighter would be cool), I am good for that....but again, I won't be much help...heck, I don't even have my backpack here...it is still up at Jeff's house along with all my other backpacking gear (anyone wanna guess what I will be doing friday morning?)

[Ursidae69]

I'd love to see that area you guys are looking at in southern AZ, might even be warm enough for a few snakes to be out down there, but I can't drive 600+ miles for a quick weekend trip. Bummer. I was looking forward to meeting you Mark. Oh well, another trip is always just around the corner. I think I'll take the weekend and work on a paper I've been working on for a while. The weather is turning bad here anyway. PM your PayPal amigo and I'll reimburse you for my permits.

[WolfSoul]

I called the Nogales Ranger Station yesterday, and they apparently don't keep track of the water situation in Sycamore Canyon. She didn't sound all that interested in helping me out, so maybe she was just blowing me off though. At any rate, I didn't get any useful information.

That said, I'm definitely up for the Pajarita, but don't know how what everyone else is going to think of it due to the shortness of the trail. I'm totally content with backpacking in 4 miles or so then dayhiking and exploring what by all accounts is an amazing little piece of wilderness. We can shorten the trip up, as well. I've got so many things going on right now that I wouldn't mind a little time at home to work on them. But I certainly won't complain about more time in the wilderness either!! ;) But I'll leave it up to the rest of you on that.


There are some other possibilities that we can think about . . .

Eagletail Wilderness: west of Phoenix
There are 24 miles of trails in the Eagletails, and there are some interesting things up in the mountains. I read a story a while ago about someone finding a Native American sleeping circle that was so old that desert varnish had locked the rocks in place. How cool would that be to find!!

Hells Canyon Wilderness: west of Phoenix
There are only a few short trails in this wilderness, but the arroyos apparently make good travel corridors. There are sources of water in the Wilderness, but no word on exactly how reliable they are.

Organ Pipe National Monument: SW Arizona
I would propose the hike up to Mt. Ajo. It is short (at around 5 miles), but STEEP, climbing about 3800 feet (if memory serves). Camping near the top is a challenge, as there isn't much flat/level ground, but it is a truly amazing place. I did this one a couple of years ago and loved it (even though my legs were pure jelly by the time they carried me to the top).




Mark, since I'm assuming that there are no refunds on the hiking fees for Rainbow Bridge, I'll get the $15 to you when I see you this weekend.

[WolfSoul]

Forgot about the Hummingbird Springs Wilderness, also west of Phoenix

I've done this one before. There aren't any trails in the wilderness, but cross country travel is fairly easy. This is a wonderful little patch of desert in which you are very very unlikely to see another soul. The last time I was there, my friend and I found a water source that appeared as though it would be pretty reliable (though as dry as it has been lately, who knows . . .) It is definitely a neat place.

[articulate]

OK fellas -
The wind has been sucked out of my sails due to the weather problems at Rainbow Bridge. I still want to backpack, and I'm REALLY hoping for something with a destination. Parajita sounds interesting, but I'm confused as to the camp possibilities out there. So that makes me concerned. I've got a couple of green backpackers and I need to make sure I give them a GREAT first-time trip.

Eagletail Wilderness has my attention, for sure. Petroglyphs :)

Since we've got to formulate this at the somewhat last minute, I'm more comfortable doing something that is straight out of a guidebook (or something one of us has done before), 10-18 miles R/T. Squeeze it down to Saturday and Sunday - we could pack all of our water that way.

I know it's really close to you fellas in Tucson, but I've always been intrigued by the Cochise Stronghold. Backpacking posibilies there? How about Mount Lemmon/Pusch Ridge areas?

I'll do some reading tonight and see what I can come up with.

Mark

[articulate]

OK! after talking with my cute wife, we're more excited about the Pajarita Wilderness.

Brian and Brian: wanna meet in Tucson at some coffee shop or one of your -houses on Saturday morning? Say 7-8 in the morning? (would that be early enough?)

I poached this from hikeaz.com:
When most Arizona hikers hear the words "Sycamore Canyon," a certain red rock canyon near Sedona usually comes to mind. But there is another Sycamore Canyon, this one in the Pajarita Wilderness on the border with Mexico, which is just as spectacular and has a few unique attractions all its own.

From the trailhead, follow the trail (an old jeep road) across a small field and a wash. Very quickly, you will come to a FS interpretive sign telling you about the Hank and Yank Ruins. On this site was the ranch of John (Yank) Bartlett and Henry (Hank) Hewitt, two trappers and army scouts. In 1886 the ranch was attacked by Indians, who killed a neighbor and injured Hank. Yank's son Johnny made a daring escape and brought help from nearby Oro Blanco. All that remains is a crumbling adobe wall.

Continue on the trail past the ruins. It quickly drops into the canyon. The trail through the first part of the canyon is overgrown and somewhat tough to follow. It is not an actual designated and maintained trail, but rather a use trail that has developed. The trail disappears whenever the canyon slots up and fades in and out otherwise. However, route finding is no hassle. Just stick to the canyon and you should be fine.

After about 1/2 mile, Sycamore Canyon begins to reveal its wonders. You will come into a large basin type area. A small waterfall trickles down into a pool filled with dozens of minnows. The craggy canyon walls reveal many pinnacles and hoodoos. The trail scrambles on top of a small outcrop with a small campsite and a nice view. Just past this outcrop comes the first slot of the canyon. A fallen tree welcomes you in. To get past this part, you must be willing to do a small bit of climbing/scrambling on the right canyon wall. This canyon does place a premium on agility. However, hikers who are not so sure footed can avoid all this by simply wading in the knee-deep creek. The canyon stays rather narrow for awhile past this point, so rock-hopping is necessary, but the scenery more than makes up for it. After a few more twists and turns, the canyon opens up again and the walking becomes easy along gravel stream beds. You will encounter your first of this canyon's white-barked namesake. This part of the canyon is not only protected by wilderness status, but has also been designated as the Gooding Natural Research Area. Sycamore Canyon is apparently the habitat for rare and unusual plants and fish too numerous to list. So, please, tread lightly!

At 2.7 miles, the canyon enters another narrow bottleneck. This one is easier to navigate than the first. After scrambling through rocks, the canyon opens up yet again. This is a decent turnaround point, or, if you want, you can continue down the canyon to the Mexican border. The creek is flowing through small foothills at the border, and a barbed wire fence impedes further progress. Turn around and go back the way you came.

Thoughts?

I checked out the Eagletail's Ben Avery trail, and that looks more like a worthy day trip to see the petroglyphs and back out. Another time, perhaps?

I'm down. All roads lead back to Tucson, as Roger Clyne says.

If it's raining, It'll likely be OK....just wet. If it's miserable.....we bail, go back to Tucson and drink. Get a tastey chimichanga somewheres authentic.

Lookit that! Plan B and Plan C.

Mark

[WolfSoul]

I've done Cochise Stronghold before. Definitely an awesome area. The trip I did had a really well maintained trail, and we camped in a saddle with awesome views. And plenty of opportunities to simply explore amongst the rocks and look for the grave of Cochise, who was buried somewhere nearby in a secret place known only to a handful of his warriors.

When I was there it was about this time of year, and it was chilly, rainy, and windy. It was an unexpected storm, so we weren't very well prepared. The conditions weren't horrible even unprepared, but it have been much nicer if we had been prepared. Still a great trip though. It's a mystical place, and I certainly wouldn't mind going back.

The hike we did was pretty short, maybe 4 miles one way, done as an overnighter, and about 1000-1500 feet of elevation gain. The saddle we camped at had some pretty good places to pitch perhaps three tents, with mediocre places to pitch 2-3 more. I certainly don't mind taking a mediocre spot.

I think this is roughly the route we took:
http://thebeckoning.com/explorations/hikes/backpacking/cochise-stronghold2003/cochise-route.gif


Next post: Pajarita Wilderness

[WolfSoul]

I didn't realize that a couple of folks on the trip were backpacking greenhorns. Obviously you know them better than I, but Pajarita might be a little much for someone who has never backpacked before. It's definitely short, so no problem there, but parts of the canyon hiking might be a little challenging it sounds like. :rappel: Of course, it's probably nothing that a little teamwork can't overcome! :luxhello: I know I've had to carry my pack through something, then go back and carry my wife's pack through it as well because she wasn't comfortable doing so. And it sounds like the potentially challenging sections are short enough.

Ok, so maybe I've just talked myself out of it being too tough. :xxrotflma: Certainly should be a beautiful trip, which is always a good way to start one's backpacking career.

Our route would look something like this I imagine:

http://thebeckoning.com/explorations/hikes/backpacking/pajarita2006/pajarita-route.gif

Here's a close-up of the end of the route I mapped:

http://thebeckoning.com/explorations/hikes/backpacking/pajarita2006/pajarita-zoom.gif

We could possibly camp up Penasco Canyon as well. Or at least explore it. The last "horseshoe bend" in the canyon is at about mile 2.7, which is where the trip report said the canyon becomes really narrow.

[WolfSoul]

I'm ok with meeting early Saturday morning to start, and actually kind of like the overnighter idea. I just got the rest of my soccer schedule and I've got a game Sunday night at 6:30. Since a lot of my team is injured, it would be best if I was there. Not the end of the world if I'm not though.

Between Cochise Stronghold and Pajarita, I have no strong preference. Pajarita would be new to me, which is always exciting, but Cochise Stronghold is a really cool place to go again, so whatever.

[WolfSoul]

Just checked the weather for Tucson, Benson (Cochise Stronghold area) and Nogales (Pajarita area). All show 20-30% chance of rain for Sat/Sun. So less chance than Rainbow Bridge, but still a chance.

The Pajarita could share some of the same concerns as Rainbow Bridge in foul weaher i.e. flash flooding in a narrow canyon.

Although we will certainly be hiking in/near washes at Cochise Stronghold, we wouldn't be anyplace that didn't have an escape route.

In either case, I'd recommmend rain gear and a good tent! :camping:

[articulate]

I'm ok with meeting early Saturday morning to start, and actually kind of like the overnighter idea. I just got the rest of my soccer schedule and I've got a game Sunday night at 6:30. Since a lot of my team is injured, it would be best if I was there. Not the end of the world if I'm not though.

Between Cochise Stronghold and Pajarita, I have no strong preference. Pajarita would be new to me, which is always exciting, but Cochise Stronghold is a really cool place to go again, so whatever.
Sweet info!

OK, so since I'm getting the picture that you've friggin' backpacked everywhere.... :) We'll have to get together and do more of this!

Cochise sounds way cool with the rocks....GRRRRR....!

But let's keep with Parajita, cool? We'll see if we can't get your wife to come on the next one, and we'll do Cochise. Or Rainbow Bridge when the weather is reasonable. :jumping:

Is there a good meeting place in Tucson for us? I'm bouncing the ball back to you for a meeting spot. I don't know Tucson that well. I can get to Summit Hut and Mount Lemmon highway. :ylsmoke:

Thanks,
Mark

[WolfSoul]

Pajarita is totally cool with me. We can keep an eye on the sky and an ear to the ground. Though I haven't plotted a route exactly, I think there are other ways to get back to the vehicles without much trouble should rains prevent us from going back up Sycamore Canyon. And after reading that report again, it sounds like there are only a couple of fairly short stretches where we'd be locked in to a slot (with no escape routes).

And I guess if all else fails, the fence at the border will stop us from floating too far! :xxrotflma:


As for a meeting spot, I've got two suggestions:

1) I live about 3 minutes off of I-19, which is how we'll be heading south towards Pajarita

2) Even closer to the freeway is a Starbucks that we could meet at. It's at 1209 W. Irvington (Irvington and I-19), and they open at 5am (just called). It's only like a block west of the freeway. Get off the freeway at Irvington and go west (right) to the first stop light. Turn left into the shopping center there, and it's in a medium sized building on the right. The shopping center is very large, with a Home Depot, Food City, Target, and a bunch of other stuff. The building with the Starbucks in it is just to the southwest of the McDonalds.
http://dexonline.com/servlet/ActionServlet?pid=singlemappingresults&last10Saved=true&mq=y&primaryBusinessRecordID=18pnmh6s240iulekvs2mrjrthc&primaryHeadingID=1&primaryProductID=186&resultForm=BASIC


Either place would be convenient for Brian and I, and would also be convenient for you south-bounders.


COOL!! I've finally got a trip planned for the Pajarita! I've been wanting to go there for a long time now. It's a bummer that it has come at the expense of a pack to Rainbow Bridge though.

[goodtimes]

I'm good with plan B and C. Short trip might be better since I will apparently be dragging my 500 pound "hotel" with me (if we're looking at rain, I want something a little more substantial than my bivy). Also less distance to "bail" if the need arises.

The only concern I have with meeting at Starbucks is that, well, it's starbucks. They don't like me there (I drink normal coffee....I'm not sure what they serve should be called coffee....it's more like hot foo-foo flavored girly coffee). Seriously, I'm OK with it....my house is about 10 minutes from Wolfies place, which is about 4 or 5 blocks from starbucks.

I guess this means I need to go aquire some rain gear.....

Anyone know of restrictions on animals in the area?

[Ursidae69]

Anyone know of restrictions on animals in the area?

Yeah, they might not let you in.

:shakin: :shakin: :shakin:

[articulate]

Yeah, they might not let you in.

:shakin: :shakin: :shakin::xxrotflma

MAN! What a shame you won't be coming. Sorry about the botched plan...next time, next time.

Stuff -
1. No worries about the permit $$$. Cancelled the check.
2. We'll meet at foofy Starbucks at Irvington and I-19 close to 8:00am

It should take us about an hour to get to the wilderness area, no?

We haven't had rain in a record amount of time, and when we have some cool-*** adventure planned....down it comes. hilarious.

We'll discuss another date for Rainbow Bridge.

Mark

[articulate]

I'm good with plan B and C. Short trip might be better since I will apparently be dragging my 500 pound "hotel" with me (if we're looking at rain, I want something a little more substantial than my bivy). Also less distance to "bail" if the need arises.

The only concern I have with meeting at Starbucks is that, well, it's starbucks. They don't like me there (I drink normal coffee....I'm not sure what they serve should be called coffee....it's more like hot foo-foo flavored girly coffee). Seriously, I'm OK with it....my house is about 10 minutes from Wolfies place, which is about 4 or 5 blocks from starbucks.

I guess this means I need to go aquire some rain gear.....

Anyone know of restrictions on animals in the area?

Animals, from Coronado Nat'l forest wilderness page (http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/coronado/forest/recreation/wilderness/wilderness.shtml):
Pack animals: Do your best to minimize the impacts your animals have on trails, campsites, water sources, and wildlife forage. Keep your party small -- 3 or 4 people, 5 or 6 animals maximum. Use picket ropes and highlines to hold animals. Do not tie animals to trees! Contact the local Ranger District office regarding the best practice for feeding your animals (grazing, hay, oats, pellets etc.). Some areas may be closed to pack animals due to overuse or fragile conditions. When breaking camp, naturalize disturbed areas and scatter manure piles.

[WolfSoul]

Starbucks at 8am it is, then.

Don't worry Brian, they won't like me either because I won't be buying anything there. Not a huge coffee drinker anyway, but certainly not at Starbucks prices! It is a convenient place to meet though.

I'm not aware of any restrictions on dogs there, so shouldn't be any concern there.

If memory serves, it takes about an hour to get to Nogales, so perhaps 90 minutes to get to Pajarita, since it won't be freeway all the way like it is to Nogy.

[Scenic WonderRunner]

I've kept this link to weather sites for my trips to Arizona.....

Arizona Storm Center (http://mghusa.com/scanner/az-storm/)
.
.

[goodtimes]

Great link SWR! I'll be saving that one for future reference.

stolen from previously mentioned link:

for nogy:

SATURDAY...PARTLY CLOUDY. SCATTERED SHOWERS. SNOW LEVEL 5500 FEET.
SNOW ACCUMULATION OF 1 TO 3 INCHES ABOVE 7000 FEET. HIGHS 53 TO 58.
WINDY WITH SOUTH WIND 15 TO 25 MPH INCREASING TO SOUTHWEST 20 TO 30
MPH WITH HIGHER GUSTS IN THE AFTERNOON. CHANCE OF PRECIPITATION 40
PERCENT.
.SATURDAY NIGHT...MOSTLY CLOUDY. SCATTERED RAIN SHOWERS. SNOW LEVEL
5500 FEET. ACCUMULATIONS OF 2 TO 3 INCHES ABOVE 7000 FEET. LOWS 34
TO 39. WINDY WITH SOUTHWEST WIND 20 TO 30 MPH WITH HIGHER GUSTS IN
THE EVENING. CHANCE OF PRECIPITATION 50 PERCENT.
.SUNDAY...MOSTLY CLOUDY. SCATTERED RAIN AND MOUNTAIN SNOW SHOWERS
MAINLY IN THE MORNING. HIGHS 51 TO 56. CHANCE OF PRECIPITATION 40
PERCENT.
*************************************************

In other words, windy, wet, and cold.

[WolfSoul]

In other words, windy, wet, and cold.


NOTE TO SELF: Bring gloves and beanie. :-)

[goodtimes]

NOTE TO SELF: Bring gloves and beanie. :-)

Yup....and "red-neck waterproofing" for the pack.

[WolfSoul]

Yup....and "red-neck waterproofing" for the pack.

I may have a non-redneck waterproofing for your pack, if you want to borrow it. Depends on the size of your pack. I've got a small pack cover for Shan's pack and a huge one for mine. I was hoping to use Shan's for mine on this trip since I'm not going to have my pack nearly full, but not sure if I'll be able to use it or not. We can try one or the other on your pack if you want.

By the way, latest forecast:

SATURDAY: 50% chance of rain 55/35 temps
SUNDAY: 30% chance of rain 53/30 temps
MONDAY: CLEAR!!! Figures. :-)

[articulate]

I may have a non-redneck waterproofing for your pack, if you want to borrow it. Depends on the size of your pack. I've got a small pack cover for Shan's pack and a huge one for mine. I was hoping to use Shan's for mine on this trip since I'm not going to have my pack nearly full, but not sure if I'll be able to use it or not. We can try one or the other on your pack if you want.

By the way, latest forecast:

SATURDAY: 50% chance of rain 55/35 temps
SUNDAY: 30% chance of rain 53/30 temps
MONDAY: CLEAR!!! Figures. :-)

Oh yeah, I pack along a few emergency $0.50 ponchos which work well for cheap bastards.

If it stays ovecast and cloudy with some sprinkles here and there, it might actually be pretty fun. The least the gods could do for us is go easy on the downpour since it's already going to be cold and windy.

Who inflicts such torture on themselves for fun? :D


Mark

[goodtimes]

Well, I *almost* got out of this one without buying any new stuff....but I don't like how my pack feels with this friggin 10+ pound tent on the bottom. Gotta go buy some new straps and move some stuff around.....see 'yall in the a'em.

[WolfSoul]

Well, I *almost* got out of this one without buying any new stuff....but I don't like how my pack feels with this friggin 10+ pound tent on the bottom. Gotta go buy some new straps and move some stuff around.....see 'yall in the a'em.


Are you going to leave your vehicle at my place and ride with me, Brian?

[goodtimes]

uh....I dunno. I'm still trying to get down town to get some webbing (see previous post)....I got sidetracked in the garage (oops). I don't see much need to take 2 vehicles if we can fit in one.

[Scenic WonderRunner]

GT!!!!!!

Would you just GO Already! :camping:

I'm getting tired of worring about you!:ylsmoke:

.......hehe





uh....I dunno. I'm still trying to get down town to get some webbing (see previous post)....I got sidetracked in the garage (oops). I don't see much need to take 2 vehicles if we can fit in one.

[goodtimes]

GT!!!!!!

Would you just GO Already! :camping:

I'm getting tired of worring about you!:ylsmoke:

.......hehe

Fear not, for I am indeed going (was there ever any question?). I just got side tracked with the jeep (rebuilt the front suspension last night). In fact, I am going RIGHT NOW! Well, as soon as I put my pack in the truck...after I finish loading it with crap....and find some water....and wash the dishes....and....(just kidding....I'm off in just a couple minutes).

:rappel:

[WolfSoul]

Hey Mark,

I hope you and the rest of the Phoenix crew made it back ok. Any foul weather on the way?

Definitely a bummer that the trip didn't go as planned, but for me, I think it was for the best in the end. Within an half an hour of you leaving my house I made a succession of three trips to the porcelain altar to offer up a sacrifice of my stomach contents. The third time seemed to be the charm though, as I could keep food down after that. So I spent the rest of the evening resting and replenishing my nutrients and re-hydrating. I still have no idea what triggered the illness.

Assuming I would have had the same experience no matter where I was yesterday, I was much happier to have had it at home than while camping out in a cold, windy, rainy canyon. The only thing I had to worry about was convincing my wife that I was just sick, and that I didn't need to go to the hospital! (She has a rather cute tendency to over-react where my health is involved. :D )

At any rate, I just wanted to say it was great to meet you (and everyone else), even if it was only for a brief time on an less-than-completely successful trip.

I can't wait to see the rest of Sycamore Canyon!

[goodtimes]

Wolfie, your illness is easily explained. You simply had a violent physiological reaction to the fact that you were heading back to civilization after such a short time in the boonies. Your body was mad at your mind. :ylsmoke:

[WolfSoul]

Wolfie, your illness is easily explained. You simply had a violent physiological reaction to the fact that you were heading back to civilization after such a short time in the boonies. Your body was mad at your mind. :ylsmoke:


You may be on to something there . . . :D

[articulate]

Within an half an hour of you leaving my house I made a succession of three trips to the porcelain altar to offer up a sacrifice of my stomach contents.

At any rate, I just wanted to say it was great to meet you (and everyone else), even if it was only for a brief time on an less-than-completely successful trip.

I can't wait to see the rest of Sycamore Canyon!
Oh, man! Sorry to hear about that. That would have sucked to be back there hunkering down in the tents AND having to run out in the rain to puke.

Well, we'll backpack again - and for "real." Like I said, Brooke and I have assigned the weekend of June 3 and 4 to make the second attempt on Rainbow Bridge. I'm not concerned about it being too hot. Last year same week we biked the south rim of Canyon de Chelly and it was perfect.

Consider it, fellas!

And if you want to day-trip Sycamore Canyon this Summer or sooner, I'll be down. :rappel:

A monumental moment in history happened with the rain storms. I drove out to Superior, AZ and the ENTIRE area from Apache Leap to beyond Globe is covered in about 18" of snow. COVERED. I've never seen that area with any more that scattered spots of snow. Apache Leap looked incredible.

Cheers,
Mark

[goodtimes]

I doubt I'll be able to go anywhere besides work the first weekend of June. I have permits for Aravaipa Canyon the weekend before that, and since I only get one weekend per quarter off, it isn't likely I can talk my way into two in a row.....

But only time will tell for sure....I never know what will happen with my schedule....

[WolfSoul]

That's cool about the snow. My parents got 30" at their place up near Payson. The first snow they've gotten all "winter" at that! Go figure.

Unfortunately, I will not be able to join in on the second attempt at Rainbow Bridge either. My wife and I are leaving June 4th for a three week adventure down in Brazil! So I'll be jealous, but only sorta. ;)

[BajaTaco]

I moved this thread to "completed" and you can start a new one for the revised Rainbow trek. (including a link to this thread might be a good idea).

Hey, I hope you tell us more about this trip. Sounds interesting!

Wolfman, sorry to hear of the illness!

Mark, the Apache leap area sounds incredible with snow! I hope you had your camera with you and we get to see some pics!

[articulate]

Thanks for moving the thread.....but "completed" is not where this belongs. :p

We didn't come prepared to cross waist-deep water in the canyoneering spirit. Sycamore Canyon (within the Pajarita Wilderness near Nogales) is worthy of a canyoneering/hiking trip when it's warmer. I pretty excited to go all the way to the Mexico-U.S. border on foot, so I'll have to go back sometime. We didn't really complete the hike.

http://www.markdstephens.com/backpack/backpacking1.jpg

I think this one is funny looking:
http://www.markdstephens.com/backpack/what.jpg
http://www.markdstephens.com/backpack/backs.jpg
http://www.markdstephens.com/backpack/canyon_1.jpg

[articulate]

I moved this thread to "completed" and you can start a new one for the revised Rainbow trek. (including a link to this thread might be a good idea).

Hey, I hope you tell us more about this trip. Sounds interesting!

Wolfman, sorry to hear of the illness!

Mark, the Apache leap area sounds incredible with snow! I hope you had your camera with you and we get to see some pics!
Entirely off topic, but the topic is dead anyway:

Apache Leap covered in snow:
http://www.markdstephens.com/images/apache_leap.jpg
I thought that was going to come out better, but if you know about Apache Leap you'll understand the magnitude of this snow dumping.

And Queen Creek Canyon along Highway 60:
http://www.markdstephens.com/images/queen_creek_canyon.jpg

Folks from places where it actually snows because it's supposed to probably don't understand the hoopla here. But this is 100% Sonoran Desert...

Cheers!
Mark

[Scenic WonderRunner]

Very Kewl pics Mark!

What setting do you use to get that sharp image and crystal blue sky>?!!!!!!!

[goodtimes]

Very nice Mark. We definately need to go back to Sycamore canyon when it is warmer and day-hike it. It was pretty nice in the rain though...I'm not a huge fan of hiking in the rain, but it was a good time giving it a honest try....

If nothing else, I had enough time at home this weekend to clean the house, wrap up my taxes (well, wrap them up enough for the CPA to take over), get a bunch of work done on the jeep (still have more to do), clean the garage (it was getting nasty....), and hold down the sofa for a while too. It worked out OK. I needed to spend some time straitening out the house. I feel better when I walk in the door now.