Posts
The Southern Terminus
I expected an AZT specific monument, like at the northern terminus, however it was a US - Mexico boundary marker.
Colossal Cave to Patagonia
It was a mile from the picnic area to Colossal Cave, where each of us had a resupply box.
New Hiking Buddy
I stopped at Molino Basin Campground and Wally, the uber friendly camp host, directed me to the AZT sites. There was another thru-hiker!
Superior to Oracle
The last couple miles traveled through a neat cholla forest. The sun had dropped behind a hill so it was a perfect time for walking.
Trail Angels
Becky and Scott were amazing hosts! I could feel the love they have for the trail and hiker community.
The Mazatzal & Four Peaks Wilderness
Not only the vegetation had changed - cacti, manzanita, ceanothus, & scrub oak replaced the pine - so had the wildlife.
Fire Detour
Only 1.5 miles later, I left the AZT behind and turned west on FR 300. For a couple miles, the road was humdrum, then it offered stunning views of the Mongollon Valley.
Social Days
As I sat on the porch, sorting my resupply, a thru hiker said hello. Wait, what?! Besides Paul, I hadn’t seen another thru hiker since the North Rim.
Playing the Water Game
These days we plan our mileage around water sources; it feels like a sort of game.
The Grand Canyon
The journey down was incredible! Only 14 miles, but a 5,760 ft. descent. I watched cliffs, level with me to start, slowly sink out of sight.