Matthew Nelson, executive director of the Arizona Trail Association
The SaddleBrooke Hiking Club will kick off its 2014-15 program series on Wednesday, October 15 with a special presentation by outdoor adventurer Matthew Nelson on the Arizona National Scenic Trail. The program will begin at 3:00 p.m. in the HOA 1 Activity Center followed by a social hour in the Agave Lounge in the SaddleBrooke Clubhouse.
Matthew, executive director of the Arizona Trail Association, will give an overview of the natural wonders of the AZT from Mexico to Utah and what makes it unique among long distance trails in the United States. As the primary author of the recently published guidebook Your Complete Guide to the Arizona National Scenic Trail, Matthew will sign books for anyone who would like an autographed copy.
Among Matthew’s many contributions to the AZT are trail design, archaeological surveys, volunteer trail building and explorations of the trail on foot, mountain biking and horseback. A devotee of high mountains, deep canyons, vast deserts and diverse cultures, his wanderlust has led him to nearly every continent in search of adventure.
Programs for the rest of the club season will all begin at 3:00 p.m. on the third Wednesday of the month, featuring such topics as backpacking, archaeology and hiking in such diverse places as Tanzania and Oregon. Programs are open to all SaddleBrooke and SaddleBrooke Ranch residents, whether they are members of the Hiking Club or not.
For more information about programs contact Karen Schickedanz at 818-7817.