Arizona Trail marker. Photo by Elisabeth Wheeler.
Elisabeth Wheeler
Is it possible to complete the whole Arizona National Scenic Trail in a day? Not by one individual, but if hundreds of hikers, bikers and equestrian riders travel on every segment of the 800-mile trail on Oct. 12, it can be done. If successful in this effort, it will be the first time a national scenic trail has been completed in 24 hours. A year ago, an effort to complete the entire trail in a day was 94% successful.
The SaddleBrooke Hiking Club is encouraging members to participate in this historic effort on the Oracle Passage. The club will lead two separate groups. Hiking group A will trek four miles round-trip from Webb Road to the American Flag Ranch where they will enjoy a tour of the historic American Flag Ranch House before returning to Webb Road. Hiking group B will cover 8.6 miles from American Flag Ranch trailhead to the Tiger Mine Road trailhead. The groups will join in for a celebration after the hikes, with donations of refreshments appreciated.
To sign up for this special event, email Elisabeth Wheeler at [email protected] for the four-mile hike and Ray Peale at [email protected] for the 8.6-mile hike. Hikers will depart from MountainView parking lot at 7:30 a.m. Driver donation is $4. For more information, contact Elisabeth Wheeler at 520-818-5182.