Brown’s Ranch Cholla Mountain Hike Review
Though the morning was chilly, the sun was shining, and the trail was green with saguaros as eight folks and a dog joined together for conversation for either a 5 or 7 mile hike. The sun quickly warmed everyone and jackets were removed by the time Cathedral Rock was explored. The loop trail provided beautiful vistas and some rolling terrain. After the hike, 5 people went to the Pony Express Cafe for breakfast.
Up Next: Holbert to Dobbins Lookout Trail, South Mountain
Hike Leader:
Barbara Seltzer
Join Barbara for a 4.5-mile out and back moderate hike in South Mountain on the Holbert to Dobbins Lookout Trail. There is only 997 feet elevation gain.
LOCATION:
South Mountain Preserve
HIKE DESCRIPTION:
After some desert walking, the trail becomes moderately challenging with switchbacks through rock formations to the saddle. This is a popular trail so we may encounter other hikers. At the top, right turn to the stone structure that is Dobbins Lookout. Great views of Phoenix and the surrounding desert and mountains. There are petroglyphs at the beginning of the trail.
DIRECTIONS:
South Mountain Preserve is off West Baseline Road on Central Avenue. Drive to the main entrance to South Mountain and make a left past the visitor’s center. Go to the end of the road to the parking lot. The trail head will be on the left of the parking lot. We’ll meet at 8:45am at the trailhead to start hiking around 9 am. There are bathroom facilities available. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.
NOTES:
Don’t forget to bring water, wear sunscreen and a hat. Due to the rocky trail, wearing hiking boots preferable. Bring trekking poles if you use them.
After the hike, which should take 2 -2.5 hours, consider gathering at Starbucks at 2340 E. Baseline Road for coffee and conversation.
If you need a ride or want to carpool, send a message to the Outdoor Group email and efforts will be made to assist you.
Need contact info for this hike? Check out the hike flyer for details.
Also please check the calendar. If there is an open date and you would like to lead a hike, please send an email to outdoorgroup@phoenixuu.org with the date and location of the hike to be added to the calendar.
HOLD THE DATE:
Bonnie and Ed will be leading a hike on December 31 this year followed by a potluck gathering at their home.