October 2012 Hike List

This hike schedule is a supplement to the club's monthly newsletter, which includes other important information regarding club business and activities.  All club members should at least review the newsletter when it is sent out each month so they can participate more thoroughly in club activities.

 

Here is a list of scheduled club hikes for October 2012.  Hikes scheduled during the week are of varying difficulty levels to accommodate the different skill levels of club members.  The more strenuous Tuesday hikes are only open to existing club members.  In addition, Tuesday participants should have completed at least two of the Thursday hikes, which are generally rated moderately strenuous or strenuous.  Two hikes are usually offered each Saturday during the seasons at Red Rock Canyon and Lake Mead.  The earlier Saturday hike will generally be rated either moderate or moderately strenuous and will be conducted at a moderate pace.  The later hike that day is intended for the general membership, is rated no more than moderate, and is conducted at a leisurely pace.  Hikes on other days of the week may vary significantly depending on who has volunteered to serve as coordinator.  Please pay attention to the difficulty ratings for each hike offered and do not attempt hikes that are beyond your abilities.  New hikers without recent hiking experience MUST begin with the later Saturday hike or a weekday hike rated no more than moderate before attempting any of the more difficult offerings.  No reservations are required for any of the hikes unless specified below.  Cancellation due to weather may occur without prior notice the morning of a hike.  Whenever possible, e-mails will be sent out through Yahoo! Groups informing of any changes or cancellations.  If you have any questions or comments about any of the hikes contact Chris Dempsey at dempseylv@aol.com or at (702) 823-2355.

 

October marks the transition between the higher elevations of the Spring Mountains and the lower elevations of Red Rock Canyon.  Hikes through October 7 will occur in the higher elevations.  The assembly point for these hikes is along the south wall on the third floor of the southeast parking garage at Santa Fe Station Casino.  As there are two garages at Santa Fe, the correct one is the one closest to the intersection of Rancho and Lone Mountain Road.  If you are meeting the group at this location for the first time, the easiest directions are to exit on Rancho from either northbound or southbound Highway 95, pass the front of the casino on Rancho, and enter the garage on your right between the two signalized intersections.  Starting October 8, club hikes will occur in the Red Rock area.  For all Red Rock area hikes, the group will meet in the parking lot somewhat in front of the Best Buy store on the north side of Charleston across from the Red Rock Station Casino.  The store backs up to Highway 215, and the entrance to the parking lot is off Canyon Pointe.  For hikes on the back side of the escarpment, there is a secondary pickup point at the gas station at the intersection of Highways 159 and 160 to accommodate south side participants.  Directions to the staging points for any hikes at different locations will be contained in the appropriate hike descriptions.  Times indicated for each hike are departure times and are strictly observed.  Usually the group will begin assembling as much as one-half hour prior to the scheduled departure time.

 

 

Monday, October 1 - Mormon Girls' Camp.  Here is one more chance to experience the thrill (or watch someone else do it) of crossing the rope bridge over the ravine in the heart of the campgrounds.  Other than that, the moderate 5-mile loop hike will have a few thrills of its own as the route makes a steep descent past a rock waterfall with the aid of a rope.  The climb section passes the historic structures associated with a resort and a sawmill.  The group will be meeting at Santa Fe Station for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Monday, October 1 - Cottonwood Canyon.  Weather for our recent outings to see the full moon rise over Las Vegas haven't been very successful, but maybe our luck will change in October.  The easy 3-mile walk over a paved surface will give us the opportunity to see the light of day fade behind the La Madre Mountains with a sunset at 6:23 and we will be in position to observe the moon rise at 7:08 from the grassy lawn somewhat behind Costco.  Cottonwood Canyon is located on Park Run Drive one block north of Charleston Boulevard and 200 feet west of Town Center Drive.  The walk will start promptly at 6:00 PM.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Tuesday, October 2 - Mummy's Tummy.  The Tuesday pattern of tough hikes continues with a very strenuous out-and-back to the second highest mountain in southern Nevada that will cover a total distance of 10 miles.  Trail Canyon forms the first and last leg of this trek that gains 3,900 feet of elevation.  The scree field rising above North Loop Trail is at roughly a 45% angle and the final notch through the cliffs is definitely Class 3 scrambling.  The group will meet at Santa Fe Station for a 7:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Steve Anderson.

 

Wednesday, October 3 - 6000 Foot Road.  This might as well be labeled as a mystery hike because I have no idea what we are likely to encounter.  All I can tell you is that Ed Matulis and I noticed a gravel road climbing over a shallow ridge on the north side of Lee Canyon Road this summer and thought it might be a good idea to find out where it goes without driving it.  The road starts just a few feet from the 6,000 foot elevation sign on Lee Canyon Road.  We will probably try to limit the distance to 5 or 6 miles total.  The group will get together at Santa Fe Station for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Thursday, October 4 - Gass Peak.  Deviating from the Spring Mountains just a bit our intrepid hikers will head to the Las Vegas Range almost directly north of downtown Las Vegas for a strenuous 7 or 8-mile out-and-back hike with 2,500 feet of elevation gain.  The road to the trail head is very rough and requires high clearance vehicles.  The trail to the top also involves climbing through sections of gravel, and is fairly steep in several places.  The group will assemble at Santa Fe Station for a departure at 7:00 AM.  Coordinator - Steve Anderson.

 

Friday, October 5 - Mount Charleston.  Let's finish the Spring Mountain portion of the 2012 hike calendar in style with a trip to the highest point in southern Nevada.  At 17 miles in total distance and 4,300 net feet of elevation gain, this very strenuous hike ranks right up with the toughest on our yearly schedule.  The route for the day will be up South Loop Trail and down North Loop to Trail Canyon.  To give us the best chance of getting off the mountain in daylight, we will be meeting at Santa Fe Station for a 5:15 AM departure.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Saturday, October 6 - Cathedral Rock.  The last Saturday hike in the Mount Charleston area will feature one of the signature hikes in the Spring Mountains.  The moderate 3-mile out-and-back hike climbs 950 feet through Mazie Canyon, the site of a major avalanche back in 2005.  While the aspen trees have rebounded from the slide, there is still some remaining debris and a bunch of snapped pine trees close to the center of the canyon.  The group will assemble at Santa Fe Station for an 8:30 AM departure.  Coordinator - Diane Dempsey.

 

Sunday, October 7 - Griffith Saddle.  The very last club hike in the Spring Mountains for 2012 will be a strenuous 9-mile out-and-back hike along South Loop Trail to the saddle a bit north of Griffith Peak at the junction with the Harris Springs Trail.  The saddle is at 10,700 feet above sea level, meaning the hikers will have climbed just over 3,000 feet when they stretch their legs for the mid-hike snack break.  Departure time for the group from Santa Fe Station will be at 7:00 AM.  Coordinator - Lettie Gutierrez.

 

Monday, October 8 - Escarpment Base Trail.  It's finally time to come back to Red Rock for the fall portion of our hiking calendar.  We will be opening up with a moderate point-to-point hike on the trails near the base of the escarpment, including all of Arnight, Dale's, and SMYC Trails along with a bit of the Pine Creek Trail.  Total distance is 5.4 miles over rolling terrain that crosses quite a number of creeks and drainages exiting from the sandstone cliffs to the west.  Departure time for the group from Best Buy will be 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Tuesday, October 9 - Wilson Peak.  We aren't wasting any time when it comes to offering tough hikes in Red Rock, as this very strenuous outing to one of the most prominent peaks on the escarpment will tax even the strongest club members.  The route used will come in from Lovell Canyon past First Creek Overlook Peak and connect with the ridge leading to Wilson near the top of First Creek Canyon.  Lots of scrambling and occasional exposure is included, with a total distance around 6 miles.  The group will leave from Best Buy at 6:30 AM, an early time but necessary because of the drive and the hike difficulty.  Departure from the gas station at 159 and 160 will be at 6:50 AM.  Coordinator - Steve Anderson.

 

Wednesday, October 10 - Ice Box Canyon.  There is also some boulder scrambling involved on this moderate 3-mile out-and-back hike into the sheltered canyon near the north end of the escarpment using the regular trail head, but it won't involve climbing any extremely large rocks or waterfalls.  There is a bit of exposure on the final climb to the ledge which affords the snack break below a 40-foot seasonal waterfall at the end of the canyon.  The group will meet at Best Buy for an 8:30 AM departure.  Coordinator - Jen Lindsay.

 

Thursday, October 11 - Windy Peak.  Another one of the prominent peaks toward the southern end of the escarpment, Windy Peak gets a strenuous rating over the out-and-back route of 6 total miles.  The hike will start near Mountain Spring Summit with the steepest part of the hike along a gravel road past a communications tower.  After the transition from limestone to sandstone, there is about 100 feet of rolling exposure getting onto the top formation.  The group will depart from Best Buy at 7:30 AM and pick up south side participants at the Highway 159 and 160 gas station at 7:50 AM.  Coordinator - Michael O'Connor.

 

Friday, October 12 - Calico Tanks.  One of the signature shorter hikes in the Red Rock area is this moderate 3-mile out-and-back trek through a canyon in the heart of the Calico Hills.  Elevation gain is around 700 feet and there are over a dozen sections of rock steps along the trail that has amazing colorful sandstone formations on either side.  Just past the major tank which seasonally holds water is a rock outcropping that provides a great view of the southern half of Las Vegas and across Lake Mead to Arizona.  The group will depart from Best Buy at 8:15 AM for this hike.  Coordinator - Roger Hembree.

 

Saturday, October 13 - Krafft Mountain Loop.  The early outing for the first Saturday back in Red Rock will be through one of the most scenic accessible areas west of Las Vegas.  This moderate 5-mile loop hike starts near Calico Basin on the east side of the Calico Hills and tromps through Lower Gateway Canyon on the back side of Krafft Mountain.  The different colors and patterns of the sandstone are awesome.  Scrambling is included with one major waterfall to negotiate on the way down.  This group will leave from the Best Buy parking lot at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Kay Blackwell.

 

Saturday, October 13 - Oak Creek.  The more leisurely outing for the first Saturday back in Red Rock will be an easy to moderate out-and-back hike that will follow the Oak Creek Trail off the scenic loop road and have the turn around point at the base of Potato Knoll.  Total distance is around 3 miles and there is very little elevation gain involved.  Participants will be treated to some good views of the high cliff walls on either side of the opening to Oak Creek Canyon.  Departure time from Best Buy will be at 8:30 AM.  Coordinator - Ann Cronin.

 

Sunday, October 14 - Grapevine Springs Exploratory Hike. Six to Seven moderate miles in the desert off of Kyle Canyon Road. Meet at the Santa Fe for a 7:30am departure time. Coordinator - Kay Blackwell
 

Monday, October 15 - White Rock Loop.  Another classic Red Rock hike is this moderate 6.4-mile trail that circles two cream-colored sandstone peaks at the north end of the canyon.  The hike offers two distinctly different ecosystems with creosote desert on the front side of the mountains and lush vegetation on the back side, which receives double the amount of precipitation during the year as the front side.  Starting point should be at Willow Springs.  The group will meet at Best Buy for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Annie Hoskin.

 

Tuesday, October 16 - Gray Cap Peak.  Be prepared for significant scrambling and lots of exposure if you plan on taking part in this very strenuous hike to the limestone topped peak just west of Brownstone Canyon that is known for its fabulous sandstone formations.  The 4 to 5-mile out-and-back route will start near Calico Basin, cross Five Stop Hill to Gateway Canyon, and then start climbing through the sandstone just a short distance up the canyon.  The group will be leaving promptly from Best Buy at 7:00 AM for this hike.  Coordinator - Michael O'Connor.

 

Wednesday, October 17 - Skull Canyon & The Muffins.  Counter clockwise will be the direction for the first hike of the season on Blue Diamond Hill across from the entrance to Red Rock Canyon.  From the horse stable entrance on Highway 159, the group will head up Skull Canyon and visit the original Las Vegas Overlook on the long hill that is well known for its gypsum mine.  After a snack break, the group will head over to the distinctive caliche boulders known as The Muffins before descending back to the starting point.  Distance is around 5 miles with 1,100 feet of elevation gain and a moderate rating.  Meet the group at Best Buy for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Laszlo Heredy.

 

Thursday, October 18 - Mountain Spring Peak.  The west side of the escarpment will be the backdrop for this moderately strenuous 7-mile loop hike that explores the area above the community of Mountain Springs.  The hike begins along the steep gravel road that is also used for Windy and Hollow Rock Peaks but heads south to the limestone peak somewhat behind Black Velvet.  Rather than stopping at the top, the group will continue down the other side and reach a sensational ledge above Black Velvet Canyon for a snack break.  The return includes some minor scrambling in a drainage and passes a small cave and two springs.  Departure from Best Buy will be at 8:00 AM with a secondary pickup at the Highway 160 gas station at 8:20 AM. Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Friday, October 19 - Moenkopi/Angel Canyon Loop.  Starting from the Red Rock fee booth parking lot, this moderate 5-mile clockwise loop hike will take the Moenkopi Trail to the bench on the ridge north of the Visitor Center, then follow the trails to Calico I and Calico II Overlooks before heading into the canyon with the rock angel carving.  After a snack break near the rock, the hike will continue back past the Calico I Overlook and take the trail on the east side of the road back to the entrance station.  The group will meet at Best Buy for an 8:15 AM departure.  Coordinator - Roger Hembree.

 

Saturday, October 20 - Lone Mountain (followed by fall picnic).  If you would like some exercise before imbibing in all the good food offered at our club's annual fall picnic, then join the group for a short hike either to the summit or around the base of the 750-foot mountain on the northwest side of Las Vegas.  It's about 3 miles for the moderately strenuous climb to the summit while only 2 miles for the easy level loop around it.  The staging point will be the south parking lot at the Lone Mountain Regional Park, generally located near the intersection of Craig Road and Jensen.  The hike will start from there at 8:00 AM, which should give you plenty of time to make the picnic at Children's Discovery Park late that morning.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Sunday, October 21 - The Muffins & Skull Canyon.  The description is reverse from the same basic hike offered the previous Wednesday because the route taken will be in reverse.  From the horse stables parking lot, the group will first head up to the caliche boulders on the north end of Blue Diamond Hill, then take the somewhat obscure trail back to the old Las Vegas Overlook.  The last half of the moderate 5-mile loop hike descends through Skull Canyon, so named because of the full skeleton of a mule once found there.  You can join the group at Best Buy for a 7:30 AM departure.  Coordinator - Kay Blackwell.

 

Monday, October 22 - Potato Knoll.  The normal route our club uses for this moderate 5-mile partial loop hike starts from the parking lot where the scenic loop drive exits onto Highway 159 and follows a trail originally laid down by horseback riders and then an old recreational jeep track toward the descent to Oak Creek.  The loop portion of the hike begins near the base of the hill, also known as Wilson's Pimple, and includes a fairly steep jaunt to the top for a great view of the Red Rock area.  There are four crossings of Oak Creek along the way and there should be some flowing water at a couple of them.  The group will meet at Best Buy for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Annie Hoskin.

 

Tuesday, October 23 - Two North Peaks.  Traditionally attempted on Halloween Day, this strenuous 11-mile hike with 2,800 feet of elevation gain will occur a week earlier this year.  The early and late stages of the partial loop hike will be along Potato Road, also known as Rocky Gap Road.  From the Red Rock Summit the group will follow the trail to the limestone North Peak, then descend through the cliff on the east side of the peak and take a ridge back to the sandstone portion of the escarpment that contains the sandstone North Peak.  Scrambling is involved and the descending trail back to the road is steep and loose in spots.  Meet the group at Best Buy for a 7:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Wednesday, October 24 - La Madre Miner's Cabin.  This moderately strenuous 5-mile out-and-back hike includes 1,600 feet of elevation gain in reaching the stone shelter on a ledge below a couple of lead mine shafts.  The route passes La Madre Springs using the official trail laid out on an abandoned gravel road past a couple of old foundations, then follows a narrow path into a canyon along a stream that gets steeper the nearer it gets to the shelter.  From the rest stop at the shelter participants will get a great view of the back side of the White Rock Hills.  Departure time from Best Buy will be at 9:00 AM.  Coordinator - Jen Lindsay.

 

Thursday, October 25 - Fern Canyon.  Although this out-and-back hike is rather short for a Thursday at 4 to 5 miles total, the boulder scrambling is pretty intense the farther back one goes into the canyon.  Officially referred to as North Fork Pine Creek, the local name comes from the abundance of ferns located in several sections of the canyon, largely due to confined spaces and the presence of flowing water during much of the year.  The trail section passes the old Wilson homestead foundation, and there is one remaining apple tree from the orchard that used to occupy the nearby field.  The overall rating for the hike is strenuous.  The group will assemble at Best Buy for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Kay Blackwell.

 

Friday, October 26 - First Creek.  The first mile of the trail getting to a hidden waterfall in the creek drainage is nearly level with mainly a dirt surface.  The second mile approaching the entrance to First Creek Canyon has more elevation gain, with the farthest point of the hike some large boulders that form a twelve foot seasonal waterfall.  Overall, the 4-mile out-and-back hike is rated easy to moderate.  Several areas along the trail are often visited by a herd of bighorn sheep that inhabit the canyon area.  Meet the rest of the group at Best Buy for an 8:15 AM departure.  Coordinator - Annie Hoskin.

 

Saturday, October 27 - White Rock Loop.  Kick off the last weekend of October with a moderate 6.4 mile loop around White Rock Hills Peak and White Rock Springs Peak at the north end of Red Rock Canyon.  Our coordinator has opted to conduct the hike in a counter clockwise direction from Willow Springs, meaning the hotter desert portion of the hike will occur in the first half and the somewhat cooler and higher section behind the mountain, exhibiting taller trees and bushes, will highlight the second half.  This is the early club hike for the day and the group will depart from Best Buy at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Lettie Gutierrez.

 

Saturday, October 27 - Ice Box Canyon.  The later outing for this Saturday is a repeat of a short hike conducted on a weekday earlier in the month.  At 3 miles, this moderate out-and-back hike follows the track from the trail head across Red Rock Wash and gains the somewhat higher ridge north of Ice Box Creek for a little over a mile.  Roughly 0.4 miles of the route is in the creek drainage and involves mostly minor scrambling over and around small boulders.  To get to the snack spot at the turn around point, participants will have to do a short Class 3 scramble past a tree and onto a ledge.  The group will depart from Best Buy at 8:30 AM.  Coordinator - Kay Blackwell.

 

Sunday, October 28 - Krafft Mountain Loop.  The standard route for this great 5-mile hike around the back side of Krafft Mountain is to climb over Five Stop Hill and descend into lower Gateway Canyon, exiting at the bottom of the canyon on the east side of the mountain.  Our coordinator for this hike usually likes to add a few wrinkles to her outings, so don't be surprised if the hike goes counter clockwise or she adds a bit of exploration to the otherwise moderate trek.  The assembly point for the group will be at Best Buy with a 7:30 AM departure.  Coordinator - Lettie Gutierrez.

 

Monday, October 29 - South Cottonwood Valley.  The Deadhorse Trail in the valley south of Highway 160 will be the scene for this easy to moderate 4-mile out-and-back hike.  Originally established by mountain biking enthusiasts, the trail follows a gradual dirt track along a seasonal drainage to a signboard in the heart of South Cottonwood.  Halfway along the route is a connecting trail that leads to Badger Pass, a hike you can expect to see scheduled in the near future.  If the group is willing, there is a potential moderate add-on of about a mile up a gravel road that leads to a spot where Las Vegas is visible.  Departure time from Best Buy will be 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Annie Hoskin.

 

Tuesday, October 30 - Brownstone Canyon.  This strenuous loop hike will cover a total distance of 6 miles and gain 2,000 feet in the process.  The route used for this hike will climb on the normal trail to the saddle on the ridge below Turtlehead Peak and descend from there into Brownstone Canyon.  The snack break will occur near pictograph wall and also close to a number of petroglyphs from early natives in the area.  The return portion of the hike will descend through Gateway Canyon and pass the base of Red Cap on the return to Sandstone Quarry.  Meet the rest of the group at Best Buy for a 7:30 AM departure.  Coordinator - Brian Dodd.

 

Wednesday, October 31 - Waterfall Canyon.  Celebrate Halloween day will a moderate 4-mile out-and-back trek into a side canyon about a mile and a half up Rocky Gap Road.  The canyon almost always has water flowing with at least a dozen waterfalls or slides providing one of the most beautiful settings in this part of the Spring Mountains.  There is a half mile of scrambling in each direction in the canyon and sections of slick rock, so make sure you have good tread on your hiking shoes.  Assembly will be at Best Buy with a 9:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Keith Lane.

 

Wednesday, October 31 - Sunset Park.  Spend Halloween evening with your ABF friends on a full moonrise hike in a park on the south side of Las Vegas on an easy walking trail 3.5 miles in length.  With sunset at 5:45 PM and moonrise at 7:02 PM, the skies should be perfect to catch the first light of the moon over Frenchman's Mountain.  Halloween costumes are encouraged and treats can be brought to share with each other (and maybe some kids).  Don't forget some water and possibly a flashlight.  Sunset Park is at the corner of Eastern Avenue and Sunset Road.  From the north, general directions are to take 215 west of I-15 to the airport exit and go east on Sunset before reaching the tunnel.  Once you get to Eastern, turn right and then left on the second driveway into the park.  The walk will start at 6:15 PM, so try and be ten to fifteen minutes early.  Coordinator - Annie Hoskin. 

September 2012 Hike List

This hike schedule is a supplement to the club's monthly newsletter, which includes other important information regarding club business and activities.  All club members should at least review the newsletter when it is sent out each month so they can participate more thoroughly in club activities.

 

Here is a list of scheduled club hikes for September 2012.  Hikes scheduled during the week are of varying difficulty levels to accommodate the different skill levels of club members.  The more strenuous Tuesday hikes are only open to existing club members.  In addition, Tuesday participants should have completed at least two of the Thursday hikes, which are generally rated moderately strenuous or strenuous.  Two hikes are usually offered each Saturday during the seasons at Red Rock Canyon and Lake Mead.  The earlier Saturday hike will generally be rated either moderate or moderately strenuous and will be conducted at a moderate pace.  The later hike that day is intended for the general membership, is rated no more than moderate, and is conducted at a leisurely pace.  Hikes on other days of the week may vary significantly depending on who has volunteered to serve as coordinator.  Please pay attention to the difficulty ratings for each hike offered and do not attempt hikes that are beyond your abilities.  New hikers without recent hiking experience MUST begin with the later Saturday hike or a weekday hike rated no more than moderate before attempting any of the more difficult offerings.  No reservations are required for any of the hikes unless specified below.  Cancellation due to weather may occur without prior notice the morning of a hike.  Whenever possible, e-mails will be sent out through Yahoo Groups informing of any changes or cancellations.  If you have any questions or comments about any of the hikes contact Chris Dempsey at dempseylv@aol.com or at (702) 823-2355.

 

With the exception of possible evening walks or hikes in the valley, all club hikes during the summer months will be conducted in the higher elevations of the Spring Mountains near Mount Charleston.  The assembly point for these hikes is along the south wall on the third floor of the southeast parking garage at Santa Fe Station Casino.  As there are two garages at Santa Fe, the correct one is the one closest to the intersection of Rancho and Lone Mountain Road.  If you are meeting the group at this location for the first time, the easiest directions are to exit on Rancho from either northbound or southbound Highway 95, pass the front of the casino on Rancho, and enter the garage on your right between the two signalized intersections.  Details for other assembly areas will be included in the appropriate hike description.  Times indicated for each hike are departure times and are strictly observed.  Usually the group will begin assembling as much as one-half hour prior to the scheduled departure time.

 

 

Saturday, September 1 - Fletcher Canyon.  One of our club's favorite routes in the Spring Mountains is this moderate 4-mile out-and-back hike into a side canyon accessed from Kyle Canyon Road.  One of the reasons is that there is only 600 feet of elevation gain over the entire route and the lack of steepness makes for a great leisurely hike.  Another is the fabulous scenery in the narrow slot canyon approaching the customary snack spot at the turn-around point.  Whatever your reason, come out and mingle with your fellow club members and enjoy the beginning of September in the higher elevations.  The group will assemble at Santa Fe Station for an 8:30 AM departure.  Coordinator - Diane Dempsey.

 

Monday, September 3 - Mary Jane Falls.  It's Labor Day, but what the heck.  If you are looking for a little exercise to start the day off before heading to a family barbeque, then consider this moderate 3-mile out-and-back hike that gains 920 feet of elevation getting to a seasonal waterfall draining a significant portion of the ridge between Mount Charleston and Mummy Mountain.  The speedier hikers will have time to explore a small cave just beyond the waterfall and still get in a snack break at the top.  Meet the rest of the group at Santa Fe Station for a 7:45 AM departure.  Coordinator - Annie Hoskin.

 

Tuesday, September 4 - Mummy's Head, Chin & Nose.  Each of the high points on the north end of Mummy's anatomy involves some pretty significant scrambling over loose scree on steep slopes to get to the top.  In addition, there is some exposure to drop offs on the approach ridges.  As a result, anyone interested in this very strenuous outing must clear their participation in advance with the hike coordinator at (702) 341-9723.  Total distance to be covered is about 5 or 6 miles and the overall elevation gain must be something over 4,000 feet.  Plan on this hike taking at least six or seven hours because of the terrain.  The group will assemble at Santa Fe Station and depart from there at 6:30 AM.  Don't forget to RSVP if you are interested.  Coordinator - Steve Anderson.

 

Wednesday, September 5 - Lee Canyon Narrows.  This moderate 5-mile hike is a bit different in that the elevation gain of 700 feet occurs during the second half of the trek.  The route will begin at the junction of Lee Canyon Road (Highway 156) and Deer Creek Road (Highway 158) and head down the drainage to the east, passing a number of camp sites and bullet riddled vintage automobiles.  It then loops through a small, picturesque slot canyon before returning to the parking area.  The group will be meeting at Santa Fe Station for a 9:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Keith Lane.

 

Thursday, September 6 - Fletcher Peak.  What is normally a full out-and-back hike will have a slight wrinkle as the group will be doing the early uphill portion to the mid-level meadows utilizing the trail in Wild Horse Canyon.  After a trek to the top of the most accessible peak surrounding Kyle Canyon, the last part of the return will follow the North Loop Trail back to the parking area.  Overall, this strenuous hike will cover about 7.5 miles while having a net elevation gain around 1,800 feet.  The group will assemble at Santa Fe Station for a 7:30 AM departure.  Coordinator - Steve Anderson.

 

Friday, September 7 - Fletcher Canyon.  It will be twice in one week for the moderate 4-mile out-and-back hike into the scenic slot canyon on the western base of Fletcher Peak.  This will probably be the last time this summer season that this particular destination is scheduled, so if you missed last Saturday's outing and can't go today you might have to wait until next year.  As with all Friday hikes, there will be an early assembly point at the Siena Community Center with a departure from there at 7:45 AM.  The entire group will get together at Santa Fe Station and a final departure at 8:15 AM.  Coordinator - Roger Hembree.

 

Saturday, September 8 - South Fletcher Base.  A new area to explore will provide the venue for another leisurely Saturday hike in the Kyle Canyon area near Mount Charleston.  This particular out-and-back hike will start up the Fletcher Canyon Trail and turn right on an old abandoned gravel road that winds through the slopes at the southern base of Fletcher Peak above Highway 158.  Participants should be rewarded with excellent views of the canyon stretching toward the resort hotel.  Total distance will be around 3 miles, elevation gain should be less than 500 feet, and the rating is moderate.  Assembly will be at Santa Fe Station for an 8:30 AM departure.  Coordinator - Diane Dempsey.

 

Sunday, September 9 - Wallace Canyon Plane Crash.  This is the first of two outings this month for members of Around the Bend Friends to visit the site of a light plane crash near the top of Wallace Canyon, just on the other side of the ridge separating it from Lee Canyon.  For this Sunday version of the hike, the group will be taking a circuitous route involving both Bonanza Trail and Upper Bristlecone Trail, with a surprise route over the ridge down into Upper Bristlecone.  The coordinator rates this hike as moderately strenuous, and the distance should be around 6 or 7 miles.  Meet at Santa Fe Station for a 7:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Lettie Gutierrez.

 

Monday, September 10 - Bristlecone to Old Mill.  Another variation of the Bristlecone Trail will occur today as the group will be doing a point-to-point hike of 5 or 6 miles that will have more downhill than uphill.  Starting from the Upper Bristlecone trail head, the route will follow the trail through the upper wooded section and pass the Bonanza junction on the fire service road heading toward the lower trail head.  At a sharp bend of the road, the route will turn on a maintained trail that leads to Old Mill Picnic Area, where a few cars will be positioned for the driver shuttle.  Departure from the meeting location at Santa Fe Station is 7:45 AM.  Coordinator - Ed Matulis.

 

Tuesday, September 11 - Cockscomb Ridge.  With so many of the hard core Tuesday regulars at Flagstaff this week, it's time for something a little more laid back.  Thus the chosen option is a moderate out-and-back hike primarily along Trail Canyon and then connecting with a rocky platform at the very beginning of Cockscomb Ridge that offers great views down into Fletcher Canyon as well as most of the major peaks surrounding Kyle Canyon.  Total distance is right at 5 miles with 1,500 feet of elevation gain.  Meet the rest of the group at Santa Fe Station for a 9:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Susan Haase. 

 

Wednesday, September 12 - Cathedral Rock.  One of the busiest routes in the Spring Mountains is this moderate 3-mile out-and-back hike to the top of a rock outcropping near the base of the ridge between Griffith Peak and Mount Charleston.  The trail winds through Mazie Canyon where a major avalanche occurred in 2005 and some of the remnants of that slide can still be observed.  There is an elevation gain of 950 feet getting to the ledge which provides stunning views of the entire length of Kyle Canyon back toward Highway 95.  The group will meet at Santa Fe Station for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Jen Lindsay.

 

Thursday, September 13 - Raintree via Trail Canyon.  From the new parking area along Echo Road that was constructed to service Trail Canyon, the total distance for this moderately strenuous out-and-back hike is a shade more than 7.5 miles.  The elevation gain along Trail Canyon is close to 1,500 feet, with another 700 occurring on the stretch of North Loop Trail that winds along the top of Fletcher Canyon near the base of Mummy's Toe.  Once on the North Loop section, participants will be treated to great views of all the peaks surrounding Kyle Canyon.  Meet the group at Santa Fe Station for a 7:30 AM departure.  Coordinator - Ed Matulis.

 

Friday, September 14 - Raintree via North Loop.  The only thing this hike has in common with the one on the previous day is the snack break destination at the 3,000 year old bristlecone pine in the shadow of Mummy's Toe.  The route for this hike begins at the North Loop trail head off Deer Road and proceeds west on the trail past a mid-level meadows and a dozen of the toughest switchbacks in the Spring Mountains.  The moderately strenuous out-and-back route covers a total distance of 6 miles and gains 1,500 feet along the way.  An early group will meet at the Siena Community Center for a 7:45 AM departure with the entire group leaving Santa Fe Station at 8:15 AM.  Coordinator - Roger Hembree.

 

Saturday, September 15 - Telephone Canyon.  This moderate version of the 4-mile downhill point-to-point hike that connects Robbers' Roost with the lower parking area near the police substation will be quite a bit different from the route that was used earlier in the year.  Actually, very little of the hike will occur in the canyon as the higher trail that parallels Highway 158 will be used for the descent.  This will take the group on the opposite side of a ridge above Telephone Canyon and closer to the substation.  Bring plenty of water as there is very little shade on the last half of the hike.  The group will assemble at Santa Fe Station for the traditional 8:30 AM departure.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Sunday, September 16 - No Name/Bristlecone Loop.  The moderately strenuous 6 to 7-mile loop will be taken in a counter clockwise direction for this hike that will start at the Lower Bristlecone trail head.  That means the switchbacks of the lowest section of the Bonanza Trail will be taken uphill and the descent portion will include No Name Trail.  Overall, this route has a net elevation gain of 1,100 feet.  Because No Name has several sections of steep trail with looser surface conditions, it is advised that participants bring hiking sticks for the descent.  The group will meet at Santa Fe Station for a 7:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Lettie Gutierrez.

 

Monday, September 17 - Cathedral Rock.  The route for today's hike to the top of the distinctive rock outcropping along the ridge between Griffith and Charleston is identical to that used on the hike for the previous Wednesday.  That means the 3-mile out-and-back hike will follow the trail as it winds through Mazie Canyon and past Echo Falls.  Once at the top of the outcropping, the sensational view looks straight down Kyle Canyon and takes in Gass Peak on the other side of the valley containing Highway 95.  The group will get together at Santa Fe Station for a 7:45 AM departure.  Coordinator - Annie Hoskin.

 

Tuesday, September 18 - Bonanza Trail.  The long trek across the northern end of the Spring Mountains is a point-to-point hike that covers a total distance of 15 or 16 miles, depending on whether No Name Trail is used instead of the lower Bonanza switchbacks.  The group will be split at the beginning, with half starting at the northern trail head near Cold Creek and the others starting at the ski resort near the top of Lee Canyon.  A key exchange will be made when the two groups meet for lunch.  Besides the distance, this trail has two significant climbs from either end totaling over 3,500 feet, resulting in a rating of very strenuous.  Santa Fe Station is the assembly point with a departure time of 7:00 AM.  Coordinator - Michael O'Connor.

 

Wednesday, September 19 - Mormon Girls' Camp.  We have to wait until the camp is vacated for the summer after Labor Day before attempting this moderate 5-mile loop hike that involves following the dirt road along Deer Creek in the early stages.  Instead of taking a break at the high point of the hike, the group will continue to the end of the gravel road and descend into the camp using a faint trail along a minor drainage.  After the snack break, participants interested in challenging the fabled rope bridge will get the chance.  Another rope aids the descent on a steep slope next to a dry waterfall.  The group meets at Santa Fe Station for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Thursday, September 20 - Wallace Canyon Plane Crash.  The easier of the two outings this month that have the light plane crash site in Wallace Canyon as the destination will essentially be a moderate out-and-back hike that is about 4 miles in length.  The hike starts at the top of Lee Canyon Road and follows the Bristlecone Trail through the forest for about a mile before turning onto No Name Trail.  The cutoff to the crash site occurs before the steepest sections of No Name and leads to the ridge separating Wallace from Lee Canyon.  The assembly point at Santa Fe Station will serve for an 8:00 AM getaway.  Coordinator - Ed Matulis.

 

Friday, September 21 - South Loop 2nd Overlook.  This moderately strenuous 7-mile out-and-back hike will climb 2,000 feet along the South Loop Trail to a rocky ledge at 9,600 feet of elevation that overlooks to the top section of Kyle Canyon, including Cathedral Rock.  One of the better maintained trails in the Spring Mountains, South Loop Trail features a great section of switchbacks overlooking Echo Canyon that passes a good sized limestone slab with lots of ancient sea bed fossils observable.  Some participants might consider this a warm up for a leisurely outing to Mount Charleston in two weeks.  The group will depart from the assembly point at Santa Fe Station at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Susan Haase.

 

Friday, September 21 - Mary Jane Falls.  A second option for the last calendar day of summer will be the moderate 3-mile out-and-back hike to the base of the seasonal waterfall below the north ridge.  With 920 feet of elevation gain and lots of switchbacks on the second half of the climb, the route is perfect for a casual and leisurely walk to a spot that has a great view of the Echo Cliffs and the south ridge between Griffith and Charleston Peaks.  With the early group from Siena leaving their community center at 7:45 AM and the full group leaving Santa Fe at 8:15 AM, the return to Santa Fe should still be by early afternoon.  Coordinator - Diane Dempsey.

 

Saturday, September 22 - Champion Canyon.  A pleasant walk through the woods categorizes this easy to moderate hike in the wide drainage below Lee Canyon and its elevated peaks.  This partial loop hike will cover a total distance between 3 and 4 miles with only a few hundred feet of elevation gain.  It will start at Sawmill Picnic Area on the way up Lee Canyon Road, but cross the highway on a recreational gravel road and enter the drainage on the south side of the highway.  The group will be assembling at Santa Fe Station for its customary 8:30 AM departure.  Coordinator - Ann Cronin.

 

Sunday, September 23 - Mummy's Toe.  This strenuous hike is only 6 or 7 miles long, but it is loaded with steep and irregular terrain approaching the distinctive peak on the south end of the Mummy formation.  The exact route will be selected at a later date, but the two options include a partial loop that has the early climbing past Deer Creek or the full out-and-back hike along North Loop Trail to the Mummy Springs cutoff and on to the peak.  In either event, total elevation gain is around 2,500 feet.  The group will be assembling early at Santa Fe Station with a departure time of 7:00 AM.  Coordinator - Lettie Gutierrez.

 

Monday, September 24 - Cave Springs.  This is a pretty aggressive effort for a Monday hike, but I'm sure the coordinator will keep that in mind as she establishes the pace for the group.  The moderately strenuous out-and-back hike will head up Trail Canyon to the junction with North Loop Trail and turn left on that trail toward the scree field at the base of Mummy Mountain.  Before getting that far, however, the group will reach its destination at the horse trough right along the trail at the base of the springs area for a well deserved snack break.  Total distance is 6 to 7 miles with close to 2,000 feet of elevation gain.  Departure time from Santa Fe Station will be at 7:45 AM.  Coordinator - Annie Hoskin.

 

Tuesday, September 25 - McFarland Peak.  Arguably the toughest hike our club ever schedules in the Spring Mountains, the out-and-back trek to the top of McFarland combines distance at 14 miles, elevation gain at a gross 2,800 feet, steep terrain, and exposure.  For those who make it to the top, the sensational view is a pretty good reward.  This hike is rated very strenuous.  On the descent from the peak, participants will have to watch closely for the side trail that leads to the jumping off point or face an additional significant elevation gain just getting back to that point.  The group will meet at Santa Fe Station for a 6:00 AM departure due to the estimated seven or eight hours of hiking.  Coordinator - Steve Anderson.

 

Wednesday, September 26 - Sawmill Trail.  Switching to the other spectrum of opportunities in the Spring Mountains, the hike selected for today will be an easy to moderate 3-mile outing that will begin and end at the Sawmill Picnic Area along Lee Canyon Road.  The loop route will start with a rambling trail through a forest of cliff rose bushes that slowly gains elevation as it approaches an open ridge to the north of the picnic area that provides views stretching to Creech AFB and the Nevada Test Site.  The group will assemble at Santa Fe Station for a 9:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Jen Lindsay.

 

Thursday, September 27 - Cockscomb Ridge.  Following the same route onto the ridge as the September 11 hike but continuing along the ridge to the base of the rock thrust that constitutes the comb will increase the overall distance for the out-and-back hike to 6 miles and bump the rating to moderately strenuous.  The snack break will occur on a narrow rocky section of the ridge that looks directly down into Fletcher Canyon and a view of the saddle at the top of Stanley B Springs Canyon.  Meet the rest of the group participants at Santa Fe Station for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Friday, September 28 - Griffith Peak.  If you think you are ready for a more leisurely late season trek to Mount Charleston (scheduled for October 5) then you will want to participate on this warm up hike to the top of the third highest official peak in southern Nevada.  The out-and-back route along South Loop Trail will be used for this strenuous 10-mile outing gaining 3,400 feet.  Pace will be fairly leisurely to accommodate slower hikers with the stamina to reach the peak, and participants should expect the entire hike to take as much as seven hours.  Departure time from Santa Fe Station will be at 7:30 AM.  Coordinators - Susan Haase & Chris Dempsey.

 

Friday, September 28 - Harris Slot Canyon.  In keeping with our normal standard for Friday hikes, the club will be offering a second hiking option this day that will involve an easy to moderate out-and-back trek through the narrow slot canyon near Harris Springs Road.  The estimated total distance will be 4 miles, meaning the group will not be close to the auto graveyard farther up the canyon, and total elevation gain should be around 300 feet.  The trail past the narrows follows a gravel filled drainage with quite a bit of hard pack.  The early group will depart from Siena at 7:45 AM and the full group will leave Santa Fe Station at 8:15 AM.  Coordinator - Diane Dempsey.

 

Saturday, September 29 - Upper Bristlecone Trail.  The best part of the Bristlecone Trail is acknowledged to be the wooded upper section that gains about 700 feet and passes several interesting rock outcroppings on the way to the trail junction with Bonanza Trail.  The moderate out-and-back hike that utilizes this setting has a total distance of nearly 5 miles and can be accomplished by most of the members of our club.  For those wanting a little less distance, there is a great overlook near a downed tree trunk that holds the total distance to 3.5 miles.  The group will meet at Santa Fe Station and form appropriate travel arrangements for an 8:30 AM departure.  Coordinator - Steve Anderson.

 

Sunday, September 30 - Stanley B/Fletcher Canyons.  It's hard to believe that we waited nearly the entire summer season before scheduling this strenuous 6-mile loop hike, but that was the case.  To provide the loop route, the group will start at the Fletcher Trail parking area and follow the Kyle Canyon drainage west for about a mile before starting the rigorous ascent of Stanley B Springs Canyon.  While there is no real exposure, there is a lot of rough terrain between the mine shafts in Stanley B and the drop through the rabbit hole at Obstacle Rock in Fletcher Canyon.  Long pants are recommended because of the brush.  The group will meet at Santa Fe Station for a 7:00 AM departure.  Coordinators - Lettie Gutierrez & Chris Dempsey.

 

 

That should provide an array of options for club members to experience the beauty in the higher elevations of the Spring Mountains before we start our return to the Red Rock Canyon area in October.  There will probably still be a few hikes in October in the Mount Charleston area to view any residual fall colors, but the bulk of the scheduled outings will be in the lower elevations.  

September 11 through 14 - hikes in either Flagstaff or Sedona

August 2012 Hike List

This hike schedule is a supplement to the club's monthly newsletter, which includes other important information regarding club business and activities.  All club members should at least review the newsletter when it is sent out each month so they can participate more thoroughly in club activities.

 

Here is a list of scheduled club hikes for August 2012.  Hikes scheduled during the week are of varying difficulty levels to accommodate the different skill levels of club members.  The more strenuous Tuesday hikes are only open to existing club members.  In addition, Tuesday participants should have completed at least two of the Thursday hikes, which are generally rated moderately strenuous or strenuous.  Two hikes are usually offered each Saturday during the seasons at Red Rock Canyon and Lake Mead.  The earlier Saturday hike will generally be rated either moderate or moderately strenuous and will be conducted at a moderate pace.  The later hike that day is intended for the general membership, is rated no more than moderate, and is conducted at a leisurely pace.  Hikes on other days of the week may vary significantly depending on who has volunteered to serve as coordinator.  Please pay attention to the difficulty ratings for each hike offered and do not attempt hikes that are beyond your abilities.  New hikers with recent hiking experience MUST begin with the 8:30 AM Saturday hike or a weekday hike rated no more than moderate before attempting any of the more difficult offerings.  No reservations are required for any of the hikes unless specified below.  Cancellation due to weather may occur without prior notice the morning of a hike.  Whenever possible, e-mails will be sent out through Yahoo Groups informing of any changes or cancellations.  If you have any questions or comments about any of the hikes contact Chris Dempsey at dempseylv@aol.com or at (702) 823-2355.

 

With the exception of possible evening walks or hikes in the valley, all club hikes during the summer months will be conducted in the higher elevations of the Spring Mountains near Mount Charleston.  The assembly point for all these hikes is along the south wall on the third floor of the southeast parking garage at Santa Fe Station Casino.  As there are two garages at Santa Fe, the correct one is the one closest to the intersection of Rancho and Lone Mountain Road.  If you are meeting the group at this location for the first time, the easiest directions are to exit on Rancho from either northbound or southbound Highway 95, pass the front of the casino on Rancho, and enter the garage on your right between the two signalized intersections.  Details for other assembly areas will be included in the appropriate hike description.  Times indicated for each hike are departure times and are strictly observed.  Usually the group will begin assembling about one-half hour prior to the scheduled departure time.

 

Our schedule this month includes two full moon hikes, with the second one occurring on Friday, August 31.  That outing will be held in conjunction with the Sun City Anthem Hiking Club and will include a potluck picnic prior to the hike.  See the last hike description on this list for more details.  Let's have a good turnout and show the Anthem hikers what great people are part of Around the Bend Friends. 

 

 

Wednesday, August 1 - Griffith Peak.  The loop version of the route to the third highest official peak in the Spring Mountains provides an abundance of scenery unmatched by most other hikes.  At 10 miles and 3,500 feet of elevation, this strenuous hike begins at the top of the mountain community of Rainbow and follows Rainbow Canyon up to the saddle between Harris and Griffith Peaks.  After reaching the summit from the Harris Springs Trail, the descent will be on South Loop Trail and across the top portion of the Rainbow Loop Trail.  An early group from Sun City Summerlin will meet at Desert Vista, leaving for Santa Fe Station at 7:00 AM to join the rest of the group and a 7:20 AM departure.  Coordinators - Brian Dodd & Jon Lubinski.

 

Wednesday, August 1 - Mary Jane Falls.  Looking for something a bit less daunting to start the dog days of summer?  Then try this moderate 3-mile out-and-back hike to the base of the major seasonal waterfall draining the north ridge between Charleston and Mummy.  There is still some challenge as the elevation gain is 920 feet, most of which occurs on a series of switchbacks in the second half of the climb.  A more defined path continues from the falls to a shallow cave a short distance away with a great view of upper Kyle Canyon.  Meet the group at Santa Fe Station for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinators - Tom Reiner & Susan Haase.

 

Thursday, August 2 - Bonanza Trail Overlook.  A shorter version of the McFarland Approach hike, this strenuous out-and-back trek will start at the top end of Lee Canyon Road and use No Name Trail to connect with the Bonanza Trail.  The snack break and turn around point for the hike will occur on a section of ridge with fantastic open views of the Sisters and Mack's Peak.  A slightly different return will occur as the group will follow Bonanza Trail back to its southern starting point and finish on the wooded section of Bristlecone Trail.  Total distance should be around 9 miles with 2,000 feet gross elevation gain.  The group will assemble at Santa Fe Station for a 7:30 AM departure.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Friday, August 3 - Cockscomb Ridge.  At a distance close to 5 miles, this moderately strenuous out-and-back hike will start from the new parking area marking the beginning of Trail Canyon Trail and follow that trail to the junction with North Loop Trail about 2 1/4 miles above.  This trail gains about 1,600 feet and is fairly steep, with several switchbacks easing the climb rate in the second half of the ascent.  The group will go out onto Cockscomb Ridge for a short distance to have a snack break and take in some great views of Fletcher Canyon.  A subgroup will meet at the Siena Community Center for a 7:45 AM departure for Santa Fe Station, with the full group leaving there at 8:15 AM.  Coordinator - Annie Hoskin.

 

Friday, August 3 - Pueblo Park.  There is no conflict between these Friday hikes as we will be strolling through Pueblo Park in the evening to take advantage of a nearly full moon rising.  Sunset is at 7:43 AM and moonrise is at 8:30 AM, meaning the sky should be dark enough to provide a great backdrop to the first appearance of the moon.  Bring flashlights, water, and a snack.  This easy walk is 3 miles in length, reasonably flat, and paved all the way.  The group will meet at the corner of the parking lot for Smiths Grocery on Lake Mead and Rampart at 7:00 PM and drive to Pueblo Park about a mile away, with the walk starting at 7:20 PM.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Saturday, August 4 - Sawmill Trail.  Development of a trail system in lower Lee Canyon for equestrians has provided us with an opportunity for another leisurely Saturday outing.  At 3 miles in distance, this easy to moderate loop hike winds its way through an orchard of cliff roses just west of the Sawmill Picnic Area before climbing to an open ridge that affords great views of Creech Air Force Base and the nuclear testing site beyond.  Elevation gain is around 300 feet.  After reaching the upper portion of Blue Tree Road, the group will head through a bare bones camping area before picking up a trail back to the start.  Meet the group at Santa Fe Station for an 8:30 AM departure.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Sunday, August 5 - Mummy Springs Loop.  This hike was originally scheduled for July 15, but a rollover accident on Highway 158 north of Robbers' Roost kept the group from getting to the trail head that day, so it is back on the schedule for August.  The loop route for this strenuous 7-mile hike will begin at the North Loop trail head on Highway 158.  The ascent portion of the hike, gaining 1,600 feet of elevation, is on a ridge along Deer Creek above the seasonal cabins and sawmill remains.  After getting to the Mummy's Toe Trail, the group will turn left, take a snack break at the springs, then pass Raintree on the way down North Loop Trail.  The group will meet at Santa Fe Station for a 7:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Lettie Gutierrez. 

 

Monday, August 6 - Cathedral Rock.  One of the signature hikes in the Spring Mountains is this moderate 3-mile out-and-back hike to the top of a rock outcropping closer to the base of the south ridge than toward its top.  Elevation gain is 950 feet along the trail that winds through Mazie Canyon, site of a fairly large avalanche seven years ago.  Some of the remnants of that avalanche include benches that were carved out of a few of the larger downed pine trees that cluttered the route that year.  The view from the top is well worth the effort getting there.  The group will assemble at the normal spot at Santa Fe Station for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinators - Tom Reiner & Susan Haase.

 

Tuesday, August 7 - Mummy's Toe.  This is a very strenuous out-and-back hike that starts innocuously on the North Loop Trail and turns very steep past Mummy Springs.  As the upper trail comes to an end above the springs it becomes steep and loose, just a preamble to the rough terrain that must be crossed getting to the peak itself.  Distance will be around 9 miles with 2,600 feet of elevation gain.  At the top there is a sensational view of Kyle Canyon from a true mountain climbing setting.  The group will get together at Santa Fe Station for a 7:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Michael O'Connor.

 

Wednesday, August 8 - Lee Peak.  The training portion of the series leading to an ascent of Mount Charleston draws to a conclusion with a qualifying hike to Lee Peak, located on the north ridge between Charleston and Mummy.  The very strenuous out-and-back hike involving Trail Canyon and North Loop Trail covers a total distance of 13 miles and gains 4,000 feet of elevation.  The final ascent to the peak is over a steep scree field from the west side.  If you plan on joining the group the following Wednesday you must be able to do this hike.  An early group will meet at Desert Vista Community Center in Sun City Summerlin for a 7:00 AM departure with the full group leaving Santa Fe at 7:20 AM.  Coordinators - Brian Dodd & Jon Lubinski.

 

Wednesday, August 8 - Fletcher Canyon.  Come and experience the scenic beauty of the slot nearly two miles into this moderate out-and-back hike.  Total distance will be 4 miles with 600 feet of elevation gain on a trail that follows a seasonal creek originating near the North Loop Trail below Mummy's Toe.  After a few steep but short climb sections, the trail empties into a narrow section of the route that is only five feet across with cliff walls on either side.  This last section involves some minor scrambling.  The snack break will be just below Obstacle Rock, the divider between the lower and upper sections of the canyon.  The gang will assemble at Santa Fe Station for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Jen Lindsay.

 

Thursday, August 9 - No Name/Bristlecone Variation.  Here is variation of a great hike at the top of Lee Canyon.  For this outing, the group will be doing a moderately strenuous point-to-point hike that will start at the top of Lee Canyon Road near the ski resort.  The standard route will follow No Name Trail to the intersection with Bonanza Trail and use Bonanza to descend back to Bristlecone Trail.  At that junction, however, the group will turn left, heading toward the lower trail head, and turn left again on a trail that leads back to Old Mill Picnic Area.  Distance will be around 6 or 7 miles with more downhill than uphill.  Meet the rest of the group at Santa Fe Station for a 7:30 AM departure.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Friday, August 10 - Cathedral Rock.  Canceled as a Friday hike in July due to thunderstorms, this trek is on the schedule for the second time this week, but will likely attract a different group of participants than the first occasion.  The 3-mile loop hike gains 950 feet and comes with a moderate rating as it follows the trail through the avalanche area in Mazie Canyon just south of the rock outcropping.  The view from the top is sensational and worth the effort.  The early group from Siena will meet at their community center and leave for Santa Fe Station at 7:45 AM with the entire group heading to the trail head at 8:15 AM.  Coordinator - Roger Hembree.

 

Saturday, August 11 - Upper Kyle Canyon Drainage.  The doctor ordered an all downhill hike today and that is what we are offering with this easy to moderate 4-mile point-to-point hike that starts at the Echo trail head near the top of Kyle Canyon Road.  The start is a little rough in the drainage going under the bridge at the bottom end of Echo but it soon becomes trail leading right through the heart of Old Town, where participants can view some of the oldest residences in Kyle Canyon.  Overall, the drop in elevation is around 800 feet, with the hike ending at the Resort on Mount Charleston.  The group meets at Santa Fe Station for an 8:30 AM departure.  Coordinator - Chris Dempsey.

 

Sunday, August 12 - Cathedral Manhole and Beyond.  Want to find out what lies behind Cathedral Rock on the south ridge?  Here is your chance as the group will be heading up Mazie Canyon to the top of the rock outcropping, then continuing to the manhole and a fairly steep canyon that heads west toward the top of the ridge.  Turn around point will be in an old avalanche zone in the canyon.  Distance is around 6 miles for this strenuous out-and-back hike and elevation gain will be close to 1,600 feet.  The group will depart from Santa Fe Station at 7:00 AM.  Coordinators - Lettie Gutierrez & Chris Dempsey.

 

Monday, August 13 - Bristlecone Loop.  The moderate 6-mile loop hike at the top of Lee Canyon gains 900 feet and provides some great open views of the major peaks in the area, including the cliff surrounded Sisters to the northeast.  Probably the least difficult loop hike in the Spring Mountains because of its very gradual rate of elevation increase, the main issue is having stamina for the distance.  This is also the only trail in the upper reaches of the range that allows mountain biking, but you probably won't encounter many on a Monday.  Pace will be leisurely for the hike.  Meet the group at Santa Fe Station for a 7:30 AM departure.  Coordinator - Judy Warner.

 

Tuesday, August 14 - Cockscomb Peak.  So close to the floor of Kyle Canyon and yet so difficult to get to.  That pretty much sums up the strenuous 6-mile hike to the top of the large outcropping on Cockscomb Ridge.  The full route starts with Trail Canyon Trail to its junction with North Loop Trail, then heads across the top of Cockscomb Ridge to the base of the peak formation.  Dropping off the ridge, the route proceeds side slope to an access spot on the east side of the mountain.  Participants will encounter steep scrambling and some exposure getting to the top.  The group will depart at 7:00 AM from the customary meeting location at Santa Fe Station.  Coordinator - Michael O'Connor.

 

Wednesday, August 15 - Mount Charleston.  Several of our club members have been preparing for months to make their initial assault on the highest peak in southern Nevada and today is the day.  I believe the route that the group will be using is up Trail Canyon and North Loop and down South Loop.  If so, this very strenuous hike will cover 17 miles and have a gross elevation gain of more than 5,000 feet.  A car shuttle of one mile will be required to connect the two trail heads.  Because of the distance and pace an early start will be required.  The initial group from Sun City Summerlin will leave Desert Vista Community Center at 5:25 AM to pick up the second group at Santa Fe Station and a 5:45 AM departure.  Coordinators - Brian Dodd & Jon Lubinski.

 

Thursday, August 16 - Raintree via Trail Canyon.  The 3,000 year old bristlecone pine at the base of Mummy's Toe will be the destination for this moderately strenuous hike that gains 2,100 feet of net elevation over a distance of nearly 8 miles.  Much of the steeper trail is along the first leg on Trail Canyon getting to the junction with North Loop Trail and the approach from the west.The section of North Loop between Trail Canyon and the ancient tree passes the top of Fletcher Canyon and affords lots of dynamite views of the entire Kyle Canyon area.  Meet the group at Santa Fe Station for a 7:30 AM departure.  Coordinator - Steve Anderson.

 

Friday, August 17 - South Loop 1st Overlook.  If you think you have mastered hikes like Mary Jane Falls and Cathedral Rock and want to test your abilities a bit more, then this is the hike you should go on.  Although still rated as moderate, this out-and-back hike covers a total distance of just over 5 miles and gains 1,400 feet of elevation.  The ultimate destination is a rock ledge at 9,065 feet above sea level that provides an excellent view of Kyle Canyon and looks down at Cathedral Rock to the north.  Pace for this trek will be reasonably leisurely.  An early group will leave from the Siena Community Center at 7:45 AM and join the main group at Santa Fe Station for an 8:15 AM departure.  Coordinators - Tom Reiner & Susan Haase.

 

Saturday, August 18 - Mary Jane Falls.  The multi-tiered waterfall at the base of the north ridge between Charleston and Mummy is the target for this leisurely 3-mile out-and-back hike that gains 920 feet of elevation.  Rated moderate because the ascent is somewhat steep, requiring a number of rest stops, the snack break at the base of the falls is always a welcome relief.  Just beyond the falls is a shallow cave that provides a great view of upper Kyle Canyon, and the trail getting to it has been improved somewhat.  The group will be assembling at Santa Fe Station for the customary 8:30 AM Saturday departure.  Coordinator - Liz Kerby.

 

Monday, August 20 - Fletcher Canyon.  Another of our club favorites is this moderate 4-mile out-and-back hike in a significant side canyon leading off from Kyle Canyon near the Spring Mountain Visitor Center.  There is only about 600 feet of elevation gain with just a few short steep sections and the trail follows a seasonal creek into a confined section of canyon with cliff walls on either side of the route.  At one point shortly before the snack break at the base of Obstacle Rock the canyon is only about five feet wide.  Some scrambling is required but shouldn't pose a problem for the majority of our members.  The group will depart from Santa Fe Station at 7:45 AM.  Coordinator - Annie Hoskin.

 

Tuesday, August 21 - South Sister.  For this hike to the distinctive peak bordering Lee Canyon the group will be taking a different route than usual.  Starting from the top of Mack's Canyon Road, the route will follow a seasonal creek past some springs and on to the ridge we normally use for the climb to the top.  There will be a short detour to a Lee Canyon Overlook that is part of the peak but seldom visited.  Total distance for the strenuous out-and-back hike is 5 miles and the elevation gain is around 2,000 feet, so be prepared for some steep terrain.  Hiking sticks are especially useful on the final ascent and high clearance vehicles are advised.  The group will assemble at Santa Fe Station for a 7:30 AM departure.  Coordinator - Paul Eckhart.

 

Wednesday, August 22 - Upper Kyle Canyon Drainage.  Here is a slightly different version of the club hike on August 11.  It's still all downhill but instead of starting the hike at the Echo trail head the trek will begin at the Mary Jane Falls parking area and connect with the drainage near the Kyle Canyon Road bridge.  The route will continue through Old Town and the two campgrounds along the drainage, with the hike terminating near the bottom of the lower campground.  Total distance for the point-to-point hike will still be 4 miles with an easy to moderate rating but more of the route should be protected from direct sunlight.  The group will meet at Santa Fe Station for an 8:00 AM departure.  Coordinators - Jen Lindsay & Marg Biesiada.

 

Thursday, August 23 - Harris Peak.  This out-and-back hike is rather short at a little less than 5 miles, but you won't find a trail in the Spring Mountains that is quite as steep.  The strenuous route starts at the top of the community of Rainbow and follows Rainbow Canyon up to the saddle between Harris and Griffith Peaks where the Harris Springs Trail passes through en route to Griffith.  After only a few hundred feet on that trail, the route turns cross country as it climbs over scree fields and through stands of brush getting to the top.  The full elevation gain is around 2,300 feet.  Meet the other participants at Santa Fe Station for a 7:30 AM getaway.  Coordinator - Steve Anderson.

 

Friday, August 24 - Rainbow Loop.  Here is a Spring Mountain hike that only our club does with any regularity.  Starting on the other side of Kyle Canyon Road from the Fletcher Canyon trail head, the route follows Kyle Canyon Drainage toward Old Town before turning sharply uphill through a 2005 avalanche area and on to the South Loop Trail.  Just before the steps on that trail, it turns sharply left toward a well point for Rainbow, then follows a narrow path through a storm ravaged forest area to the top of Rainbow.  Passing a section of summer cabins and the community of Rainbow, hikers will then return to the start along the drainage.  Distance is just under 6 miles for this moderate loop hike and there is 1,400 feet of elevation gain.  The early group will meet at the Siena Community Center, leaving there at 7:45 AM to join the main group at Santa Fe Station.  The entire group will depart from there at 8:15 AM.  Coordinators - Tom Reiner & Susan Haase.

 

Saturday, August 25 - Cathedral Rock.  A repeat of the hike offered August 6, this moderate 3-mile out-and-back hike follows the trail from the parking area near the top of Kyle Canyon Road and goes around the back side of the rock outcropping near the base of the south ridge before climbing to the top, gaining 950 feet in the process.  Along the way, the trail passes through Mazie Canyon where participants can see the resurgence of an aspen grove that was buried by an avalanche back in 2005.  The views of Kyle Canyon from the top are sensational and definitely worth the effort.  The group will be meeting at Santa Fe Station for an 8:30 AM departure.  Coordinator - Helmut De Candia.

 

Monday, August 27 - Raintree via North Loop.  For the second time this month our club is sponsoring a hike to the 3,000 year old bristlecone pine, but this time the route will be along North Loop Trail from the east.  Elevation gain is around 1,500 feet for this 6-mile trek, with a significant part of that gain contained in the series of twelve switchbacks found just up the trail from the mid-level meadows.  The trail to the tree actually descends over 100 feet from the highest point on the trail, and you need to stock up on energy to make this climb on the return leg.  Participants should assemble at Santa Fe Station for a 7:30 AM departure.  Coordinator - Annie Hoskin.

 

Tuesday, August 28 - Devil's Thumb.  Be prepared for lots of intense scrambling if you take part in this club outing to the 200-foot rock outcropping on the north ridge between Mount Charleston and Lee Peak.  It is a very strenuous outing that will start at the base of the ski slopes in Lee Canyon and attack the ridge from the north side.  After hiking a ski run past the chair lift, the real effort starts as the talus covered terrain becomes very steep.  North Loop Trail sits at the apex of a scree slope and will take the group on to the base of the Thumb, which sits at 11,070 feet.  Total distance should be around 6 miles with vertical gain of 2,600 feet and a rating of very strenuous.  The group will meet at Santa Fe Station for a 7:00 AM departure.  Coordinator - Michael O'Connor

 

Wednesday, August 29 - Bristlecone Loop.  In case you missed the hike on August 13, here is another opportunity to experience the grandeur of the main hiking trail in Lee Canyon.  At a total distance of 6 miles and 900 feet of elevation gain, this moderate hike passes through the forested section at the top of Lee Canyon.  The snack break will probably occur at the trail junction with the south end of Bonanza Trail.  The group will be meeting at Santa Fe Station and will depart for the trail head at 8:00 AM.  Coordinator - Tom Reiner.

 

Thursday, August 30 - Stanley B/Fletcher Canyons.  Don't let the first mile of this hike fool you - there is plenty of bushwhacking involved trying to climb the narrow Stanley B Springs Canyon and descend in the upper portion of Fletcher Canyon above Obstacle Rock.  To eliminate carpooling, the hike will start near the Mount Charleston Visitor Center and follow the main drainage to the mouth of Stanley B Springs Canyon.  The terrain is very difficult to negotiate in the crossover between the two canyons.  Total distance is 6 miles with 1,800 feet of elevation gain and a strenuous rating.  Meet the group at Santa Fe Station for a 7:30 AM departure.  Coordinator - Steve Anderson.

 

Friday, August 31 - Wild Horse Canyon.  The day hike on the last day of August will be a moderate 3-mile loop that begins at the North Loop trail head off Highway 158 and climbs to the mid-level meadows below the fairly famous dozen switchbacks.  After a snack break in the meadows, the group will head off on the faint trail that crosses a side slope above Wild Horse Canyon.  After a short distance of a quarter mile, the trail turns sharply downhill and winds up in a forested glade with several springs and lots of columbine plants.  The Siena group will meet at their community center for a 7:45 AM departure with the main group leaving from Santa Fe at 8:15 AM.  Coordinator - Diane Dempsey.

 

Friday, August 31 - Bristlecone Trail & Picnic.  Our club will be finishing off the month of August on a joint outing with the Sun City Anthem Hiking Club.  It will begin with a potluck picnic at Sawmill Picnic Area just off Lee Canyon Road starting at 5:00 PM.  Please contact our coordinators at 592-8733 to determine what food items to bring.  After dinner, all hikers will head up Lee Canyon Road for the hike.  This will be a moderate 5-mile point-to-point hike between the upper and lower trail heads for the Bristlecone Trail, and will require spotting some vehicles at the end.  If timing and conditions are right, we will be treated to a rising full moon along the forest service road section of the trail.  For our club members going on the outing, we can meet at Santa Fe Station and depart for Sawmill at 4:00 PM.  Coordinators - Keith & Beth Lane.

 

 

I would also like to remind everyone about our Flagstaff outing coming up September 10 through 14.  There will be lots of hikes available with a range of difficulty levels, including an assault on Humphries Peak, the highest point in the state of Arizona, on Tuesday, September 11.  On Wednesday, September 12, the entire group will be heading to Sedona with two different hikes scheduled.  The full agenda will be published in the August club newsletter and also in the September hike list.  In the meantime, have a great time on the trails.