Mural Hill

HIKE TO MURAL HILL

Join the Muleteam this Saturday to hike from Old Bisbee to the edge of the high flat-top mountain best seem from the traffic circle. This trail of desert path and unused dirt road is a mostly uphill walk, thorny in places (shorts not recommended) with a short, steep scramble to the top. It's about 7 miles total with wonderful views, especially from the crest. Bring water and lunch. Back mid-afternoon. Dogs welcome. Meet Jan. 2 at 9 a.m. by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to start the hike. Free. For more details contact Alice at klarkea@gmail.com or 818-636-7389 (texting okay).

HIkers are asked to wear masks, with the exception of those who have difficulty with physical exertion while masked. The latter are asked to maintain a six-foot distance from other hikers.

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BACKTRACK - Bisbee Cross

Under perfect weather, a small group of seven, ranging from old-timers to three first-timers, had a wonderful day hiking to the Cross. When we got down, a couple of us went straight downtown while the rest of us took City Trail and High Road to High Desert Café for a relaxing lunch. It's always a pleasure to introduce new people to the great views and history of Old Bisbee. - Doug

More photos at muleteam.shutterfly.com

CALENDAR

Jan 9 - Wood Canyon to Ridge Trail with Sue

Jan 16 - Mt Ballard with Sandy

Jan 23 - ?

......

Keep on trekking,

Elizabeth

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Bisbee Cross

HIKE TO THE BISBEE CROSS

Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a short hike to the cross above Old Bisbee. This is a local hike and mostly easy (except the short ascent to the Cross) with the very best views of Bisbee. Meet Dec. 26 at 9 a.m. by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to begin the hike. Bring water, we'll be back by midday for lunch. Free. For more information contact Doug at 520-432-0307 or reiniger@wyoming.com.

Hikers are asked to wear masks, with the exception of those who have difficulty with physical exertion while masked. The latter are asked to be sure to maintain a six-foot distance from other hikers.

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BACKTRACK - Perimeter

Fourteen+ hikers and 4 hiker dogs trekked the Perimeter Trail (a/k/a The Jazzy Memorial Hike) on a beautiful day – no wind and lots of blue sky. There were many levels of pace so we naturally kept our distance from each other. It was rockier and longer than some of us remembered but a good seven mile work-out. Everyone wore a mask which protected all of us. - Anne

SIDETRACK - Masks while hiking

A couple of comments from Muleteamers, including an alternative proposal, have been published to my previous post. I have also received comments by email as well as on the trail this past Saturday. Thank you to all who have offered their opinions. As the majority of those I have heard from have been in support of my suggestions, I am proceeding on that basis. For more details and discussion see the previous post, where the opportunity to comment remains open. - Elizabeth

CALENDAR - need to schedule hikes after January 2 . . .

Jan 2 - Mural Hill with Alice

Jan 9 - ?

Jan 16 - ?

......

Keep on trekking,

Elizabeth

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Hiking in the Time of Coronavirus

As it is time to add some hikes to our calendar, I would like to offer some thoughts.

The pandemic has required us Muleteamers to adapt in various ways. Because many of us are not comfortable carpooling with people outside our households, hikes with long drives (for example 90 minutes or so to the Chiricahuas) are not as attractive as they once were. In addition, the fact that we arrive at a destination with a greater number of cars also tends to eliminate trailheads with limited parking.

For those reasons it may turn out to be necessary to repeat hikes this season more than we have in previous years.

I have also become increasingly aware that some Muleteamers are not comfortable on hikes with others who are not masked. From the beginning of the season, the only mask requirement that I personally have referenced has been the City of Bisbee policy, which applies at the Courthouse but not out on many of our trails. My own reasons for not communicating a need for masks on the trail included (1) I am aware that certain individuals may have difficulty with physical exertion while masked, and (2) since I am not a policy-maker for Muleteam, I hesitated to go beyond applicable government requirements.

I am however the one with my fingers on the keyboard. During the pandemic, approaches to safety have in many ways evolved. Last spring we were hiking distanced but not masked. This season we have had hikes where everyone is masked and others with a substantial number of unmasked hikers. Meanwhile, even since the beginning of our season in October, public health guidance has become clearer. Last month the director of the Arizona Department of Health Services said "Based on recently released data, we now know masks provide more protection than previously thought. . . . I encourage everyone to wear a mask whenever they are around people they don't live with." For that reason the State's guidance is always to wear a mask when out in public. The CDC says that those who are unable to wear a mask because of difficulty breathing during high intensity activities should be sure to keep at least 6 feet away from others.

In light of all this, it seems to me reasonable that Muleteam recommend that all those who hike with us wear masks on the trail, with an exception for those who have difficulty with physical exertion while masked. Those in the latter category should be asked to be scrupulous about staying six feet away from hikers outside their households.

I welcome comments here on the blog, or by email to ebernstein2001@yahoo.com.

In the meantime, we do need more hikes scheduled. I am grateful to all of those who have already led hikes this season. Our hikes may have to be more local than in the past, we may repeat hikes during the season, but it is still enormously valuable to get outside!

Keep on trekking,

Elizabeth

Perimeter

WALK THE PERIMETER TRAIL

Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike along the winding foothills of the Huachuca Mountains between Carr and Miller Canyons. This is a relatively easy, level trail with vista views of the San Pedro Valley, but it will be about 7 miles roundtrip. Bring water and lunch. Dogs welcome. Back mid-afternoon.

Meet Dec. 19 at 9 a.m. by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain (compliance with City mask policy required), or alternatively at 9:30 at the first parking lot on the left as you drive west on Carr Canyon Road from Highway 92. Free, but we will not be carpooling from the courthouse at this time. For more details contact Anne at 520-432-0307 or areiniger@wyoming.com.

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BACKTRACK - San Pedro River

On a clear day 13 hikers met to hike up Joe's Canyon from the Coronado National Memorial Visitor Center. Seven went to the top and had a very windy lunch, while others stopped along the way. From the top of the ridge at the end of Joe's Canyon we could see construction taking place on a road to the border from the west. I've posted a picture which shows the construction activity on Shutterfly - if you zoom you can see the cuts they are making in the mountainside. Another picture of the group at the edge of the Montezuma Pass parking lot is posted on Shutterfly. We were waving at Guillermo and José in that photo. - Molly

More photos at muleteam.shutterfly.com

CALENDAR - need to schedule hikes after January 2 . . .

Dec 26 - Bisbee Cross with Doug

Jan 2 - Mural Hill with Alice

Jan 9 - ?

Jan 16 - ?

......

Keep on trekking,

Elizabeth

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Joe's Canyon

HIKE JOE'S CANYON TRAIL

Join the Muleteam this Saturday to hike from the Coronado Visitor Center through a very scenic valley in the Huachuca Mountains to Coronado Peak for a view of Mexico. This is a continuous uphill trail returning the same way for a total of about 6.5 miles. Bring water and lunch but no dogs. Back mid-afternoon.

Meet Dec. 12 at 9 a.m. by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain (compliance with City mask policy required), or alternatively at the Visitor Center at Coronado National Memorial at 9:45. Free, but we will not be carpooling from the courthouse at this time. For more details contact Molly at 208-720-7518.

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BACKTRACK - San Pedro River

Fourteen hikers and three dogs enjoyed an easy, pleasurable hike at the San Pedro Riparian area. The group headed south from the San Pedro House along a dirt road through the fields to a wash that led towards the River. After a detour around two ponds covered with thin ice, and not much birdlife, the hikers bushwhacked through the tall grass to a well-traveled path that meandered north along the river to a picnic spot for lunch. - Carol

More photos at muleteam.shutterfly.com

CALENDAR

Dec 19 - Perimeter Trail with Anne

Dec 26 - Bisbee Cross with Doug

Jan 2 - Mural Hill with Alice

Jan 9 - ?

......

Keep on trekking,

Elizabeth

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San Pedro

HIKE ALONG THE SAN PEDRO RIVER

Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a moderate, flat hike through the fields, washes and footpaths along the San Pedro River. Bring water, lunch, and (optional) binoculars. Meet Dec. 5 at 9 a.m. by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain (compliance with City mask policy required), or alternatively at San Pedro House off Hwy 90 at 9:30. Free, but we will not be carpooling from the courthouse at this time. For more details contact Carol at chandlercarolpsk@gmail.com or 413-667-8760.

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BACKTRACK - Wildcat Contour

A beautiful Arizona blue-sky day enticed 3 dogs and 16 hikers to Juniper Flats for a walk along the slopes of upper Wildcat Canyon. The narrow route, which kept us in single file, alternated between sun and shadow, with grand views of the Sulphur Springs Valley. We saw signs of hunters but did not meet any on the hike (though I was told that mountain lion hunters have been seen here). After a snack and socially-distanced group photo at the 2.5 mile mark, we returned the way we came, seeing some hunters spotting game as we drove back to Bisbee. Always happy to share our Mule Mountain trails. - Lindsay

More photos at muleteam.shutterfly.com

CALENDAR

Dec 12 - Joe's Canyon with Molly

Dec 19 - Perimeter Trail with Anne

Dec 26 - Bisbee Cross with Doug

Jan 2 - Mural Hill with Alice

Jan 9 - ?

......

Keep on trekking,

Elizabeth

________________________

Waving hello to Elizabeth!

Wildcat Contour

TRAVERSE UPPER WILDCAT CANYON

Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a scenic hike in the Mule Mountains from Juniper Flats. The trail contours along the side of upper Wildcat Canyon, gaining less than 600 ft of elevation in about 5 miles round trip. Fantastic views at every turn: this route really delivers. Bring water, sun protection, and a snack. Back early afternoon.

Meet Nov. 28 at 9 a.m. by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain (compliance with City mask policy required). Free, but at this time we will not be carpooling to the parking location on Juniper Flats. For more details contact Lindsay at 954-770-2221.

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BACKTRACK - Bisbee Ridge to Juniper Flats

Nine hikers (and no dogs) met near the Iron Man for a walk up to Juniper Flats. The group enjoyed views that got better and better as we ascended from Clawson to High Road, from the City Trail to the Ridge Trail. Our numbers grew to 11 for a short while, and we split up a few times, as some chose the "high road" and some the "low road" around the humps on the Ridge Trail, but the original 9 enjoyed a rest at the pagoda with a spectacular view back toward Bisbee. We walked down Juniper Flats Road onto West Blvd., and back to our cars at the courthouse via Tombstone Canyon. The route was a hair more than 6 miles, with more than 1,200' of elevation. - Susan

More photos at muleteam.shutterfly.com

CALENDAR

Dec 5 - San Pedro River with Carol

Dec 12 - Joe's Canyon with Molly

Dec 19 - Perimeter Trail with Anne

Dec 26 - Bisbee Cross with Doug

Jan 2 - Mural Hill with Alice

......

Keep on trekking,

Elizabeth

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Waving to John W.

Ridge Trail to Juniper Flats

HIKE BISBEE RIDGE TO JUNIPER FLATS

Join the Muleteam this Saturday for THE BEST views of Old Bisbee! This socially distanced hike is 6.33 miles round trip. The hike starts up Clawson Ave. to High Road and then on to the City Trail and Ridge Trail. The most challenging section is climbing up to the Ridge Trail, where some light rock scrambling is required. You will be rewarded with the views, which get better and better as you ascend! We will hike up and down the ridges overlooking town and lower Wildcat Canyon all the way to Juniper Flats. We'll eat lunch at the pagoda and enjoy the view. The return is ALL downhill, walking on Juniper Flats Rd. to West Blvd. and back down to Tombstone Canyon. Bring water, lunch, walking poles optional, dogs welcome. Back early afternoon.

Meet Nov. 21 at 9 a.m. by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain (compliance with City mask policy required). Free. For more details contact Susan Mayes at 610-220-5287.

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BACKTRACK - McEntee Drop with added warm-up hike –

"The backwards hike" (down then up at the end):

Eighteen hikers in toto hiked with me down and back up the canyon which leads to the canyon which leads to the cave house followed by the scheduled hike to McEntee Drop. Most were somewhat impressed by the scenic lunch location overlooking the Bisbee Grand Canyon. Following lunch we hiked back up to the cars parked at the road up to the second towers. The hike was 6 miles and about 1300 feet vertical and 4 3/4 hours duration. It looks like this:

- Steve

More photos at muleteam.shutterfly.com

CALENDAR

Nov 28 - Wildcat Contour with Lindsay

Dec 5 - San Pedro River with Carol

Dec 12 - Joe's Canyon with Molly

Dec 19 - Perimeter Trail with Anne

Dec 26 - Bisbee Cross with Doug

Jan 2 - Mural Hill with Alice

......

Keep on trekking,

Elizabeth

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McEntee Drop

HIKE JUNIPER FLATS TO "McENTEE DROP"

Join the Muleteam this Saturday to explore one of the largest canyons in the Mule Mountains. We will park on Juniper Flats and begin the hike on the flats hiking down the road for about a mile before heading north down a path to the wash which drains into the canyon. We will then proceed west and northwest down the canyon before stopping for lunch at a pretty sheltered spot in a wash that drops precipitously into the big canyon. Average difficulty. About 4-5 miles total with about 1,000 feet elevation gain. Bring water and lunch. Back early- to mid-afternoon. Dogs okay. Hiking sticks are always a plus in the Mule Mountains.

Meet Nov. 14 at 9 a.m. by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain (compliance with City mask policy required). Free, but at this time we will not be carpooling to the parking location on Juniper Flats. For more details contact Steve at 520-432-7770 or sss@theriver.com.

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BACKTRACK - Brown Canyon

Brown Canyon was a strangely satisfying hike! A wee group of 10 assembled at the Ranch House, having just heard the election announcement over our radios and phones. Needless to say, much animated conversation ensued! It was good to have new hikers who have joined us this season, including four-footed Rosie. The air was pleasantly warm with a cool whirly wind and ominous clouds, all creating an unusual mood of anticipation. The teacher in me came out and I had a wonderful time bossing everyone around all day (let me know if you turn back! Let's wait here! Water break! OK, let's go!) As always, that beautiful view site served as the perfect lunch spot for some of us, while three others continued up to the saddle. I sure hope they got down all right. Thanks for hiking with me (à la Larry) - Laura

More Brown Canyon photos at muleteam.shutterfly.com

CALENDAR

Nov 21 - Ridge Trail to Juniper Flats with Susan

Nov 28 - Upper Wildcat Canyon with Lindsay

Dec 5 - ?

Dec 12 - Joe's Canyon with Molly

Dec 19 - Perimeter Trail with Anne

Dec 26 - Bisbee Cross with Doug

Jan 2 - Mural Hill with Alice

......

Keep on trekking,

Elizabeth

________________________________

Brown Canyon

HIKE THE BROWN CANYON TRAIL

Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike through a unique and scenic wooded canyon in the Huachuca Mountains. This trail has some long uphill sections and part follows a running creek making a roundtrip of about 6 miles. Bring water and lunch, back mid-afternoon. Dogs welcome with leash. Meet November 7 at 9 a.m. by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain (compliance with City mask policy required), but no carpooling from the courthouse at this time. Alternatively meet at Brown Canyon Ranch at 9:45 a.m. The Forest Service is now charging an $8 per car fee for parking at Brown Canyon Ranch. Fee waived if you display a Coronado National Forest or Interagency pass (America the Beautiful, Golden Age, etc.); else deposit envelope with cash or check. For more details contact Laura at 206-715-6589 or mssmithlg@aol.com.

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BACKTRACK - Mule Ridge Loop

The Muleteam's 2020-2021 season is off to a great start. Last week's inaugural hike (Laura's Loop) was a good, not-too-difficult intro. Today's Mule Mountain Ridge Trail hike took it up a notch, but was still a good easy start for the season. We had 15 Mules, which happily included a couple of newbies, on a picture-perfect day with unsurpassed views of the mountains and downtown, plus glimpses of Warren and Mexico. We all respected masks and distancing, and returned home to civilization (if that's what you call Bisbee) in time for a late lunch. - Doug

CALENDAR

Nov 14 - McEntee Drop/Grand Canyon of the Mules with Steve

Nov 21 - Ridge Trail to Juniper Flats with Susan

Nov 28 - ?

Dec 5 - ?

......

Keep on trekking,

Elizabeth

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Mule Ridge Loop

HIKE THE MULE RIDGE LOOP

Join the Muleteam this Saturday to hike the Mule Mountain Ridge for the best views of Bisbee and the hills beyond. We start at the Courthouse and walk up Tombstone Canyon Road to Locklin Avenue. At the end of Locklin is a trail which will take us to the Ridge Trail, for a walk along the top of the Mule Mountains, a rest/snack stop, and a descent into Zacatecas Canyon, Brewery and downtown. There will be some short steep uphill areas with a total hike of about 5 miles. Bring water and a snack. Dogs welcome. Hike starts with a meetup October 31 at 9 a.m. by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain, compliance with City mask policy required. Free. For more details contact Doug at 520-432-0307 or reiniger@wyoming.com.

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BACKTRACK - Laura's Loop

Our first hike of the year was a great success. We had 23 people, several first timers and a few of the old guard, for this almost-four-mile hike. We all masked-up and kept a reasonable distance. The weather was perfect - not too hot with a light breeze. As always, the views were spectacular. When we got to the end of Zacatecas Canyon, a little more than half the group chose to continue on Brewery and into town. The rest of us took the City Trail along the hillside to High Road and down to the Courthouse. Unfortunately, there were no open tables at High Desert Café for lunch, so we said our good-byes and all agreed this was a wonderful way to start the 2020-2021 Muleteam season. - Doug & Anne

CALENDAR

Nov 7 - Brown Canyon with Laura

Nov 14 - McEntee Drop/Grand Canyon of the Mules with Steve

Nov 21 - Ridge Trail to Juniper Flats with Susan

Nov 28 - ?

Dec 5 - ?

.....

Keep on trekking,

Elizabeth

____________________

Laura's Loop

HIKE FROM OLD BISBEE TO THE HILLS ABOVE ZACATECAS

Join the Muleteam this Saturday for the first hike of our 21st season: a socially-distanced hike from Old Bisbee to the hillsides above Zacatecas Canyon. Starting at the courthouse we'll walk city streets to the end of OK St. From there we'll follow a trail northwards along the sides of the hills, with views up to the Ridge and down to Zacatecas. The return route will be via Zacatecas Canyon and Brewery Gulch. About 4 miles total. Bring water and a snack, back by lunchtime. Dogs welcome. Meet October 24 at 9AM by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to start the hike. Free. Optional lunch at High Desert Market. For more information contact Anne at 520-432-0307 or areiniger@wyoming.com.

Photos including 20th Anniversary book at muleteam.shutterfly.com

CALENDAR

Thanks, hike leaders, for stepping up:

Oct 31 - Mule Ridge with Doug

Nov 7 - Brown Canyon with Laura

Nov 14 - McEntee Drop/Grand Canyon of the Mules with Steve

Nov 21 - Ridge Trail to Juniper Flats with Susan

Nov 28 - ?

Keep on trekking,

Elizabeth

21st Season

As I step into the roles of hike scheduler and blog manager, I am happy to say that one thing hasn't changed - this season we will once again be hiking with Larry. We all owe him an enormous debt of gratitude for everything he has done to keep us going strong over so many years, not the least of which was giving us our name!

Larry

Something that hasn't changed as much as we hoped - we begin this season as we ended the last, with the pandemic still ongoing. For that reason carpooling is still discontinued, the City of Bisbee's mask ordinance will apply to our gatherings at the Courthouse fountain, and we will stay distanced as we hike. Minor inconveniences, really, so long as we can get outside together!

Our first hike this season is scheduled for October 24, with details to follow soon. Please share the information below with others who may be interested.

Keep on trekking,

Elizabeth
ebernstein2001@yahoo.com

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THE GROUP

Hiking in the area around Bisbee AZ since 2000, the Muleteam is a bunch of unique individuals that is always changing, which keeps things kinda interesting. It's not a club and there are no dues, meetings, or members. Anyone is invited to join us, but each hiker is responsible for their own safety and comfort.

THE HIKES

The Muleteam hikes through the cooler months from the end of October to early May, and various hike leaders lead a wide range of hikes. Some trails are easy and flat, some are hard, and 5-7 miles roundtrip is average. There are about 30 regular hikes on our list - in the Mule Mountains, the Dragoons, the Chiricahuas, along the San Pedro River . . . and new ones are introduced every year. Hikes are led by our volunteers, and we always welcome new ones.

MEETING DETAILS

Upcoming hikes are announced weekly in the Bisbee Observer newspaper and here at our blog. We meet 9 AM (or maybe 8 AM) every Saturday in front of the Old Bisbee courthouse, off Tombstone Canyon. Meet near the fountain, but carpooling has been discontinued for now. Meeting at the trailhead can be arranged with the hike leader.

The Muleteam hike emails are no longer sent out from the old list. However you can subscribe here at the blog to have new posts sent to your email address.

PHOTOS

The Muleteam photo webpage - www.muleteam.shutterfly.com - contains hike photos since 2000. You can download your favorites, order photos online or add your own hike photos to the page by joining the Shutterfly site. If available, a previous-hike photo is added to the next-hike post.

Larry has also created a 20th Anniversary Photo Book - more info here.

Next 20 Years

THANKS FOR HIKING WITH ME

After completing the the Muleteam 20th Anniversary photo book I felt a real appreciation for those years, the adventures and the people, many of whom have become good friends. Having been the hiking 'administrator' most of that time I also felt a weariness to continue that role. Therefore, I considered the possibilities and asked Elizabeth Bernstein if she would like to become my successor, and to my surprise she said 'yes'. Not democratic, but simple. I'm confident she will do a good job scheduling the hikes and herding you cats. I will help her get started, and I will continue hiking. So here's to the next 20 years.

The first hike of the 21st season will be Oct 24, and more details on that later from Elizabeth.

I welcome any comments at sunstudio@cableone.net.
Larry

Elizabeth

Muleteam 2000-2020

Photo Book

Not a great year so far, but 2020 is also the 20th anniversary of the Muleteam which I think has been a good thing. So to celebrate that and to compensate for the isolation we all feel, I've compiled a photo book of Muleteam hiking history: 2000-2020. The book is 20 pages, so each year has a page of 3 photos. It was sometimes easy choosing the photos and sometimes difficult, so I apologize if I left someone out.

View the book on shutterfly with the link below. Best detail on a large screen (not phone), click 'Full screen' and click the 'down pointer' to hide the line of pages on the bottom. You can also order a printed book (I make no commission on sales).

Muleteam 20th Anniversary Photo Book

Thanks for hiking with me for 20 years. -Larry

Bonus Video

by Paula Schumacher from 2016:

"Ira, Guy and Doug discussing how to pronounce Larry"

Wall Petition

Protect the San Pedro, the last free-flowing river in the Southwest, from the border wall

Please sign and share: http://chng.it/jtBKYDy56N

Barbara Request

Muleteam,

Dan Oldfield died June 14th. He was attacked by bees. I am beyond heartbroken. This social distancing has been hard for me. I met Dan before I started hiking with the Muleteam. We bonded immediately over similar histories and marital issues. He was the first person I ever fell in love with, believe it or not. I loved him more than anything.

We both felt so blessed and were so happy. He would tell me he has never been happier. I also felt the same way toward him. We always felt that it was meant to be. He bought me a ring last December. Even though I have my obligation to my parents, he was ok with that, when we got married I would still be with my parents most of the time.

It has been hard to mourn his death because I can't go anywhere to be among friends. I do have his dog Scruffy. Life so far has not been good at all to me. One tragedy after another. This is the hardest one yet. My request is if anyone just wants to call and talk to me about anything at all I would love that. I feel so isolated and alone. I find if I write it helps, and just talking to someone helps.

Call or text 978-696-7568 - or even meet for a socially distanced water or beer or whatever.

Barbara Wolf

Barbara & JC

Two Items

STAND FOR JUSTICE FOR ALL

Join our neighbors and friends

Tuesday, June 16

6:00 P.M.

Grassy Park

Bring a sign or just yourself

BLACK LIVES MATTER

____________________

Summer hiking?

I hiked with all of you one time this past year.

I'm interested in hiking with one or two people.

Anyone interested in an early morning or late evening hike?

Thank you,

Rita Verri

845-304-0412

End of Season

BATHTUB SPRING CANCELLED
Due to the closure of Carr Canyon Road Molly has cancelled her hike to the bathtub spring this Saturday. So that's it for the Muleteam's 20th hiking season. It was a good one.

It's not unusual for some to continue to hike through the summer months making their own arrangements. If there are any special events you will receive an email if you are subscribed to the blog.

Thanks to Lawence Kurkey I have summer hiking schedules for the Saturday and Tuesday SV groups. If you would like one or both let me know at sunstudio@cableone.net.

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BACKTRACK - Warren Area

We started early to account for rising temperatures, and stayed local to account for the fact that thirteen socially-distanced hikers (and one four-footed friend) require ten cars.
It was a perfect time of year to take in the under-appreciated Galena Park, where we walked among blooming ocotillos and wildflowers. As advertised the rest of the walk – through Warren to Gold Gulch – had the advantage of being flat but the disadvantage of providing little shelter from the sun. It was also a bit longer than predicted – over six miles out and back – so when we reached the old racetrack no one needed to do laps for extra exercise. We didn’t linger out there given the lack of shade, but some of us rested a bit on the return trip under a tree near the ballpark. We were back around noon.
The leader learned a couple of lessons: first to try to give everyone a better general idea of the planned course at the start and second to pay better attention to keeping the group together. Fortunately she learned these lessons not out in the woods, but in Warren, where cross-streets enabled hikers on parallel paths to reunite.
As always, it was the people who made the day! -Elizabeth

All other photos are at muleteam.shutterfly.com.

SIDETRACKS
Free hiking stick to anyone who wants it. Sierra Mountain Gear. Found in beauty shop parking lot on May 2 hike. Email johnwasser@hotmail.com.

Hi to all from the 2 of us. We are fine. Living in Newburyport, MA about 30 min north of our 2 1/2 yr old granddaughter which is why we left Bisbee. How are you and how is the town coping? -Ira
1 Papanti Court, Newburyport, MA 01950 (978) 992-7543

HIKE LEADERS and the number of hikes they led this season...
Carol Chandler - 2
Laura Smith - 1
Brad Edwards - 4
John Broz - 4
Anne Reiniger - 1
Charlie Winters - 1
Doug Reiniger - 2
Sandy Heusman - 1
Larry Milam - 1
John Wasser - 3
Molly Smith - 1
Richard Robinson - 1
Alice Klarke - 1
Steve Sklarow - 1
Ken Heusman - 1
Barry (from HHC) - 1
Susan Mayes - 1
Elizabeth Bernstein - 1

CALENDAR

Hopefully Muleteam hikes will begin again in 'normal' mode at the end of October.

Have a good summer.

Thanks for hiking with me,

Larry

Warren Area

HIKE FROM GALENA TO GOLD GULCH RACETRACK
Join the Muleteam this Saturday at the earlier time of 8 AM for a socially-distanced, off-pavement route through Warren. We begin by walking the native-vegetation trail through the park adjoining the Galena neighborhood. We then take a footpath into Warren, connecting to the old railroad trackbed which we will follow south. Skirting the ballpark, we will continue on to Gold Gulch Road, where we will check out an old motor racetrack before heading back the way we came. Meet May 2 at 8 AM by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain. Free, but there will be no carpooling from the courthouse.

The route is mostly flat and easy, around 5 ½ miles, but there is little shade. Bring water and your mid-morning lunch or snack. We should be back not long after noon. Dogs ok with leash. For more information contact Elizabeth Bernstein, ebernstein2001@yahoo.com, 520-432-5902.

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BACKTRACK - Zacatecas & Beyond

The plan D / toll road hike.
14 friends & 2 pups hiked up the Gulch and Zacatecas to the toll road to points unknown.
What we learned….. If you neglect to pay the toll, they neglect to maintain the road.
What we saw…. Hills Canyons Purple verbena all over the burn area Lotta rocks
A passable trail probably made by cows Some water still in the creek
A cement stock tank irresistible to Big Dog Cow pies Traces of the road
Lunch spot…. Landscaping by flash flood, but big oaks provided welcoming shade – so perfect.
Politically correct? Yeah we socially distanced and observed the campfire ban.
All good. -John

I took the group photo, and all other photos are at muleteam.shutterfly.com.

CALENDAR

May 9 - Carr Canyon to Bathtub Spring in the Huachucas with Molly

Thanks for hiking with me,

Larry

Beyond Zacatecas

HIKE ZACATECAS AND BEYOND
The logistics of a group camp got too complicated this year. Rucker, Portal, Rustler, all closed. No restrooms. No carpooling. Group meals could be a problem. Let’s just keep Rustler and Chiricahua Peak in mind for a later date.

So how about we meet at the fountain 9am for a stroll up the gulch and Zacatecas. Then we will take the old toll road to the next canyon over and do a little exploring. Might be interesting or not, but it will be some exercise. -John

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BACKTRACK - Brown-Ramsey

Five hikers and one dog started from the courthouse at about 8:10 AM and headed to the trailhead on Ramsey Canyon Road in social distancing separate vehicles. The lot at the trailhead was open and was practically filled with vehicles when we got there to barely find room still left for us to park. One more hiker jointed the party, and we started off on the well trod foot and bike trail around the gate locked against vehicle entry. After a short hike on the Brown Ranch Road, we left it at the point where an old unmaintained road branched off to the left. A number of other tracks spun off at intervals. but we kept on the one that eventually turned into an official signed hiking trail just beyond where a grave still lay under its partially legible engraved natural stone. After joining the Brown Canyon trail from the ranch house, the rest of the socially distanced hike was uneventful except for the respectable flow in the creek, which was still less than Miller or Ramsey Creeks. Though the season's heavier moisture was noticeable in the creek flow, the concrete trough spring was unaffected at its usual level of algae-filled water. After ascending to the old decrepit fence, four of us had lunch at that first summit-- spacious enough to observe more social distancing-- while two turned back early to keep their aging dog from too much wear and tear.
We then returned back down to the old trough spring where we added a little variety by detouring back to Ramsey Canyon along the old road so popular with mountain bikers and of memory as the way that Lynn was brought out after breaking her arm. The last stretch along the Ramsey Canyon Road pavement brought us back to our vehicles parked in the open lot we started from. Reports from some of the large number of other hikers met along the way brought news that hikers were being kept from passing through the Ramsey Preserve only sporadically and not at all on the day of our hike, when two local residents reported hiking a loop similar to ours-- through the Preserve in the morning, taking the high connector trail over to Brown Canyon, and returning by the same old road that we took from the trough spring back to Ramsey below the Preserve. -Brad

Molly took the group photo, and Elizabeth's 360 photo is at 360BrownCanyon.
All other photos are at muleteam.shutterfly.com.

CALENDAR

May 2 - Carr Canyon to Bathtub Spring in the Huachucas with Molly
May 9 - Off-pavement hike in Warren area with Elizabeth

Thanks for hiking with me,

Larry

8am Brown-Ramsey

Time Change...
The meeting time is now 8am for the Brown-Ramsey hike.

HIKE BROWN-RAMSEY
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a "Two For One Hike" in the canyons & foothills of the Huachuca Mountains. The trail is about 6.5 miles total (using a shuttle) with grasslands, forest, steep hillsides and two canyon creeks. Bring water and lunch, but no dogs into Ramsey. Back mid-afternoon. Meet April 18 at 8am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain. Free, but no carpooling for now from courthouse. Special social distancing shuttle procedure is an alternative being considered. Dogs are ok if they go to the lunch spot and return the same way. For more details contact Brad at bradward.j3@juno.com or call 432-2476.

Social Distance Shuttling
Several alternatives for return to trailhead are being considered. Background below is being provided to facilitate a short discussion at courthouse meeting site. -Brad

My idea is to take, just before beginning the hike, two vehicles to the Ramsey preserve entrance where I found a foolproof parking space for one vehicle despite the Preserve front gate being locked. Each vehicle will have only one occupant, a driver, so no problem there, so far. Then one vehicle will carry those TWO occupants back to the trailhead parking lot on RC Road. During the one minute trip back down the road, the passenger will hold his or her head out the window!!, thereby breathing in an outside space thoroughly separate from the interior air being breathed by the driver.

At the end of the hike the vehicle left parked will carry a driver and TWO passengers. The driver's window will be closed, so as not to contaminate outside air being breathed by a second passenger just behind the driver, this passenger's head being through an open window in order to breathe outside air. The first passenger will do the same as was done on the drive before the hike. After reaching the trailhead parking lot, the driver will then drop off the two passengers, and all three will become drivers of vehicles to pick up two more separately-breathing passengers per vehicle at the Preserve, taking them back to the trailhead parking. This will continue until all hikers have been returned to the trailhead, in order to leave in their own cars, one per car. In more normal times, all this may sound complicated and silly, but no more so than protection now being recommended for enclosed indoor spaces.

If this idea is rejected, at least there will be a Plan B, involving hiking close to an extra two miles, first back over to the concrete horse spring in Brown Canyon, using the eroded road involved in Lynn's rescue, and then retracing our steps coming in. This will be a hiking experience on a trail hardly distinguishable from those on the rest of the hike, where no motor vehicles will be rushing past us as they would if we hiked an extra mile, in a Plan C, beside the Ramsey Canyon Road pavement back to the Brown Canyon Trail parking lot.

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8am Brown-Ramsey

BACKTRACK - Juniper Flats

Eleven hikers and Sheila began the hike up to the top of the mountains overlooking Bisbee. The day was cool, partly cloudy and a bit breezy but we all returned downtown dry. Three of us plus Sheila returned early via the Locklin trail while the rest of us continued on the ridge trail to Juniper Flats. We lunched near the beautiful pagoda that catches rainwater, filling up a cistern. We all chose a spot on the granite rocks overlooking Bisbee. The eight of us returned down Juniper Flats Road to West Blvd. at our own paces, enjoying the blooming spring flowers of the wisteria and Tombstone roses that line Tombstone Canyon Road. -Susan

More photos are at muleteam.shutterfly.com.

CALENDAR

Apr 25 - Rustler camping-hike in the Chiricahuas with John Wasser
May 2 - Carr Canyon to Bathtub Spring in the Huachucas with Molly

Thanks for hiking with me,

Larry

Juniper Flats

HIKE BISBEE RIDGE TO JUNIPER FLATS
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for THE BEST views of Old Bisbee! This social distanced hike is 6.33 miles round trip. Climb to the Ridge Trail, over to the pagoda for lunch and back by way of West Blvd. Bring water, lunch, walking poles optional, dogs welcome. Back early afternoon. Meet April 11 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to start the hike. Call Susan Mayes at 610-220-5287 for more details.

The hike starts up Clawson to High Road and then on to the City Trail and Ridge Trail. The most challenging section is climbing up to the Ridge Trail where some light rock scrambling is required. You will be rewarded with the views, which just get better and better as you ascend! We will hike up and down the ridges overlooking town and Zacatecas Canyon all the way to Juniper Flats and eat lunch at the pagoda. The return is ALL downhill, walking on Juniper Flats Rd. to West Blvd. back down to Tombstone Canyon. Lindsay Koehler is co-leading the hike and her phone is 954-770-2221.

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BACKTRACK - Miller Canyon

Nine hikers and two dogs, Sox and Sheila, got another look at the stream in lower Miller Canyon that we saw on the Clark Springs hike. It was still full of water and gleaming in the sunshine. We had the Creek mostly to ourselves on the way up the hill. After reaching the 2nd parking lot, we skirted the orchard and had lunch in the woods along the creek about 1/4 mile past the turnoff for the trail to Hunter Canyon. A sign warned that killer bees were operating in Hunter Canyon now.

The Hunter Canyon sign always reminds me of our dear departed friend, Bad Jack, who led a hike overlooking Hunter Canyon for many years. Jack was fond of telling a story about being surprised to hear fellow hikers telling him to get back on the trail and relieved to find that the object of correction was actually Doug and Anne’s dog, Jack. -John B.

I took the group photo at a ruin by the trail. All other photos are at muleteam.shutterfly.com.

SIDETRACK - Schedule
Thanks for the feedback about whether we should continue hiking. The schedule will remain the same, but it may change quickly. It seems to be complicated to comment on the blog, so if you have further comments reply to my email: sunstudio@cableone.net.

CALENDAR

Apr 18 - Brown-Ramsey Canyons in the Huachucas with Brad
Apr 25 - Rustler camping-hike in the Chiricahuas with John Wasser
May 2 - Carr Canyon to Bathtub Spring in the Huachucas with Molly
May 9 - Eclectic art walk along Old Bisbee stairs with Larry

Thanks for hiking with me,

Larry

Continue Hikes?

MULETEAM & COVID-19
I received the two messages below yesterday.
I would appreciate your comments on the blog page for others to see - muleteam.blogspot.com

We are continuing to hike for now, and this Saturday is Miller Canyon. See previous blog post for details. -Larry

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From John Broz:
Hiking is explicitly permitted under Governor’s new restrictions.

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From Lizann Michaud:
On Mar 30, 2020, at 7:36 AM, Lizann Michaud <lizann314@gmail.com> wrote:

Dear Larry and Muleteam,
I'm writing this because I care. Brad's description of the Joe's Canyon Trail hike, and his two cents about COVID-19, are both highly alarming.

Getting COVID-19 does not give anyone immunity for more than a few days max. And hiking, even six feet apart, means that hikers are breathing in other hikers' exhalations. As soon as a person exhales, the one behind is stepping up into it.

Respiratory droplets and aerosolized carriers of COVID-19 are in exhalations, as well as, coughs and sneezes. People are contagious up to 14 days before symptoms arise. And this virus is extremely contagious.

I implore you to stop official Muleteam hikes, as by keeping hikes under the Muleteam banner gives a sense of false safety. Please take this step to protect our whole community.

Sincerely, caringly,
Lizann

My reply:

Lizann,
Thanks for your thoughtful email, and I share your concern. However, the Muleteam is not 'my' hiking group - I schedule the hikes, but I don't feel I have the authority to stop them.

The hike leaders keep the group going, so I listen to what they want to do. Many have stopped hiking this season, but some have wanted to continue. We have banned carpooling and everyone is very aware of avoiding personal contact, but getting outside seems especially appealing these days.

I will share this exchange with the Muleteam soon, and we will continue to act responsibly.
Larry

Miller Canyon

HIKE MILLER CANYON
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a social-distanced hike through a scenic wooded valley along a creek in the Huachuca Mountains. The trail is uphill and is about 5 miles roundtrip. Bring water and lunch. Hiking sticks suggested and dogs on leashes ok. Back mid-afternoon. Meet April 4 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain. Free, but no carpooling for now. For more details contact John at 319-325-3605 or johnbroz1944@yahoo.com.

SV people meet at 9:30 in large dirt parking on the left with restrooms on Miller Canyon Road in Hereford.

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BACKTRACK - Joe's Canyon Trail (or, paraphrasing Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Hikes in the Time of Coronavirus)

Three hikers and no dogs met at the courthouse at 9 AM, for the Joe's Canyon hike. Since there were only 3 of us, the other two besides myself decided to do other things instead of going on the hike. My intention was always to do a solo hike if noone else showed up, so I drove out to the Coronado National Memorial to begin the hike on my own. I had been informed that the main reason for the closure of the Carr Canyon Road and campgrounds was due to a mob of recreationists present at the upper end of the road and overwhelming forest service resources. The mob was made up of Sierra Vista residents deprived of entertainment by the epidemic's closing of so many businesses there. With those campgrounds and trailhead closed off, I fully expected the mob to move on to the national memorial. I was confirmed in this fear to a great extent. All of the parking spaces on the side of the visitor center parking lot facing the main highway were filled, as were half of those on the other side, even though the visitor center itself was closed, except for the bathrooms. If even a half dozen of us had driven out separately, there would barely have been enough spaces for us there, though the picnic area, while closed to social gatherings, was apparently open for overflow parking. Actually, two of the filled spaces belonged to fellow Muleteamers who had planned to meet us at the trailhead.

The three of us started on the hike, meeting over a half dozen hikers from the Huachuca Hiking Club who were already on their way down as we were starting up. One of us was doing her first Joe's Canyon hike and decided to return by herself after we reached the junction with the Yaqui Canyon Trail down to the international boundary. We remaining two continued on to the pass trail and thence up to the top of Coronado Peak for our lunch break. On the way we met a lot of hikers from the pass, intent on reaching the monument at the end of the border trail. There were also a fair number of hikers who were going to the peak from the pass to which they had driven. I fully expected to do the hike alone, all along, so I lingered for awhile longer after my remaining companion went back on his own before me. If any problems had overtaken the other two on their way down, I would have been along later to come to their aid. As for myself, above the Yaqui Trail junction I met quite a few hikers returning from there. Below there, on the switchbacks climbing from the lower canyon below the ridge saddle, I met two more couples heading up as the sun descended in the west. Why they started up so late, I did not find out, but they were there to help in case I had an accident. I arrived back at the closed visitor center a little after 4 PM, for the drive home.

Now for a few remarks about the COVID-19 epidemic. I firmly believe that all of us who we believe are healthy enough to withstand the virus-- which is the vast majority of our population-- should just expose ourselves to it, contract a case, self isolate at home for two weeks, and thereby JUST GET IT OVER WITH sooner rather than later. This would shorten the epidemic and the period during which the more vulnerable of us have to remain completely isolated before enough resources become available to successfully give those the additional treatment they will require. Why don't we have COVID parties (?), just like the Mardi Gras parties before the ordeal of Lent, where those who are healthy but not yet exposed can be deliberately infected by those showing obvious symptoms just before EVERYONE begins a two week period of self isolation, and before which they already made preparations. BTW the most proper name for the epidemic is COVID-19 rather than simply coronavirus. There has already been one coronavirus outbreak, though most are unaware of it, and there will probably be more to come. It did not get very far and took place in Hong Kong during 2003. At that time I believe it was given the name Hong Kong Flue. Now it is known by the name of SARS, for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome. -- Brad

ps - I made a mistake when I called the 2003 SARS outbreak in Hong Kong by the name "Hong Kong Flu". That SARS outbreak was only called by that name which is still used. There was a Hong Kong Flu outbreak in 1968, which was caused by the H3N2 strain of more traditional influenza unrelated to the SARS coronavirus.

CALENDAR

Apr 11 - Old Bisbee Ridge Trail to Juniper Flats with Susan & Lindsay
Apr 18 - Brown-Ramsey Canyons in the Huachucas with Brad
Apr 25 - Rustler camping-hike in the Chiricahuas with John Wasser
May 2 - Carr Canyon to Bathtub Spring in the Huachucas with Molly
May 9 - Eclectic art walk along Old Bisbee stairs with Larry

Thanks for hiking with me,

Larry