23rd ANNUAL MULETEAM HIKING SEASON STARTS OCTOBER 29TH
The Muleteam is our local Bisbee hiking group that hikes every Saturday from late October to early May. It’s an informal group with no official membership, meetings or dues. Everyone is welcome to show up at the County Court House by the “Iron Man” statue any Saturday at 9:00AM. We have a core group of local hikers (some regulars going back 20 years) but are happy when short-term visitors and seasonal renters join the hike. It’s a great opportunity to meet people with similar interest in hiking and exploring the beautiful trails of Southern Cochise County.
Muleteam hikes are not races. There is usually a range of endurance and styles among our hikers, but we go at a reasonable pace, make sure not to let anyone fall behind, take frequent breaks and sit together for a long lunch break. Our hikes average 4-7 miles, and there is a very wide range of difficulty, from casual river walks to going to the summit of Miller Peak, at 9,000 feet the highest mountain in the Huachuca’s. Everyone is free to only go on hikes that make sense to them. Every week is different, and it’s fun when new people show up, but there’s no pressure to go on any hike. We don’t take attendance.
Everything you need to know about the Muleteam is on-line at muleteam.blogspot.com. It has the hike calendar for the whole season, description of upcoming hikes and past hikes, plus ongoing notices. There is also advance notice of the next Saturday hike, with a description, in the weekly edition of the Bisbee Observer.
HIKE LEADERS NEEDED
We have 28 hike dates scheduled this season, from October 29, 2022 to May 6, 2023.
It is crucially important that we get people to volunteer to lead a hike. The calendar below has all 28 hiking Saturdays between October 29, 2022 to May 6, 2023. Scroll below for an incredible detailed description of all 100+ Muleteam hikes since 2000. You don’t have to be a hard-core hiker to lead one (or more) of these hikes-or one of your favorite hikes.
WE NEED HIKE LEADERS NOW FOR EVERY DAY OF THE SEASON. IN THE PAST, WE DIDN’T FILL DATES AND HAD TO CANCEL HIKES. WE CAN’T LET THAT HAPPEN THIS SEASON. WE NEED VOLUNTEERS WELL IN ADVANCE.
Doug Reiniger, a 20 year Muleteam veteran, has agreed to be in charge of recruitment of Trip Leaders. Please contact him at reiniger@wyoming.com or phone/text (307) 690-6625
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MULETEAM 2022-2023 SEASON
OCTOBER
29 - Mule mountain ridge Fireview with Lindsay
NOVEMBER
5 - Brown Canyon in the Huachucas with Larry
12
19
26
DECEMBER
3
10
17
24 Cross hike
31 New Year’s Eve
JANUARY
7
14
21
28
FEBRUARY
4
11
18
25
MARCH
4
11
18
25
APRIL
1
8
15
22
29
MAY
6 Potluck
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MULETEAM PAST HIKES
Section Order:
•Old Bisbee •Mules/Juniper Flats •Gold Gulch •San Pedro •Huachucas •Dragoons •Chiricahuas •Various
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OLD BISBEE
HIKE LAURA'S LOOP
Join the Muleteam this Saturday to 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.
HIKE TO THE BISBEE CROSS
You are all welcome to join the Muleteam on Saturday, Dec 23 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 at the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain at 9am. Bring water. We'll be back to High Desert by midday for those who want to have lunch or who have afternoon plans. Contact Doug at 432-0307 or reiniger@wyoming.com.
OLD BISBEE ‘STAIR SIGHTS’ HIKE
Join the Muleteam this Saturday to explore some unique art & unusual views by way of Bisbee's most interesting stairs. Be prepared to climb at a reasonable pace with planned stops for less than 4 miles. Bring water, snacks and maybe a camera, but no dogs. Back early afternoon or drop out when you want. Meet Nov 27 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to begin the hike. Free. For more details contact Larry 520-224-4951 or larryjmilam@gmail.com.
MEANDER WEST TOMBSTONE CANYON
This Saturday's hike, new to the Muleteam, features 3 - 3.5 miles of trails and stairs around west Tombstone Canyon. Perhaps this off-the-beaten-path route will include some stairs you have not explored yet! The hike will include a tad of the city trail above Adams and a longer optional spur headed halfway up to the ridge above Adams and back down to the Canyon. There will be a snack stop at a local residence. Meet Feb. 26 at 9:00 a.m. by the Old Bisbee Courthouse fountain. Bring water, snack, and hiking poles if desired. Leashed dogs are welcome. For more details call Susan at 610-220-5287.
HIKE THE HILLS ABOVE OLD BISBEE
Join the Muleteam for their first hike of the season this Saturday for great views of Bisbee and the Mule Mountains. We'll walk the ridge loop trail with optional climb to 'the Cross' and the 'B-hill'. This hike is almost 6 miles total, and it's very uphill in some sections. Bring water and lunch. Back early afternoon. Meet Oct 29 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to start the hike. Free. For more details contact Dave at zarem11@yahoo.com or 227-7086.
HIKE THE MULE RIDGE LOOP
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for the first hike of the season - along the top of the Mule Mountains and down into Zacatecas Canyon to Brewery Gulch and High Road. With plenty of views of Bisbee and the hills beyond there will be some steep uphill areas and less than 5 miles total. Bring water and snack. Back early afternoon with optional lunch at High Desert Market. Meet Oct 28 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to start the hike. Free. For more details contact Doug at 432-0307 or reiniger@wyoming.com.
HIKE THE MULE RIDGE LOOP
Join the Muleteam this Saturday to hike from Old Bisbee to Locklin Ave, up to the Ridge Trail to walk along the top of the Mule Mountains into Zacatecas Canyon, then back to town along the shaded City Trail. With plenty of views of Bisbee and the hills beyond, there will be some steep uphill areas with a total hike of less than 5 miles. Bring water and a snack. Dogs ok. We will be back at the fountain about noon, so an optional plan is to have lunch at High Desert Market. Meet May 2 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to start the hike. Free. For more details contact Gary at 432-5274 or gngmike@gmail.com.
HIKE THE MULE MTN RIDGE
Join the Muleteam this Saturday to hike from Old Bisbee up to the Ridge Trail to walk along the top of the Mule Mountains and loop back. With plenty of views of Bisbee and the hills beyond, there will be some steep uphill areas with a total hike of less than 5 miles. Bring water and a snack. Meet Nov 25 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to start the hike. Free. For more details contact John at 319-325-3605 or johnbroz1944@yahoo.com.
HIKE WOOD CANYON TO THE RIDGE TRAIL
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike from Wood Canyon up to and along the Ridge Trail. This will be a loop, including Zacatecas Canyon and parts of the City Trail on its return. The hike is moderately strenuous, 5.7 miles with a 1500' elevation gain. Bring water and lunch, back early afternoon. Dogs are welcome. Route and elevation profile visible here. Meet January 9 at 9:00 a.m. by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain. Free, but we will not be carpooling at this time to the parking area on Wood Canyon. Alternatively, hikers may drive straight to Wood Canyon, where hike leaders will be directing parking from the base of the 52D Wood Canyon driveway. For more details contact Sue at (612) 810-0689 or subylogan@msn.com.
ZACATECAS HIKE & POTLUCK
Join the Muleteam this Saturday from Old Bisbee along Zacatecas Canyon and into the Mule Mountains with views of town and the hills beyond. Loop trail is about 4 total miles with some uphill areas and rough footing. Bring water and a dish to share for an optional potluck lunch after the hike. Back early afternoon. Meet Dec 9 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to start the hike. Free. For more details contact Charlie at charles.winters@oneonta.edu or 607-435-5041. Meet at the fountain to carpool or go directly to Charlie & Marty's house to begin the hike and drop off potluck dishes. The address is 232 Brewery Gulch. For those who may want to come to the potluck only the hikers should be returning about 11:30 am. Bring a friend.
HIKE TO MURAL HILL
Join the Muleteam this Saturday from Old Bisbee to the edge of the high flat-top mountain best seen from the traffic circle. This trail of desert path and unused dirt road is a mostly uphill walk with a short, steep scramble to the top and thorny in places. It's about 7 miles total with a wonderful view from the crest. Bring water and lunch. Back mid-afternoon. Meet Dec 30 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to start the hike. Free. For more details contact Larry at sunstudio@cableone.net or 224-4951.
SILENT HIKE TO MURAL HILL
Join the Muleteam this Saturday from Old Bisbee to the edge of the high flat-top mountain best seen from the traffic circle. This trail of desert path and unused dirt road is a moderate uphill walk with a short, steep scramble to the top. It's about 7 miles total with a wonderful view from the crest. No talking is requested for the hike out. Bring water and lunch. Back mid-afternoon. Meet Dec 30 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to start the hike. Free. For more details contact Larry at sunstudio@cableone.net or 224-4951.
MOONLIGHT RIDGE HIKE
Join us this Friday night for a hike from Old Bisbee to the top of High Road in a loop along the top of the Mule Mountains and down into Zacatecas Canyon & Brewery Gulch. The moon won't be quite full but rises about 4:45pm, so if it's not too cloudy we'll have moonlit views of Bisbee. There will be some steep uphill areas, some rocky trail and about 5 miles total. Bring a decent FLASHLIGHT especially in case of clouds - and water & snacks. Meet Friday, July 3 at 7pm by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain. We'll be up on the ridge by 8pm when it's actually dark, and back about 10pm. For more details contact Larry 224-4951 or sunstudio@cableone.net.
DESERT HIKE FROM OLD BISBEE
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a scenic hike from Old Bisbee beyond the B-Hill, through the desert hills and then back down through Zacatecas Canyon & Brewery Gulch. This is a walk about 6 miles total on desert path and unused dirt road with moderate up-and-down hills. Bring water and lunch. Back early afternoon. Meet Nov 18 at 8am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain. Free. For more details contact Doug at 432-0307 or reiniger@wyoming.com.
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MULES / JUNIPER FLATS
OLD MULE PASS ROAD
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike on old Mule Pass Road. Starting from the Divide, we will hike downhill first, about 1.5 miles to where we meet up with Highway 80. We will return the way we came for a round-trip distance of 3 miles and elevation gain of just over 400'. The hike is part wild and part residential, but there is good footing throughout. The road was the original track over Mule Pass, improved for vehicles in 1913-14. Leashed dogs are welcome (coyote and javelina have been seen on this route, and there are dogs and livestock at some of the residences). Those who'd like to hike farther or tackle some more elevation gain can walk up and back on Juniper Flats Road after our mid-morning return to the Divide. Meet April 30 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain. From there we will drive to the Divide. Bring water and snack. Free. For more details, text Lindsay at 954-770-2221.
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. Free. For more details contact Lindsay at 954-770-2221.
HIKE FROM JUNIPER FLATS
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a local adventure with a mystery destination off Juniper Flats. The hike starts out downhill, with a 700-foot elevation gain on the way back. Total mileage out and back is about 3 miles, with an option for further distance. Footing is on a dirt road and a decent trail. You may want a flashlight or headlamp for optional explorations. Bring water and a snack, and poles if you'd like. Dogs welcome. Back by late morning. Free. Meet Nov. 13 at 9:00 AM by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain. From there we will carpool, AWD/4WD vehicles preferred. For more information contact Deb at 802-777-1499 or debvanschaack@gmail.com.
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. Free. For more details contact Susan Mayes at 610-220-5287.
MULETEAM HIKE AND POTLUCK
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for their last hike of the season to Twin Buttes between Warren & Douglas, and afterward a potluck/BBQ lunch at a nearby home. The hike will be about 4 miles total across open desert and washes with minimal rock climbing. Bring water for the trail and a dish for the potluck. Back mid-afternoon. Meet May 12 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free. For more details contact Steve at 432-7770 or sss@theriver.com.
HIKE THE "GRAND CANYON"
Join the Muleteam this Saturday to explore the Juniper Flats area in the Mule Mountains. The hike is average difficulty on old roads, paths and washes, about 5 total miles with a lunch vista above an enormous canyon. Bring water and lunch. Back mid-afternoon. Meet April 14 at 9 a.m. by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free. For more details contact Steve at 432-7770 or sss@theriver.com.
WALKABOUT IN THE MULES
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a scenic hike in the western side of the Mule Mountains. 6.5 miles, mostly on road and rough desert surfaces. Bring water and lunch. Back by early afternoon. Meet March 12 at 9:00 am by the Old Bisbee Courthouse fountain to carpool. Free. For more details call Guy at 541-513-9775 or gplaa@comcast.net. Difficulty: 2 out of 5
After a quick drive up Juniper Flats, we will park at the bottom of the 2nd tower access road. The trailhead follows an old hunting trail on the edge of Wildcat Canyon for a couple of miles before dropping west toward Box canyon. From there, we will head on a southerly course, before finally joining with Eva’s mesa. This segment of the hike will be off-trail. Walking poles are always a plus.
JUNIPER CIRCLE LOOP RAMBLE
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a moderate difficulty 5.6 miles circular path around the NW portion of Juniper flats beginning at the base of the road to the second towers. No real trail & some rocky footing, but views from the edge of the flats on three sides. 1000 feet elevation gain. Bring water, lunch and a walking stick for balance. Back mid-afternoon. Meet Nov 4 at 9 a.m. by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free. For more details contact Steve at 432-7770 or sss@theriver.com.
HIKE TO JUNIPER FLATS
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a scenic hike from the top of Mule Pass on Juniper Flats Road and through a side canyon to the last tower complex. This hike will be moderate uphill overall with the steepest grade along the first half mile. About 6 miles roundtrip with an 1100 foot climb. Bring water & lunch. Back early afternoon. Meet Oct 25 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free. For more details contact Brad at bradward.j3@juno.com or call 432-2476.
HIKE THE SANDY BOB AREA
Join the Muleteam this Saturday to explore three Mule Mountain canyons: Sandy Bob (80 foot double waterfall trickle?), Shootey Chute and Box Canyon (with 600 foot cliffs). The hike is above average difficulty in dry washes with little vegetation, about 5 total miles with a small rock cliff to climb. Bring water and lunch. Back mid-afternoon. Meet May 3 at 9 a.m. by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free. For more details contact Steve at 432-7770 or sss@theriver.com.
EXPLORE JUNIPER FLATS
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike in the Mule Mountains with great views. This is a moderate hike, 7 miles total, and part will be off trail and could be rough or slippery. Long pants are recommended and possibly gaiters & walking poles. Bring water and lunch. Back mid-afternoon. Meet Nov 26 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free. For more details contact Guy at gplaaster@gmail.com or 541-513-9775.
MULETEAM TO CROSS THE MULES
Join the Muleteam this Saturday to walk from San Jose across the Mule Mountains and down to Old Bisbee. This is a 3.5 mile one-way hike on uphill desert paths from Escacado Canyon to the saddle overlooking Bisbee and down to Quarry Canyon. Bring water and lunch. Back early afternoon. Meet March 8 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free. For more details contact Steve at 432-7770 or sss@theriver.com.
BAG TWO PEAKS: BALLARD & FISSURE
Join the Muleteam this Saturday to hike to the highest point in the Mule Mountains, west of the 'divide' with outstanding views of Bisbee, Mexico and the Huachuca Mountains. This is a natural path with several steep sections. The hike is 3.4 miles roundtrip to Ballard or optional 4.4 miles roundtrip to Fissure. Bring water and lunch. Back early afternoon. Meet Dec 31 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free. For more details contact Sandy at 432-9152 or slajudice@yahoo.com.
MULETEAM ASCENDS MOUNT BALLARD
Join the Muleteam this Saturday to hike to the highest point in the Mule Mountains, west of the 'divide' with unusual views over long distances. This is a natural path with several steep sections-- about 3.4 miles total. Side trip to Fissure Pk. possible. Bring water and lunch. Back early afternoon. Meet Dec 2 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free. For more details contact Brad at bradward.j3@juno.com or call 432-2476.
EXPLORE WILDCAT CANYON
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for the one of the most beautiful and interesting hikes in the Mule Mountains. The hike begins with an easy 2 mile downhill on a dirt road on Juniper flats to Goat Ranch in Dixie Canyon. It then proceeds up Wildcat canyon with large boulders and ponds. There are a several places where it's necessary to climb over rocks. This hike is for the adventurous !! We'll pass a mine on the way up to the lunch spot by the large swimming pond. The total hike is 4.6 miles (or 6 miles without shuttle) with an elevation gain of 1400'. Bring water and lunch. Back mid-afternoon. Meet April 28 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free. For more details contact Steve at 432-7770 or sss@theriver.com.
HIKE AN OLD MINER'S PASS
Join the Muleteam this Saturday to walk a path used by miners a hundred years ago to get from the west side of the Mule Mountains to Old Bisbee. This is a 4 mile one-way shuttle hike from Abrigo Canyon to Spring Canyon on an old road, in washes and up a short gravel slope. Lunch in the saddle between Mt. Ballard and Mt. Martin in the enchanting cholla forest. Bring water and lunch. Back mid-afternoon. Meet May 5 at 8am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free. For more details contact Steve at 432-7770 or sss@theriver.com.
MULETEAM HIKE AND POTLUCK
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a desert hike in the Mule Mountains near the San Jose area, and afterward a potluck lunch at a nearby home. The hike will be about 5 miles on old roads & paths with some thorny & steep sections. Bring water & long pants for the trail and a dish for the potluck. Back mid-afternoon. Meet Dec 10 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free. For more details contact Peggy at 432-2746 or pscanlon1900@centurylink.net.
You can go to the hike and/or potluck. Meet at the fountain and we will carpool to Peggy's house, or go directly to her house where we will leave for the hike about 9:30. To go to the potluck only be at Peggy's house about 1:30pm which is the estimated time the hikers will return. This is the 12th year Peggy has hosted this holiday-reunion-party for the Muleteam.
HIKE ALONG A BISBEE CREEK
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike along flowing Banning Creek near highway 80 below Juniper Flats. This is a reasonablty flat trail 4-5 miles total with lots of rock hopping and stream crossings. Free coffee and goodies after the hike, but bring water and lunch. Back early afternoon. Meet Feb 27 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain. Free. For more details contact Dale at 432-5852 or bisbee.lyall@gmail.com.
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GOLD GULCH
HIKE GALENA TO GOLD GULCH ROAD
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike in Warren and surrounding areas. Near the start we will take in Galena Park and its native-vegetation trail. Footpaths and an old railroad trackbed will take us through Warren and south to Gold Gulch Road. There we will check out an old motor racetrack before heading back the way we came. The hike is about 6 miles total, flat and easy but with little shade. Bring water and lunch/snack, back early afternoon. Dogs ok with leash. Meet March 6 at 9 a.m. by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. For more information contact Elizabeth, ebernstein2001@yahoo.com.
HIKE TO "PATIO PEAK"
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a local hike from Yuma Trail in Warren, through Gold Gulch and by Gold Hill to a distinctive peak in the southern Mule Mountains. Have lunch on the top with a curious view of Bisbee from a different angle. Total distance about 6 miles, all up & down hills on old mining roads. Bring water and lunch. Back early afternoon. Meet Feb 18 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free. For more details contact Brad at 432-2476 or bradward.j3@juno.com.
HIKE TO 'BEERCAN' HILL
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a local hike from Highway 80 to a distinctive peak in the southern Mule Mountains. Have lunch on the top with a view of Bisbee from a different angle. Total distance about 7 miles, up & down hills on old mining roads and natural trails with a steep climb and some rock scrambling. Bring water and lunch. Back early afternoon. Meet April 23 at 8am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free. For more details contact David at 432-4261 or dgruiz@cableone.net.
CLIMB BLACK KNOB
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike in the souththernmost Mule Mountains with an old stone miner's cabin, old gold mines, a memorial for a slain BP agent and 360 degree lunch views of the whole area. The hike is along a rough immigrant trail with a steep climb to the ridgeline, a total of 3.5 miles. Bring water, lunch and maybe a hiking stick. Back early afternoon. Meet Feb 25 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free. For more details contact Steve at 432-7770 or sss@theriver.com.
HIKE IN THE SOUTHERN MULES
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a desert hike from Yuma Trail in Warren through Gold Gulch to one of the highest peaks in the southern Mule Mountains. Have lunch on the top with startling views of everything and continue hiking to Hwy 80 to shuttle back. Total distance about 6 miles, up & down hills on paths or old mining roads. Bring water and lunch. Back early afternoon. Meet Jan 14 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free. For more details contact Steve at 432-7770 or sss@theriver.com.
GOLD HILL, THE FINAL FRONTIER
Join the Muleteam this Saturday to conquer one of the last unclimbed summits in the southern Mule Mountains, the forbidding peak seen from Warren and mistaken for Blacknob. This is a pretty hike with wide views of the area. It's about 6 miles total with some rough trail and mild rock climbing. Bring water and lunch. Back mid-afternoon. Meet Jan 14 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free. For more details contact Steve at 432-7770 or sss@theriver.com.
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SAN PEDRO
HIKE THE SAN PEDRO HOUSE TRAILS
Join the Muleteam this Saturday at the earlier time of 8:00 AM for a leisurely hike on the flat trails near San Pedro House. This will be a 3.5-mile hike through grasslands and desert wash, by a pond and along the River. With the spring bird migration underway, we can expect to see a flashy bird or two. Bring water and a snack. Back late morning. Free. Dogs OK with leash. Meet April 17 at 8:00 a.m. by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Alternatively, hikers may meet us at the San Pedro House parking area at 8:30 AM. For more details contact John at 319-325-3605 or johnbroz1944@yahoo.com.
RIVER HIKE AND POTLUCK
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for their last hike of the season near the San Pedro House. This easy hike following trails along the San Pedro River will mostly be on level ground for a total of 2.5 miles. Bring water for the hike and food/drink for an optional potluck picnic on covered tables outside the San Pedro House. Back mid-afternoon. Meet May 7 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact John at 319-325-3605 or johnbroz1944@yahoo.com.
POTLUCK ONLY
You can also meet us after the hike for the potluck only. The hikers should be back by 11:30, and we'll meet at the picnic area near the San Pedro House. Plates, cups, etc. will be provided.
HIKE ALONG THE SAN PEDRO RIVER
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a flat walk north of the San Pedro house on a trail through a wide field to an old car parked in a wash and up along the river. This will be an easy hike, about 4 miles total. Bring water and lunch. Back early afternoon. Meet December 9 at 9am Free. For more details contact Larry at 224-4951.
SEE LEWIS SPRINGS
This Saturday, January 30, join us for a walk along the San Pedro River to Lewis Springs, site of a popular resort over a century ago. This will be an easy, flat walk, about 4 miles total.
Meet January 30 at 9 a.m. by the Old Bisbee Courthouse fountain, from which we will car-caravan in our separate vehicles to the River (no carpooling at this time). Alternatively, hikers may meet us at the trailhead at 9:30 a.m. We will be parking at the turnoff immediately east of the River on the north side of Highway 90. For more details contact Laura at 206-715-6589.
HIKE HISTORIC FAIRBANK
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a walk along the San Pedro River and see the old townsite, mill ruins & graveyard of the Fairbank area and optional ruins of a Spanish fort. Flat and easy trail, but at least 6 miles roundtrip. Back mid-afternoon. Meet Oct 27 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Larry at sunstudio@cableone.net or 224-4951.
CONTENTION CITY PICNIC
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for our 10th Annual Hike & River Picnic. The route is about 4 miles near the river (or maybe wading in it) to the ruins of Contention City and a Spanish fort site from the late 1770's. This may be our easiest and most "civilized" hike of the year with our "gourmet" pot-luck riverside picnic. Bring your favorite dish, wine or beer to share. Dogs love the river and are welcome. Meet April 7 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free, but gas donations are appreciated. For more details, contact Doug at 432-0307 or reiniger@wyoming.com.
DISCOVER THE RUINS OF CHARLESTON
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike along the San Pedro River to the site of an old mining town lost in the woods, mill ruins and ancient petroglyphs. This is an easy, flat hike only about 3 miles total, but the trail is sometimes vague and may involve wet feet. Bring water and lunch. Good dog or kid hike. Back mid-afternoon. Meet April 24 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain. Free. For more details contact Larry at sunstudio@cableone.net or 224-4951.
HIKE TO GRAY HAWK RANCH
Join the Muleteam this Saturday at the earlier time of 8am for a hike from Charleston Bridge to Gray Hawk Ranch. The hike will follow a trail along the San Pedro River recently improved by members of the Huachuca Hiking Club. Round-trip mileage is about 5.3 miles. The visit to Gray Hawk Nature Center will feature a presentation on reptiles. Meet Saturday April 23 at 8am at the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain. Alternatively, hikers may meet at 8:30 at the old Charleston Bridge. Bring water and lunch. Dogs welcome only on first part of hike (3.4 miles roundtrip). For more details contact Rod at 520-586-9828.
HIKE TO THE BOSTON MILL
Join the Muleteam for an easy 8 mile round trip, in and back, hike along the San Pedro River. The hike is on an old dirt road and some trail, not much elevation change. On the way back you can explore the Little Boquillas Ranch and/or stop at the San Pedro to enjoy the water. There is an option to add another mile to some petroglyphs. Bring water and lunch. Back mid-afternoon. Meet Feb 22 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Ken at 432-9152 or kenheusman@yahoo.com.
HIKE BEYOND THE LITTLE BOQUILLAS RANCH
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike on the San Pedro Trail south of the Fairbank Schoolhouse. We will pass the Little Boquillas Ranch, then eventually branch off to visit a "relic of the past" and have lunch by the river. On the way back feel free to explore the ranch. The hike is approximately 7 miles roundtrip on an old dirt road with minor elevation changes. Bring water and lunch. Back mid-afternoon.
Meet March 13 at 9:00 a.m. by the Old Bisbee Courthouse fountain to carpool. If you are planning to meet at the trailhead, meet around 9:40 in the parking lot across the road from the Fairbank Schoolhouse on SR82 (by the corrals). Free. For more information contact Sandy at 520-353-5124 or slajudice@yahoo.com.
EXPLORE HISTORIC CLANTON RANCH
Join the Muleteam this Saturday to hike the Murray Springs and San Pedro Trails to the historic Clanton Ranch. We will hike 2.3 miles from the Murray Springs parking lot to the ranch, stop for lunch, then hike back. Easy hike along an old railroad grade and old roads. Optional .8 mile Murray Springs Clovis Site interpretive trail at the end. Bring water and snack/lunch. Meet February 13 at 9 a.m. by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain, from which we will car-caravan in our separate vehicles to the Murray Springs parking lot (no carpooling at this time). Alternatively, hikers may meet us at 9:30 at the lot, reached by going north on Moson Rd. from Hwy 90 and turning right just past mile marker #9. For more details contact Paul at 520-366-5239.
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HUACHUCAS
MULETEAM HIKES THE CREST TRAIL
Join the Muleteam this Saturday to hike the Crest Trail in the Huachuca Mountains. The trail traverses the crest of the mountains from Montezuma Pass to Fort Huachuca. We will park at Montezuma Pass, hike the first three miles, stop for lunch, then hike back. Moderate to easy, with beautiful overlooks. Bring water and a snack/lunch. Back by mid-afternoon. Free. Coronado National Memorial rules require dogs to be leashed on this trail. Meet April 3 at 9 a.m. by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain. From there we will car-caravan to Montezuma Pass. Alternatively, hikers may meet us at the Pass at 10:00 a.m. For more details contact Laura at 206-715-6589.
HIKE MILLER CANYON
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike through a scenic wooded valley in the Huachuca Mountains. The trail is uphill to an old mining site and is about 5 miles roundtrip. Bring water and lunch. Back mid-afternoon. Meet Nov 27 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Brad at 432-2476 or bradward.j3@juno.com.
WALK 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. Meet Nov 11 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Laura at 206-715-6589 or mssmithlg@aim.com.
The hike begins at the Brown Canyon Ranch, off Ramsey Canyon Road.
HIKE THE BROWN-RAMSEY LOOP
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 with grasslands, forest, steep hillsides and a canyon creek. Bring water and lunch, but no dogs into Ramsey. All drivers will be shuttled back to their cars at Brown Canyon Ranch. Back mid-afternoon. Meet Feb 10 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Gary at 432-5274 or gngmike@gmail.com.
Dogs are ok if they go to the lunch spot and return the same way with Daisy & Gretchen.
HIKE HUNTER CANYON
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike in the foothills of the Huachuca Mountains in Miller & Hunter Canyons. The moderate trail follows a trickling stream with some up & down hills to an old mine for lunch and then back the same way for about 6 miles total. Bring water and lunch. Back mid-afternoon. Meet March 31 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Jan at bolduc03@aol.com or 704-299-6614.
This was a hike that Bad Jack led many times.
HIKE BETWEEN MILLER AND CARR CANYONS
Join the Muleteam this Saturday in the lower Huachuca Mountains for a hike that includes the Clark Spring Trail. The first half is mostly flat by a stream, then a steady climb to a scenic spot for lunch and back again for a total of about 6 miles. Very pretty views. Bring water and lunch. Back mid-afternoon. Meet April 18 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Jack at 803-0792 or woodward@umich.edu.
JOE'S CANYON TO MEXICAN BORDER
Join the Muleteam this Saturday to hike from the Coronado Visitor Center through a very scenic valley in the Huachuca Mountains to the Mexican border monument at the southern end of the Arizona Trail. This 6.8 mile out-and-back is rated as moderate. The hike starts out on Joe's Canyon Trail, with a 1,400 foot ascent up a rugged drainage, but is eased by numerous switchbacks. The trail then flattens out on Smuggler's Ridge, a thin, grassy saddle with amazing views of the Mexican state of Sonora. The final mile descends 600 feet to the Mexican border. Bring water, lunch & maybe a stick, but no dogs on this one. Back mid-afternoon. Meet Feb 11 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free, but gas donation is appreciated.. For more details contact Randall at rpdamon@me.com or 515-306-9737.
HIKE JOE'S CANYON TRAIL
Join the Muleteam this Saturday at 9am 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 down the same way for a total of about 6.5 miles. Bring water and lunch but no dogs. Back mid-afternoon. Meet March 3 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Sandy at slajudice@yahoo.com or 520-353-5124.
CAVE HIKE AND POTLUCK
This is the Muleteam's last hike of the season. Join them this Saturday in the Huachuca Mountains for a short, uphill hike (one mile total) and an easy 30 minute stroll through the spacious Coronado Cave. Some boulder scrambling at cave entrance. No dogs, but a good one for kids. Bring FLASHLIGHT, water and food/drink for an optional potluck picnic after the hike. Back mid-afternoon. Meet May 15 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Larry at 224-4951 or sunstudio@cableone.net.
• We'll park at the Coronado visitor center parking lot.
• If you have kids or know someone who does, please invite them. Kids love the cave.
• And don't forget your flashlight.
POTLUCK ONLY
You can also meet us after the hike for the potluck only. The cave hikers should be back about noon or soon after, and we'll meet at the picnic area across the road from the visitor center. I'll bring the plates, cups, etc. and guacamole of course.
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. Back mid-afternoon. Meet Dec 16 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Anne at 432-0307 or areiniger@wyoming.com.
The trailhead is at the first dirt parking area on Carr Canyon Rd, and the hike returns on the same trail.
MULETEAM CLIMBS CARR PEAK
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for the spectacular view from the second highest peak in the Huachuca Mountains. The trail is only 5.5 miles total, but hiking can be difficult because the first half is all uphill. Option to wait 2/3 of the way for the group returning down. Bring water, lunch and maybe a walking stick. Back late afternoon. Meet Nov 12 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Brad at 432-2476 or bradward.j3@juno.com.
HIKE RAMSEY CANYON TRAIL
Join the Muleteam this Saturday at the earlier time of 8am for a hike through a beautiful nature preserve in the Huachuca Mountains. This trail climbs to a vista point and crisscrosses a running creek to the old Hamburg mine making a roundtrip of about 6 miles. Bring water and lunch but no dogs. Back mid-afternoon. Meet Nov 18 at 8am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact John at 319-325-3605 or johnbroz1944@yahoo.com.
CONQUER MILLER PEAK
Join the Muleteam this Saturday on a trail to the highest peak in the Huachuca Mountains for a spectacular view of the area. This hike has a challenging elevation gain and 10.6 miles total distance, but anyone has the option to stop on the way and wait for others to return. Bring water, lunch, and maybe a walking stick. Back late afternoon. Meet April 11 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Ira at irayedlin@gmail.com.
CONQUER MILLER PEAK
Join the Muleteam this Saturday at the earlier time of 8am for a hike to the highest peak in the Huachuca Mountains for a spectacular view of the area. We'll summit Miller Peak from the Carr Peak trailhead at Ramsey Vista campground. The trail is a challenging 11.4 miles, but anyone has the option to stop on the way and wait for others to return. Bring water, lunch, and maybe a walking stick. Back late afternoon. Meet Dec 5 at 8am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Ira at 520-678-1265 or irayedlin@gmail.com.
HIKE UP MILLER CANYON TO THE HOLENSTEIN MINE
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike up the Miller Canyon trail to the old Holenstein Mine. The mine dates back to the 1880's with little ore produced. An interesting note I discovered—"the existence of a road up Miller Canyon to the mine and the presence of a large ore bin are inconsistent infrastructure for the size of the workings, indicating a possible stock scheme!" The trail has a little of everything, some easy footing and some rocky uphill for a roundtrip of about 5 miles and an elevation gain of approximately 1,450 feet. Dogs welcome on leash (wilderness area rules). Bring water, lunch, and poles if you like.
HIKE OVERSITE CANYON
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a wooded hike in the SW Huachuca Mountains, about 7 miles total-- steep on last stretch to lunch on scenic ridge one mile short of Crest Trail junction. Back the same way. Trail is along a spring-fed stream past the old Happy Jack cabin and an old mine site beyond. Bring water and lunch. Back late afternoon. Meet March 7 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Brad at 432-2476 or bradward.j3@juno.com.
Drive to the trailhead will be on paved road until reaching the switchback climb to Montezuma Pass in the Coronado National Memorial. From the Pass there will be another 3 or 4 miles on well-maintained dirt road to a turnoff onto a more primitive road, which will become impassable to the average passenger car after about a half mile. Cars will be parked there, and hiking will commence first along the road and then a trail after the road disappears.
HIKE IDA CANYON
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a mostly wooded hike in the SW Huachuca Mountains with a steep climb to scenic Bear Saddle at the junction of the Crest & Hamburg trails. The hike is about 7 miles total, medium difficulty and goes by Bear Springs and the Ida mine site with old machinery. Bring water and lunch. Back late afternoon. Meet Nov 21 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Ira at irayedlin@gmail.com.
Hike stats: 2000 ft elevation gain (500 of which is over the final half mile).
Drive to the trailhead will be on dirt road after the Coronado Vistor Center to Montezuma Pass and about 4 miles beyond.
HIKE IN GARDEN CANYON
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike on Fort Huachuca in the Huachuca Mountains starting in Garden Canyon and going up to the beginning of Sawmill Canyon where it will end. We will not be going to the Crest trail as we have done in the past. This is a higher elevation hike. It is uphill on a primitive road with pine woods and creek scenery. The hike will be about 6 miles roundtrip. Bring water and lunch. Back mid-afternoon. Meet Dec 7 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. Fort Huachuca does require an Access Badge for entry (see below). For more details contact John at 319-325-3605 or johnbroz1944@yahoo.com.
HIKE UP LUTZ CANYON
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike in the foothills of the Huachuca Mountains to the location of the abandoned Lutz Tunnel Mine. Lots of old mine equipment and ruins with some history provided. The trail is washed out and rocky in areas, and the round trip distance is about 5 miles with about 2000 ft elevation gain.
Bring water, lunch and maybe a walking stick. Back late afternoon. Meet Feb 8 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Richard at 432-5962 or yhrobinson@gmail.com.
The trail head is accessed on a 2.5 mile dirt road through Ash Canyon - 4 wheel drive not needed. The trail has been damaged by floods following the Monument Fire in 2011 with a few rocky washed out areas. Lots of historic remnants - a very large 2-cylinder gasoline engine, air compressor for pneumatic drills, the mill site for the mine and the walls of a stone cabin. -Richard
HIKE BOB THOMPSON PEAK (ALMOST)
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike in the foothills of the Huachuca Mountains beginning in Ash Canyon. The trail is mostly old mining roads with a 2000 ft elevation gain (a good workout for the legs and lungs) - about 5 miles total with two old mines and great views from the lunch spot. Bring water and lunch. Back mid-afternoon. Meet April 13 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Richard at 432-5962 or yhrobinson@gmail.com.
Because of fire and subsequent erosion the last part of the trail to the top of Bob Thompson Peak may be a little spooky for anyone with a fear of heights so we won't try it. The road to the trail is about 2 miles of dirt road - OK for passenger cars with a bit of clearance. -Richard
WALK THE SAWMILL TRAIL
Join the Muleteam for an 8am hike on Fort Huachuca in the Huachuca Mountains starting in upper Garden Canyon and going up Sawmill Canyon to the Crest Trail. This is a higher elevation hike and mostly uphill on primitive roads with pine woods scenery and vistas from the Crest Trail. The hike will be about 7 miles roundtrip. Bring water and lunch. Back mid-afternoon. Meet Nov 25 at 8am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. Fort Huachuca does require an Access Badge for entry (see below). For more details contact John at 319-325-3605 or johnbroz1944@yahoo.com.
Please get your Access Badge before the day of the hike. Badges are issued free at the Visitor Control Center, which is located adjacent to the Van Deman or East Gate. You must have a driver's license, passport, or military ID to obtain the Badge. Badges are good for 30 days for visitors and one year for locals. The Control Center is open 24/7.
CLIMB HUACHUCA PEAK
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a challenging hike and an awesome view from one of the highest peaks in the Huachuca Mountains. Half the trail is steep and half is fairly level, about 4.5 miles to the peak and returning the same way. Bring water and lunch. Back late afternoon. Meet Nov 21 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. It's about an hour each way, and we'll enter the fort so bring photo ID. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Dale at 432-5852 or bisbee.lyall@gmail.com.
HIKE TO WAKEFIELD MINES
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a canyon walk in the southern parts of the Huachuca Mountains. It's an easy 6 mile hike with low elevation gain. Bring water, lunch and maybe walking poles. Dogs ok with optional leash. Back mid-afternoon. Meet March 23 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Guy at gplaaster@gmail.com or 541-513-9775.
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DRAGOONS
COUNCIL ROCKS HIKE
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike starting at Council Rocks in the Dragoons. This moderate 2 1/2 hour hike will include a bit of rock scrambling and bushwhacking. Bring water & lunch. Meet January 29 at 9:00 a.m. by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to caravan (about 90 minutes each way). Also, if more convenient for those in Sierra Vista and points north, you may want to meet the group at the entrance of Middlemarch Rd. off Hwy 80 at 9:30. For more details contact Carol at chandlercarolpsk@gmail.com or 413-667-8760.
HIKE TO COUNCIL ROCKS
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike in the Dragoon Mountains in an area with Apache history, pictographs and strange boulder formations. This trail will be mostly on natural paths and moderate uphill for a total of 7 miles. Bring water & lunch. Back late afternoon. Meet March 24 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool (about 90 minutes each way). Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Loretta at 541-905-5098 or lplaaster@gmail.com.
HIKE TEXAS CANYON
Join the Muleteam this Saturday to hike the 'Little Dragoons' on property belonging to the Amerind Museum. This is an easy hike with good views and interesting rock formations, a more-than-4-mile loop on mostly old roads with only 500 feet elevation gain. Bring water & lunch, but no dogs. Back late afternoon. Meet March 11 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool (about 90 minutes each way). Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Charlie at Charles.Winters@oneonta.edu or 607-435-5041.
HIKE TO COBRA LOMA MINE
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike in the Dragoon Mountains on an old mining road. This hike will be moderate uphill and back down the same way for a total of about 5 miles. Bring water & lunch and a flashlight if you want to explore an old mine at your own risk. Back mid-afternoon. Meet Oct 31 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool (over an hour each way). Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact David at 432-4261 or dgruiz@cableone.net.
HIKE UP SLAVIN GULCH
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike in the Dragoon Mountains on a rocky path & old mining road with huge boulder formations, along a great sand bottomed creek. The trail is a steady uphill and down the same way for a total of 6.8 miles. Bring water, lunch and maybe a walking stick. Back late afternoon. Meet April 14 at 8am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool (over an hour each way). Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Sandy at 520-353-5124 or slajudice@yahoo.com.
HIKE TO BLACK DIAMOND MOUNTAIN
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike in the Dragoon Mountains on an old mining road with the Escapule Mine and views of Tombstone. This hike will be moderate uphill and back down the same way for a total of 4.5 miles. Bring water & lunch and a flashlight if you want to explore the mine at your own risk. Back mid-afternoon. Meet March 22 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool (about an hour each way). Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact David at 432-4261 or dgruiz@cableone.net.
HIKE COCHISE STRONGHOLD
Join the Muleteam this Saturday to hike from the east side of the Dragoons toward the west and then back again. This is a beautiful area with great hillside rock formations, a deep valley and a pond midway. It's a clear, moderate trail about 6 miles total with some uphill. Bring water and lunch. Back late afternoon. Meet Jan 13 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool (about 90 minutes each way). Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Molly at 432-3902 or eeo.source@gmail.com.
We’ll meet at the campground near the restrooms for those who start elsewhere.
There is an $8 day-use fee for parking at the campground/picnic area, waived if you display a Coronado National Forest or Interagency pass (America the Beautiful, Golden Age, etc.)
HIKE COCHISE STRONGHOLD
Join the Muleteam this Saturday to hike from the east side of the Dragoons toward the west then back the same way or take an optional loop trail via Rockfellow Dome. This is a beautiful area with great hillside rock formations, a deep valley and a pond midway. The first half is a clear, moderate trail with some uphill about 6 miles including return, and the optional return trail is scenic but rougher with a challenging descent. Bring water, lunch and maybe hiking poles. Back late afternoon. Meet Feb 4 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool (about 90 minutes each way). Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Guy at gplaa@comcast.net or 541-513-9775.
HIKE TO CHINA CAMP & PEAK
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike in the Dragoon Mountains on an old mining road with wonderful views. This hike will be moderate uphill with an optional steep climb on road to the peak and down the same way for a little more than 8 miles total. Bring water and lunch. Back late afternoon. Meet March 5 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool (over an hour each way). Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Brad at bradward.j3@juno.com or
432-2476.
HIKE TO THE ABRIL MINE RUINS
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike in the Dragoon Mountains on an old mining road with wonderful vistas of both east and west. This hike will be moderate uphill & down and back the same way for a total of 8.6 miles. Bring water & lunch and maybe a flashlight. Back late afternoon. Meet April 16 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool (about 90 minutes each way). Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact David at 432-4261 or dgruiz@cableone.net.
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CHIRICAHUAS
DOUBLE HIKE THE CHIRICAHUAS
Join the Muleteam this Saturday at an earlier time of 8am for a hike in the Chiricahua Mountains on two of the national monument park's short scenic trails, Sugarloaf Peak (topped by a fire lookout) and the impressive Natural Bridge. Both trails are 6.4 total miles with average elevation gain. Bring water and lunch, but no dogs. Back late afternoon. Meet March 6 at 8am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool (almost 2 hours each way). Gas donation is appreciated and there is a possible entrance fee for the park area. For more details contact Brad at bradward.j3@juno.com or 432-2476.
HIKE THE NATURAL BRIDGE TRAIL
Join the Muleteam this Saturday to hike the scenic, least used trail in the Chiricahua National Monument. The trail climbs at first, then drops into a pine forest, and ends at the overlook for a small water-carved bridge across the canyon. We will return the same way for a total of 4.8 miles and an approximate total elevation gain of 300-400 feet. Bring water and lunch, but no dogs. Back late afternoon. Meet April 30 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool (almost 2 hours each way). Trailhead is a small parking area on the left side of the road as you drive up Bonita Scenic Drive, about 1 mile past the Visitor Center. Gas donation is appreciated and there is a possible entrance fee for the park area. For more details contact Molly at 208 720-7518.
HIKE IN ECHO CANYON
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike on a top scenic trail in the Chiricahua Mountains. It's an easy 4.3 miles total with a loop through amazing closeup rock formations and including the viewpoint at Massai Point. Bring water and lunch, but no dogs. Back late afternoon. Meet May 5 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool (almost 2 hours each way). Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Molly at 432-3902 or eeo.source@gmail.com.
HIKE THE GREENHOUSE TRAIL
Join the Muleteam at the earlier time of 8 a.m. this Saturday for a hike in the Cave Creek area of the Chiricahua Mountains near Portal. This is a maintained, wooded mountain trail partly beside a stream. There are two hike options: 6.4 total miles to a panoramic lookout near a waterfall and 10.5 total miles to a forest service cabin. Bring water, lunch and maybe a walking stick. Dog must be on leash. Back late afternoon. Meet April 26 at 8 a.m. by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool (almost 2 hours each way). Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Brad at bradward.j3@juno.com or 432-2476.
HIKE TO THE 'HEART OF ROCKS'
Join the Muleteam this Saturday at 8am for a hike in the Chiricahua National Monument to a scenic area of unique natural rock formations. This is a 7.3 mile hike with hills and moderate elevation gain. Bring water & lunch but no dogs. Back late afternoon. Meet March 10 at 8am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool (almost 2 hours each way). Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Brad at bradward.j3@juno.com or 432-2476.
EXPLORE PRICE CANYON
Join the the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike in the southeast side of the Chiricahua Mountains. The trail is wooded and follows a stream, moderate uphill and about 6 miles total. Bring water and lunch. Back late afternoon. Meet March 28 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool (about 1.5 hours each way with 10 miles of dirt road). Free, but gas donations are appreciated. For more details contact Carol at 432-8080 or caja@cableone.net.
SUMMIT SILVER PEAK
Join the Muleteam this Saturday (at the earlier time of 8am) for a hike in the Cave Creek area of the Chiricahua Mountains near Portal. Cave Creek Canyon has been called the Yosemite of Arizona because of its interesting cliffs and rock formations. A fine, well-maintained trail of increasing switchbacks climbs 3,015 feet to the summit, but the elevation gain is spread out over 4.6 miles making it a challenging but do-able hike. Anyone has the option to stop along the route and wait for the group to return. The views from the summit are tremendous, offering unobstructed views of the sweeping Chiricahua Range and Cave Creek Canyon. Bring water, lunch and maybe a walking stick. Dogs are welcome. Back late afternoon. Meet April 21 at 8am (1 1/2+ hours each way). Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Brad at bradward.j3@juno.com or 432-2476.
CAMP AT CAVE CREEK - Fri-Sun, April 20-22
Annual spring campout at Herb Martyr campground by Cave Creek in the Chiricahuas. Tables & toilets..sometimes a fee. Friday night communal dinner and campfire. Non campers are welcome to join us for a hike (just let Brad know you’re coming), and please arrange your own transportation to the campground (allow for a 2 hour drive). Two hike options on Sat, April 21…
SILVER PEAK - 7:30am, April 21
This hike leaves 7:30am from Herb Martyr campground in the Cave Creek area of the Chiricahua Mountains near Portal. Cave Creek Canyon has been called the Yosemite of Arizona because of its interesting cliffs and rock formations. This hike is 9.2 miles roundtrip, a challenging but do-able hike. Anyone has the option to stop along the route and wait for the group to return. A fine, well-maintained trail of increasing switchbacks climbs 3,000 feet to the summit. The views from the summit are tremendous, offering unobstructed views of the sweeping Chiricahua Range and Cave Creek Canyon. Bring water, lunch and maybe a walking stick. Dogs are welcome. Back late evening. For more details and to let him know you are coming, contact Brad at bradward.j3@juno.com or 432-2476 before April 18. After April 18 you may be able to contact through a camper with a cellphone, unless there is no service at the campground.
UPPER BASIN TRAIL - 9am, April 21
This hike starts at our Herb Martyr campsite and follows the main creek for about a mile before starting a climb up to an intersection with the Snowshed Trail and return the same way, for a total RT distance of 5.6 miles. At the intersection the elevation is high enough to offer long views back down the expanse of all of Cave Creek Canyon. Bring water, lunch and maybe a walking stick. Dogs are welcome. Back late afternoon.
HIKE RUCKER GATES
Join the Muleteam this Saturday at the earlier time of 8am to hike the wooded Rucker Canyon trail, along a creek bed and under steep overhangs to several grottoes. It's a 7.8 mile hike with more than average difficulty. Bring water, lunch and maybe walking poles. Dogs ok. Back late afternoon. Meet Feb 24 at 8am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool (about 90 minutes each way). Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Guy at gplaa@comcast.net or 541-513-9775.
Driving Directions: Double Adobe, N Central Highway, 191 to Border Police Station, right on North Rucker Canyon Road then on to East Rucker Canyon Road until you reach the campground at the end of the road. No high clearance vehicle needed.
HIKE THE PINERY HORSEFALL TRAIL
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike in the Chiricahua Mountains, in the national forest just south of Chiricahua National Monument. After a drive of 1 1/2 to 2 hours, about the same time as to the trails we've dayhiked in the national monument, we will reach the trailhead on the Pinery Canyon Road. The trail is in good shape after thorough maintenance this last spring. Total distance is 6 miles roundtrip and elevation change of about 1000 feet. Lunch stop is reached at a scenic saddle and junction with a ridge trail before the return hike. Bring water & lunch. Back late afternoon. Pets allowed. Meet November 9 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Brad at 520-432-2476 or bradward.j3@juno.com.
HIKE RED ROCK CANYON
Join the Muleteam this Saturday at the earlier time of 8am to hike this narrow canyon with colorful rhyolite rock walls in the southern Chiricahua Wilderness. It's a 7 mile hike with minimal elevation gain and some walking in the rocky creek bed. Bring water, lunch and maybe walking poles. Dogs ok. Back late afternoon. Meet Jan 6 at 8am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool (about 90 minutes each way). Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Guy at gplaa@comcast.net or 541-513-9775.
Directions: From Bisbee, Double Adobe, Frontier Rd,Davis Road, Leslie Canyon Road to Rucker Canyon Road (FS74), Rucker Canyon Road to FR74E turnoff, FR74E to Rock Canyon turn off (FR4242), FS4242 to trailhead. Not recommended for low clearance vehicles when driving the bumpy FR4242 to the trailhead (1 1/2 miles).
HIKE TURKEY PEN CANYON
Join the Muleteam this Saturday at the earlier time of 8am to hike in a hilly, forested riparian area in the lower Chiricahua Mountains near Turkey Creek. It's a 6 mile hike with an 8.7 mile loop option and 1600' elevation gain. Bring water, lunch and maybe walking poles. Back late afternoon. Meet Jan 6 at 8am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool (about 90 minutes each way). Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Guy at gplaaster@gmail.com or 541-513-9775.
Turkey Pen Canyon is an in & out hike, and the longer option is Rock Creek Hughes Tank loop.
Directions to Trailhead: Double Adobe, SR 191 to SR 181 then Turkey Creek turnoff (FR 41), follow road for 8 miles. Trailhead is just across from the ranger station.
HIKE DEVIL'S CANYON TRAIL
Join the Muleteam this Saturday at the earlier time of 8am for a hike on a scenic trail in the lower Chiricahua Mountains. It's a 6.5 mile hike with little elevation gain. The trail follows a riparian area before reaching Bruno Saddle and descending into Bruno canyon with some great views to the west. Bring water, lunch and maybe walking poles. Back late afternoon. Meet March 25 at 8am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Guy at gplaa@comcast.net or 541-513-9775.
Difficulty: moderate. Drive time to trailhead: 90 minutes, 62.5 miles one way
EXPLORE RUCKER CANYON
Join the the Muleteam this Saturday for a scenic hike in the the Chiricahua Mountains, about 6 miles total. The trail is forested, follows a flowing stream at first, and then has some switchbacks to a rocky ridge, with a little bit of boulder scrambling at the end. Bring water and lunch. Back late afternoon. Meet Feb 6 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Molly at 432-3902 or eeo.source@gmail.com.
CAMP AT TURKEY CREEK - Friday, April 21
Annual spring campout at Sycamore campground by Turkey Creek Road. Facilities..tables..sometimes a fee. Friday night dinner. I will bring a dozen hamburgers & condiments. Ya'll bring whatever you think + beverages & breakfasts. I will bring some firewood, tables, stoves, and 10 gallons of Bisbee water. Hope to see ya'll there. -JOHN
HIKE IN THE CHIRICAHUAS - Saturday, April 22
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike in Morse Canyon Pole Bridge, similar to what was done last year going to Monte Vista but turning west at the cut-off - a total of 8.5 miles with 2113 feet gain. For the lesser inclined hikers, hike by the creek toward Mormon Spring. Dogs allowed. Bring water and lunch. Back late afternoon. Campers & day hikers meet April 22 at 9am at Sycamore Campground on Turkey Creek Rd. Transportation/carpooling is unplanned. For more details contact Guy at gplaa@comcast.net or 541-513-9775.
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VARIOUS
HIKE GUINDANI CANYON
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike in the Whetstone Moutains beginning in Kartchner Caverns State Park. The Guindani trail is a 4.2-mile loop. The elevation ranges from 4709 to 5619 feet for an elevation gain of 910 feet. One half is in the shade of a treed canyon with a steep hike. The other half is in the sun with very gradually lowering elevation. We will lunch on the saddle with lovely views. Meet Feb. 5 at 9:00 AM by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain. From there it is about a one-hour drive to Kartchner Caverns, on Hwy 90 almost to Benson. Dogs on leashes welcome. Bring water and lunch. There is a $7.00 per car fee for entrance to the Park. Back around 3:30 PM. For more details contact Monica at 520-461-6799 or sometimesthelight@hotmail.com.
The Whetstone Mountains are named for a common rock there, novaculite, also called flint, used to sharpen knife blades. The Whetstones are also notorious for being where Wyatt Earp shot and killed Curly Bill Brocius. And what’s more, the dinosaur fossil, Sonorasaurus thompsoni from the Cretaceous Period was found there in 1998.
HIKE A WETLAND WILDLIFE REFUGE
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a 4 mile hike in an area of wetlands, ponds & wildlife in the San Bernardino NWR east of Douglas. This includes an optional tour of the nearby historic John Slaughter Ranch complex. Bring water, lunch, a hat, maybe binos but no dogs. Back mid-afternoon. Meet Feb 28 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. $5 ranch admission, and gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Chris at 432-2114 or christopher.overlock@gmail.com.
HIKE ON MOUNT GRAHAM
Join the Muleteam this Saturday at the earlier time of 7:30am for an easy hike in the cool alpine forest by Ash Creek. The trail is 6 miles total with wildflowers, a 200-ft waterfall & a view over the Gila River Valley. Bring water & lunch. Back early evening. Meet May 22 at 7:30am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool - It's about 3 hours each way. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Molly at 432-3902 or eeo.source@gmail.com.
EXPLORE HISTORIC FORT BOWIE
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a short hike in a scenic area full of calvary and Apache history. The hike to the fort is only about 3 miles round trip on a trail with slight elevation gain, but there's more optional walking among the fort remains. Bring water and lunch. Back late afternoon. Meet March 1 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool - It's at least a 90 minute drive each way. Free For more details contact Molly at 432-3902 or eeo.source@gmail.com.
EXPLORE HISTORIC FORT BOWIE
Join the Muleteam this Saturday at the earlier time of 8:00 AM to hike Fort Bowie National Historic Site. The trail will take us to the Visitor Center and ruins of the old Fort, passing Apache Spring and intersecting the route of the Butterfield Stage along the way. Interpretive signs and museum exhibits recount the history of warfare between the U.S. Army and the Chiricahua Apaches. The trail, including the ruins of both the first and second forts, is about 4.5 miles total. Our return route will be by the upper trail along Overlook Ridge (total elevation gain on hike about 600 feet), but those who prefer may return the same way we came. Meet April 10 at 8:00 AM by the Old Bisbee Courthouse fountain to carpool (at least 90 minutes each way). Hikers may also meet us at 9:45 AM at the Fort Bowie trailhead. Back late afternoon. For more details contact Cara at 818-303-4175 or caraldawn@gmail.com.
EXPLORE PARKER CANYON LAKE
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a scenic hike around the edge of one of the few lakes in this area. This is an easy hike, about 5 miles round trip on a mostly flat trail in a natural setting with herons. Bring water and lunch. Optional vineyard wine tasting after the hike. Meet Jan 27 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact John at 432-5158 or johnwasser@hotmail.com.
HIKE IN LESLIE CANYON
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike through a National Wildlife Refuge and birding area in the Swisshelm Mountains east of McNeal. This is a moderate hike, about 5 miles through desert with a small running stream. Bring water, lunch and hat, but no dogs on this one. Back mid-afternoon. Meet March 24 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool (about an hour each way). Free. For more details contact Larry 224-4951 or sunstudio@cableone.net.
HIKE TO A GHOST TOWN
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike to Sunnyside, a historic mining town & cemetery and scenic Peterson Pond. The trail is 6.5 miles total, not too steep and mostly on dirt roads. Bring water and lunch. Back late afternoon. Meet Nov 13 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. The drive is over 90 minutes each way, and we'll pass through the fort so bring photo ID. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Richard at 432-5962 or yhrobinson@gmail.com.
CLIMB ELENITA PEAK
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a unique opportunity to hike up a wooded mountain near Cananea, Mexico with vista views from the top. The old road/path is a stenuous 5 mile round trip. Bring water and lunch. Back late-afternoon. Meet Feb 2 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. We'll cross the border so bring a passport or appropriate ID. Free, but gas & car insurance donation is appreciated. For more details contact Guillermo at guimopa@hotmail.com or Larry at 224-4951.
MORE FROM GUILLERMO
The Elenita Mountain Peak hiking is a strenuous 5 mile round trip. The hiking starts at 6404ft above sea level at “Don Ricardo Mine” which is an old abandoned mine. The hiking goes through a glen for about half mile then we take an old dirt road which will drive us to the Peak (8156ft). Elenita Mountain Peak is located at (30°59.167N 110°23.302W). Elenita Mountain is a heavily covered pine tree mountain. It’s a beautiful place and has beautiful views to all its surroundings. I recommend carrying warm clothes and plenty of water. If there’s no “bad boys” in the vicinity, we could come back through an alternative route which is more beautiful and natural (no dirt road) than the way up. You could leave your cars at the Instituto Tecnologico (the school) and then carpool the trail head which is at 9 miles away from the school. -Guillermo
CLIMB SAN JOSE PEAK
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a unique opportunity to hike on the mountain near Naco, Mexico with vista views from the top. The old road/path is uphill and may be rough for about 6 miles total. Bring water and lunch. Back late-afternoon. Meet Jan 21 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. We'll cross the border so bring a passport or appropriate ID. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Guillermo at guimopa@hotmail.com or Larry at 224-4951.
HIKE TO MEXICAN OBSERVATORY
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a special hike on Mariquita Mountain near Cananea, Mexico. We'll hike the moderately uphill mountain road through forest for about 6 miles total. Vista views from the top, and we will visit the Astronomical Observatory 'Guillermo Haro'. Bring water and lunch. Back late-afternoon. Meet April 2 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. It's an hour each way, and we'll cross the border so bring a passport or appropriate ID. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Guillermo at guimopa@hotmail.com or Larry at 224-4951.
HIKE TO MEXICAN RUINS
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a unique opportunity to hike through La Catalina road way bound to La Turquesa highland at Cananea, Mexico. Enjoy an easy – medium effort hike where some historic mining ruins can be observed. This hiking route is mostly a dirt road with occasional hiking trails. Total hiking distance is 7.14 miles. Bring water and lunch. Back late-afternoon. Meet April 23 at 8am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. We'll cross the border so bring a passport or appropriate ID. Free, but donation for gas & car insurance is appreciated. For more details about the hike contact Jose at jmsanchezl@hotmail.com.
Reply to Larry at sunstudio@cableone.net if you plan to drive or will want a ride. Drivers should have Mexico insurance for the day.
MORE FROM JOSE
We will meet at a gas station at 8:30 where we will take course to La Catalina. We will leave our cars at the entrance of La Catalina Road. It is a safe place. Hiking will start at La Catalina (1580m, 30° 59' 59'' N , 110° 18' 41''W ) We will have some lunch near La Turquesa mining area (1780m, 31° 00' 27'' ,110° 20' 55''W). Some people are expected to be working on the mines. Altitude gain will be 200m. (656ft). Estimated hiking time is about 4 – 4.5 hours. Estimated end hiking hour: 1:00pm.
A brief description of La Catalina and La Turquesa:
La Catalina was once a small ranch area at the beginning of 1900s. Some ruins are still found there, including a copper mine concentrator facility. La Catalina has a dirt road which communicates to La Turquesa highland. This road will be used to hike outbound to La Turquesa and return to the car parking spot. Outbound will have a detour that will be taken to a hiking trail to La Turquesa. La Turquesa is a highland region known for its turquoise mining activity. La Turquesa is a small – scale subterranean mining area. Most turquoise mining is drilled and extracted by sacks. After cleaning and processing, turquoise stone is exported to USA.
