Joe's Canyon

HIKE JOE’S CANYON TRAIL
Join the Muleteam this Saturday, December 28th, 9:00am at the Bisbee Courthouse fountain to carpool to the Coronado Visitor Center for a hike through a very scenic valley in the Huachuca Mountains to Coronado Peak for a good view of Mexico. 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 Mexico. We return down the same way for a total of about 6.5 miles. Bring water and lunch, but no dogs. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Tim Foster at (303) 330-7154 or easefoster@gmail.com.

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BACKTRACK - Bisbee Cross

After all these years, the joy of Muleteam hikes is the diversity. Some are long and hard, and at the end of the day we feel sore and tired but proud of what we had accomplished and the natural beauty we had experienced. Yesterday, the lucky 16 (and a dog) took advantage of the other end of the Muleteam perspective. While not exactly easy, the walk through Old Bisbee streets and rocky trails was not extremely long but very rewarding. At the summit, the crosses, small personal tokens and memorials were -as always- touching. We spent a wonderful and relaxing time there enjoying the magnificent view of Old Bisbee and just getting to know each other. We got home at our own leisurely pace before noon, with fond memories of what many may recall as a perfect afternoon. - Doug

More photos at Photos 2024-25 - Join the page and add a few of your own photos.

Archive Photos:

Past seasons: Photos 2023-24 - Photos 2022-23 - Photos 2021-22 

Other Photos: Picacho Peak 2014 - 20th Anniversary Photo Book

___________________

SIDETRACK - KEEP THEM HIKES ROLLIN’

Dear Mules,

Look at your mail and you’ll be reminded that organizations that rely on volunteers for their survival are always struggling. The Muleteam is one of them, with the big exception that we never ask for money and don’t call you in the middle of the night (I just got a call at 10:30 last night). 

We have gotten off to a good start in this, our 25th year, but we can’t slack off. We still have 11 openings: 2 in January, 1 in February, 4 in March, 3 in April and 1 in the season-finale in May. That may not sound like a lot, but remember: no leader, no hike. Another good thing about the season so far is that the hikes we’ve had are diverse in length and location. The Muleteam stands out as attracting hikers with a wide range of ages and tolerance, so it’s important to offer ranges of distance and difficulty. What that means is that we are just as interested in leaders who have a favorite 3-4 mile hike as those who love their favorite 6-7 mile hike.

The point of all this is that we need volunteers for Jan 11; Feb 8; Mar 1,15,22,29; Apr 12,19,29; and the May 3rd 25th Anniversary Finale. For those who may need some suggestions, here is a list of a few of our most popular hikes we have done almost every year: Cochise Stronghold (Dragoons), Mural Hill (Mules), Charleston Ruins (San Pedro), Guindani Canyon (Whetstones), China Camp (Dragoons), Counsel Rocks (Dragoons). There are lots more, and if you’re curious I’ll send you the complete list of the 100+ trips we’ve done. Just as important, volunteer to lead your favorite new hike. PLEASE

Doug The Recruiter

(520) 432-0307

reiniger@wyoming.com

__________________

SIDETRACK - Subscribe for the email

The web page muleteam.blogspot.com has the current hike and schedule. Also go there to subscribe to the Muleteam weekly email. 

• With a computer/laptop add your email address in the subscription box upper right. 

• To subscribe by phone scroll to the bottom and click "view web version", click the subscription box to enlarge and add your email address.

____________________

SCHEDULE 2024-2025

January

4 - Mural Hill in the Mule Mtns with Larry and Carol

11 - ???

18 - Ida Canyon to Bear Spring in the Huachucas with Molly

25 - Arizona Trail: Canelo Hills West with Lindsay and Deb

Feb 

1 - Perimeter Trail in the Huachucas with Laura & Sara

8 -

15 - San Pedro trail to the old car with Sandy

22 - Mt Ballard in the Mule Mtns with Deb 

March

1 - 

8 - Fairbank and San Pedro river picnic with Doug & Anne

15 - 

22 - 

29 - 

 

April

5 - Parker Canyon Lake and wine tasting with Doug

12 - Old Bisbee art stairs with Larry

19 - 

26 - 

May

3 - Last hike and potluck with ?

Bisbee Cross

HIKE TO THE BISBEE CROSS
Join the Muleteam on Saturday, December 21st for our traditional holiday hike to the Cross and shrine on the hilltop overlooking Old Bisbee. This is a local hike that is short (about 3 miles roundtrip) and mostly easy (except the short final ascent to the Cross) with the best view of downtown Bisbee. Meet at 9:00am at the Courthouse fountain to begin our hike on city streets until the trailhead at the end of OK Street. Bring water and a light snack. We’ll be back into town by lunchtime. For more information contact Doug at 520-432-0307 or reiniger@wyoming.com.

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BACKTRACK - Brown Canyon

The final count for the Brown Canyon hike was 22 and two dogs.  It was a beautiful, sunny day just perfect for hiking.  With lots of conversation along the way, some of the hikers turned around at the troth, and the rest continued onward and upward!  All but six stopped at the sunny "rock spot" for lunch, overlooking the small yet beautiful canyon.  The other six hearty hikers continued on to the saddle.  We were joined by some new recruits--welcome! -Sandy

More photos at Photos 2024-25 - Join the page and add a few of your own photos.

Archive Photos:

Past seasons: Photos 2023-24 - Photos 2022-23 - Photos 2021-22 

Other Photos: Picacho Peak 2014 - 20th Anniversary Photo Book

___________________

SIDETRACK - KEEP THEM HIKES ROLLIN’

Dear Mules,

Look at your mail and you’ll be reminded that organizations that rely on volunteers for their survival are always struggling. The Muleteam is one of them, with the big exception that we never ask for money and don’t call you in the middle of the night (I just got a call at 10:30 last night). 

We have gotten off to a good start in this, our 25th year, but we can’t slack off. We still have 11 openings: 2 in January, 1 in February, 4 in March, 3 in April and 1 in the season-finale in May. That may not sound like a lot, but remember: no leader, no hike. Another good thing about the season so far is that the hikes we’ve had are diverse in length and location. The Muleteam stands out as attracting hikers with a wide range of ages and tolerance, so it’s important to offer ranges of distance and difficulty. What that means is that we are just as interested in leaders who have a favorite 3-4 mile hike as those who love their favorite 6-7 mile hike.

The point of all this is that we need volunteers for Jan 4 & 11; Feb 8; Mar 1,15,22,29; Apr 12,19,29; and the May 3rd 25th Anniversary Finale. For those who may need some suggestions, here is a list of a few of our most popular hikes we have done almost every year: Cochise Stronghold (Dragoons), Mural Hill (Mules), Charleston Ruins (San Pedro), Guindani Canyon (Whetstones), China Camp (Dragoons), Counsel Rocks (Dragoons). There are lots more, and if you’re curious I’ll send you the complete list of the 100+ trips we’ve done. Just as important, volunteer to lead your favorite new hike. PLEASE

Doug The Recruiter

(520) 432-0307

reiniger@wyoming.com

___________________

SIDETRACK - 25th anniversary Muleteam shirts

Shirts were delayed at the printer, but they should be here Wed, Dec 18.

Contact Larry (520-224-4951) for arranged early pickup...or pickup before the next hike at the fountain.

Payment is $15 cash/check in person or by mail: Larry Milam, Box 1585, Bisbee AZ 85603

__________________

SIDETRACK - Subscribe for the email

The web page muleteam.blogspot.com has the current hike and schedule. Also go there to subscribe to the Muleteam weekly email. 

• With a computer/laptop add your email address in the subscription box upper right. 

• To subscribe by phone scroll to the bottom and click "view web version", click the subscription box to enlarge and add your email address.

____________________

SCHEDULE 2024-2025

December

28 - Joe's Canyon in the Huachucas with Bettina and Tim

January

4 - 

11 - 

18 - Ida Canyon to Bear Spring in the Huachucas with Molly

25 - Arizona Trail: Canelo Hills West with Lindsay and Deb

Feb 

1 - Perimeter Trail in the Huachucas with Laura & Sara

8 -

15 - San Pedro trail to the old car with Sandy

22 - Mt Ballard in the Mule Mtns with Deb 

March

1 - 

8 - Fairbank and San Pedro river picnic with Doug & Anne

15 - 

22 - 

29 - 

 

April

5 - Parker Canyon Lake and wine tasting with Doug

12 - 

19 - 

26 - 

May

3 - Last hike and potluck with ?

Brown Canyon

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. Dogs ok with a leash. Bring water and lunch. Back mid-afternoon. Parking by the Brown Canyon Ranch will require paying an $8 fee or using your National Park Pass. Meet Dec. 14 at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. Free but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Sandy at 520-353-5124.

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BACKTRACK - Juniper Flats

Seven hikers trekked through the Juniper Flats backcountry. Starting out below the southside of the second tower we headed eastward and then turned northward down into a beautiful canyon with ponderosa pine, mahogany bush and pinion pine. Scat along the trail suggests that pine nuts are primary forage for black bear. The group took lunch at a camp ruin in a lovely valley surrounded by grassland and alligator juniper. Switchbacks lead us up to the dirt road where the weary hikers took up an invite for hot tea and a tour of Camilla and Jim's beautiful off grid home. Over tea we watched the birds, marvelled at the windowed views and tallied steps on phones estimating 5 miles for the hike, somewhere in between the difference in 7 hiker's strides.  - Carol

More photos at Photos 2024-25 - Join the page and add a few of your own photos.

Archive Photos:

Past seasons: Photos 2023-24 - Photos 2022-23 - Photos 2021-22 

Other Photos: Picacho Peak 2014 - 20th Anniversary Photo Book

___________________

SIDETRACK - 25th anniversary Muleteam shirts

Delivery will be in-person at the fountain before hikes. Available soon!

Payment is cash/check at the fountain or by mail: Larry Milam, Box 1585, Bisbee AZ 85603

__________________

SIDETRACK - Subscribe for the email

The web page muleteam.blogspot.com has the current hike and schedule. Also go there to subscribe to the Muleteam weekly email. 

• With a computer/laptop add your email address in the subscription box upper right. 

• To subscribe by phone scroll to the bottom and click "view web version", click the subscription box to enlarge and add your email address.

____________________

SCHEDULE 2024-2025

December

21 - The Cross above Old Bisbee with Doug

28 - Joe's Canyon in the Huachucas with Bettina and Tim

January

4 - 

11 - 

18 - Bear Springs or Oversite in the Huachucas with Molly

25 - Arizona Trail: Canelo Hills West with Lindsay and Deb

Feb 

1 - Perimeter Trail in the Huachucas with Laura & Sara

8 -

15 - San Pedro trail to the old car with Sandy

22 - Mt Ballard in the Mule Mtns with Deb 

March

1 - 

8 - Fairbank and San Pedro river picnic with Doug & Anne

15 - 

22 - 

29 - 

 

April

5 - Parker Canyon Lake and wine tasting with Doug

12 - 

19 - 

26 - 

May

3 - Last hike and potluck with ?

Juniper Flats

EXPLORE JUNIPER FLATS

Join the Muleteam on Saturday, December 7th for a hike in the Mule Mountains.  This 4 1/2 hour hike is approx 4 miles long.  The hike is moderate, however parts of the trail are covered in softball sized stones that can cause tripping.  Bring water, lunch and maybe hiking poles. Meet at the Courthouse fountain at 9am to carpool up to the trail site which is past the first tower and before the second tower.  Call Carol for more details 413-667-8760.

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BACKTRACK - Warren trails

In spite of it being a holiday weekend with lots going on in Bisbee, seven dedicated hikers made time for this amble. We were rewarded with beautiful weather and a walk with no ups or downs. We started in Laverne Williams Park with Doug Danforth showing us native plants with many wonderful smells even in the end of November and giving us lots of ideas for our own gardens. Then, making only one wrong turn in Galena we walked along the Campbell mine shaft property and turned onto the old railroad bed that used to go to the smelter in Douglas. It was a historic tour of the area as we went by the site of the 1917 deportation. We then continued past the ball park and out to Gold Gulch Road where we lunched on the foundation of the Bisbee Country Club (1909 photo). On the way back some detoured to the farmer’s market. - Monica

More photos at Photos 2024-25 - Join the page and add a few of your own photos.

Archive Photos:

Past seasons: Photos 2023-24 - Photos 2022-23 - Photos 2021-22 

Other Photos: Picacho Peak 2014 - 20th Anniversary Photo Book

___________________

SIDETRACK - Help preserve the Ridge Trail and Zacatecas Canyon!

70 acres just went up for sale in Zacatecas that contains part of the Ridge Trail, the beautiful oak canyon drainage, and lush north slopes. Many people are looking at it, and a buyer could cut off hikers walking the popular hiking loop trail around Zacatecas Canyon to the saddle and white cross, as well as hiking the canyon. Help us preserve this open space land! For more info, please contact Cado Daily cadomexico@gmail.com --- Zillow listing

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SIDETRACK - 25th anniversary Muleteam shirts

Shirts will be printed soon (1 week?) - Delivery will be in-person at the fountain before hikes.

Payment is cash/check at the fountain or by mail: Larry Milam, Box 1585, Bisbee AZ 85603

__________________

SIDETRACK - Subscribe for the email

The web page muleteam.blogspot.com has the current hike and schedule. Also go there to subscribe to the Muleteam weekly email. 

• With a computer/laptop add your email address in the subscription box upper right. 

• To subscribe by phone scroll to the bottom and click "view web version", click the subscription box to enlarge and add your email address.

____________________

SCHEDULE 2024-2025

December

14 - Brown Canyon in the Huachucas with Sandy

21 - The Cross above Old Bisbee with Doug

28 - Joe's Canyon in the Huachucas with Bettina and Tim

January

4 - 

11 - 

18 - 

25 - 

Feb 

1 - Perimeter Trail in the Huachucas with Laura & Sara

8 -

15 - San Pedro trail to the old car with Sandy

22 - Mt Ballard in the Mule Mtns with Deb 

March

1 - 

8 - Fairbank and San Pedro river picnic with Doug & Anne

15 - 

22 - 

29 - 

 

April

5 - Parker Canyon Lake and wine tasting with Doug

12 - 

19 - 

26 - 

May

3 - Last hike and potluck with ?

Warren Trails

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 November 30 at 9 a.m. by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain. From there we will car-caravan to a parking area in Galena. For more information contact Monica at 520-461-6799 or sometimesthelight@hotmail.com

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BACKTRACK - Echo Canyon

12 hikers met in the Chiricahuas for the Echo Canyon loop trail. Perfect weather, sunny with a cool breeze. We had forgotten how amazing and surreal the rock formations are, and we were convinced that a large flat rock we took photos on in the past was just no longer there. Yikes. The group stayed together pretty well...for us, and we had a nice lunch spot near pools of water. A very successful day outdoors and worth the drive. Thanks for hiking with me. - Larry

More photos at Photos 2024-25 - Join the page and add a few of your own photos.

Archive Photos:

Past seasons: Photos 2023-24 - Photos 2022-23 - Photos 2021-22 

Other Photos: Picacho Peak 2014 - 20th Anniversary Photo Book

___________________

SIDETRACK - 25th anniversary Muleteam shirts

Shirts will be printed soon (2 weeks?). - Delivery will be in-person at the fountain before hikes.

Payment is cash/check at the fountain or by mail: Larry Milam, Box 1585, Bisbee AZ 85603

__________________

SIDETRACK - Subscribe for the email

The web page muleteam.blogspot.com has the current hike and schedule. Also go there to subscribe to the Muleteam weekly email. 

• With a computer/laptop add your email address in the subscription box upper right. 

• To subscribe by phone scroll to the bottom and click "view web version", click the subscription box to enlarge and add your email address.

____________________

SCHEDULE 2024-2025

December

7 - Juniper Flats in the Mule Mtns with Carol

14 - Brown Canyon in the Huachucas with Sandy

21 - The Cross above Old Bisbee with Doug

28 - Joe's Canyon in the Huachucas with Bettina and Tim

January

4 - 

11 - 

18 - 

25 - 

Feb 

1 - Perimeter Trail in the Huachucas with Laura & Sara

8 -

15 - San Pedro trail to the old car with Sandy

22 - Mt Ballard in the Mule Mtns with Deb 

March

1 - 

8 - Fairbank and San Pedro river picnic with Doug & Anne

15 - 

22 - 

29 - 

 

April

5 - Parker Canyon Lake and wine tasting with Doug

12 - 

19 - 

26 - 

May

3 - Last hike and potluck with ?

Echo Canyon

HIKE IN ECHO CANYON (meet 8am)

Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike on a top scenic trail in the Chiricahua Mountains. It's an easy 3.7 miles total with a loop through amazing closeup rock formations and vista viewpoints. Bring water and lunch, but no dogs. Back 3-4pm. Meet Nov 23 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 Larry at 520-224-4951 or larryjmilam@gmail.com.

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BACKTRACK - Miller Canyon

16 people and 1 dog enjoyed the beautiful hike through the wooded canyon as New England “leafers” enjoying the gorgeous foliage with a sunlit backdrop. Maples, cottonwoods, oaks, and sycamores all aglow; breath taking! Water in the stream flowed as we gained some elevation. Lunch at the sawmill ruins was a bit chilly but we decided to stay there and enjoy the sound of the little waterfall. On the way down, one of the hikers spotted a hawk posing in a tree very patiently as we gawked and snapped photos. We made an educated guess of identifying the beauty to be a red tail. (We couldn’t see its tail or underside.) It was an absolutely perfect day for this hike as we all enjoyed the beauty through the woods. - Jan

More photos at Photos 2024-25 - Join the page and add a few of your own photos.

Archive Photos:

Past seasons: Photos 2023-24 - Photos 2022-23 - Photos 2021-22 

Other Photos: Picacho Peak 2014 - 20th Anniversary Photo Book

___________________

ORDER DEADLINE: Tue, Nov 19!

You don't order now, you don't get one. Pay Later.

 25th anniversary Muleteam shirts - $15

Text or call Larry at 520-224-4951 with: 

• Name  • Size (S, M, L, XL)  • Quantity  • Ink color preference (blue or green).

Shirts will be printed when order is final - Delivery is in-person at the fountain before hikes

Payment is cash/check at the fountain or by mail: Larry Milam, Box 1585, Bisbee AZ 85603

__________________

SIDETRACK - Subscribe for the email

The web page muleteam.blogspot.com has the current hike and schedule. Also go there to subscribe to the Muleteam weekly email. 

• With a computer/laptop add your email address in the subscription box upper right. 

• To subscribe by phone scroll to the bottom and click "view web version", click the subscription box to enlarge and add your email address.

____________________

SCHEDULE 2024-2025

November 

30 - Walking trails through Warren with Monica

December

7 - Juniper Flats in the Mule Mtns with Carol

14 - Brown Canyon in the Huachucas with Sandy

21 - The Cross above Old Bisbee with Doug

28 - Joe's Canyon in the Huachucas with Bettina and Tim

January

4 - 

11 - 

18 - 

25 - 

Feb 

1 - Perimeter Trail in the Huachucas with Laura & Sara

8 -

15 - San Pedro trail to the old car with Sandy

22 - Mt Ballard in the Mule Mtns with Deb 

March

1 - 

8 - Fairbank and San Pedro river picnic with Doug & Anne

15 - 

22 - 

29 - 

 

April

5 - Parker Canyon Lake and wine tasting with Doug

12 - 

19 - 

26 - 

May

3 - Last hike and potluck with ?

Miller Canyon

HIKE MILLER CANYON

Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike through lower Miller Canyon, a scenic wooded valley in the Huachuca Mountains. The trail may have some water in the stream, but doubtful. From lower Miller, we will hop the road and head up upper Miller for less than a mile and have a snack or lunch by the ruins of the Parlermee saw mill. This is a very easy hike with a 5 mile round trip. Bring water and lunch. Dogs on leashes OK. Back early afternoon. Meet 9am November 16 by the Bisbee Courthouse fountain to carpool. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Jan at 704-299-6614 or bolduc03@aol.

 
SV people or others can meet on Miller Canyon Road, in large dirt parking on the left with restrooms.

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SIDETRACK

After winging it and herding cats for 25 years someone finally wrote some guidelines for Muleteam hiking. Scroll to the bottom past the schedule to check out how Doug put it all into words...

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BACKTRACK - Mule Mountain Ridge Option

Ten hikers and one dog started off from the Iron Man on a beautiful morning. Four more joined us up on Locklin, and three of the 14 braved the deer tracks and catclaw to bushwhack down to the Wildcat Canyon watercourse, seeing all styles of check dams and some of the interesting things carved into them by the WPA when they were constructed (1936). One of the larger check dams bears a starting and ending date: 9 days according to the inscription. As always, it's a pleasure to hike in Bisbee's Backcountry with the Muleteam -- Lindsay

PS - I found a pair of sunglasses after the bushwhack group got to Zacatecas. If anyone lost some, have them give me a call at 954-770-2221.

Wildcat Canyon Group 2 

As planned, four hikers opted to follow Doug on the Ridge Trail for five and-a-half miles through scenic Mule Mountain country and down to Zacatecas Trail and Brewery Gulch to downtown Bisbee, where we were greeted by good music and happy crowds. - Doug

More photos at Photos 2024-25 - Join the page and add a few of your own photos.

Archive Photos:

Past seasons: Photos 2023-24 - Photos 2022-23 - Photos 2021-22 

Other Photos: Picacho Peak 2014 - 20th Anniversary Photo Book

___________________

25th anniversary Muleteam shirts

Order now, pay later - this is a limited offer. You don't order, you don't get one.

Muleteam butter colored cotton shirts - $15

Text or call Larry at 520-224-4951 with: 

• Name  • Size (S, M, L, XL)  • Quantity  • Ink color preference (blue or green).

Shirts will be printed in a few weeks - Delivery is in-person at the fountain before hikes

Payment is cash/check at the fountain or by mail: Larry Milam, Box 1585, Bisbee AZ 85603

__________________

SIDETRACK - Subscribe for the email

The web page muleteam.blogspot.com has the current hike and schedule. Also go there to subscribe to the Muleteam weekly email. 

• With a computer/laptop add your email address in the subscription box upper right. 

• To subscribe by phone scroll to the bottom and click "view web version", click the subscription box to enlarge and add your email address.

____________________

SCHEDULE 2024-2025

November 

23 - Echo Canyon in the Chiricahuas with Larry

30 - Walking trails through Warren with Monica

December

7 - ???

14 - Brown Canyon in the Huachucas with Sandy

21 - The Cross above Old Bisbee with Doug

28 - Joe's Canyon in the Huachucas with Bettina and Tim

January

4 - 

11 - 

18 - 

25 - 

Feb 

1 - Perimeter Trail in the Huachucas with Laura & Sara

8 -

15 - San Pedro trail to the old car with Sandy

22 - Mt Ballard in the Mule Mtns with Deb 

March

1 - 

8 - Fairbank and San Pedro river picnic with Doug & Anne

15 - 

22 - 

29 - 

 

April

5 - Parker Canyon Lake and wine tasting with Doug

12 - 

19 - 

26 - 

May

3 - Last hike and potluck with ?

____________________

GUIDELINES FOR MULETEAM LEADERS AND HIKERS

As we approach our 25th year, and like almost all other groups, things change with time and our hikers need to be reminded of our fundamental values and what sets us apart from other hiking groups. 

  First and foremost, the Muleteam reflects the casual nature of our city. There is no formal organization. Everyone is invited to join us on Saturday mornings. Our hikes are not races. There is always a range of endurance and styles among our hikers, but we go at a reasonable pace, make sure not to let anyone fall too far behind, take frequent breaks and sit together for a long lunch break on all but short hikes. This is the “Spirit of the Muleteam”.

We feel that it is time to remind everyone of some guidelines that reflect our Spirit and insure the comfort and safety of everyone. 

    • Leaders should make frequent stops and let everyone catch up before you resume.

    • A “sweeper”(hiker who agrees to take up the rear) should be assigned to stay with the slowest hikers.

    • In extreme circumstances where the slowest hiker(s) are very far behind, the Leader should not continue with the main group unless or until they have had visual or phone contact with the sweeper to confirm that the slowest hiker(s) are safe and aware of the trail.

    • Hikers who want to stop should make sure to inform the Leader

    • On one-way trails, hikers who want to stop should inform the leader if they plan to stop on the trail and wait for the main group to return.

    • On loop trails or hikers who want to turn back to the start should inform the Leader that they want to turn back and return to the starting point.

    • Hikers, especially those who are unfamiliar to the trail, are strongly recommended to pay attention to the trail in case -for any reason- they get separated and need to return. 

    • It is strongly recommended that no hiker turning back ever returns alone. A hiker who chooses to return to the starting point should always find another hiker who is familiar with the trail and also wants to return. It is extremely dangerous to separate from the group alone. There have been times when solo hikers have become lost and at least two major injuries by Muleteam hikers that would have been catastrophic if they were alone.  

    • We recommend that everyone on a Muelteam hike bring their mobile phone, and give their cell phone number to Larry, to be posted on the Muleteam Blog for distribution to all hikers, for communication or in case of an emergency on a hike. 

We respect the freedom of experienced and well-conditioned hikers who are familiar with any particular hike and choose to move ahead of the main group. These guidelines address recommendations for Leaders and hikers to make Muleteam hikes fun, comfortable and safe, just as they have been for almost 25 years.

Thank you for hiking with us.

Doug Reiniger

reiniger@wyoming.com

LL 520-432-0307

Cell 307-690-8905

Larry Milam

larryjmilam@gmail.com

520-224-4951

Mule Mtn Ridge Option

Wildcat Canyon Bushwack and Optional Mule Ridge Counterspin

Join the Muleteam on November 9th at 9 a.m. at the Courthouse fountain and plan to wear long pants and your most rugged shoes: we'll walk up Tombstone Canyon to Locklin and when we get to the Mule Mountain Ridge there will be a choice to: 

[1] Follow Lindsay and bushwhack down into Wildcat Canyon (the one on the other side of the Ridge, not the one north of Juniper Flats). This is a difficult hike. The catclaw, rolly rocks and unstable terrain come with fantastic views of Bisbee's backcountry. Once at the bottom, our route winds back and forth across the watercourse with plenty of check dams and more rock features than you'd expect. We'll pop out near the end of Brewery Gulch and head back to the Iron Man via town, many options for lunch. About 4.5 miles, 832 ft. altitude gain.; or 

[2] Follow Doug along the Ridge on the “Bisbee Counterspin” and down into the Zacatecas Trail and continue on to Brewery Gulch and back into town. This is a less difficult hike of about the same length.

Bring a snack, water, hat, hiking sticks, gloves. Well-behaved dogs welcome.  Text or call Lindsay at 954-770-2221 for more information.

___________________

BACKTRACK - Mule Mountain Mosey

On a perfect hiking weather day, albeit a little gusty at times, twenty-one hikers and one dog zigzagged their way up the recently weed-whacked trail after an introduction and safety disclaimer from Gordon. Larry took the group photo at the shade structure and then most followed the cleared trail uphill to the back of the property and hiked even farther towards the peak. Smaller groups turned around at different points along the way, and many enjoyed hanging out back at the shade structure. A few hikers scrambled up the rock outcropping near the summit for their snacks and photos before heading back down. Several of us accidentally went off of the ridge (which is easy to do on the way back - ask me how I know!) and had to take the longer way back, but everyone was accounted for and enjoyed the gorgeous vistas. Thanks again to the Douglases for opening their property to us and to you, Gordon, for spending hours clearing the grass. We felt like Mule Team royalty.  - Susan M

More photos at Photos 2024-25 - Join the page and add a few of your own photos.

Archive Photos:

Past seasons: Photos 2023-24 - Photos 2022-23 - Photos 2021-22 

Other Photos: Picacho Peak 2014 - 20th Anniversary Photo Book

___________________

25th anniversary Muleteam shirts

Order now, pay later - this is a limited offer. You don't order, you don't get one.

Muleteam butter colored cotton shirts - $15

Text or call Larry at 520-224-4951 with: 

• Name  • Size (S, M, L, XL)  • Quantity  • Ink color preference (blue or green).

Shirts will be printed in a few weeks - Delivery is in-person at the fountain before hikes

Payment is cash/check at the fountain or by mail: Larry Milam, Box 1585, Bisbee AZ 85603

__________________

SIDETRACK - Subscribe for the email

The web page muleteam.blogspot.com has the current hike and schedule. Also go there to subscribe to the Muleteam weekly email. 

• With a computer/laptop add your email address in the subscription box upper right. 

• To subscribe by phone scroll to the bottom and click "view web version", click the subscription box to enlarge and add your email address.

____________________

CALENDAR 2024-2025

November 

16 - Miller Canyon in the Huachucas with Jan

23 - Echo Canyon in the Chiricahuas with Larry

30 - Walking trails through Warren with Monica

December

7 - Oversite Canyon in the Huachucas with Brad

14 - Brown Canyon in the Huachucas with Sandy

21 - The Cross above Old Bisbee with Doug

28 - 

January

4 - 

11 - 

18 - 

25 - 

Feb 

1 - Perimeter Trail in the Huachucas with Laura & Sara

8 -

15 - San Pedro trail to the old car with Ken

22 - Mt Ballard in the Mule Mtns with Deb 

March

1 - 

8 - Fairbank and San Pedro river picnic with Doug & Anne

15 - 

22 - 

29 - 

 

April

5 - Parker Canyon Lake and wine tasting with Doug

12 - 

19 - 

26 - 

May

3 - Last hike and potluck with ?

 

NW Mule Mtns

NORTHWEST MULE MTN MOSEY

Join us for only the second Muleteam hike on the Douglas property and beyond in the western Mule Mountains! This out-and-back hike has three stages: there is something for everyone on this route. There's an easy switchback ascent to a low hill with a shade structure and ample seating, followed by a walk along the ridge west toward the peaks, and an optional rock-scramble summit to "Mount Gordon." Two years ago when we did the hike, we all rendezvoused at the shade structure for our lunch. The full route is 3.1 miles total with 1,705 feet of elevation gain. If you choose to summit, you are rewarded with grand views, including Sierra Vista and the Huachucas. Even if you choose to do the whole hike and peak ascension, you would still be back by early afternoon. Gordon and Diana Douglas have graciously offered their property as access. 

We will meet at the courthouse at 9 am Saturday, Nov. 2 and carpool to their property, 3137 W. Hwy 80. It is on the left, about 3 miles after the Mule Pass tunnel between mile markers 337 and 336 when heading west on Hwy 80. After an orange mailbox on the left, look for the far end of a long guardrail, and the driveway is at the end of the guardrail on the left with a sharp left turn. We will put out an orange cone and a Mule team sign. Bring water and a snack lunch. Sunscreen is recommended as there is little shade. Hiking poles are optional, and dogs are welcome. Contact Susan Mayes at 610-220-5287 for more information.

___________________

BACKTRACK - Laura's Loop

16 hikers kicked off the new Muleteam season, meeting up at the trailhead of Laura's Loop.  We decided to take the team photo right then and there, suspecting that we might not all make it to the other side, and probably not all at the same time, even if we did.  Good thing!  The day was HOT and the path was obscured in many places by the long desert grasses.  Some plowed ahead while others did the slow version.  It was a team effort, which is part of the beauty of our hiking club.  Susan led the group through town to the trailhead.  Laura was the hike leader.  Doug was the "sweeper" in the back.  And to top it all off, Larry baked a quiche with a layer of pesto on top for those who cooled off at his house afterwards.  That's what I call a good club.  And the award goes to Jay, who hiked the entire loop with a torn meniscus!   Bravo, Mulees.  - Laura

Photos 2024-25 - Joint the page and add a few of your own photos.

Archive Photos:

Past seasons: Photos 2023-24 - Photos 2022-23 - Photos 2021-22 

Other Photos: Picacho Peak 2014 - 20th Anniversary Photo Book

___________________

25th anniversary Muleteam shirts

Taking orders now for the new Muleteam butter colored cotton shirts - $15

Text Larry at 520-224-4951 with: 

• Name  • Size (S, M, L, XL)  • Quantity  • Ink color preference (blue or green).

Shirts will be printed in a few weeks - Payment is cash/check only - Delivery is in-person only

__________________

SIDETRACK - Subscribe for the email

The web page muleteam.blogspot.com has the current hike and schedule. Also go there to subscribe to the Muleteam weekly email. 

• With a computer/laptop add your email address in the subscription box upper right. 

• To subscribe by phone scroll to the bottom and click "view web version", click the subscription box to enlarge and add your email address.

____________________

CALENDAR 2024-2025

November 

9 - Mule Mountain: Wildcat or Ridge with Lindsey

16 - Miller Canyon in the Huachucas with Jan

23 - Echo Canyon in the Chiricahuas with Larry

30 - Walking trails through Warren with Monica

December

7 - Oversite Canyon in the Huachucas with Brad

14 - 

21 - The Cross above Old Bisbee with Doug

28 - 

January

4 - 

11 - 

18 - 

25 - 

Feb 

1 - Perimeter Trail in the Huachucas with Laura & Sara

8 -

15 - 

22 - Mt Ballard in the Mule Mtns with Deb 

March

1 - 

8 - Fairbank and San Pedro river picnic with Doug & Anne

15 - 

22 - 

29 - 

 

April

5 - Parker Canyon Lake and wine tasting with Doug

12 - 

19 - 

26 - 

May

3 - Last hike and potluck with ?

 

Laura's Loop

HIKE THE DESERT BEYOND OLD BISBEE

Join the Muleteam Oct 26 for their first hike of the season. We'll start at 9am at the Courthouse and walk city streets to the end of OK Street. From there we'll follow a trail northwards along the sides of the hills, with great views of the Mule Mountain Ridge and down to Zacatecas Canyon. At the end of the Canyon, we’ll have the option to pick up City Trail (with different views of downtown Bisbee) to High Road and then to Larry’s house for lunch (bring your own). For those who don’t want to hike City Trail, you’ll have the option to walk through downtown and Main Street or return directly to the Courthouse. 

About 4 miles total. Back by lunchtime. Bring water and a snack/lunch. Dogs welcome. Meet October 26th at 9am by the Old Bisbee Courthouse fountain to start the hike. Free. For more information call or text Laura at 206-715-6589 or mssmithlg@aol.com.

___________________

HIKE LEADERS NEEDED

Please help fill up the new hiking schedule (below) by leading a hike. 

To talk about the trail options and schedule your Saturday contact Doug at

reiniger@wyoming.com or (520)432-0307.

___________________

BACKTRACK

Parker Canyon Lake 4-2024

Archive Photos:

Past seasons: Photos 2023-24 - Photos 2022-23 - Photos 2021-22 

Link to photos from Picacho Peak 2014

___________________

25th anniversary Muleteam shirts coming soon

__________________

SIDETRACK - Subscribe for the email

The web page muleteam.blogspot.com has the current hike and schedule. Also go there to subscribe to the Muleteam weekly email. 

• With a computer/laptop add your email address in the subscription box upper right. 

• To subscribe by phone scroll to the bottom and click "view web version", click the subscription box to enlarge and add your email address.

____________________

CALENDAR 2024-2025

November 

2 - NW Mule Mtn Mosey with Susan Mayes

9 - Mule Mountain Ridge & Wildcat with Lindsey

16 - ???

23 - ???

30 - ???

December

7 - Oversite Canyon in the Huachucas with Brad

14 - 

21 - 

28 - 

January

4 - 

11 - 

18 - 

25 - 

Feb 

1 - Perimeter Trail in the Huachucas with Laura & Sara

8 -

15 - 

22 - Mt Ballard in the Mule Mtns with Deb 

............

Ready to Hike?

HIKE LEADERS NEEDED

Please help fill up the new hiking schedule (see below) by leading a hike. 

To talk about the trail options and schedule your Saturday contact Doug at

reiniger@wyoming.com or (520)432-0307.

Link to previous Muleteam description and details - Muleteam intro

___________________

HIKE THE DESERT BEYOND OLD BISBEE

Join the Muleteam Oct 26 for their first hike of the season. We'll start at 9am at the Courthouse and walk city streets to the end of OK Street. From there we'll follow a trail northwards along the sides of the hills, with great views of the Mule Mountain Ridge and down to Zacatecas Canyon. At the end of the Canyon, we’ll have the option to pick up City Trail (with different views of downtown Bisbee) to High Road and then to Larry’s house for lunch (bring your own). For those who don’t want to hike City Trail, you’ll have the option to walk through downtown and Main Street or return directly to the Courthouse. 

About 4 miles total. Back by lunchtime. Bring water and a snack/lunch. Dogs welcome. Meet October 26th at 9am by the Old Bisbee Courthouse fountain to start the hike. Free. For more information call or text Laura at 206-715-6589 or mssmithlg@aol.com.

____________________

CALENDAR 2024-2025

October

26 - Laura's Loop

November 

2 - ??? 

9 - Mule Mountain Ridge & Wildcat with Lindsey

16 - ???

23 - ???

30 - ???

December

7 - 

14 - 

21 - 

28 - 

January

4 - 

11 - 

18 - 

25 - 

Feb 

1 - Perimeter Trail with Laura & Sara

8 - 

............

 

Season 25

2024-2025 MULETEAM SEASON NEEDS HIKE LEADERS

The Muleteam is our local Bisbee hiking group that has been having Saturday hikes from late October to early May every year since 2000. It’s an informal group with no organization, meetings or dues. Anyone is welcome to show up at the County Court House fountain any Saturday at 9am (with some early departures). We have a core group of diverse hikers but are happy to have short-term visitors and seasonal renters. Many great friendships have been made by meeting people with similar interest in hiking and exploring the beautiful lands of Southern Cochise County. 

Muleteam hikes are not races. There is always a range of endurance and styles among our hikers, but we go at a reasonable pace, make sure not to let anyone fall too far behind, take frequent breaks and sit together for a long lunch break. Our hikes are a very wide range of locations, distance from Old Bisbee, difficulty, and environment. Our hikes average 3-7 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 Huachucas. We each only go on hikes that make sense to us individually. Every week is different, and it’s fun when new people show up.

There is advance notice of every hike, with a detailed description at muleteam.blogspot.com (where you can subscribe to the weekly email). The blogspot has the calendar for all hiking Saturdays between October 26, 2024 to mid-May 2025, description of upcoming hikes and past hikes (with photos), plus ongoing notices.

WE NEED HIKE LEADERS NOW TO VOLUNTEER 

WELL IN ADVANCE FOR EVERY SATURDAY OF THE SEASON. 

You don’t have to be a hard-core hiker to lead one (or more) of these hikes. 

Doug Reiniger is in charge of recruitment of Hike Leaders. 
To talk about leading a hike contact Doug at reiniger@wyoming.com, (520)432-0307.

Larry Milam posts the blog and maintains the Muleteam photo pages.

Contact Larry at larryjmilam@gmail.com, (520)224-4951.