Summer Update

GOODBYE CHARLES
When I moved to Bisbee in 2000 Yvonne Grimm was starting this hiking group, and Charles Marie was leading most of the weekly hikes. I just heard that Charles died peacefully Friday, June 20, so I wanted to remember him here. He introduced many of us to most of the wonderful, local trails that we still hike these days. Thank you, Charles.  - Larry

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BIG SIDETRACK

Back in late April with a limited number of permits Jan, Molly, Carol and Kenny made a special trip to The Wave and White Pocket to camp and explore.

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DOUG'S NEW ANKLE

Doug Reiniger, Muleteam Hike Recruiter, just had an ankle replacement, so he's out of action for a while. He seems to be doing well, and you can contact him at reiniger@wyoming.com.

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SCHEDULE 2025-2026

The first hike of the new season will be Saturday, October 25.

W Tombstone Backtrack

BACKTRACK - W Tombstone & Potluck

Twenty hikers meandered the non-Bisbee 1000 stairs and rarely traveled streets off of West Tombstone Canyon. The weather was perfect, and the chinaberry trees, roses, and honeysuckle perfumed the air. Many walkers remarked that they had never been on some of the streets nor stairways. Most folks stayed for the potluck while seven others joined us on Garden Ave. The photo was taken after eating a colorful and tasty array of lunch items. Thanks to all who participated. It was a splendid conclusion to the season.

Several hikers asked for the route so that they could find it in the future...

Mason Hill > up stairs at end of street > rt on Roberts > rt. on stairs at the end > left on Brophy. 
Left on Tombstone > left on Cantner bends rt./turns into Ilker > down stairs > left on Tombstone. 
Left on Gentry up stairs > rt. on Pace Ave. (Hwy 80 in front of you). 
Left up (Lower) Sims across from Garfield Park > stairs on left up to end of Sims > bends rit. back down to Tombstone. 
Cross Tombstone at crosswalk > left on sidewalk and up stairs on right (before Wood Cyn) to the reservoir and old pool at the end of Locklin. 
Down Locklin > Left on Tombstone > Left up stairs before Warren Ave. 
Right across the vacant lot to the end of Art Ave. > down Art
Left on Tombstone > left on Gladys > up stairs to Adams
Rt. on Adams to Laundry Hill > left on path before white house and down stairs to Art Ave. which leads to Circle K and Garden Ave.

Thanks to all the Mule Teamers who keep the group alive!

Susan Mayes

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SIDETRACK - Muleteam article

Written by Lyda Longa for the 2025 edition of Life In Cochise published by the Herald Review

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SCHEDULE 2025-2026

The first hike of the new season will be Saturday, October 25.

Have a good summer, and "thanks for hiking with me".

Larry

W Tombstone & Potluck

WEST TOMBSTONE CANYON STAIRS & STREETS
The last hike of this season features 3 - 3.5 miles of streets, stairs and trails around west Tombstone Canyon. Perhaps this off-the-beaten-path route will include some stairs you have not explored or at least do not visit often! We will conclude at 426 Garden Ave. for our shared covered dish lunch around 11-11:30. You are welcome to just show up for lunch.

Meet Saturday, May 3 at 9:00 a.m. at Old Bisbee Courthouse fountain to carpool to 426 Garden Ave. (just up Tombstone Canyon beyond Circle K) to drop off food for the covered dish lunch. Parking for several cars is available in the back of the house. Bring water for hiking, your shared dish, beverage of choice, and hiking poles (if desired).  Leashed dogs are welcome. Questions? Call Susan at 610-220-5287.

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BACKTRACK - South Perimeter

Six hikers and 2 dogs started out on the hike.  Although it was very warm, the strong wind made the heat more tolerable.  Some of us had a struggle to keep our hats on due to the strong wind.  One hiker and dog turned around about half-way to Miller Canyon due to concern about her dog overheating.  We decided to have lunch in the Miller Road parking lot under a tree for shade instead of hiking up to the little peak which overlooks the San Pedro Valley but doesn’t really offer any shade.  Four hikers had access to a vehicle in the Miller Road parking lot and left.  The two remaining hikers hiked back to Hunter Canyon.  Everyone seemed to like hiking the South Perimeter Trail but agreed it should be done earlier in the year when it isn’t so hot. - Ed

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

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SIDETRACK - Shirts?

I have a few extra Muleteam shirts available - Medium and Large - $15 each

Text Larry at 520-224-4951

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SCHEDULE 2025-2026

The first hike of the new season will be Saturday, October 25.

South Perimeter

SOUTH PERIMETER TRAIL HIKE
Join the Muleteam this Saturday, April 26th, for a hike along the winding foothills of the Huachuca Mountains between Hunter and Miller Canyons with vista views of the San Pedro Valley. This hike is similar to the North Perimeter Trail from Carr to Miller, only the hills are more gradual. Lunch will be at the same spot as the North Perimeter Trail hike on a little peak overlooking the San Pedro Valley. It will be about a 7 mile round trip hike (3 miles to the Miller Road parking lot and half a mile to the little peak for lunch). Meet at 9am at the Bisbee Courthouse fountain. Bring water and lunch. Dogs are welcome. Back by mid-afternoon. For more details, contact Ed at 313-204-2119 or erex66@gmail.com.

Alternatively, hikers may meet us at about 9:30am at the Hunter Canyon Road parking lot. Turn west off Route 92 onto East Hunter Canyon Road-there is no road sign, but Google Maps shows the dirt road. The road is right where the four lanes of 92 drops to two lanes. Cross the cattle grate and park on the left. 

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BACKTRACK - Rucker Camp/hike

Four hardy campers braved the wind, sleet and cold at Rucker Forest Camp.  We all enjoyed the solitude except for one other tenter who came from Bisbee.  Interesting fellow, turns out he has lots of extra time to take to the woods due to his job no longer getting contracts with FEMA.  He was quite upbeat even after he mentioned his wife was fired the previous day.  She was an FDA meat inspector on the border.  One Muleteam camper decided to join the Easter camp crowd at Walnut Grove.  

Even though the weather was continuously changing, the nights were calm and silent.  Early morning brought a variety of bird songs and sightings such as, robyns, painted redstarts and yellow warblers.  Met with the Ranger due to a minor infraction of driving around the Jersey barriers.  He reprimanded us.  Then he stayed and caught up with one of the Muleteamers on the goings on in Galena.  Turned out he lived in the same house she bought recently.  

Saturday morning the sun came out and the cool temperature was perfect for hiking.  Seven people and two dogs followed the creek trail through Rucker canyon.  Approximately 4-5 miles total.  Two hikers went part way up the switchbacks towards Price Trail and were rewarded with beautiful views.  Sunday three hikers hiked a couple miles in Red Rock Canyon.  All in all it was another fun camp adventure with the Muleteam. - Carol

Several of the Muleteam members spent 3 nights and 4 days at Rucker Canyon in the Chiricahua Mountains. We hiked every day. Three members came up Saturday for the main hike. The trip was great! It was freezing and we got snowed on! The day we left we were in shorts and tank tops and decided to hike Copper Canyon on the way out. A truly memorable trip for so many reasons. Let’s just say we ate really well and laughed a lot. Carol and I found geodes. - Jan B

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

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The web page muleteam.blogspot.com has the current hike and schedule. Also go there to subscribe to the Muleteam weekly email (125 followers). 

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SCHEDULE 2024-2025

May

3 - West Tombstone Canyon last hike and potluck with Susan Mayes

Rucker Update

Edited blog please check it over...

RUCKER HIKE & CAMPOUT
Almost every year the Muleteam hosts a weekend campout and hike. This year the location is Rucker Canyon in the Chiricahuas. This is an overnight campout Friday and optional Saturday night. The camping location is at the Rucker Forest Camp, which no longer has facilities/toilets, but there are lovely tent sites and dispersed camping areas along the road and beyond the Jersey Barriers near the trailhead. 

Friday night a potluck dinner is planned. Talk with friends about food and drink.

Saturday the hike is along the creek then up to the Price Canyon Trail ridge and back.  

Sunday after breakfast there will be a short, leisurely morning hike up Raspberry Ridge Trail.

Directions: Take Route 80 East towards Douglas, then Route 191 N to right on N Rucker Canyon Road. Turn left onto E Rucker Canyon Road. Walnut Canyon Grove Campground will be on the left and the Rucker Ranger Fire Station is on the right. The dirt road is approximately 19 miles to the very end.   
 
Hike Only: For those just coming for the Saturday hike without camping, carpooling is recommended, meet Saturday at the courthouse fountain at 8AM. 

For more information or details contact Carol Chandler at (413) 667-8760 or chandlercarolpsk@gmail.com

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BACKTRACK - Art Stairs

17 people showed up for the art stair hike, and we had a great time meandering all over Old Bisbee exploring some of the more interesting paths and arty details. It was a warm morning, and during the 3 hour walk some dropped out along the way. So about 10 of us had lunch on Castle Rock before heading back to the cars. Thanks to John for being sweeper and Lea for the photos. It was a very fun day! - 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

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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 (125 followers). 

• 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.

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SCHEDULE 2024-2025

 

April

26 - South Perimeter Trail in the Huachucas with Ed King

May

3 - West Tombstone Canyon last hike and potluck with Susan Mayes

Art Stairs

OLD BISBEE ‘ART STAIRS’ HIKE
Join the Muleteam this Saturday to explore some unique outside art (murals, mosaics, sculpture...) 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, lunch and maybe a camera, but no dogs. Back about noon or drop out when you want. Meet April 12 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.

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BACKTRACK - Parker Lake

Seven people and a dog. Some clouds and then sun, surrounded by the beauty of Parker Canyon Lake. A fine hike and great company. It was a classic healthy Muleteam Saturday with some new friends, topped off with a little taste of wine and conversation outside overlooking the vineyard. A day well spent. - 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

__________________

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 (125 followers). 

• 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

 

April

19-20 - Rucker hike and campout in the Chiricahuas with Carol

26 - South Perimeter Trail in the Huachucas with Ed King

May

3 - West Tombstone Canyon last hike and potluck with Susan Mayes

Parker Lake

PARKER CANYON LAKE HIKE & WINE TASTING

Join the Muleteam this Saturday April 5th for a scenic hike around the shores of one of the few lakes in the Sonoita area. This is an easy hike, about 5 miles round trip on a mostly flat trail in a natural setting with and great views and (usually) ducks and herons. Bring water and lunch. After the hike there will be an optional wine tasting at Callaghan Vineyards on Elgin Road near Sonoita. Meet April 5th at 9am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain to carpool. This is a very scenic drive of about 1½ hours through beautiful country on the west side of the Huachucas. Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Doug at 520-432-0307 or reiniger@wyoming.com, and for the current Muleteam hike and season schedule go to muleteam.blogspot.com.

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BACKTRACK - Turkey Pen

A good time was had by all!  All 3 of us.  (Turkey Pen Trail is BEAUTIFUL) - Laura

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

__________________

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 (125 followers). 

• 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

 

April

12 - Old Bisbee art stairs with Larry

19-20 - Rucker hike and campout in the Chiricahuas with Carol

26 - South Perimeter Trail in the Huachucas with Ed King

May

3 - West Tombstone Canyon last hike and potluck with Susan Mayes

Turkey Pen

This hikes meets 8am.

HIKE TURKEY PEN TRAIL IN THE CHIRICAHUA MOUNTAINS
Join the Muleteam on March 29th for a hike on the Turkey Pen Trail, one of the easier trails close to Bisbee in the Chiricahuas. The trail begins on Turkey Creek Road and ends at Rock Creek at Fitch corral. About halfway it passes the very scenic Fife Canyon trail. This is a moderate 3.14 mile hike in good condition mostly following an old logging road. We will pass the Johnny Ringo State Historical Landmark (Johnny Ringo’s gravesite) while driving to the trailhead and stop on the way back for those who want to say hello to Johnny. This is a 90 minute drive to the trail from Bisbee, so we will meet at 8:00am (instead of 9:00am) at the Bisbee Courthouse fountain. Carpooling is strongly recommended. For more details, contact Steve at sss@theriver.com or call (520) 432-7770.

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BACKTRACK - Guindani trail, Whetstones

We had 14 hikers and 3 dogs for our outing this time with at least 3 hikers
from Sierra Vista. A couple of hikers who went to the Iron Man at 9 did their
own hike. We were on the trail by 9:20 and it got warm but never too hot.
We went up the south side first – the sun and rocks side while it was still
cooler. There was evidence of a fire on this side of mountain, with dying
barrel cacti and agaves, but the north side was clear of signs of fire, and
actually quite lush for such a time of drought. We had brunch on the saddle at
the high point of the trail. Some hikers’ compass app said we were at 5610
feet there. Sadly there were only 2 puddles of water in the creek bed that
comes down the canyon on the north side, though the dogs did enjoy a romp
in the water. Everyone was back in the parking lot by 1 p.m. - 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

__________________

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 (125 followers). 

• 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

 

April

5 - Parker Canyon Lake and wine tasting with Doug

12 - Old Bisbee art stairs with Larry

19-20 - Rucker hike and campout in the Chiricahuas with Carol

26 - South Perimeter Trail in the Huachucas with Ed King

May

3 - West Tombstone Canyon last hike and potluck with Susan Mayes

Guindani Trail

This hike meets at 8am.

HIKE GUINDANI TRAIL FROM KARTCHNER CAVERNS STATE PARK
Join the Muleteam this Saturday March 22nd for a hike in the Whetstone Mountains beginning in Kartchner Caverns State Park. The Guindani trail is a 4.2-mile loop. The trail is lovely in that there are no skree and the elevation is below Bisbee so the breathing is easy. 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. 
It is about a one-hour drive to Kartchner Caverns, on Hwy 90 from Sierra Vista almost to Benson.  To give us more time, we will meet March 22nd at 8:00am (not 9:00am) by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain or meet at the park entrance at 8:45am. Dogs on leashes welcome. Bring water and lunch. There is a State Park entrance fee of $10 per person or $20 per vehicle for 2 to 4 people (so carpooling is highly recommended). We should return 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. 

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BACKTRACK - Juniper Flats

7am - We probably have four inches of snow here at Mule Pass; Old Divide road is likely unsafe for the tires on many Bisbee typical cars, not sure if the Old Divide Road is even closed or not; Juniper Flats is in a cloud with forecasted 40 degrees, 65% humidity, and 25+ knots of wind. I will drive down from Mule Pass if I can to the Iron Man at 9 in my 4WD and tell anyone who shows up there that the hike is cancelled due to adverse weather conditions. - Dave

One brave soul hiked the Juniper Flats. It actually turned out to be a nice hike. While there was a strong cold wind, a good part of the hike was sheltered by the mountains. Near the top it was quite windy, but as long as you were dressed for the weather it was fine. - Ed

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

__________________

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 (125 followers). 

• 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

March

29 - Turkey Pen in the Chiricahuas with Steve Sklarow

 

April

5 - Parker Canyon Lake and wine tasting with Doug

12 - Old Bisbee art stairs with Larry

19-20 - Rucker hike and campout in the Chiricahuas with Carol

26 - South Perimeter Trail in the Huachucas with Ed King

May

3 - West Tombstone Canyon last hike and potluck with Susan Mayes

Juniper Flats

HIKE JUNIPER FLATS

The Muleteam will lead a hike from Mule Pass into Juniper Flats in the Mule Mountains, with lunch at a scenic picnic site after about 2.5 miles, between the 1st and 2nd Towers. We’ll start at Mule Pass, hiking Juniper Flats Road and will enjoy a panoramic 750 foot ascent to Juniper Flats. Roughly 2.5 miles in, there is a nice lunch area on a granite outcrop overlooking where the waterfalls would cascade during the monsoon season. The hike is about 5 miles total on mostly easy roads. Back early afternoon. Meet on March 15th at 9:00am at the Bisbee Courthouse fountain. For more details contact Dave Reed at daveincaz@gmail.com.

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BACKTRACK - China Camp

Despite the early morning snow and cold, we had eleven people and one dog at the China Camp trailhead.  Ten proceeded to the route while one walked behind for a short distance then returned to the parking lot with a good book to pass the time.  Periodically the sun came out from behind the clouds and warmed us up.  The views were great!  Three bovine tried to block our forward progress but eventually, with a little convincing, decided to move and allowed us to pass.  Lunch was by a couple puddles of water, but a pretty spot to relax and chat.  We arrived back at the cars earlier than expected. All in all a great hike. - 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

__________________

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

March

22 - Guindani Trail in the Whetstones with Monica

29 - Turkey Pen in the Chiricahuas with Steve Sklarow

 

April

5 - Parker Canyon Lake and wine tasting with Doug

12 - Old Bisbee art stairs with Larry

19-20 - Rucker hike and campout in the Chiricahuas with Carol

26 - South Perimeter Trail in the Huachucas with Ed King

May

3 - West Tombstone Canyon last hike and potluck with Susan Mayes

China Camp

HIKE TO CHINA CAMP
Join the Muleteam this Saturday, March 8th, for a hike in the Dragoon Mountains on an old mining road with wonderful views. This hike starts with little elevation gain then changes to a moderate uphill to the camp ruins and down the same way for a little more than 5 miles total. Lunch will be by a creek, and there will be no climb to the peak! Bring water and lunch. Dogs welcome. Back mid-afternoon. Meet Saturday by 9am at the Old Bisbee Courthouse fountain to carpool (about an hour). Free, but gas donation is appreciated. For more details contact Sandy at (520) 353-5124 or slajudice@yahoo.com.

Alternate meeting spots:
Anyone wanting to can meet the group at the turnoff from Hwy. 80 onto Middlemarch Road. Please be there by 9:30. We will drive on Middlemarch Road about 1-3/4 mile beyond where the road branches off to the left toward Slavin Gulch and Council Rocks. There is a large dirt parking area on the left where we will park and start hiking. 

 
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BACKTRACK - Fairbank 

The 2025 San Pedro Riverside Picnic was one of the best in our 15-year history. Twenty-two hikers and one dog took advantage of this wonderful hike on a sunny and slightly breezy day. As planned, we spread out the tablecloths in the shade of a giant Cottonwood tree, put out the food and drinks and had a very long and relaxing lunch. Our tradition of many kinds of delicious homemade food, starting with wine and Laura’s Margaritas, continued as strong as ever with contributions by new Mules. When we reluctantly returned to the trails, about half of the group continued back to Fairbank on the trial along the river/train track and the other half took the same path back. We all arrived at about the same time with fond memories. - 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 - shirts?

Surplus Muleteam shirts for sale: 2 regular and 2 large, $15 each

Text Larry at 520-224-4951

__________________

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

March

15 - Lower Miller Canyon in the Huachucas? with Amy and Dave Reed

22 - Guindani Trail in the Whetstones with Monica

29 - Douglas hike or Cochise Stronghold with Kelly

 

April

5 - Parker Canyon Lake and wine tasting with Doug

12 - Old Bisbee art stairs with Larry

19-20 - Rucker hike and campout in the Chiricahuas with Carol

26 - South Perimeter Trail in the Huachucas with Ed King

May

3 - West Tombstone Canyon last hike and potluck with Susan Mayes

Fairbank Picnic

15th ANNUAL SAN PEDRO HIKE & PICNIC
Join the Muleteam this Saturday March 1st for a special relaxing and fun event: our 15th Annual Potluck Riverside Picnic along the San Pedro River. We start at the Historic Fairbank Townsite and walk along a flat and easy trail, first to see the 100+ year old cemetery and then mill ruins until we get to the river in only about 1½ miles. At the riverside, we spread out the tablecloths, put out the food and drinks and have a long, relaxing lunch. We ask that everyone bring some food or drink to share. Beer & wine are welcome. All the plates, utensils and glasses will be provided. After lunch, everyone has the option to either return to Fairbank the way we came or continue the longer loop route along the river (about 4 more miles). 

Meet March 1st at 9 am by the Old Bisbee courthouse, from which we can carpool to the Fairbank Townsite parking lot. Alternatively, hikers may meet us at about 9:40am at Fairbank. The trip is about 40 minutes from Bisbee: Route 80 past Tombstone, left on Route 82 across from the Checkpoint for about 6 miles. Fairbank lot is on the right. For any questions, contact Doug at (520) 432-0307 or reiniger@wyoming.com.

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BACKTRACK - Mt Ballard

9 hikers and 2 dogs started the trek up Mt. Ballard at 9:15 a.m. on a perfect hiking weather day (sunny with a cool breeze). The Mt. Ballard hike is a rather unending uphill, but oh, the views along the way! Eventually one hiker and their dog turned around, but we were surprisingly met halfway up the climb by two other Muleteam hikers who'd gotten an earlier start. By 10:45 a.m. we were all at the summit and enjoying the fact that the uphill climb was finally over. After a break and group photo we started back downhill, all arriving at the Divide wall by 12:15 p.m. Dave and Amy Reed kindly offered to host drinks at their place (thanks again, Dave and Amy!) across the road, and we all enjoyed drinking a cool beverage in the shade accompanied by some great conversation. All in all a wonderful day. - Deb

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

__________________

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

March

8 - China Camp in the Dragoons with Sandy

15 - Lower Miller Canyon in the Huachucas with Amy and Dave Reed

22 - Guindani Trail in the Whetstones with Monica

29 - Douglas hike or Cochise Stronghold with Kelly

 

April

5 - Parker Canyon Lake and wine tasting with Doug

12 - Old Bisbee art stairs with Larry

19-20 - Rucker hike and campout in the Chiricahuas with Carol

26 - South Perimeter Trail in the Huachucas with Ed King

May

3 - West Tombstone Canyon last hike and potluck with Susan Mayes

 

Mt Ballard

HIKE TO MT. BALLARD PEAK
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 fairly difficult hike on a natural path with a steep rocky section. The total distance round trip is only 3.5 miles, but includes an elevation gain of 1,300 feet. Bring water and snacks or lunch. Back early afternoon. Free. Dogs welcome, but be aware that there is lots of cholla along the narrow trail.

Meet February 22nd at 9 am by the Old Bisbee courthouse fountain, from which we will carpool up Tombstone Canyon Road to West Blvd. up to the Divide. Alternatively, hikers may head straight for the Divide and wait there. For more details contact Deb at (802)777-1499 or debvanschaack@gmail.com.

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BACKTRACK - Little Boquillas

Ten people met at the trailhead, nine actual hikers and one designated trail trimmer on a bicycle!  The weather was perfect with blue skies and sunshine.  We followed the San Pedro trail then branched off until we came to the old rusty cars.  According to Doug the one shown in the group picture is a 1940 Studebaker.  After a leisurely lunch by the river we returned to the trail, stopping briefly at the Little Boquillas ranch to explore some of the old buildings. - Sandy

Great hike.  No wind, with sun bouncing comfortably on our shoulders. - Jenno

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

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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.

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SCHEDULE 2024-2025

March

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

8 - China Camp in the Dragoons with Sandy

15 - Lower Miller Canyon in the Huachucas with Amy and Dave Reed

22 - Guindani Trail in the Whetstones with Monica

29 - Douglas hike or Cochise Stronghold with Kelly

 

April

5 - Parker Canyon Lake and wine tasting with Doug

12 - Old Bisbee art stairs with Larry

19-20 - Rucker hike and campout in the Chiricahuas with Carol

26 - South Perimeter Trail in the Huachucas with Ed King

May

3 - Last hike and potluck with ?

 

Little Boquillas

HIKE THE SAN PEDRO TRAIL BEYOND 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. The last part of the hike may be overgrown so be prepared! Bring water and lunch. Back mid-afternoon. Meet Feb.15 at 9 a.m. by the Old Bisbee Courthouse fountain to carpool. Free, but gas donation is appreciated.  For more information contact Sandy at 520-353-5124 or slajudice@yahoo.com.

If you are planning to meet at the trailhead, meet around 9:45 in the parking lot across the road from the Fairbank Schoolhouse on SR82 (by the corrals). 

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BACKTRACK - Council Rocks

Sixteen hikers and one dog were treated to an interpretative walk through Council Rocks by Charlie One Horse. Charlie shared his oral history handed down from his Yaqui family regarding the spiritual significance that Council Rocks has to native nations. We all were awed by his interpretation of the pictographs.  Afterwards, the hikers took a path less traveled that wound up, down and under the rock grottos. A bit of blood was lost whilst bush-wacking through thick shin daggers, cat claw acacia, yucca and ocotillo. But it was a small price to pay for experiencing the spectacular, mystical scenery of the Dragoons. - 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

__________________

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

February 

22 - Mt Ballard in the Mule Mtns with Deb 

March

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

8 - China Camp in the Dragoons with Sandy

15 - Lower Miller Canyon in the Huachucas with Amy and Dave Reed

22 - Guindani Trail in the Whetstones with Monica

29 - Douglas hike or Cochise Stronghold with Kelly

 

April

5 - Parker Canyon Lake and wine tasting with Doug

12 - Old Bisbee art stairs with Larry

19-20 - Rucker hike and campout in the Chiricahuas with Carol

26 - South Perimeter Trail in the Huachucas with Ed King

May

3 - Last hike and potluck with ?

Council Rocks

HIKE COUNCIL ROCKS
Join the Muleteam this Saturday for a hike to Council Rocks in the scenic Dragoon Mtns. with dramatic boulder formations & pictographs and including a fascinating and informative talk about the area's Apache history by Yaqui Artist Charlie OneHorse. This moderate 3 mile loop path will include some rock scrambling and bushwhacking. Bring water & lunch. Meet Feb 8 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 Carol at chandlercarolpsk@gmail.com or 413-667-8760. 

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BACKTRACK - Perimeter Trail

We're calling this a pop-up hike, since it was hastily thrown together two days before hike day.  Why?  Rabies in the Huachucas!  Erring on the safe side, the Perimeter Trail hike was discarded and replaced with the good old Ridge Trail Loop, right here in the Mules.  It turned out that many people reported for duty, I mean, to hike with us because they were so pleased that it was local and that it was short.  And short, it was.  Maybe half squirted off back to town after we crested to the Ridge Trail, while the rest of us continued on in our usual fashion.  Some sprinted ahead with Carol, some stayed in the middle with Laura, and the other third brought up the rear with the good "sweeper" Sara.  That's how we roll, and it was beautiful. - Laura

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

__________________

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

Feb 

15 - San Pedro trail to the old car with Sandy

22 - Mt Ballard in the Mule Mtns with Deb 

March

1 - China Camp in the Dragoons with Sandy

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

15 - Lower Miller Canyon in the Huachucas with Amy and Dave Reed

22 - Guindani Trail in the Whetstones with Monica

29 - Douglas hike or Cochise Stronghold with Kelly

 

April

5 - Parker Canyon Lake and wine tasting with Doug

12 - Old Bisbee art stairs with Larry

19-20 - Rucker hike and campout in the Chiricahuas with Carol

26 - South Perimeter Trail in the Huachucas with Ed King

May

3 - Last hike and potluck with ?