PLEASE NOTE:  ALL FEES TO DRIVERS WILL BE INCREASED BY $1.00 EFFECTIVE JULY 1^ST, 2011, EXCEPT FOR HIKES IN CATALINA STATE PARK.

THE NEW INCREASE IS SHOWN ON ALL HIKES IN THIS NEWSLETTER.

Hiker Information:

Call guide to make reservations and get the latest information. Hiking groups meet and depart from the cafe parking area at the golf course, unless indicated otherwise. The time listed is the departure time. If a hike is a bushwhack, i.e., not on a trail, it is noted in the description. Always bring ample water, and wear appropriate headgear and footwear. Always wear your name badge. Total climb is cumulative.  
Hike Ratings:

D: less than 4 miles or below 500 foot total climb.

C: 4-8 miles or 500-1500 foot total climb.

B: 8-16 miles or 1500-3500 foot total climb.

A: over 16 miles or over 3500 foot total climb.

 

 Sometimes a hike is harder or easier than its rating indicates. Hikes are three to four times as hard as a Sun City walk! Note: Payment to driver is a flat rate, and includes user fees for Sabino Canyon, Mt. Lemmon and State Parks. Driver is responsible for paying all user fees. Passengers are to pay any other user fees. It is important that all members participate in the tasks that keep the club functioning. One of those tasks is driving others to the hike locations.  When you call the hike leaders to sign up for a hike, please consider volunteering to drive.  This task should not fall to the same people all of the time.  If everyone drives at least once a month, that task is shared among many people.

 

 

Also, if you sign up for a hike and then decide to drive separately to the destination, please notify the hike leader by 4:00 pm on the day before.  Hike leaders need to know the number of persons who need rides so they may plan for drivers.

 

 

 Hikers should let guide know when they sign up if they intend to drive, and if they have passes. Always discuss hike conditions and concerns with guide when you sign up. To insure that you will be on hikes of interest, sign up with the guides no later than 4 PM the day before the hike. The guides need this advance notice to plan hike details and arrange for transportation. Therefore, participation in the hike after this time is at the discretion of the guide. Arrive at departure location at least five minutes early to arrange for car-pooling, etc. Personal cell phones should be used for emergencies only. Please put them on vibrate.

If you have a medical condition and/or are taking prescription medications, please write down that information and carry it with you at all times. If you are allergic to any medication, note that also. If you require medical assistance, it will help medical personnel give you the proper care. Also, bring any medications you might need during a hike.

 

 

Medical Condition:

If you have a medical condition and/or are taking prescription medications, please fill out the Emergency Medical Cards which can be downloaded from the hiking club website.  Instructions for printing the card are now available for both PC and MAC users. Click on the “Medical Card” link on our website. If you are allergic to any medication or have other allergies, note that also. If you require medical assistance while on a hike, it will help medical personnel give you the proper care. Include the phone number of the person to be contacted In Case of Emergency. Also, bring any medications you might need during a hike. Let the hike guide know where you are carrying the information and medications.

 

 

 

Emergency Medical Cards:

Please fill out and carry your Emergency Medical Card in your pack while hiking.  

 

GUIDE MEETING

The next Guide Meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 3 at 3 PM in the Navajo Room. Everyone is welcome to attend. There will be a Board Meeting following the Guide Meeting.

 

NEWS

Club Mileage: As of 02-19-12, total accumulated club mileage is 346,456.

 

Current membership:  267 as of 02-12-12 paid for year July 2011 through June 2012.

 

 

 

State Park Pass Surcharge:

Beginning January 1 2011, there will be a $1.00 surcharge per hiker for hikes in State Parks only in addition to the base $1.00 charge to help defray the cost of the drivers' State Park pass. The State Park passes went up to $75.00 this year. 

 

Web Site:  The Hiking Club’s preferred web site is http://vistosohikes.org/ . Please save that as a “favorites” or “bookmark” item. The club’s Board of Directors has voted to continue funding this site. Look at this site for photos and other interesting club information.

 

AZ Centennial Presentation Series II

On Sunday, March 18, in the Social Hall/Navajo room, at 2pm, Larry Klein’s presentation will be on “The Pleasant Valley War”.

 

The next and final presentation on “The Tucson Presidio: Frontier Outpost 1776” will be by James Turner on Sunday, April 15, Social Hall/Navajo Room, 2pm.

 

Look for additional information in the March and April tipsters under the Club’s and Coming Events sections.

 

September 6-13, 2012: Club’s Sawtooth II trip.

If interested, please reserve your place by making a check of $50 per person to the order of “Vistoso Hiking Club” and deliver/send it to the Club’s Treasurer, Nick Antrobus, so that he receives it before Thursday, March 15, 2012, 4 pm.

All pertinent trip details, except the hike descriptions, have been e-mailed to the Membership on February 13.

 

 

 

 

 

Hikes for March/April 2012

(Names of new hikes are underlined)

 

Exploratory hikes 

There may be hikes scheduled in the newsletter that are classified as EXPLORATORY and are identified as such. We use exploratory hikes to check out hikes that have never been done before or to check where we can go on trails that have been damaged by rain, for example. If you choose to sign up for an Exploratory hike, be aware that we sometimes don't know what we'll run into as far as mileage and/or trail conditions are concerned. There could be considerable bushwhacking involved. Exploratory hikes are not recommended for novice hikers.

 

 

March 1, Thursday – Baby Jesus Trail [B/9mi/1500’/$2/8am] Golder Ranch road to Catalina State Park. A key exchange or shuttle. The trail goes through cottonwood trees and the finest stand of saguaros we have seen.Roe Erlandson/ Max Haegele – 818-9178.

 

March 1, Thursday - Wasson Peak via Esperanza Trail [B-/8mi/1800’/$4/8am] Park at trailhead on Golden Gate Road, hike up Esperanza Trail  to Hugh Norris Trail, past old mines to the highest peak in  the Tucson Mountains and return. Spectacular views. Bob & Leslie Esparza – 825-8271.

 

March 1, Thursday -  Blackett's Ridge [B/6mi/1800’/$4/8am] Hike Phoneline Trail to Blackett's Ridge Trail which is very steep, then a gradual, persistent climb to one of Tucson’s premier views. Terry McFadden – 825-3089.

 

March 2, Friday - Sausolito Creek [C/7mi/300’/$0/8am]  Meet at Desert Oasis parking lot, hike mostly on dirt roads and trails through flats and foothills of Tortolita Mountains.   This hike is on State Trust Land. Gaston Meloche, 638-5404.

 

March 2, Friday – Nature Trailings, South of  The Border. [D/4mi/300’/$0/8am]  South of  Sun City border that is. Meet at Mountain View Plaza parking area.This hike is on State Trust Land.  Paul Meier – 818-0173.

 

March 3, Saturday - March 3, Saturday – Oracle State Park - Granite Overlook to Cherry Valley Wash Loop Hike [C/6mi/$4/400’/8:30am] Meet and park at the Kannally Ranch House (KRH) parking lot. Gaston Meloche – 638-5404.

 

March 3, Saturday - Cargodera Canyon via Canyon Loop [C/6mi/700’/$2/8am] Hike Canyon Loop Trail, then take the Sutherland Cutoff Trail to Sutherland Trail, brunch on the flat rocks in Cargodera Canyon, and return by the same route.  Dale Knudson – 818-6788.

 

March 4, Sunday – March 4, Sunday –CSPark– Cliffs/Rolling West Dunes Loop [C/8mi/400'/$2/8am] Meet at Equestrian Center. Gaston Meloche, 638-5404.  

 

 

March 5, Monday - Pusch Peak [B+/5mi/2700’/$2/7am] First mile is mostly level; then a steep difficult climb. In places you may want to use your hands. Gloves and a hiking stick are recommended. Fantastic views of Oro Valley and Tucson. A short but strenuous hike. Lee Bomar – 825-2702.

 

March 5, Monday – West University Neighborhood History Hike [C/5 mi/ 100’/$4/8:30 am] This hike will offer a historical tour of the West University neighborhood near the University of Arizona.  This was Tucson’s first suburban community. Most of the homes were built between 1890 and the 1920s.  The tour will focus on 1) architecture, 2) the histories of local families, 3) the Presbyterian Indian School (existed in this area), and 4) efforts to restore the neighborhood. This neighborhood is on the National Registry of Historic Places.  Limit: 15 people.  Wear comfortable walking shoes for streets and sidewalks.  Jim Williams 818-2226.

 

March 6, Tuesday, SPRING PICNIC AND ANNUAL MEETING:  Hikes follow; sign up by 4pm Monday.

 

Romero Pools, Upper  [B-/7mi/1600’/$2/7:30am] Hike Romero Canyon Trail to upper pools and return by the same route. Lee Bomar – 825-2702.

 

Walter’s Cascade [C/5mi/800’/$2/8:30am]  Park at the picnic area on the left after crossing the wash. Hike back down the road, then SE through the wash and up into the foothills to a special place beside the drainage. Bob & Leslie Esparza – 825-8271.

 

Walk-in-the-Park [D/4mi/200’/$2/8:30am] Hike from the main trailhead  parking lot for an hour in some direction and return the same way. Dorothy Krage – 825-0910.

 

Hole in the Boulder [C/5-6 mi/200’/$2/8:30am] Park at picnic area walk to nature trail to rock and follow horse trails back to picnic area. Millie Sparling – 825-0091.

 

Cabin/Dripping Springs/Green Rock/Canyon Trail [C/7-8mi/400’/$2/8am] Park at Large Picnic area. Leave from and returns to  same area. Gaston Meloche – 638-5404.

 

March 7, Wednesday - Moonlight Rillito River Walk from Stone Road east for 2 to 3 miles and return. [D+/5mi/0'/$1/4pm] Early dinner at Sweet Tomato’s, then walk.  Hiking Boots not needed for this one. Larry Klein – 825-7535.

 

March 7, Wednesday –  Box Canyon Exploratory [C/8mi/400’/$9/7:30am] Box Canyon is 15 miles east of Florence. We will hike through this spectacular slot canyon, and return: and also explore Martinez Canyon, a side canyon. We park the cars at the beginning of the canyon, so high-clearance vehicles are fine (no need for 4WD) 70 miles, 14 miles on a dirt road. Jack Evert/ Clive Probert – 825-8719.

 

March 8, Thursday –  Box Camp Trail (down) [A/15mi/5300’/$8/6:am] A shuttle. Park at the trailhead on Mt. Lemmon Highway.  Hike down hill, bypassing Box Springs, stop for lunch near Apache Springs, descend from pines through oaks and manzanita, thru saguaros, with one short bushwhack, to the Visitor’s Center at Sabino Canyon. Start 8000’.  Please sign up by March 6 to arrange shuttle. Millie Sparling – 825-0091.

 

March 8, Thursday - New Member Orientation Hike [D/3mi/200’/$2/8am]  A prerequisite hike for joining Vistoso Hiking Club. Hike on Canyon Loop Trail, a short distance up Sutherland Cutoff Trail, and back. There is an orientation talk afterwards. Meet at the golf course parking lot.  Dave Fraser – 818-2434.

 

 

March 8, Thursday - Sausolito Creek [C/7mi/300’/$0/8am]  Meet at Desert Oasis parking lot, hike mostly on dirt roads and trails through flats and foothills of Tortolita Mountains.   This hike is on State Trust Land. Gaston Meloche, 638-5404.

 

March 8, Thursday - Walk-in-the-Park [D/4mi/200’/$2/8am] Hike from the main trailhead  parking lot for an hour in some direction and return the same way.  Dorothy Krage – 825-0910.

 

March 9, Friday – Fifty-Year Trail South End [D/4mi/400’/$2/8am] Hike from

Equestrian Center about 2 miles and return. Paul Meier – 818-0173.

 

March 9, Friday - Blackett's Ridge [B/6mi/1800’/$4/8am] Hike Phoneline Trail to Blackett's Ridge Trail which is very steep, then a gradual, persistent climb to one of Tucson’s premier views. Michael and Christa Lubatkin – 825-6872.

 

March 10, Saturday – Josephine Saddle to McBeth Spring and Beyond [B/12mi/2000’/$8/8am] Park at Roundup parking lot, hike Super Trail to saddle and   McBeth Spring then continue an additional 1.5 miles past springs. We return to saddle for lunch and take same route down to cars. Start, 5400'.  Dale Knudson – 818-6788.

 

March 10, Saturday -  March 10, Saturday – OSPark - Arizona Trail Loop [C/6mi/$4/500’/8:30am] Meet and park at the KRH parking lot.  Hike the Wildlife Corridor Trail to the Arizona Trail, and return via the Manzanita Trail. Gaston Meloche – 638-5404.

 

March 10, Saturday  AZT Passage 8 (Las Colinas) [B+/15mi/1200’/$6/6am] This hike begins at Box Canyon Road and ends at the intersection of the Lakes Rd. and Hwy 83 south of  I-10. Possible key exchange or shuttle. Jerry Rickard – 825-7175.

 

March 11, Sunday –CSPark’s Hike - Alamo Canyon & West Ridges [C/7-8mi/400/$2/8am] Meet at main trailhead. Gaston Meloche, 638-5404. 

 

March 12, Monday – Sycamore Canyon to Sabino Basin and Return [B/12mi/2500'/$6/6:30am] Park at old prison camp, hike to Sycamore Canyon Trail, on to intersection with Bear Canyon/East Fork trails, down East Fork Trail to Sabino Basin and return to parking lot. Lee Bomar – 825-2702. 

 

March 13, Tuesday – Robles Pass, Tucson Mt. Park, Exploratory [C+/5mi/800’/$3/9:30am] Park at Coyote Ridge Trailhead. Hike parts of Bittersweet, Sunset, 360 Vista & Camaro Loop trails and return to vehicles. Elevation is an estimate. Max Haegele – 818-9178.

 

March 13, Tuesday -  Wasson Peak via Esperanza Trail [B-/8mi/1800’/$4/8am] Park at trailhead on Golden Gate Road, hike up Esperanza Trail  to Hugh Norris Trail, past old mines to the highest peak in  the Tucson Mountains and return. Spectacular views. Bob & Leslie Esparza – 825-8271.

 

March 14, Wednesday  –   Dutchman/Bluff Springs Loop [B/10mi/1600’/$12/6:30am] This loop route skirts the base of the Superstition Mountains passing a variety of pleasant and, possibly, poppy/lupine-covered vistas across open desert country and then climbs over Miners Summit and drops back into the backcountry. From the Peralta trailhead, we follow the Dutchman trail passing beneath Miners Needle to Miners Canyon. We meander up a rocky area to Miners Summit where we continue on the Dutchman trail and descend into a tributary of Bluff Spring Canyon. We then cross a wash [most probably dry] and meet the Bluff Spring trail. We follow the Bluff Spring trail past the Terrapin trail for the remainder of the rather steep downhill 2.3 miles back to the trailhead. Stop in Florence on return for late lunch.  Millie Sparling – 825-0091.

 

March 14, Wednesday – Walk-in-the-Park [D/4mi/200’/$2/8am] Hike from the main trailhead  parking lot for an hour in some direction and return the same way.  Dorothy Krage – 825-0910.

 

March 15, Thursday -  Honeybee Canyon [C/6mi/100’/$0/8am] Meet at Mountain View Plaza parking area.  This hike is partly on State Trust Land. Gaston Meloche - 638-5404.

 

March 15, Thursday –Window Peak [A/14mi/4500’/$4/7am] Park at Ventana Resort employees’ parking lot, hike Ventana Canyon trail, a difficult and steep hike, to Esperero Trail, to the Window, and continue 0.4 miles and 300’ higher to Window Peak, and return.  Roe Erlandson – 638-5725.

 

March 15, Thursday – Oracle State Park via Back Door [C/6mi/300’/$3/8am] Park at America Flag lot. Hike 3 miles north on AZ trail and return. Paul Meier – 818-0173.

 

March 15, Thursday - Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness West [B/10mi/200’/$9/7:30am] The Aravaipa Wilderness hike goes into a beautiful canyon in the Galiuro Mts approximately 40 miles northeast of here. It is one of the premier hikes, both from a beauty standpoint and uniqueness of the wilderness experience. On previous hikes we have seen wildlife (mountain sheep, ring tail cats, and even gila monsters). We can only take 10 hikers per trip due to wilderness entry restrictions. The hike is a C hike with approximately 5 hours hiking and almost no vertical (you are in the bottom of the canyon at all times). You will however, be wading in water from ankle deep to occasionally knee deep for most of the hike. You need good walking shoes that you don’t mind getting wet. There is a $5 per person non-refundable surcharge to cover the reservation fee imposed by the Bureau of Land Management. There is a mid-afternoon lunch stop at La Casita Mexican restaurant in Mammoth on the way home. Terry McFadden – 825-3089.

 

 

 

 

March 16, Friday  – AZT Passage 2 (Canelo Hills East) [B+/14.5mi/1100’$9/$6/6am]

This hikes starts at Parker Canyon Lake south of Sonoita and trends westerly/northwesterly with some ups and downs before it intersects with FR. 799 at Canelo Pass TH. Possible key exchange or shuttle. Jerry Rickard – 825-7175.

 

March 16, Friday –Honeybee Canyon Via Lost Coyote Trail [D/4mi/200’/$0/8am]  Meet at Mountain View Plaza parking lot, hike Ranch Vistoso Blvd and take Lost Coyote Trail to Honeybee Canyon. The dam bypass trail starts to your left right after going through the fence. Take the dam bypass trail north past the lower dam to Honeybee Park, and return via Rancho Vistoso Blvd. Clive Probert - 825-8719.

 

March 17, Saturday –  Cargodera Canyon via Canyon Loop [C/6mi/700’/$2/8am] Hike Canyon Loop Trail, then take the Sutherland Cutoff Trail to Sutherland Trail, brunch on the flat rocks in Cargodera Canyon, and return by the same route.  Dale Knudson – 818-6788.

 

March 17, Saturday – OSPark - South to North Hike [C/7mi/$4/500’/8:30am] Park at American Flag Trailhead parking, off Mt. Lemmon Road.  Hike Arizona Trail to Wildlife Corridor Trail to KRH to Mariposa Trail to American Avenue Remote Parking Area. Shuttle provided back to the vehicles. Walk-In Entrance Fee applies. Gaston Meloche – 638-5404.

 

March 17, Saturday - Green Rock Summit [C/4mi/700’/$2/10am]  In celebration of St. Patrick’s Day, we bring “green” goodies and sing old irish songs atop Green Rock. Hike Canyon Loop Trail, bushwhack scramble to the top of Green Rock. Christa and Michael Lubatkin – 825-6872.

 

March 18, Sunday - CSPark - Ever wanted to know more about wildflowers? [5-6mi/300'/$2/8:30am] Meet at main trailhead. With a wildflower aficionado, Susanne Clark, we'll look for them. Gaston Meloche, 638-5404.

 

March 18, Sunday - AZ Centennial Presentation Series II – Social Hall/Navajo Room, 2pm.  Larry Klein will present “The Pleasant Valley War”.

 

March 19, Monday – Wasson Peak via Sweetwater Trail [B/10mi/1800’/$4/7am] Park at trailhead on east end of El Camino del Cerro, hike a new portion of trail to old portion, continue up east side of peak to a saddle, take Hugh Norris Trail to the highest peak in the Tucson Mountains and return.  Spectacular views.  Lee Bomar – 825-2702.

 

March 19, Monday - Tubac to Tumacacori  [C/5mi/50‘/$9/7am] Follow the Santa Cruz River from the Tubac Presidio State Historical Park  south  to the Tumacacori National Monument.  Sneakers are okay for this hike. This trail provides a good view of the new Barrio Tubac.  Lunch at Wisdom’s. Those interested in lunch must call Sherry Zei 825-8188 no later than March 15.  Sherry Zei – 825-8188.

 

 

 

March 20, TUESDAY - Walk-in-the-Park [D/4mi/200’/$2/8am] Hike from the main trailhead  parking lot for an hour in some direction and return the same way.  Dorothy Karage – 825-0910.

 

March 20, Tuesday –  Romero Pools, Upper  [B-/7mi/1600’/$2/8am] Hike Romero Canyon Trail to upper pools and return by the same route. Christa Lubatkin – 825-6872..

 

March 21, Wednesday - Fifty year /Bluff Trail Loop [C/7mi/400'/$2/10am] Park at Equestrian Center. Take 50-year trail through gate at north end of park. Take a right and follow trail on top of bluffs until it intersects with a jeep trail, which is the 50-year trail. Take trail back to Equestrian Center. Part of this hike is on State Trust Land.  Dave Fraser – 818-2434.

 

March 21, Wednesday – Fifty Year Trail, North End. [C/9mi/1400’/$2/8am] Park at end of the paved part of Golder Ranch Road. A loop hike. Part of this hike is on State Trust Land.

Millie Sparling – 825-0091.

 

March 22, Thursday - Big Wash Clean-up [C/6mi/100’/$0/8am] Meet at Catalina Vista.

 Mileage will be miles hiked plus 2 miles for each hour worked. Please sign-up three days

 in advance so we can get the proper equipment from O.V. Richard Sauer and, to register:

Gaston Meloche, 638-5404

 

March 22, Thursday –Mount Lemmon to Catalina State Park [A/14mi/6300’/$8/6am] A key exchange or shuttle. Park at top of Mt. Lemmon, hike Mt. Lemmon Trail to Romero Pass, take Romero Canyon Trail to trailhead in Catalina State Park. This mostly downhill, with some uphill, hike is difficult. Start, 9100'.  Max Haegele – 818-9178, Roe Erlandson –

638-5725.

 

March 23, Friday – Art’s Knob (Pk 4,985){B/9mi/1600’/Drive 76mi/$6/7:30am] Park at the Gordon Hirabayashi Recreation Site. Hike to Shreve Saddle, Sycamore Reservoir and Sycamore Saddle, then hike a short distance on the Bear Canyon Trail. A short (0.2 mile 200’) off trail excursion takes you to the summit of Art’s Knob. Quite a bit of elevation gain is on the return trip as we climb from the reservior back to Shreve Saddle. Moderate, unhurried pace. Bob Eschrich – 825-1482.

 

March 23, Friday – El Encanto History Hike [D/4mi/100’/$6/8:00 am] This hike will examine two beautiful Tucson neighborhoods, El Encanto and Colonia Solana. Both have interesting street layouts and architecture. Most of the houses were built between 1920 and 1950, and the neighborhoods are on the National Registry. Wear comfortable walking shoes for streets and pavements. Limit 15 people. Jim Williams 818-2226.

 

 

 

March 23, Friday - Alamo Canyon   [D/4mi/300’/$2/8am] Hike “Lilo’s Trail” to the falls and return. Trail starts back of the bench on the Southeast bend of the Birding Trail, goes to Alamo Canyon Falls (South) and returns via the Southwest side and below Romero Ruins trail. Paul Meier – 818-0173.

 

March 24, Saturday – Romero Pools, Lower [C/6mi/1400’/$2/7am]Hike Romero Canyon Trail to lower pools for lunch and return by the same route.

Dale Knudson – 818-6788.

 

March 24, Saturday – OSPark - Mariposa/Wildlife Corridor Loop Hike [C/7mi/$4/450’/8:30am] Meet at the KRH.  Hike Mariposa Trail and return via Wildlife Corridor Trail. Gaston Meloche – 638-5404.

 

March 24, Saturday – Evergreen Cemetery Tour  (See attached flyer at back of newsletter). Larry Klein – 825-7535.

 

March 25, Sunday – CSPark – Romero Pools Lower with a geologist, Elwood Brooks [C/6mi/1400’/$2/8am] Meet at main trailhead. Gaston Meloche – 638-5404.

 

March 26, Monday – Chihuahua Pines Campground/Green Mt/Guthrie Mt[C/7mi/1100’$6/6:30am] Park across highway from Chihuahua Pines Picnic Area. Hike Green Mt. trail to saddle at Mt. Guthrie Trail, follow Guthrie Trail Star to Mt. Guthrie and return. Start at 6000’. Note: to reach the summit of Mt. Guthrie requires some very steep rock climbing near the top. Lee Bomar – 825-2702.

 

March 26, Monday - Golden Gate Trail and Saguaro National Park West [C/7mi/900’/$4/8am] Hike from parking lot just west of Gates Pass, up David Yetman Trail and take Golden Gate Loop. Larry Klein – 825-7535.

 

March 27, Tuesday –Sutherland Wash Petroglyphs [C/7mi/500’/$2/7:30am]  Park cars at the Corral one-half mile from the end of Golders Ranch Rd. Hike a jeep trail down to some big cottonwood trees. Cross the wash and head south on a trail for 1.5 miles to find some petroglyphs and a lunch spot. This hike is on State Trust Land.  Clive Probert – 825-8719.

 

March 27, Tuesday -  Wasson Peak via Esperanza Trail [B-/8mi/1800’/$4/8am] Park at trailhead on Golden Gate Road, hike up Esperanza Trail  to Hugh Norris Trail, past old mines to the highest peak in  the Tucson Mountains and return. Spectacular views. Bob & Leslie Esparza – 825-8271.

 

March 28, Wednesday - EBEC [C/6-7mi/200’/$0/7:30am] Hike about two hours on nearby trails/paths. Departing location provided when you register. This hike is on State Trust Land. Gaston Meloche, 638-5404. 

 

 

 

March 28, Wednesday - Walk-in-the-Park [D/4mi/200’/$2/8am] Hike from the main trailhead  parking lot for an hour in some direction and return the same way.  Dorothy Krage – 825-0910.

 

March 28, Wednesday – Dutchman/Bluff Springs Loop [B/10mi/1600’/$12/6:30am] This loop route skirts the base of the Superstition Mountains passing a variety of pleasant and, possibly, poppy/lupine-covered vistas across open desert country and then climbs over Miners Summit and drops back into the backcountry. From the Peralta trailhead, we follow the Dutchman trail passing beneath Miners Needle to Miners Canyon. We meander up a rocky area to Miners Summit where we continue on the Dutchman trail and descend into a tributary of Bluff Spring Canyon. We then cross a wash [most probably dry] and meet the Bluff Spring trail. We follow the Bluff Spring trail past the Terrapin trail for the remainder of the rather steep downhill 2.3 miles back to the trailhead. Dave Fraser – 818-2434.

 

March 29, Thursday – Las Cienagas Lake Road to Gabe Zimmerman Trailhead, Exploratory [C+/13mi/300’/$7/6am] Park at Lakes Road and Hwy. 83. It is mostly gentle descent to the north from Lake Road to Gabe Zimmerman Trailhead. This passage traverses the valley between the Santa Ritas and the Rincons. This will be either a key exchange or shuttle. Jerry Rickard/ Max Haegele – 818-9178.

 

March 30, Friday – Tortolita Preserve [C/6mi/300’/$2/8am] Park at the end of the Moore Road segment west of Dove Mountain Blvd.  Hike a 3mi. portion or all of the established desert trail and return. Paul Meier – 818-0173.

 

March 30, Friday - Canyon Loop/Sutherland/50-year trail “Big Loop” [B/9mi/600’/$2/8am] We follow an old Jeep trail to link with lower half of 50-year trail and return to Equestrian Center. Then back to main trailhead on Big Sand Wash and Bridle trails.

Michael and Christa Lubatkin – 825-6872.

 

March 31, Saturday – AZT Passage 4 (Temporal Gulch) [B+/15.3mi/3000’/$8/6am] From the Walker Basin TH (north of  Patagonia) the trail corsses a saddle and descends working its way east in Casa Blanca Canyon past Bear Spring before coming to Tunnel Springs TH and then heads east to Gardner Canyon Rd. Possible key exchange or shuttle.  Jerry Rickard – 825-7175/

 

March 31, Saturday – OSPark - Manzanita to Mariposa Loop Hike  [C/9mi/$4/500’/8:30am] Meet at the KRH. Hike to Nature Trail to Manzanita Trail, AZ Trail to Windmill, on 2-track AZ Trail all the way to Cherry Valley Wash, to Mariposa Trail back to KRH. Gaston Meloche – 638-5404.

 

March 31, Saturday – Seven Falls [C/8mi/900’/$4/8am] Hike to lower Bear Canyon, take Bear Canyon Trail to Seven Falls and return. Dale Knudson – 818-6788.

 

 

April 1, Sunday – CSPark’s Hike - “The hole-in-the-boulder and the “cabin” loop. [C/7mi/300’/$2/8am] Meet at main trailhead. Gaston Meloche, 638-5404.

 

April 2, Monday – Bog/Kent Springs Loop [B/6mi/2100’/$8/6:30am]  Park at Bog Springs Campground and hike through three spring areas, which are home to bamboo, Arizona sycamore, walnut and fir trees. Some areas are steep climbs. Start 5000’. Lee Bomar – 825-2702.

 

April 2, Monday -  New Member Orientation Hike [D/3mi/200’/$2/8am]  A prerequisite hike for joining Vistoso Hiking Club. Hike on Canyon Loop Trail, a short distance up Sutherland Cutoff Trail, and back. There is an orientation talk afterwards. Meet at the golf course parking lot. Dave Fraser – 818-2434.

 

April 3, Tuesday – Milagrosa Ridge [B/8mi/600’/2000’/$5/8am] A key exchange or shuttle.You need two cars. Take Catalina

Highway to Snyder Road.  Go East on Snyder Road to Avenida de Suzenu. Turn left to Horse Head. Leave one car at the intersection of  Avenida De Suzenu and Horse Head. Drive the other car(s) to Molino Basin and begin hike there. Walk across Catalina Highway. Hike a steep climb over a ridgetop, then down toward Bellota Ranch. At a “T” in the trail turn south and follow a ridge between Milagrosa and Agua Caliente Canyons. When you get to the end of  the trail you'll go through a steel gate. Go down the hill and bear right to Horse Head and follow the road to the car at Avenida de Suzenu.  Bob & Leslie Esparza – 825-8271.

 

April 4, Wednesday – Sabino Canyon History Hike.  [C/7 mi/500’/$5/7:30 am] This hike will offer a historical tour of the canyon, with information on its history from ancient times to today.  Learn about 1) the ecology of the canyon, 2) native Americans in the area, 3) early Caucasian settlers, 4) the effects of the 1887 earthquake, 5) 20^th century proposals to build a high dam in the canyon, 6) New Deal work projects that improved the area, and 7) park improvements since the 1940s.  Limit: 15 people. This hike will also be offered twice in the spring of 2011.  Jim Williams 818-2226

 

April 4, Wednesday –Bear Canyon Loop [A/17mi/2400’/$4/6am] Hike Bear Canyon Trail past Seven Falls, Thimble Flats, and Sycamore Saddle to junction with East Fork Sabino Trail, and down to Sabino Basin. Take Sabino Trail to Phoneline Trail, and down to cars. Alternative is to take tram from stop 9. Tram fee is $8.00 per person. This will be done at a slower pace.  Millie Sparling – 825-0091.

 

April 4, Wednesday - Walk-in-the-Park [D/4mi/200’/$2/8am] Hike from the main trailhead  parking lot for an hour in some direction and return the same way.  Dorothy Krage – 825-0910.

 

 

 

April 5, Thursday –  Mount Kimball Loop [A/14mi/4150’/$3/6am] A key exchange or shuttle. Park at north end of Alvernon Way, hike Finger Rock Canyon trail to a saddle between Mt. Kimball and "Little Kimball", take Pima Canyon Trail a half-mile to top of Mt. Kimball.  We return via Pima Canyon Trail. Roe Erlandson, Lee Bomar, Max Haegele – 818-9178.

 

April 5, Thursday -  Sabino Canyon by Moonlight [C/7mi/500’/$4/4pm]  Dinner at Beyond Bread. Hike along road from Visitors' Center and return. Sneakers okay. Bring flashlight but don’t plan to use it. Larry Klein – 825-7535.

 

April 5, Thursday - Through the flats of the Tortolitas [B/11mi/400'/$0/8am] A loop via Sausalito Creek/Honeybee Canyon and Lost Coyote Trail. Departing location provided when you register. (One small distance light bushwhacks). This hike is on State Trust Land. Gaston Meloche, 638-5404. 

 

April 6, Friday – Rillito River Walk [D4mi/50’/$2/9am] Carpool to Children’s Memorial Park. Walk 2 miles west and return. Sneakers are OK. Optional lunch at Sweet Tomatoes. Paul Meier – 818-0173.

 

April 6, Friday - Tortolita Foothills Stroll [D/4mi/100’/$0/8am] Meet at Desert Oasis parking lot, hike in foothills of Tortolita Mountains. This hike is on State Trust Land. Clive Probert – 825-8719.

 

April 7, Saturday –ANNUAL WINE AND CHEESE PARTY. TIME 2 PM. SPEAKER: FRANK ROSE. TOPIC: DESERT WILDFLOWERS. THIS IS AN EXCELLENT TIME TO PAY YOUR NEXT YEARS DUES OF $7.00 PER MEMBER.

 

April 7, Saturday Fifty year /Bluff Trail Loop [C/7mi/400'/$2/8am] Park at Equestrian Center. Take 50-year trail through gate at north end of park. Take a right and follow trail on top of bluffs until it intersects with a jeep trail, which is the 50-year trail. Take trail back to Equestrian Center. Part of this hike is on State Trust Land. Dale Knudson – 818-6788.

 

April 7, Saturday – OSPark - Windmill Loop Hike   [C/8mi/$4/450’/8:30am] Meet at KRH. Hike Wildlife Corridor Trail to Windmill, do Windmill Loop back to Windmill, up Kannally Wash to KRH. Gaston Meloche – 638-5404.

 

April 8, Sunday – CSPark’s Hike - “Walter’s Cascade”, Stock Tank & Loop East Trail [B/9-10mi/500’/$2/8am] Meet at main trailhead. Gaston Meloche, 638-5404. 

 

April 9, Monday –  Vault Mine Trail Loop [B/9mi/2000’/$8/6:30am] Park at Roundup parking lot, hike up Super Trail to Josephine Saddle. We return via Agua Caliente Trail to Vault Mine Trail. Vault Mine trail down is very steep with loose gravel and rocks. Start, 5400'.  Lee Bomar – 825-2702.

 

April 9, Monday – Catalina State Park Nature Hikes [D/4-5/200-400’/$2/8am] Hike some or all of these park trails depending upon the whims of the guide: Romero Trail, Birding Trail, Sutherland Trail, Romero Ruins Trail. We will hike slowly and stop often to look and talk about  biota and abiota. Bring along any or all of these: binoculars, camera, field guides, magnifier. Limited to 12 people.  Marj Flory – 825-4580.

 

April 10, Tuesday –Wasson Peak via Esperanza Trail [B-/8mi/1800’/$4/8am] Park at trailhead on Golden Gate Road, hike up Esperanza Trail  to Hugh Norris Trail, past old minesto the highest peak in  the Tucson Mountains and return. Spectacular views. Bob & Leslie Esparza – 825-8271.

 

April 11, Wednesday - EBEC [C/6-7mi/300’/$0/7:30am] Hike for about two hours on nearby trails/paths. Departing location provided when you register. This hike is on State Trust Land. Gaston Meloche- 638-5404.

 

April 11, Wednesday – Bug Spring/Molino Loop [B/7mi/1800’/Drive 85mi/$7/7:30am] This hike is about half trail and half well established route. We park in upper Bear Canyon and take the steep Bug Spring Trail south. Just before it drops into Cherry Canyon, we leave it, passing below Hollin Basin Overlook, and follow a route southeast along the ridge that divides Hollin Basin and Molino Basin. Next we head back west to Bug Spring Trail via the Crossover and Toaster Oven and Lunch Rocks 2. We now follow the Bug Spring Trail north back to the cars. This is a more challenging hike than the modest mileage and elevation gain might suggest, but as usual, the pace is moderate and unhurried. Bob Eschrich – 825-1482.

 

April 12, Thursday - Honeybee Canyon Lite [C/5mi/100’/$0/8am] Meet at Mountain View Plaza parking area.Walk west down Rancho Vistoso Blvd and take Power Line Road North. Follow jeep trails and animal trails to Honeybee Canyon. Go south past the upper dam and return via Rancho Vistoso. This hike is on State Trust Land. Clive Probert – 825-8719.

 

April 12, Thursday - Walk-in-the-Park [D/4mi/200’/$2/8am] Hike from the main trailhead  parking lot for an hour in some direction and return the same way.  Dorothy Krage – 825-0910.

 

April 12, Thursday -  Phoneline Trail Out and Back [B/10mi/900’/$4/8am] Hike up to Phoneline Trail, which parallels tram road with outstanding views of canyon, follow it to tram stop 9, and return. Terry McFadden – 825-3089.

 

April 13, Friday - EBEC [C/6-7mi/300’/$0/7:30am] Hike for about two hours on nearby trails/paths. Departing location provided when you register. This hike is on State Trust Land. Gaston Meloche, 638-5404.

 

 

 

 

 

April 13, Friday – Wild Mustang/Cochie Loop  [B+/11mi/2400’/$3/7am]  Park at Dove Mt. trailhead and take cutoff to Upper Javalina to Wild Mustang. Follow Wild Mustang to Cochie/Wild Mustang crossover then return via Cochie to trailhead. Max Haegele – 818-9178.

 

April 14, Saturday – OSPark - American Flag to Windmill Loop Hike  [C/8mi/$4/400’/8:30am] Park at American Flag Trailhead, off Mt. Lemmon Road. Hike Arizona Trail to Windmill in Kannally Wash, and Return. The ‘walk-in’ entrance fee is $3 per person. Gaston Meloche – 638-5404.

 

April 14, Saturday – Fifty year /Bluff Trail Loop [C/7mi/400'/$2/8am] Park at Equestrian Center. Take 50-year trail through gate at north end of park. Take a right and follow trail on top of bluffs until it intersects with a jeep trail, which is the 50-year trail. Take trail back to Equestrian Center. Part of this hike is on State Trust Land.  Dale Knudson – 818-6788.

 

April 14, Saturday -  Granite Overlook in Oracle State Park  [C/5mi/400’/$4/8am] Park at Kannally Ranch House parking lot, hike interior nature trail to Granite Overlook. Take Belotta Trail back to cars. Lunch on trail. Paul Meier – 818-0173.

 

April 15, Sunday – CSPark’s Hike - Fifty-Year/Rolling West Dunes Loop [C/8mi/400'/$2/8am] Meet at Equestrian Center. May be partly on State Trust Land.  Gaston Meloche, 638-5404.

 

April 15, Sunday - AZ Centennial Presentation Series II – Social Hall/Navajo Room, 2pm.  James Turner will present “The Tucson Presidio: Frontier Outpost 1776”.

 

April 16, Monday – Old Baldy Saddle via Old Baldy Trail [B+/10mi/3000’/$8/6am] Park at Roundup parking lot, hike Old Baldy Trail to Old Baldy Saddle and return. Start 5400’. Lee Bomar – 825-2702.

 

April 16, Monday - Linda Vista Figure Eight [C/5mi/600’/$2/8am] Drive to trailhead parking on Linda Vista. Hike on horse and foot trails at the base of Pusch Peak. Larry Klein – 825-7535.

 

April 17, Tuesday –Pima Canyon Short Hike [D/4mi/500’/$2/8am] Park at Pima Canyon trailhead, hike 2 miles, to a major drainage coming out of a saddle between Pusch Peak and Table Mountain, and return. Paul Meier – 818-0173.

 

April 17, Tuesday - Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness West [B/10mi/200’/$9 +$5/7:30am] The Aravaipa Wilderness hike goes into a beautiful canyon in the Galiuro Mts approximately 40 miles northeast of here. It is one of the premier hikes, both from a beauty standpoint and uniqueness of the wilderness experience. On previous hikes we have seen wildlife (mountain sheep, ring tail cats, and even gila monsters). We can only take 10 hikers per trip due to wilderness entry restrictions. The hike is a C hike with approximately 5 hours hiking and almost no vertical (you are in the bottom of the canyon at all times). You will however, be wading in water from ankle deep to occasionally knee deep for most of the hike. You need good walking shoes that you don’t mind getting wet. There is a $5 per person non-refundable surcharge to cover the reservation fee imposed by the Bureau of Land Management. There is a mid-afternoon lunch stop at La Casita Mexican restaurant in Mammoth on the way home. Terry McFadden – 825-3089.

 

April 18, Wednesday - University of Arizona History Hike. [D/3mi/50’/$6/7:30 am]  This hike will feature a tour of the university, with information on its history from its founding to today.  Learn about 1) how the university was established, 2) how the New Deal helped expand the university in the 1930s, 3) sports history, 4) the university during World War II,

5)  architectural highlights, 6) and the role of science and the arts on campus.  Wear comfortable walking shoes for streets and pavements.  Limit: 15 people.  Fee includes parking garage cost.  This hike will also be offered several times in the spring of 2011.  Jim Williams 818-2226.

 

April 18, Wednesday - Sutherland Wash Petroglyphs [C/7mi/500’/$2/8am]  Park cars at the Corral one-half mile from the end of Golders Ranch Rd. Hike a jeep trail down to some big cottonwood trees. Cross the wash and head south on a trail for 1.5 miles to find some petroglyphs and a lunch spot. This hike is on State Trust Land.  Clive Probert – 825-8719.

 

April 18, Wednesday - Walk-in-the-Park [D/4mi/200’/$2/8am] Hike from the main trailhead  parking lot for an hour in some direction and return the same way.  Dorothy Krage – 825-0910.

 

April 19, Thursday – AZT Passage 3 (Canelo Hills West) [B/13.7mi/500’/$8/6am] From Canelo Pass TH the trail goes west over a 5600’saddle continuing through Redrock Canyon and then turns north through hills or oak and manzanita before dropping down to the Harshaw Rd. TH. This trail is south of Sonoita and east of Patagonia. Possible key exchange or shuttle. Jerry Rickard – 825-7175.

 

April 19, Thursday – Bridalveil Falls via Esperero Trail [B/13mi/2500’/$4/7am] Hike .7 miles up paved road to trailhead, and begin to climb [steeply in places], past Cardiac Gap and Geronimo Meadow to Bridalveil Falls and return. Roe Erlandson – 638-5725.

 

April 20, Friday –– Honeybee Wash Clean-up [C/6mi/100’/$0/8am] Meet at Mountain View

 Plaza. Mileage is miles hiked plus 2 miles for each hour worked. Please sign up

three days in advance so we can get the proper equipment from O.V. This hike is partly on State

Trust Land. Gaston Meloche, 638-5404.

 

April 21, Saturday – OSPark - Arizona Trail Loop with a geologist, Elwood Brooks [C/6mi/$4/450’/8:30am] Meet at the KRH parking lot.  Hike the Manzanita Trail to the Arizona Trail, and return via the Wildlife Corridor Trail. Gaston Meloche – 638-5404.

 

April 21, Saturday – Walter’s Cascade [C/5mi/800’/$2/8am]  Park at the picnic area on the left after crossing the wash. Hike back down the road, then SE through the wash and up into the foothills to a special place beside the drainage. Dale Knudson – 818-6788

 

April 22, Sunday – CSPark – Park's best known short trails [C/7-8mi/200’/$2/8am] Meet and park at main trailhead. Gaston Meloche, 638-5404.

 

April 23, Monday – Bug Spring Trail [B/10mi/2500'/$6/6am] Trail starts just north of Prison Camp. It climbs steadily for about 800 feet, then levels off for some distance. There are several more steep climbs and declines before nearing end of trail where there is a final long, very steep decline to the Mount Lemmon Highway at the end of trail near Chihuahua Pines Picnic Area, 1/4 mile south of General Hitchcock Campground. On the return hike the above mentioned long, very steep portion must be climbed at the beginning. The CUMULATIVE climb on the total hike measures 2500 feet. This hike is very interesting with many unusual rock formations, three completely different terrain segments and some beautiful Arizona Madrone trees rarely seen in this area --near the north decline. NOTE: there are restrooms at the Chihuahua Pines Picnic Area. Lee Bomar – 825-2702.

 

April 23, Monday - David Yetman Trail [C/7mi/700’/$3/8am]  Park at the Camino de Oeste trailhead and hike to the the historic Bowen  house for lunch. Continue on trails and jeep roads to  a trailhead west of Gates Pass where a car has been spotted. Larry Klein – 825-7535.

 

April 23, Monday - Catalina State Park Nature Hikes [D/4-5/200-400’/$2/8am] Hike some or all of these park trails depending upon the whims of the guide: Romero Trail, Birding Trail, Sutherland Trail, Romero Ruins Trail. We will hike slowly and stop often to look and talk about  biota and abiota. Bring along any or all of these: binoculars, camera, field guides, magnifier. Limited to 12 people.  Marj Flory – 825-4580.

 

April 24, Tuesday – Crow Windmill to Wild Burro Windmill [C/5mi/800’/$3/8am]  Park on Rail - X Ranch Road at mine gate, hike a Jeep road to windmill in Wild Burro Canyon and return. This hike is on State Trust Land. Clive Probert – 825-8719.

 

April 24, Tuesday - Josephine Saddle via Super Trail [B/8mi/1900’/$8/7am] Park at Roundup parking area. Take the Super Trail to Josephine Saddle for lunch.  Return the same way. Bob & Leslie Esparza – 825-8271.

 

April 25, Wednesday - EBEC [C/6-7mi/300’/$0/7:30am] Hike for about two hours on nearby trails/paths. Departing location provided when you register. This hike is on State Trust Land. Gaston Meloche, 638-5404. 

       

April 25, Wednesday -Hugh Norris/Esperanza/Dobe Wash Loop [C/7mi/1200’/$4/6:30am]  Start at Hugh Norris trailhead, follow trail to junction with Esperanza trail, go north on Esperanza to Dobe Wash trail, follow trail to Hohokom Rd, back to car. Millie Sparling – 825-0091.

 

April 26, Thursday- Walk-in-the-Park [D/4mi/200’/$2/8am] Hike from the main trailhead  parking lot for an hour in some direction and return the same way.  Dorothy Krage – 825-0910.

 

April 26, Thursday – Romero Pools, Upper  [B-/7mi/1600’/$2/7am] Hike Romero Canyon Trail to upper pools and return by the same route. Roe Erlandson – 638-5725.

 

April 27, Friday – Sausalito Creek [C/7mi/300’/$0/8am]  Meet at Desert Oasis parking lot, hike mostly on dirt roads and trails through flats and foothills of Tortolita Mountains.  Lunch by windmill in Sausalito Canyon and return. This hike is on State Trust Land. Paul Meier – 818-0173.

 

April 28, Saturday –  Phoneline Trail Out and Back [B/10mi/900’/$4/8am] Hike up to Phoneline Trail, which parallels tram road with outstanding views of canyon, follow it to tram stop 9, and return.  Dale Knudson – 818-6788.

 

April 28, Saturday - Tiger Mine Road to Ranch House Loop [C/7mi/$4/500’/8:30am] Park at Tiger Mine Road off Highway 77.  Hike South on the Arizona Trail through the park to the Windmill.  Loop back to vehicles via a trail and Wash. The ‘walk-in’ entrance fee applies. Gaston Meloche – 638-5404.

 

April 29, Sunday – CSPark’s Hike - “Bluffs & 50th Year Trail”. [C/7-8mi/300’/$2/8am] Meet at Equestrian Center: Gaston Meloche, 638-5404.  

 

April 30, Monday –  Geronimo Meadow via Esperero Trail [B/10mi/2300’/$4/6am] Hike .7 miles up paved road to trailhead, and begin to climb [steeply in places], past Cardiac Gap to Geronimo Meadow and return. Lee Bomar – 825-2702.

 

April 30, Monday - Brown Mountain [C/6mi/1400’/$4/8am] Park at a picnic area near Arizona Sonora Desert Museum, hike up and follow just below a ridgeline, into a saddle, over a summit, down to a picnic area for lunch, and return. Larry Klein – 825-7535.

 

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