Autumn in the Miller

The Miller Peak Wilderness is especially striking in the fall. We’ll hike a point-to-point route requiring a shuttle. Starting at Ramsey Vista Trailhead, the trail climbs 2,000 feet in under 2.5 miles to Carr Peak (9,200 ft) with views spanning the border, Sierra Vista, Fort Huachuca, and surrounding peaks.

From there, we continue toward Bathtub or Bear Spring, our first potential water sources, then join the AZT along the ridge for ~5 miles before descending Pat Scott Canyon to camp near the historic Hamburg Mine.

Day two takes us through Ramsey Canyon often glowing with sycamores and maples before a short climb and descent into Brown Canyon, finishing at Brown Canyon Ranch.

Difficulty – Challenging/Strenuous

• ~15 miles total
• ~9,600 feet of elevation change (3,600 up, 5,900 down)
• Steep, varied terrain, potentially rough trails
• No reliable water

Logistics

• Friday, Nov 7: Depart Phoenix after 12 pm, stage vehicles at both trailheads, car camp at Ramsey Vista or Reef-Townsite.
• Saturday, Nov 8: Start at Ramsey Vista TH, camp near Pat Scott/Wisconsin/Ramsey junction.
• Sunday, Nov 9: Hike out to Brown Canyon Ranch.

Water
Four potential sources exist, but three were dry as of Aug 2025. Fall moisture may recharge them, but conditions could remain dry. Be prepared to carry all water for the trip.

Weather
Expect cold, windy conditions. Overnight lows well below freezing. Ice is likely on the final morning.

Campground and Fires
No fire restrictions as of Aug 2025, but Stage 1 or 2 restrictions are common by November. If Stage 2 is not in effect, we may pool funds for firewood Friday night.

• Campground fee: $15 per site per night (likely two sites, costs split).

Carpooling and Shuttle
Carpooling encouraged.

• Brown Canyon Ranch: $10 per vehicle, accessible to low-clearance cars.
• Ramsey Vista: Free, may require clearance. Sedans reached it in July 2025, but monsoon damage may affect conditions.
• ~45 minutes (~12 miles) between trailheads.

Dogs
Allowed with prior approval. Consider carefully due to lack of reliable water.

Hiking Pace
I hike slowly uphill, ~2–2.5 mph on flats and descents. If you expect a fast leader, this may not be the right trip for you. Plan for steady pacing.

RSVP Questions
Incomplete responses = no spot on the trip.

Commitment
Life happens, but if you sign up, please be serious about it. Don’t take a spot unless you’re prepared or are sure you want to go. This trip involves tough terrain, unpredictable weather, long water carries, and a shuttle. Read the description and know what you’re joining.

Safety and Liability
This is an informal backpacking meetup, not a guided trip. I am not a professional hiking guide, and each participant is fully responsible for their own safety, choices, and well-being on the trail. Hiking and backpacking come with inherent risks, which may include personal injury, gear failures, or vehicle break-ins at trailheads. I cannot assume responsibility for any personal injury, damage to equipment, or property loss by theft.

By joining, you acknowledge these risks and understand this is simply a group of people hiking and camping together. Please arrive prepared, make responsible decisions, and look out for one another so the experience is safe and enjoyable for all.