Backpack the Apache Creek Loop (challenging beginner/intermediate) Dog Friendly
Details
----- Rescheduled from mid April -----
Rolling hills of juniper and pinyon interspersed with granite outcrops characterize this small, remote and relatively rugged wilderness. Established in 1984, the 5,628 acre wilderness features three natural springs and several important riparian areas including Apache Creek. Elevations range from 5,200 to 6,900 feet and the area provides excellent habitat for mountain lion and numerous bird species.
- https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/prescott/recarea/?recid=75183
Overview:
Distance: ~12 miles (clockwise loop)
AEG: ~1,300 feet aeg
Difficulty: Challenging beginner - Intermediate (mainly due to the distance on day 1)
Dogs: Yes
Kids: No
Water: At camp Saturday night. Probably along the way 3 to 4 miles in.
We will expand on the loop described in the link above and we will continue South along Graver Wash Road (95A) all the way until it intersects with 9905. This will take us inside the Apache Creek Wilderness boundary.
I like the idea of doing car camps the night before the hike instead of meeting in the morning so that's how I'm setting this up. You always have the option of meeting us at the trailhead by 8:00 am Saturday.
I set the meeting spot in Prescott but I'll help organize a carpool/convoy from the Valley.
Water Crossings:
Yes, there will be at least 1 knee deep crossing towards end of day 1 right before we get to camp. Be prepared.
Details:
Friday, May 1st: Meet at the Walmart in Prescott and carpool to the car camp location. You can always meet us at the car camp location (details in comments) anytime before 8am Saturday.
Saturday, May 2nd: 8 am we will start the hike. We will go about 9 ish miles. For beginners this might seem like a lot, but remember, we have all day to do it. We'll be taking frequent breaks and enjoying the scenery.
Sunday, May 3rd 9:00 am ish we'll finish the loop. I expect us to be back at the TH by 12 pm.
We'll stop for team lunch somewhere with a patio.
Disclaimer:
The planned hike is listed above, but the group's ability takes precedence. If I think someone may not make it for whatever reason (injury, out of shape, solar flares, etc...) I'll change the plan and do my best to tailor the trip to the groups wants and capabilities.
I will not leave you stranded in the middle of the trail as long as you follow directions. Also life is dangerous. It ends in death 100% of the time. You have some influence over how quickly that end comes.
Fee:
We're taking $2 donations to help fund the meetup costs.
Writeups/Maps/GPX:
9904: https://hikearizona.com/decoder.php?ZTN=17065
9905: https://hikearizona.com/decoder.php?ZTN=17085
Directions to the Trailhead (last 5ish miles NOT car friendly):
From the intersection of SR89 and SR89A just north of Prescott, travel west on Pioneer Parkway 4.5 miles to its end. Turn right onto Williamson Valley Road and travel 33.5 miles. Shortly after crossing a historic truss bridge (built in 1913 and relocated from Calva, AZ) turn left onto Walnut Creek Road (County Road 125). Travel 1.8 miles and turn left onto FR95. Travel for 1.3 miles, crossing the creek and climbing a hill out of the Walnut Creek valley and turn right onto FR95A. From here you may drive 1.5 miles to the marked trailhead.
Gear (recommended):
- Water for the entire day (this means 4 Liters/Quarts for someone weighing 100 - 200 lbs, you weigh more, ring more water) and some way to treat/filter water.
- First aid kit.
- Backpack... duh.
- Sleeping bag, Tent, hammock.
- Clothing: I recommend one set of hiking and one set of sleeping clothes.
- Small dish towel. This comes in very handy.
- Toiletries (toothbrush, paste, deo and quick dissolving toilet paper).
- Headlamp.
- Utensils for the food.
- Food: you must feed yourself.
Gear (optional):
- Trekking poles.
- Stove. I have one that anyone can borrow if you want to cook something.
- I'm bringing a little fold out grill to cook on over the fire. You can bring another if you want.
- Tweezers (should be part of your first aid kit, but just in case it isn't).
- Entertainment... whatever floats your boat.
- Camp shoes (flip flops or some other loose fitting light shoe). This will feel nice on your feet after an all day hike.
- Chair.