About us
Take a Hike is a MeetUp group for people who like to hike and go on other outdoor adventures. People of all skill levels are welcome. Our hikes are always clearly labeled as to difficulty, distance, and elevation gain, and we will have hikes of all types. The majority of hikes will be in the Superstition Mountains although we will sometimes go farther afield. Friendly dogs are always welcome on my hikes.
Unlike most other meetup groups, this one is not solely driven by the group leader(s). Anyone who wants to may lead a trip. Just let me know and I'll make you a trip leader and you can post your own adventure to share with the club.
Please note that neither myself, nor any other trip leaders are professional tour guides, nor do we have any special training in first aid or rescue. You are entirely responsible for your own safety.
Upcoming events
2
Noodle, Sidekick, Tatanka, Westside Story and Vista Loop - Prescott
Deer Valley Towne Square,, AZ Target store I-17 and Loop 101 :, Phoenix, az, US# Noodle, Sidekick, Tatanka, Westside Story and Vista Loop - Prescott
Please: >>> SERIOUSLY CONSIDER YOUR PACE, STAMINA AND ABILITY TO SAFELY COMPLETE THE HIKE without separating from the group
Let's visit the cool shades, and roam the maze of trails in this remarkable part of the Prescott forest.
This is a well-marked trail with plenty of signage, but, in search of the views and adventure, we just may not stick to the designated route. Therefore, you are well advised to download the Alltrails map (below) to make sure you find your way in case you get separated from the group.
The route offers excellent views, but most of the hike takes us through the woods. The trail itself is smooth and covered in dirt, with many twists, turns, junctions and minor elevation changes.
We will start the hike from the Spence Springs Trailhead, which has parking available for visitors. As we navigate the loop, we might encounter a few creek crossings, depending on recent weather.
Please: >>> SERIOUSLY CONSIDER YOUR PACE, STAMINA AND ABILITY TO SAFELY COMPLETE THE HIKE without separating from the group
DIFFICULTY: Moderate
TOTAL DISTANCE: 7.7 miles or less
ALTITUDE : 5510 to 6046 feet ASL
ACCUMULATED ELEVATION GAIN: 500-600 feet (approx)
HIKING TIME: 3 to 4 hours
STYLE: Loop
DOGS: NO
FACILITIES at Trailhead: NONETHERE WILL BE A CARPOOL FOR THIS HIKE:
Deer Valley Towne Square, Phoenix, AZ
Target store I-17 and Loop 101 :
# 33°40'02.7"N 112°07'10.6"WHOW TO FIND US:
7:00 a.m.
In front of Target store close to freeway / Beardsley road.
(see pin on map)LEAVING CARPOOL at 7:10 a.m.
Starting from trailhead at 8:45-9:00
RSVP: PICK ONE <– PICK ONLY ONE
will you meet us at the CARPOOL or at TRAILHEAD ?MAP TO TRAILHEAD:
TRAILMAP:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/arizona/noodle-sidekick-tatanka-westside-story-and-vista-loop
THERE WILL BE A CARPOOL FOR THIS HIKE:
Deer Valley Towne Square, Phoenix, AZ
Target store I-17 and Loop 101 :
# 33°40'02.7"N 112°07'10.6"WHOW TO FIND US:
7:00 a.m.
In front of Target store close to freeway / Beardsley road.
(see pin on map)LEAVING CARPOOL at 7:10 a.m.
Starting from trailhead at 8:45-9:00RSVP: PICK ONE <– PICK ONLY ONE
will you meet us at the CARPOOL or at TRAILHEAD ?VERY IMPORTANT: we don't want to leave anyone behind
RSVP: PICK ONE <– PICK ONLY ONE
will you meet us at the CARPOOL or at TRAILHEAD ?
If you don't CONFIRM that you will meet at THE CARPOOL, or if you are late, we'll expect to SEE YOU AT THE TRAILHEAD.VERY IMPORTANT TOO:
If you sign up for the hike, and you change your plans ------ just change your RSVP.
It helps the host prepare, and it's polite.1 attendee
Watson Lake Hike (optional camping and paddling)
Watson Lake, Prescott, AZ, USDetails:
Hello everyone. On Sunday, June 28, we're going to hike the Watson Lake loop trail. The hike is about 5 miles with a minimal 400 ft elevation gain. It does require some rock scrambling. This would be considered a beginner level hike as far as distance an elevation gain goes, but I'll call it intermediate due to the rock scrambling on the back half. Friendly dogs are always welcome on my hikes. Afterwards, we'll go into town for food and drink at the Lazy G Brewhouse. https://www.lazygbrewhouse.com/location/lazyg-brewhouse/What to bring:
plenty of water (bring more than you think you will need)
comfortable hiking shoes
snacks
sunglasses
hat
sunscreenPARKING:
It costs $5 to park at Watson Lake.HOW TO FIND US:
We'll meet at the south boat ramp.REMEMBER:
The AZ sun is strong. Use plenty of sunscreen, reapply, don't forget to cover the tops of your feet and your ears and every other exposed surface. Wear a hat and sunglasses. Drink lots of fluids.DISCLAIMER:
Please note that neither myself, nor any other trip leaders are professional tour guides, nor do we have any special training in first aid or rescue. You are entirely responsible for your own safety.PLEASE ARRIVE EARLY. I'd like to begin hiking as close to 9:00 am as possible.
CAMPING OPTION:
If anyone is interested, I'll be camping near Watson lake for a couple of days prior to and after this hike. I'm camping at Hilltop campground, site # 18, and sites are $20 per night and reservable online ([Hilltop Campground (AZ), Prescott National Forest - Recreation.gov](https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/273335)). I'll be leading a paddle around Watson Lake Saturday morning with my paddling club, Arizona Paddle (Watson Lake, Sat, Jun 27, 2026, 9:00 AM | Meetup) and you are welcome to join us.2 attendees
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