Black Mesa- Dutchman's Loop

This is a nice hike, for experienced hikers, with a variety of views including Garden Valley, Weavers Needle, and areas of plant recovery from past fires. The scenery on each of the 3 trails differs and makes this hike interesting.
Difficulty: intermediate , length, very rocky with everything from golf ball to softball size rocks on the trail, steady pace, and a very steep scree filled descent on back half of Black Mesa make this hike too challenging for beginners, strong hikers might be bored with my steady but slower pace averaging about 2 mph, the elevation gains are very "doable"
Length: 9.3 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,072 ft
Trail Description: We very briefly start off on the Dutchman Trail before turning on Second Water Trail. Second Water Trail goes through an area referred to as Garden Valley. We will turn right on to Black Mesa. It has great views of Weavers Needle. It also has a very steep, scree-filled descent. Poles will help in this area. We will keep a sharp eye out in this bottom area to pick up the Dutchman Trail. We'll also take a break in this area for snacks/chatting. The Dutchman trail is a rolling trail, no difficult elevation gains, but it is still a very rocky trail. It will take us back to the first water trailhead where we started.
Come prepared: in your hiking attire, hiking boots/shoes in good condition, a minimum of 3 liters of water, the hike downloaded on your phone or carry a paper map, snacks, your own first aid kit (bandages, tweezers/comb to remove cactus needles, duct tape for equipment & minor body repairs), knowledge about the trail- download the trail on your favorite app: Alltrails, Gaia, ?
DOGS: Please leave the furry friends at home.
Release of Liability:
*The organizer of this event is a volunteer and not a professional guide. Expect the same risks and take the same precautions you would take if you were hiking alone. You are solely responsible for your own safety and well-being. The function of the organizer is only to organize this event. Each person who signs up for and participates in this hike/event is responsible for his or her own safety.
* By signing up for and participating in this hiking event you are acknowledging that you are aware of the risks, dangers, and hazards associated with this activity and freely accept all such risks.