Butcher Jones Trail to Burro Cove
The path is mostly packed dirt, weaving through a mix of saguaros, mesquite, and palo verde. It’s not a difficult hike, but there are a few rocky sections and mild inclines. We heard and smelled a critter in the brush, but didn’t spot what it was; some other hikers said they saw a javelina. Bummed I missed seeing that!
About two miles in, the trail rises, opening up to a wide view of the lake. From here, it’s easy to see how the water carves into the desert, creating hidden coves and inlets. I spotted a birds nest in a cactus just off the trail.
A short, uneven descent leads down to Burro Cove – the trail becomes overgrown and brushy here… We stood and listened to the many ducks, coots and other birds for a while before heading back.
We pulled out on the way home to check out the Salt River
Camelback – Cholla Trail
A revisit for me – I first hiked this trail with Caroline Ross when we were at a conference at the Phoenecian in 2003. So. Long. Ago.
We powered it out, competitive hiking definitely kicks in for me when there are other people on the trail 😜 The entire out and back (up and down) was only 1 hour 34 minutes! It’s 1,342 elevation gain in 1.7 miles, 3.4 mile total. I love feeling fitter and stronger – Noom and increased strength training for the win.
Hiking in a busy urban setting is a very different experience than AK hiking. In Alaska if I see more than one other party while I’m out and about it feels crowded. In Phoenix hiking is a people watching opportunity, and one of the things to discuss from vantage points is which mansion has the best layout, pool, and landscaping.
Leaving Phoenix today, working our way north for a ski day at Brian Head on Monday.
Quillpig 