good-times-rollin: Doe Mesa Hike

Tuesday, April 28, 2015

Doe Mesa Hike

Distant Drums RV Resort
Camp Verde, AZ
April 27, 2015

After 3 days and nights of a few thunder storms, on and off again heavy rains, gusty winds and much cooler temps, we woke up to bright blue skies and sunshine today.

With a hike on Doe Mesa already picked out, we were up early, packed and out the door by 8:30.

WAHOO!

There is a small "meadow" at the parking area. I just knew I would see some sort of wildlife...but no!

From the parking lot, the trail is hidden in the dense growth of juniper and pinyon pines.

Doe Mesa Hike is rated as a moderate short hike. It is a winding trail with lots of switchbacks, huge steps and rock scrambling...at some points very close to the edge!

Much of the trail looked like this so keeping an eye on the path was more of a challenge for me. I never look where I am going!

What a good workout!

Doe is steep up the sides, and perfectly flat at the top.

Views on the east side of the mesa...

Views from the south end of the mesa...

And views on the west side of the mesa...

We walked about a mile at the top making our hike for the day a total of 3.5 miles. The trail that goes up is also the trail that goes down. The going down on big steps is always harder for my short legs.