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. 

Looking down on the trail...

Doe Mesa

Until next time, happy days and...

happy trails!

P.S. The clouds were beautiful all day...

Going home...

Belle's (MH) view...

Vultee Arch

Distant Drums RV Resort
Camp Verde, AZ
April 21, 2015

This is Vultee Arch. Joe and I did this hike last year...a hike we consider to be in the top 5 best hikes we did in Sedona. 

To get to the arch is quite an adventure both on wheels and on foot. You see, the trailhead is off the same road (Forest Road 152) that Devil's Bridge hike is on...only its about a 4.3 mile ride along a winding somewhat maintained gravel road with small ledges to crawl, beautiful scenery, and a descent into Sterling Canyon. It always adds to the adventure when 4-wheel drive is part of the package!

The hike (just under 4 miles in and out) is in Sterling Canyon.

It is mostly shady as it twists and turns thru the Coconino Wilderness, has gradual climbs, and views of sheer walls  (Wilson Mountain) and red rock...did I mention shady?

 I really enjoyed the trees...there was a wildfire in this canyon in 1996. Signs of scarred pine, juniper and oak trees are visible, but that is not what catches my eye...it's the rebirth of a wilderness and the sound of the wind in the trees high above that draws me in. 

Sanddune Wallflower

We did enjoy spots of yellow and orange. The Sanddune Wallflower or Prairie Rocket was the most prolific. 

Of course, purple was not going to go unnoticed as large patches of Hill's Lupine enjoyed the sunlight!




Not quite as famous as the Texas Bluebonnet, MonaLisa...but still pleasing to the eye.

The lupine leaves are such a pretty shape, but on closer inspection...yikes! That is not water, but sap. The spiders and insects are stuck! 

The Vultee
Arch trail follows Dry Creek. Today is was a pleasant surprise to find that Dry Creek wasn't completely dry like it usually is. 




There are lots and lots of creek crossings on this trail so if it ever has running water, it might be a bit of a challenge.

This year there was no "playing" on the arch. Just as we were about to climb up to the arch, we encountered bees...not just a few, but hundreds swarming all around the path. Quick decision...retreat! 

So, until next time, happy days and...

happy trails!

P.S. It looks like rain is on the way!

We changed sites yesterday...our new front view of the mountains and valley.