I never knew that Arizona has ski areas. The most prominent one is north of Flagstaff, called Ski Bowl. The other is Mt Lemmon Ski Valley outside of Summerhaven. Arizona is full of surprises.
The ascents of Miller Peak (9,470′), Mount Mica (8,668′), and Mt Lemmon (9,159′) are all over 4,000 feet; however, the most climbing was my first day out of Roosevelt Marina at over 6,100 feet through 18-miles. That section was much up-and-down. Some sections were relatively flat and exposed. These areas were genuinely desert with cacti, jackrabbits, road runners, snakes, scorpions, Gila Monsters, and lizards.
As I headed north, the top of Mt Lemmon was the most arduous hike I had ever experienced. Whit had suggested overnighting at Hutch’s Pool before tackling Mt Lemmon peak. After Mt Mica and a short day, I did 28 miles to get to the pool. I felt good at the start of the day and stopped for breakfast and to dry out my gear because of condensation before facing the summit.
Eating well and resting beforehand did not improve the last few miles to the top. The hike was challenging because of the steepness, scrambling over rocks, and the sun. However, the feeling of accomplishment was incredible. The descent was in forests, and Summerhaven was a few miles after the summit with food and a general store waiting.
I was a day ahead of my tramily but did not relate my experience to them since I did not want to discourage anyone. They had stopped at Molino Basin Campground, and Jada, Karen, and Emy had returned to the Tuscan vortex.
Skittish deer, ringtail cats, bears, small rodents, peasants, woodpeckers, and other birds were in the mountains. I only saw bear scat, and the ringtail cat I saw was running away. They are very elusive and skittish. The ringtail cat almost looked like a fox combined with a raccoon.
Next: AZT – Trail, Saguaro