The AZT is a relatively young trail that is becoming increasingly popular. The southern terminus is at the Mexican border, and the northern terminus is at the Arizona-Utah border. The AZT has varied ecosystems, challenging passages, and the Grand Canyon. It can be completed in 6-8 weeks and is an excellent long-distance trail at the start of the backpacking season in North America.
I had made desert backpacking trips in Utah and looked forward to doing more deserts in Arizona. I did not expect how rugged the trail was in the southern and middle sections with rocks and more rocks. Rocks slowed me on descents and helped cause blisters on the balls of my feet and heels. The blisters were a first for me.
The trail often took a circuitous route without much reason, so I often found more direct ways. Officials along the AZT have rerouted the trail in sections, but sometimes the more recent paths also led away from water sources.
Enough complaining!
Next: AZT – Trail, Vistas