AZT: Rain Collector to Superior, via LOST trail, 18 miles
The final piece of trail ends at Picketpost just before the Superstition Mountains. I opt to walk into Superior through a lovely riparian canyon.
AZT: Gila River to Rain Collector, 18 miles
It’s one of the most thrilling parts of the trail, a 2,000 foot climb out of the Gila River Canyon into desert spires and ramparts.
AZT: Ripsey Wash to near lowest point, 19 miles
I had the last section of Passage 15 up a big hill, along a ridge, then down steeply to the Gila River in wild clouds and rain.
AZT: Antelope Peak to stock tank near Ripsey Wash, 19 miles
The day is spent on the flattest expanse of Passage 15 through the Sonoran Desert, loud with birdsong and views to far off mountains.
AZT: Passage 14 – Black Hills, 19 miles
The day is filled with clouds and filtered light turning the cholla silver against the Tortilla Mountains.
AZT: Oracle to high point, 15 miles
I start right where I left off at American Flag under Mount Lemmon then walk north into desert beauty.
AZT: the return
I arrive in Tucson and spend the day on a wild circuitous detour exactly where I’ll walk with my African-American friend Hector.
Good Luck, Bad Luck
My outlook on life is a belief in grace and abundance tinged by some bad luck that tests our character.
NM: Deadman Peaks to Cuba, New Mexico
The final twenty miles included climbing up on several mesas made of different types of rock and all with amazing views including the last night’s sunset show.
NM: Ojo Frio to Deadman Peaks, New Mexico
This is one of the most interesting and varied sections with whimsical hoodoos, massive dry washes, views for miles from ridges and two good water sources.
