Massacre Falls Trail

Another one of our favourite hikes which we took back on March 11 with Neil and Lynne.  Total of 6.1 miles with 1138 ft elevation gain.  It was a little chilly when we left GC but by the time we drove around to the north side of the mountain I had wished I had put on another layer and perhaps brought some gloves.  The cool air combined with the wind made for a brisk morning hike.  After an hour or so all was good as the Az sun and a little exertion warmed us up nicely.

Onwards and upwards

Looking back to where we started out.  

Neil leading the way

Burned out tree skeletons from a fire a few years earlier. 

Apache Junction below and way off in the distance downtown Phoenix

We each took this shot and had to get down on our belly to get the mountain in the background.  

Bird nest built out of sticks and stones in a crevice between 2 boulders.  Mama was not happy with us getting this close.  Never seen a nest built out of stones before.  

Another burned out tree.  

Lynne on a rock shelf which in wetter years would have been behind a waterfall.  Now it's just a trickle.

Me up on the rock shelf with Lori gazing up hoping I am able to get down with all my bones intact.  

Poppies out in full force. 

As the end of March draws near many activities are winding down as people, especially RV'ers, prepare to head for home.  We have hosted 3 year end parties this past week and on our morning walk we noticed lots of empty RV spots and vacant park models.  By this time next week it will be a ghost town with only the 100 or so permanent residents plus a few of us die hards left.     

Big rain storm last night complete with thunder and big winds.  Today its cool and rainy so perhaps I get a few more blogs done.