January AZ Hang

**Roadtorque** · 12-05-2009, 21:48

I assume the trail would be snow covered in January? If so I would probably prefer the shorter route as I dont have snow shoes.

**longbow** · 12-05-2009, 22:02

Fossil Creek could work well. It is short and reasonably fast in and out.

I am hoping that both my 17 year old son and his girlfriend will come with me in January. Both are rock climbers and pretty trail tough. But, his girlfriend is a new hiker and would very likely have trouble with 10 in and 10 out.

Please don't let us hold you back. If the group wants a longer hike in January, go for it. My schedule is always sketchy and I wouldn't want to have any special emphasis on our needs. If you decide on a longer distance, that is good. In that case, I would likely attend the January hike alone and/or with just my son.

**longbow** · 12-05-2009, 22:17

It has been quite a while since I last hiked into Fossil Springs. For those of you with recent experience, is there any wisdom to hiking down to Fossil Springs then back out along the flume road (if it still exists)? Such a route would require positioning a vehicle at the old Irving Plant site. But, the benefit (if feasible) would be some great scenery, mostly downhill walking, and the avoidance of that long climb/hike back out of the canyon.

This is just a glimmer of an idea, not necessarily a suggestion. Any thoughts?

**Roadtorque** · 12-05-2009, 22:29

I think it can still be done but I'm not sure how scenic it would be. As far as I could tell, the last time I was down there, the trail still exists. There was a guy at the springs with his two young kids that said he hiked that trail in. He said it was longer but much easier.

**dejoha** · 12-05-2009, 22:51

I've heard fossil springs is quite beautiful, and wasn't there some recent work on the riparian area?

Here's the page from Hike Arizona, which has links to some amazing photos. I've never been there, but it looks amazing.

**pisanodc** · 12-06-2009, 01:26

I am down for whatever. Just keep me posted. Thanks for organizing this one. I attended the last AZ hang where temps got to 14.6. Brrrr.

**bfulton** · 12-11-2009, 01:44

I graduate on the 17th, so I'll have more time to organize this hang after that.

Current Plan:
When: January 15-17
Where: Mid AZ "Fossil Creek / Fossil Springs"

The locations above are two different destinations, both have been mentioned in previous posts. I would prefer Fossil Springs, any objections?

**pisanodc** · 12-11-2009, 09:51

None from me. Fossil Springs is off of highway 260, correct? Past Camp Verde before the turn off for Bull Pen Ranch, if memory serves me correctly. Last time I was there they were doing a lot of work there. I think we will have the place all to ourselves, unless there are any other people crazy enough to be outside that time of year. For those leaving from the phoenix area, a great place to meet is the Deer Valley 30 complex on the I 17 and 101. There is a great place to grab breakfast... Wildflower Bread Company.

Ange

**dejoha** · 12-11-2009, 10:25

Jan 15-17 sounds great and I'm in favor of Fossil Springs!

**Roadtorque** · 12-11-2009, 12:46

I guess I didn't realize there was a difference between fossil springs and fossil creek. I have been to fossil springs and would have no problem going back