Idaho Pass Loop

Idaho Pass Loop; Goldfield Mountains, September 25, 2017

Starting at first light, I was hoping to make Idaho Pass by sunrise. Made it. Although I had a headlamp with me, my night vision was enough. Slow going, down through the first arroyo and then the descent into the Idaho Canyon arroyo.

There’s a hill at Idaho Pass with boulders to sit on or use for a tripod.

Forest Road 10 has washouts, as does the Wolverine Pass Trail. The northern half of the trail is hard to find – worst, inexplicably, where it crosses the power line. Fortunately I had been there before.

My car thermometer read 59° when I got to Idaho Access, warming up to 75° after the hike. Yet despite the beautifully cool and clear morning, I had the wilderness to myself.

Thanks to God for watching over me, providing a lovely day, and letting me get to Idaho Pass before sunrise.

Lights of Apache Junction
Superstition Mountains before dawn.
I started walking as soon as there was enough light to see the trail.
Same scene, at the end of the hike.
A big bird watches me from Idaho Canyon in the pre-dawn light.
The Deer Tanks Trail tops out at Idaho Pass.
Now who says I’m snooty?	Ants go about their business.
Bulldog Ridge catches the first rays.
Northern Peak 3195.
Temptation Peak is also 3195'.
Peak 3108.
Peak 3163.
Peak 3075.
Miocene volcanism, 18½ million years ago, formed Bulldog Ridge.
Baby Turtle gives Mama Turtle a kiss.
Peak 3269 from Forest Road 10.
Opuntia fulgida - Chain Fruit Cholla
The northern half of the Wolverine Pass Trail is hard to follow – but I’ve been there before.
Lichens adorn a boulder by the trail.


More Hike Pictures		updated September 25, 2017