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Upper Mazatzal Loop

Three years of exploring the wilderness and finally, after dozens of backpacks and day trips, there were only a few trails left to hike, a few trails that conveniently form a giant triangle in the north. Some of these are located along the AZT and are well-trafficked, while others are nested in more remote areas and are unknown entities. I set out for an ambitious overnight backpack over sixty miles to hike these trails and finish the Mazatzal Project.

  1. Hiking Saddle Ridge to Bull Spring SaddleThis morning started like so many of my Mazatzal adventures: pitch-black sky, frigid air, and a stumbling gait …
  2. Hiking Wet Bottom ParadiseBull Spring Trail passes through three drainage basins after it leaves the AZT. With each basin it swings …
  3. Hiking Rainy Day on the Verde RiverWaking about an hour before sunrise, I was initially slow moving under the dark sky. As soon as I was dressed …