Backpacker Magazine – June 2012

Trail Mix: West

Explore high points, see astronomical rarity and experience three perfect days, all this summer and all in the west.

by: Rachel Zurer

Tags:
• TrailMix
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• West
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• Destinations
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• June
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Explore: Seattle-Area Highpoints
Poo Poo Point, Tiger Mountain State Forest
Hike four miles out-and-back to a viewpoint—popular with paragliders—named for the sound of loggers’ steam whistles. Climb through mossy forest to a grassy perch overlooking the Issaquah Alps and Mt. Rainier (Trip ID 364362). Download our free smartphone app, GPS Trails, to check out dozens more Seattle-area dayhikes.

3 Perfect Days
Sedona, AZ
Bear Mountain Climb and scramble up 1,800 feet to score views of the Verde Valley’s red-rock mesas and Flagstaff’s San Francisco Peaks on this 4.6-mile out-and-back. Before heading home, visit the Honanki Heritage Site (seven miles away on dirt roads) to see Sinagua Indian cliff dwellings and rock art ($5 Red Rock Pass required; bit.ly/honanki). Trip ID 5714

Reno, NV
Penner Lake This 5.4-mile out-and-back has superlative swimming and classic granite scenery along a patchwork of lakes in Tahoe National Forest. Afterward, grab a shower at Donner Memorial State Park (1.usa.gov/donnersp) and explore the museum documenting the party’s unfortunate voyage (but skip the outdated movie). Trip ID 13677

Santa Fe, NM
Santa Fe Baldy Knock off two Santa Fe must-dos—12,662-foot Santa Fe Baldy, and 11,742-foot Lake Katherine, nestled in a rocky cirque below the summit—in one long day on this strenuous 15.4-mile out-and-back (total elevation gain: 2,700 feet). Then recover by soaking in the Japanese-style communal baths at Ten Thousand Waves spa on the way home (open until 10:30 p.m.; $24; tenthousandwaves.com). Trip ID 6923

6/2 National Trails Day
Spotlight: King City, CA
Help keep invasive ceanothus bushes from choking the Ventana Wilderness (ventanawild .com). Find an event near you: americanhiking.org/ntd.




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