AZT Day 26: Saddle Mountain

ByPurple Haze Posted on

Daily Miles: 16.8, Total Miles: 414.9

I headed to Sunflower and the culvert crossing under the highway, surprised a deer in the creek. I saw a road sign at Sunflower advertising a topless place – maybe a re-supply option?

With steady climbs, I entered the Mazatzal Wilderness – looking forward to this part of the trail. Thick manzanita and mountain shrubs gave way to rolling grasslands and scrub oak. Impressive views and interesting, colorful rock formations as I skirted the side of Saddle Mountain.

Entering Mazatzal Wilderness via Saddle Mountain

Steep lung burning, rocky trails got me to just below the Mt Peeley TH and the junction with the Mazatzal Divide Trail. There is a storm coming in and snow forecast for tonight.

storm coming to the Mazatzal Mountains

Saw a fox cross the trail today.