GET Day 14: Pinaleno Mountains

Daily Miles: 14.9, Total Miles: 189.2

The heavy, gusty winds died down around 6am so at least I was able to heat up water for coffee.

I headed into rolling, high desert on dirt roads in the foothills of the Pinalenos. Should have read more closely the description of the bushwhacking section up the ridge overlooking Tripp Canyon. Made it much more difficult and longer for myself, struggling through thick vegetation before rejoining the trail at the top of the ridge. It was a relief to get down to the bottom and find the camo-colored stock tank – full and clear.

From Tripp Canyon, I decided to take the Sawmill-Blue Jay alternative in order to get water at Sawmill Spring. The spring was easy to find and continued up the mountain, finding a flat spot with a nice view off of FR286 just before connecting to the Blue Jay Ridge Trail.

Some wind today but much better than yesterday. Also much cooler here at over 7,000 ft elevation. The peroneal tendon in my ankle I snapped out of place a few months ago is sore and tender, especially on the downhill. More Advil and trying to be more conscious of foot placement.

Didn’t see a soul today.