The following message is for those of you planning to hike the Arizona Trail (AZT). Take a minute to read and, please, heed it. Don't take it lightly.
I am a friend to those interested in hiking the AZT. This web book is to help you plan your hike. It isn't intended to be a guidebook. Seek out as much other information as you can about the AZT (See chapter 27). Those of you who have hiked the Appalachian Trail will be surprised by the trail-finding difficulties in some places along the Arizona Trail. Below are a few thoughts on hiking the Arizona Trail. And if you've been out on it recently, let me know how it went, especially trail conditions and water sources (DavesAZTraileBookathotmail.com).
1) The Arizona Trail is still a work in progress, about 15 years old. It isn't established in some areas or regularly maintained in others. The trail is often faint. The vegetation grows quickly, even in the desert. Thus, the trail is overgrown and difficult to find in a few areas. Trail markers (signs, rock cairns, silver hangers, flag tape etc) aren't frequent. And to top it off, some of the AZT trail markers have been vandalized too. Volunteers are doing their best to make and keep it viable.
2) The AZT isn't for the inexperienced. Route finding can be very difficult. Therefore, be prepared to bushwack and use all of your skills in finding the way. Use a compass and GPS if possible. Don't make the Arizona Trail the place where you develop those skills. Be super prepared.
3) Water is always a consideration on the AZT, even when we aren't having drought. You may have to carry a day or two's supply at times. Never assume there will be water at an isolated cattle tank or windmill or seasonal creek. It's common for springtime run-off streams in Arizona to be there one week and without a drop of water the next. You can try to pry information from the governing agency of various sections but they often don't know or are reluctant to give false hope. Use chapter 31 of this book as a resource but be cautious.
4) A huge part of Arizona is desert. I would caution against through hiking south of Pine, Arizona between early May and early October. Arizona's late spring and summer heat is a killer. Even short 1-2 day hikes should be approached with caution.
5) Hiking near the Mexico border. You will see evidence (lots of litter and clothes)and possibly people from Mexico and other countries who come across the USA border illegally. Some may be coming to work and others bringing in drugs. Be very cautious. I haven't heard of any negative confrontations but it is a real possibility. I suggest while near the border to 1) place your overnight campsite a hundred, or more, yards off the trail and 2) keep on moving if you see or come near these folks. And this part of the AZT may be the one area to not hike alone.
The Arizona Trail is a great adventure. Several have successfully hiked it. But use good judgement and common sense if you plan on stepping foot on it.
