Bright Angel Campground
Grand Canyon backcountry
For a while the spectacular ever-changing views compensate for the pounding my legs an knees take as I descend the long trail. As the miles roll by, the pack on my back seems heavier, and my quadriceps begin to burn. To me, hiking continually downhill always seems more taxing than the uphill journey. At the end of the 18 miles trail, the campground at Bright Angel awaits, shining in the growing dark like a beacon to my weary and battered body. This is certainly one of those situations where the destination is as rewarding as the journey. Located in the amazing inner gorge, Bright Angel is one of the most incredible backpacking campsites in the world.
Don’t miss it: The canyon walls glow deep, glorious shades of reds as twilight slowly encroaches on the day.
Directions: Bright Angel can be reached from the south rim on the Bright Angel trail, or the from the north rim via the Kaibab trail.
More info:Grand Canyon NP 520-638-7875
Horseshoe Reservoir
Cave Creek
Boaters, fishermen, birdwatchers, and hikers are all attracted by the recreational opportunities available at Horseshoe Reservoir. Although this is a wonderful place to do some quiet fishing, my favorite activity is bird watching. Bald and golden eagles are often sighted in the tops of the tall sycamores. I have spent many an hour leaning back in a lawn chair watching an eagle’s activity with binoculars. The spacious campground is located in a thick and lush mesquite thicket. So bring your boat, fishing rod, hiking boots and binoculars; Horseshoe has got it all. You will have plenty of places to set up your camping tent.
Don’t miss it: Across the dam is some of the wildest and isolated country in the state; determined bushwhackers may be rewarded by a fleeting glimpse of a lion or bobcat.
Directions: Take Cave Creek Road from carefree and turn right on FR 19. Turn left on FR 205 and drive to the junction of FR 205A. Turn right to reach the campground.
More info:Cave Creek Ranger District 602-488-3441
Upper Canyon Creek
Pleasant Valley
The wind gusting through the tall ponderosa pines whispers something I can’t quite make out. The leaves caught in the current of the bubbling creek make lazy circles in the eddy below. Just beneath the surface, silent shadows of elusive brown trout periodically catch my eye. Canyon Creek lies in the shadow of the Mogollon Rim, offering solitude and peace (and an occasional trout) to those who seek to escape the beaten path. The backcountry campsites are dispersed along the creek.
Miss it: Intermittent visits from the local bruin population require the usual precautions. (After all, this isn’t Jellystone and that large black bear pawing through my food box isn’t Yogi.)
Directions: Take FR512 toward Young from SR260. Turn left onto FR33 to reach the campground.
More info:Pleasant Valley ranger District 520-462-3311
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