PC Hikers take on seven-mile loop at Eagletail Mountains Wilderness area

Left to right: Ed Kim, Lynn Warren (photographer), Beverly Kim, Mark Frumkin, Mark Gruca, Len Jeffery, Vicki Carter and Gary Bray pausing shortly after lunch with Eagletail Peak in the background.

Left to right: Ed Kim, Lynn Warren (photographer), Beverly Kim, Mark Frumkin, Mark Gruca, Len Jeffery, Vicki Carter and Gary Bray pausing shortly after lunch with Eagletail Peak in the background.

Lynn Warren

The 100,000 acre Eagletail Mountains Wilderness area is located along the western edge of the Harquahala Valley and is accessed via I-10, Exit 81, just 45 miles west of PebbleCreek. Although the last few miles require driving on a rocky, unpaved road, the area rewards hikers with scenery comparable to portions of the Superstitions without the hassle of driving I-10 through Phoenix. On March 9, eight “B” hikers enjoyed a seven-mile loop through interesting washes and impressive rock formations, including a unique cluster of three arches. Most of the hike was free-form with easy bushwhacking through open desert, followed by the final segment which was an actual trail. The club’s regular season ends on May 5 but some members will continue hiking throughout the challenging summer, researching new trails for next season. Visit the club website at pchikers.org for more information and photos.