Romero Pass and Then Some

Yesterday we hiked the Romero Canyon Trail  (Catalina State Park) to the Romero Pass and beyond. Wowza, about 15 miles and 4,000 feet of elevation gain. But, a bright, cool (60 degrees) day, and after the Romero Pools, 3 miles in, not another soul on the trail, discounting the coati scampering ahead of us at one point. We were at the trail head by 8:30 and back again at 4:30. 2 liters of water proved insufficient and I now realize I'm going to need a hiking backpack with hydration bladder to get the water needed for hikes over 10 miles, a few of which I have planned. I feel surprisingly good today considering it's only my third real hike at elevation (and also considering my advanced age).

The trail lulls you into thinking it's another day at the beach for the first ¾ mile.

This cushy freeway of sand was welcomed at mile 14.5 on the return.

Oro Valley in the distance.

The difference in temps between shade and sun was about 10ºF.

The Romero Pools. After this point, we saw no one else.

The Pools have water even now; they'll really fill up with the spring thaws in January and February.

Not sure, but I think we're heading up there, or probably beyond.

Jacques (he prefers Jack so henceforth, Jack) at the first of two campgrounds we pass.

Finally reach Romero Pass at mile 7.1. Four hours wasn't 

bad, considering how rocky the trail was in spots.

We could have continued on to Mt. Lemon, only another 6 ½ miles or so, but then what? Actually, there is a Santa Catalina-Mt. Lemon loop that's a hefty 27.2 miles, but that would require an overnight on Mt. Lemon and all the extra gear that would require. Maybe next year.

We 

Jack, not content with the modest view from the pass, suggested the rocks up above us would be a better place for a lunch with views...

...so we hike up another ⅓ of a mile, a steep and slippery climb, and I must say, Jack was right about the 360º views on top.

Oro Valley in the distance.

Mt. Lemon is somewhere back there or further.

Jack expressing his pleasure on insisting we climb up here for lunch.

The second campground.

Back to the Romero Pools—only three miles to go.

Nice spot for a mini break.

Getting toward dusk as we return.