Picacho Peak Via the Hunter Trail

It's been 20 years since I last hiked Picacho Peak up and back on the Hunter Trail. I did hike it last year, ascending via the Hunter and descending on the longer and much more gradual Sunset Vista trail, but the Hunter is particularly challenging because of the amazing elevation gain. Thus did I think that a Picacho Peak hike would be the perfect going-away gift for Jon, visiting from Dallas, who flies out in the afternoon. Another perfect weather day, if one ignores the smog, which apparently everyone in Arizona does.

I'm not sure most ten-year-olds could hike this trail. (Photo by Jon Damon)

 (Photo by Jon Damon)

 (Photo by Jon Damon)

 (Photo by Jon Damon)

 (Photo by Jon Damon)

The system of cables that makes Picacho Peak accessible to lay hikers starts in earnest at the saddle.  (Photo by Jon Damon)

 (Photo by Jon Damon)

Jon posing on an outcropping.

 (Photo by Jon Damon)

Straight up.

 (Photo by Jon Damon)

 (Photo by Jon Damon)

 (Photo by Jon Damon)

 (Photo by Jon Damon)

 (Photo by some guy from Wisconsin)

(Photo by Jon Damon)