This first photo is of us at Walnut canyon is filled with Indian ruins that line the cliffs of walnut canyon. We hiked a 185 feet climb in 204 steps. It was a great hike going down because gravity worked in our favor.. We practically ran down the 204 stairs because it was easier. After the 204 stairs we walked the path that takes you all the way around the “island” in the middle of walnut canyon. We got to actually go into the rooms of the ruins. The weather was perfect for the hike. We got to walnut canyon (just east of flagstaff) right after a nice rain storm so it was over cast and cool outside. Going back up the 204 steps was a bit harder but we did it. Basically you need to drink water and pace yourself going back up the canyon. Because of the higher altitude it is harder to breath so don’t feel bad if you a toast after the first few sets of stairs. We finished the hike in about 45 min. It was nice!

Earlier that morning we drove out to the sunset crater volcano. It is supposedly the youngest volcano in our area. This hike lets you walk the lava flow path. Along the way you learn about the types of volcanoes in the area and the history behind them. This hike was fairly easy but it was also very interesting. The thing that sticks out in my mind was the temperature change from the moment you stepped onto the cinders. You could feel the heat coming off the cinders from the days sun. Also the dramatic landscape change is amazing!

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The hike up really kicked my butt but N and Dixie were doing fine. I made them stop for breaks very often (I was having breathing trouble). We really had no idea what a hike it was till it was over.. turns out we hiked 6 miles in about 4 1/2 – 5 hours (with all our breaks) and we went from 6,900′ to 9,295′ elevation.

You can read more information about the tail specifics by visiting: the Elden Lookout Trail #4 page at the forest service website.

We took forever to get up to the top but our hike down was a ton faster!! I got stuck in some thigh deep snow near the top of the mountain and our dog almost broke my leg pulling me down the trail while I was stuck…

It was strange to have 60 degree temperatures in town and when we reached the top of the mountain we found very deep semi packed snow. It just shows how high up we really went!

Once the hike was over our knees and ankles hurt so we grabbed tons of junk food, brought it upstairs to the bedroom and we laid in bed while munching junk and watching the 40 year old virgin.

This morning we can walk (amazingly) but I have sore really sore butt muscles..

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