BSA Troop 379 - Desert Cross Lutheran Church - Tempe, Arizona
Apache Creek Wilderness
October 22nd and 23rd, 2016
Apache Creek
Location: Apache Creek Loop is within a 5,628 designated wilderness area. The wilderness area is in the Prescott National Forest northwest of Prescott. Rolling hills of juniper and pinyon interspersed with granite outcrops characterize this small, remote and relatively rugged wilderness that features three natural springs and several important riparian areas including Apache Creek.
Several miles ofthis trailweave back and forth across Apache Creek, which supports a diverse riparian plant community. Walnuts and willows line the banks and offer shade. The lush vegetation and availability of water, along with the overall remoteness of the area, support plenty of wildlife, including deer, jackrabbit, mountain lion, and bear.
This wilderness area is an important resource and national heritage—please, leave no trace.
The Trip: We go through Prescott and then head Northwest to the Wilderness. Starting on I-17 we go about 78 miles to exit 262 and head northwest on AZ-69 for 20 miles then turn right onto Fain Rd. Fain Rd merges onto 89-A westbound on to Hwy 89 in about 6 miles. Head north on Hwy 89 for approximately 5 miles. At the intersection of Hwy 89 and Outer Loop Road, take Outer Loop Road west (left) for 6 miles to Williamson Valley Road (also County Road 5). Turn right and continue on Williamson Valley Road for 27 miles to County Road 125. Turn left and travel 1.7 miles to the junction of Forest Road 95. Turn left onto FR 95 and go 1.2 miles to FR 95A, on the right. Turn onto FR 95A and go 1.2 miles to the trailhead for TR 9904 Graver Wash Trail on the right (you will pass through a stretch gate).
There is no defined parking at the trailhead. You may wish to park at the gate and walk 0.2 miles to the trailhead. High clearance 4WD is recommended on the last 1.2 miles on FR 95A.
The Hike: This is a loop hike that covers 6.1 miles. We will camp along the loop. The hike is relatively level but can be rocky and uneven terrain. Average temperatures are 39° to 70° F but maybe a bit cooler for the wilderness area. Also, bring a change of clothes that can be left with the vehicles in case you get wet.
Cost: $5.00 fee for scouts not accompanied by a driver.
Gear: Pack light and warm. Bring at least ½ gal of water. There may be water in Apache Creek, but it has not been tested for quality so if you don’t have a water filter you should carry more water. Suggest long pants and long sleeve light shirts, sun block and water shoes or some type of footwear that can get wet. Bring a few changes of dry socks, just in case. You will be in the wilderness and you will need to bring food for 1 dinner, 2 lunches and 1 breakfast and snacks. Work with your patrol and mates to reduce redundant gear and weight. Mind the weather.
Burro Creek
The area can be rugged but this is considered an Easy to Moderate skill level of a hike.
Rules For All Scout Outings:
1.) BSA policies: 10 scouts per adult leader, permission slips signed, and buddy system always.
2.) Respect fellow scouts; no activity that destroys the personal dignity of the scout, no hazing of any sort, be helpful to your fellow scout, no foul language and no weapons.
3.) The Outdoor Code: Clean in your outdoor manner, Careful with fire, Considerate of others, and Conservation minded.
4.) Safety conscious: Stay between point and drag, Stop if you become separated, Carry enough stuff in your pack for an emergency overnight by yourself, Use good common sense.
Emergency Phone List:
Alan Garlington cell (602) 459-0854
Duane Lidman cell (602) 722-1989
Dan Cortes cell (480) 415-2100
Saturday
6:00 am Meet at Church
6:30 am Depart Church
FF on the road
10:30 am Parked and hiking
4:00 pm High Tea
9:10 pm Anyone still awake
Sunday
8:00 am Up and at it
9:30 am Depart
11:00 am Find cars and head home
2:30 pm Arrive Church
These times are a guide not a rule. We will do our best to alert parents of approximate time of arrival at Church for pick up once we are in Phoenix.
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PERMISSION SLIP AND RELEASE FORM
My son/ward ______has my permission to participate in the car camping and hiking at Apache Creek Wilderness with Boy Scout Troop 379 on October 22nd and 23rd, 2016. I understand that there are risks involved with car travel, camping and hiking. I have reviewed the activities for this outing and believe him capable and properly prepared. I accept the judgment of the adult leaders.
As a scout I promise to act in a safe manner, live by the troop rules for the outdoors and follow the Scout Motto and Law. I promise to keep my seat belt on at all times while the vehicle is moving.
______
PARENT SIGNATURE SCOUT SIGNATURE
Parents or guardians can be reached this weekend at the following phone numbers.
Home: ______Cell: ______