We left Fry’s Mercado at 7:00 AM and got to the trailhead around 9:00. It’s a long drive, due to the sandy road and some big ditches along the road. Thanks to divers Michael, Steve, Andy, and Lawrence. Without you we can’t have made this hike today.

From the trailhead we follow a flat level Jeep road for a quarter mile. The trail turns left, with large cairns marking the way, and the ascent begins. We climb a spur ridge steeply up to the main ridge. The trail goes up and up. The views are impressive. The trail curves around rugged terrain and vegetation typical of Sonoran plants: teddy bear, chain fruit cholla, palo verde, and saguaro. We have to watch out for the jumping cactus!

This hike continues steeply uphill. But because we are hiking on the ridge we can have both side views. The first sighting of Quartz Peak pops into our vision as we reach a vista point two miles from the trailhead. The white cap on the mountain looks like bird droppings from a distance.

The trail is faded at the last half mile to Quartz Peak. But the trail is well cairned on this outing. We have to take our time finding the cairns to lead us to the top. It’s not too difficult to figure out, but it does slow our pace. We have to scramble and hop the rocks, boulders, but no technical climbing skills are needed.

The summit consists of some blocks of white quartz mixed with mica. Once we get to the summit, it’s a rock climb straight up the quartz blocks. We enjoy the breathtaking views, take pictures, have fun together. From the top of Quartz Peak, all of us feel like it’s the top of the world.

People said “If the trail seems steep, the view is worth it.”

Heading down from Quartz Peak is not as easy as climbing up. We are careful, slow in footing and wrapping tight on rock. We return the way we came. All are back to the trailhead safe and sound at different times.

Two hikers have to head back right after the hike for personal reasons. Sixteen hikers stop at Diva’s to have a post-hike dinner. Thanks to Herb and Diva for opening their beautiful home and feeding us tasty food!

Certainly this is a great hike for cardio workout with magnificent views of surrounding mountains and the Sonoran landscape. Beautiful weather, great hike, wonderful companions, and delicious meals. I couldn’t ask for more. Thanks to all for coming to join my hike.

Happy Trails!