Lucky number 13 Trailblazers assembled at the First Water Trailhead and hit the trail at 7:20 AM, ready for a day of adventure. The air was cool and fresh after a few days of rain and had a nice aroma of chaparral. We didn’t see much water in any of the washes as we ascended to Garden Valley and the ruins at the intersection with the Black Mesa Trail.

After taking a moment to appreciate the views in back of us, we continued along the Second Water Trail. We noticed a brand new trail sign indicating the way to Hackberry Spring. Then we descended into the riparian zone of second water and finally saw some little pools of still water, as well as trees with multi-hued leaves and verdant shrubbery.

Next up, the first views of Geronimo Head and Battleship Mountain. After a quick stop at Indian Paint Mine, we descended into the dry creek bed and started the off trail portion of our day. A slow slog on large and small river rocks changed our pace. The rocks grew larger and larger, until we reached a spot where we had to climb some huge boulders to reach the opening to Labarge Box. Everyone arrived unscathed.

It was a thrill to walk on the slickrock floor and behold the tall walls of the canyon and the deep clear pools. We took a longer break to eat lunch, explore, listen to a little harmonica music courtesy of Moé, and to take our amazing group photo (minus Ralph, our photographer of the moment). It was cool enough in the Box that the jackets, which we had quickly shed in the early morning, had to come back into service.

The jackets didn’t last long after we resumed our hike. Next up was a steep climb out to the saddle, followed by a quick descent. The last part required some butt-sliding.