Billie Horn led this hike and Neil was way ahead much of the way.

Apache Wash trailhead is part of a large system of hiking trails in the Sonoran Preserve, located off E. Sonoran Desert Drive in north Phoenix. We hiked the Apache Wash/Ridgeback Loop for 5 miles.

The trails are in good condition, the parking lot is large and restrooms are provided.

20 hikers met at the trailhead on a mild morning. The temps ranged from 55 to 75 degrees as we hiked today. Our group is growing in numbers as the weather cools, and we welcomed back some people we haven’t seen for a while.

After the group photo and an introduction circle, we started off on the Ocotillo Trail, which climbs enough to get everyone warmed up. By the time we arrived at the first trail junction and stopped, most of the jackets came off.

We turned onto the Ridgeback Trail and gained a bit more elevation, and all hikers decided to go up to the Ridgeback Overlook. The view is nice while going up this trail, and we were treated to some colorful hot air balloons which were flying so low and close to the ground that we were looking down on them part of the time. We stopped several times for photos, drinks and to keep the group together.

20 hikers
5 miles
3 hours.