Fourteen Trailblazers set out from the First Water Trailhead on a chilly but sunny Black Friday morning, ready to work off the Thanksgiving excesses. We beat another hiking club to the trail and set off at a brisk pace. After taking a few moments to admire the ancient ruins at the Black Mesa junction, we cruised along to Black Mesa. Stopping for a few minutes to rest and fuel up at the Lost Dutchman junction, we continued on our way. Four hikers went ahead of the group to make it back to town for their holiday obligations.

Excitement ensued when our club president slipped and made contact with the ground to his face and hands on the way down. Quick response from members who dug through their packs for first aid supplies resulted in sufficient gauze, tape, alcohol wipes and ice packs to patch Jim up temporarily.

We all hiked at a merry pace on our way back to the parking lot without further incident.

Rewards for a hike well done occurred at the Handlebar Pub and Grill in downtown Apache Junction. A variety of drinks, sandwiches, salads and eclectic vegetable side dishes met with our approval and replenished us as we separated to continue the long holiday weekend.