Waterfall Canyon Campground

As we started our hike, the first thing we noticed was the brown cloud over Phoenix. We found it difficult to believe that we live, work, and play in such air. The clean air in the White Tanks was a welcome relief.

The first mile and a half were fairly level, some rolling hills, similar to parts of South Mountain. We hiked through fields of beautiful cholla and saguaro cacti. Several of us stops for some great pictures.

After following along a rather large streambed, we started our climb into Ford Canyon. The trail follows the Canyon on its south face. Parts of the hike turned into a climb as we neared the end of the trail. The views of the white basalt rock were amazing. During the afternoon, with the sun overhead, they must shine brilliantly. At the end of the trail, we encountered several pools (puddles by Midwestern standards) known as “tanks”. We scampered over the basalt rock formations worn by water andwind erosion with the monsoon rains. Here we stopped for lunch before returning via the same path in.

After the hike, several of us met with the Foundation for Blind Children at the nearby Waterfall Canyon campground. Terri Murray gave all the kids hats to make them official Motorolans! Terri also worked with Motorola and the Hiking Club to donate 5 new tents and 2 sleeping bags to the Foundation! The group thanked us and were quite pleased with their new tents that are easier to setup. After the presentation, a couple of Hiking Club members travelled with the Foundation to Mesquite Canyon for a 2 mile day hike. Thanks to Motorola for donating the camping equipment!