Affected by the big rain yesterday, the sky is cloudy and the temperature is a little chilly in the early morning.

After the quick round introduction, I hand out copies of zoom-in Granite Mountain Loop map and talk about the route that we’re supposed to hike today. Even in McDowell Preserve it’s hard to get lost, but I want to make sure everyone knows the path clearly.

From the parking lot, sixteen Trailblazers hike Bootlegger trail, a part of Granite Mountain Loop trail, and go to Balanced Rock by hiking 0.3 mile of Balanced Rock trail. The trails are gentle with gradual ups-downs, curving around big boulders, giant saguaros with multi arms, and the Sonoran Desert surrounding.

Not far way, only hiking 2.1 miles we come up to Balanced Rock. It looks like a crown when we see it is behind the big terrain. But when we climb over slickrock, we are stunned by seeing such a beautiful rock.

This is the first hike that Wendy is back to trail. She hikes back to trailhead with Monika from Balanced Rock because she doesn’t want to push so hard. I’m so happy to have her on my hike.

You make me so proud, Wendy!

The rest of group continue hiking on Granite Loop Trail. We are amazed at the spectacular desert views, rock formations, and gorgeous mountain vistas along the trail.

This is a chance for us to notice unusual desert plants, abundant giant saguaros along the trail.

We stop at a scenic view point to take a break and enjoy the views. From the view point we hike back to the trailhead by way of the Bootlegger Trail.

The sun comes out, the sky is blue and the dark clouds are gone away.

The weather turns out all right with a forecast of 10% chance of rain.

For your imagination:

This great hike combines a good aerobic exercise with the opportunity to enjoy beautiful Sonoran Desert surroundings and explore Balanced Rock, a gem in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.

Thanks to all for coming to support my seventh time in hike leading. Happy Trails!