I created the most iconic and difficult loop in the Superstition Wilderness.
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- Опубліковано 2 жов 2024
- I created the most iconic and difficult loop in the Superstition Wilderness.
Edit: So MoonJuice Hikes recently completed this loop, making it look easy. Check out his video here:
• The Superstition Icon ...
I live in Phoenix, Arizona. the closest true wilderness area is the Superstition Wilderness. This is my back yard. This is my home. I love hiking, and the Superstitions have endless opportunities for adventure. I have been all over the Superstitions.
I'm a big fan of several other UA-cam channels. One of those channels is livehardxlovehard. If you haven't checked them out, you should; / livehardxlovehard
Anyway, we were talking and they asked for some recommendations in the Supes. So, in case you aren't familiar with them, Adam and Elise are athletes. They're in phenomenal shape and do some unbelievable hikes. Usually while trail running. So I wanted to put together something for them that was hard. Really hard.
And I came up with a loop that would link together all of my favorite parts of the Superstitions. It would start at the Siphon Draw trailhead. From there, you would climb 2.8 miles and about 2,800 ft of elevation gain to the Flatiron. From the Flatiron, you would continue on the Ridgeline trail another 7ish miles (plus another 1,000 or so elevation gain) to the Carney Springs Trail. Instead of exiting at Carney Springs which is the traditional Superstition Ridgeline route, you would then go off trail up to Robbers Roost, then down to the Fremont Saddle. From there, you would take the Peralta Trail past Weavers Needle and eventually link up at Boulder Canyon Trail. From there, you would again go off trail and head up to Battleship Mountain. Battleship Mountain is probably my favorite hike in the Superstitions, so I couldn't make a loop without it. After the summit, you would return to Boulder Canyon Trail, then take Second Water to First Water to Crosscut, and back to your car. It's about 30 miles and 5~6,000 feet of elevation gain and loss. The intent was that they would do this hike in a single day. (Let that sink in.)
So we talked some about making this happen, but we all have jobs and life responsibilities, so it hasn't come together yet. But the thought of the trail got stuck in my mind. This loop was epic. So why wasn't I doing it? Sure, I couldn't do this in a day, but I'm an avid backpacker. I could do it over a few days.
For the record, I asked Tina if she wanted to go along. It was a hard no from her. But I would do it anyway. So I started planning. And then, a window of opportunity presented itself. And I went for it.
Things did not go well.
"I'm just an average guy that likes to hike." You're an above average guy that loves the outdoors and way beyond generous in crafting these high quality and highly entertaining videos to take us along with you, sharing your pleasures and pains, triumphs and rare misses. Thank you always.
Jerry, I know the feeling, big time! I'm 79 and still try to do hikes that end up being almost are, and lately more, than I am able to do. A couple hikes in Yosemite and Rocky Mtn NM almost did me in recently. I hate it, but it is what it is. I enjoy your videos. They certainly make me want to get back out there. Thanks for sharing.
One of the things I admire about Tina and you, in addition to the sense of humor, is the willingness to say enough is enough! As you said, the Superstitions are still there and will be in the fall or next spring when you've fully recovered from COVID. Looking forwrd to your next easy hike!
Is this the Mike I worked with at FedEx? 😁
@@josephcomings Afraid not.
@@mikemcdonald2752 haha, bummer. Sounded very much like something he would say!
That's not a loop... that's an epic journey you have routed out! The freaking wind alone would have done me in.
Congrats Jerry for getting out there, doing what you feel capable of & having the courage to say enough is enough. Beautiful country. Thanks for taking us along.
I hear you. I bailed at 40 miles on a 70 mile hike last summer. It happens. Enjoy your videos!
Your filming style and a Rim to Rim hike would make a bad ass video. Yeah, I'm too lazy to check your videos and see if you guys have done Rim to Rim @ Grand Canyon.
I have not. Only time I've been to the grand canyon was Havasupai Confluence and Cathedral Wash. One of these days, I'll get there.
Dude, that was insanely ambitious. Flatiron is tough even without overnight gear and 2 days of water - even if you are fit. I think setting out to execute a plan is more important than finishing. If you gotta bail, you gotta bail There's no shame in cutting it short.
I'll get it eventually. I was SO slow this trip. Definitely need to do more training before I attempt it again.
Many a time I have canceled a hike because of the wind. the one thing I hate worse than wind is hiking through a wash. Thank you so much for sharing the ridgeline. That's on my backpacking checklist for sure. I hope you attempt your loop again loop again sometime soon. I know you can do it.
That wind was insane. You guys could definitely make this loop work. I'm guessing you've probably already hiked most of the trails on it.
Hi Jerry, I love all your videos. I live in Tempe, AZ. Today I hiked from Carney Springs TH to Three Sisters and it wore me out! But I’m age 60 and a novice day-hiker. I hiked to Superstition Peak (5057) from Hieroglyphics Trail two weeks ago and now that is one of my favorites. Also did Flatiron this past December - another favorite. But for you to plan this epic 3-day hike in the Superstitions takes guts! Keep up the good work you do!
Thanks! Carney Springs has to be absolutely brutal going up. I'd rather do Flatiron, I think. Didn't realize either of those hikes were there until recently. I definitely want to try Hieroglyphics to Superstition Peak. Also, I don't know if I'd call you a novice with those under your belt.
I love your videos Jerry!!! Don’t be so hard on yourself. That hike looked difficult. You’re an inspiration to us all.
Thank you for sharing your adventures with us!!!
Thanks for sharing! Know when to say when, hike another day! You and Tina just warm my heart… and you’re a pretty funny dude! And go easy on my friend Jerry…
We ain't 22 anymore.. lol
But I admire your tenacity. ♡
My favorite part of the video was seeing how happy Tina was to see you. I love the love you two share. ❤️ cherish it.
Yes, we do learn more from our mistakes than accomplishments …if we are humble, have grace, and pay attention. You are awesome Jerry. Thank you for another great video. Be well. Lori Lee
I failed on a epic hike and it ate at me so bad, I regrouped, replanned and finished it on the second attempt. Failure is ok as long as the experience leads to eventual success.
Yeah, I squeezed this one onto the calendar sooner than I was ready for it. I'll be better prepared next time. If I can convince myself to try it again. But like you, this sort of thing eats away at me....
What, no superstition peak? You guys took it easy!
Seriously though, this is killer. I’d worry a lot about running out of water.
Yeah, I wasn't feeling it that day. Some people I know have completed it since. One guy did the loop and free solo'd Weaver's Needle on the way just for a challenge. Another did the entire loop as a day hike. They're putting me to shame. Soon as my shoulder is healed, I have to redeem myself.
Doesn't anyone ever have that fear of somebody watching them......The Superstition Mountains have many tales of what's lurking within and around these mountains. One day I decided to dive head first into one of the longest (a few years) epic learning lessons I've ever encountered. In a nutshell whether you believe me or not there is a whole lotta beings within and around the Superstitions and surrounding mountains. They are extremely excellent at hiding, with some that actually hide within the rocks. No joke. They are so good in fact the only way I'm able to spot them is because I'm studying specific areas for quite a while. If I was actually there it would be hard for me to see them.
I think so many people go missing is because someone of the group ruined it for everyone by disruptung the land, taking something that doesn't belong to them or mostly because of someone being destructive to any part of any mountains. If someone plans to ever go hiking or making it a camping trip, do yourself a favor and everyone else in your group be extremely respectful to the land and everything growing in the land or sitting on top of. If it's not yours don't touch it. And if it were me, I would bring a few different kinds if offerings. But that's me.
It's a beautiful place otherwise. Just be very respectful.
This looks fantastic! Great job with as far as you made it - and I bet your next attempt will yield a finish. Now you unfortunately got this idea into my head and it won't be long before I start thinking of a way to make it happen - thanks for that!
Sorry, not sorry. It would be an epic and completely doable loop under the right conditions. Camp night 1 at Carney Springs saddle, day 2 at the base of Battleship. Just have to time it right for weather and water. And, of course, have the stamina for it.
You a tough dude! Great country.
Hi Jerry, Thank you for all your videos - very well done. In my opinion, the biggest challenge with hiking the Supe's over the Rockies or Sierra Nevada Mtns is the absence of water sources. I believe that if you had ample water supplies once you dropped in elevation to the Peralta TH, you could have recharged and felt better. I live in Indiana and because of your video's, we went to AZ last week and hiked the Supe's, Watson Lake loop, Birthing Cave, and Seguaro NP. Loved it all. You da Man!
Jerry, welcome to the over covid diminishment Blues! As we've discussed in the past, 2 years out, and I'm still dealing with it too!
Oh no! 2 years. Man, hope you get over it. It does have a sneaky way of sapping your strength. Could be worse though, so I can't complain.
All right, this loop is totally epic. I want to try it but I might plan for an extra day or two 😅 I was eager to see how it went when you got to robber’s roost because there have been a ton of rescues from there this season! Awesome idea, Jerry. And you’ll get it next time. Wind can really get to me mentally. I’m glad you made it out safely!
If anyone could do this loop, it's you guys. This is seriously your back yard.
You did your best. 👏 PS, you are a spring chicken any more. 👍🇺🇸🌮
I definitely don't feel like a spring chicken....
Cut yourself some slack, dude. You've just recovered from Covid. Good on yer for trying it. The wind sucks though, too. It can make a tough hike undoable. Well, the Superstitions aren't going anywhere! There is that constant. Next time... BTW, Tina is an absolute angel! ...but I didn't have to tell you that...
Tina's awesome. And I just got back from what is probably the toughest backpacking trip I've ever done and I felt great. Hopefully that's a good sign.
If you do enough backpacking, you will have trips.that “fail”. Sometimes those trips are even more memorable and opportunities for learning. You have a great attitude and sense of humor. Always a bright day when one of your videos posts.
It's funny to hear you say great attitude. I watched my wife's failed attempt at 4 Pass Loop and despite how much she was suffering, she had such a positive attitude. I purposefully had to focus to stay positive, especially since my last Flatiron video was essentially just me complaining about Flatiron the whole way. Definitely much more enjoyable when I minimize my complaints.
@@JerryArizona Both of you are positive folks and a pleasure to follow. I’ve been in a similar position as you on that hike and I know how hard it can be to deal with fatigue and disappointment. A lot of folks would not have shared the experience. Glad you did.
@@JerryArizona BTW…appreciated the hopeful classical music at the start of the hike. Rare to hear it in a hiking video.
It’s unfortunate the conditions were not in your favor cutting your trip short. Loved the route you created will have to try it out this spring or next fall. Great video as always!
It's definitely doable. If you give it a try, lemme know how it goes.
"Iconic" is the best description for this loop. Don't be too hard on yourself. Looking forward to the next segment or even completion after you get your full strength back. Hopefully before the heat comes and the water dries up.
We'll see. I have a couple big hikes coming up soon. Probably too soon. But if I do OK at those, I may try this again this winter/spring. Otherwise I won't be able to get at it until fall/winter.
Major props. You know when to say "when". I pushed myself years ago in a canyon in utah- body gave out and rangers came for me at 2am in canyon. Lessons learned!
Ooof. Yeah, it's easy to get into trouble out there. People like to judge, but if you do this stuff enough, you know how fast things can go south. Makes you a lot more forgiving.
We've been looking forward to this video Jerry! While we're quite bummed we couldn't be there for this, we very much appreciate you leading the way and figuring out that you probably would have killed us had we done this in one day 😂 Views are incredible as you promised, and we're excited to come out your way and attempt some sort of combination of trails in this area. Sorry again that it didn't work out how you anticipated, but we respect the valiant attempt! Film work and music was on point by the way. Filming all this with just one person is tough but you make it seem easy! (And thanks for the shoutout above) -E
Thanks! In retrospect, it's probably best you couldn't make it for this trip. Lemme know when/if you ever put something together out this way.
In 1999 I lived in Apache Junction. I used to do Flat Iron 3 times a week, sometimes 4.
I came back to Arizona 20 years later...... I can't even make it to the base.
Flatiron is brutal. I backpacked 3 days in the Grand Canyon after this, and I swear the Supes are rougher.
I'm just a 5 miler dude, so take that as it is. But what I do know it that the Superstitions are no joke and Flatiron is a BEAST. You made the right call. I don't need to tell you who Green Boots is and that you do not want to be Green Boots. Some days you just got to give the mountains it's due. You did good Sir. Tomorrow is another day an some goals just take multiple attempts. But at the end of the day, you got people who love you, so its important to put them above the mountains. I'll get off my soap box, Enjoy some good mexican food Sir. God knows I've enjoyed my share. That is probably why I'm a 5 miler dude. That and a nice tequila and it aint no Jose Cuervo.
Yeah. Don't wanna be Green Boots. I definitely wasn't feeling right on this trip. Should've probably taken Heiroglyphics trail out, but live and learn. (Not enough to not try it again, but still...)
Well, this hike is far from impossible. Watch MoonJuice Hikes make it look like a walk to the mailbox: ua-cam.com/video/3cYciliTRaw/v-deo.html
You two are Amazing!!! Never feel like you didnt do enough. I cant do it thats why I watch your channel and go with you lol 💜
You have a few years on me but whenever I get really ambitious on route planning, I know I can watch some of your videos and realize that maybe I don't need to do that to myself after all. 🙃
Ironically, I already want to try it again....
Nice video that looks like a killer hike, your a badass. Keep up the videos 👍
Iconic takes like 50 years to be iconic. The wordd you're looking for is Novelty or Trend.
I almost cried watching you text Tina. Cuz I remember crying texting my Dad to pick me up when I gave up on Prescott Circle Trail on my mountain bike. I know you're not the most proud of this video but I loved watching. I drop everything I'm doing to watch your content when you drop a new video. I hope you feel better soon. Covid can go kick rocks. 😝
Glad you enjoyed! I don't mind sharing the bad with the good. It's always smart to know when to quit. Definitely a good decision for this trip.
Wow, beautiful country, never been to the Superstitions, is it true people disappear there? Yeah that seemed like to much to take on in one outing, I couldn't do it, but admire your ambition.
Oh by the way, your hair looks fine 😆
I call it my 'wilderness hair'. Just don't care out there. The Superstitions are my winter playground. Short drive from home and beautiful....but also brutally rugged. A guy completed this hike (linked his video in the description) about 2 weeks after this failed attempt, so it's possible. You just need to plan better and be in better shape. People disappear, but not as much as some people may make you believe. No moreso nowadays than any other comparable wilderness area. Biggest concerns are heat and water. I remember seeing a show on the History Channel (or something) about the Lost Dutchman's Gold and they were acting all nervous because they saw lights and thought it was people coming to kill them because they were out there. Just fake drama. If they saw lights, it was probably some hiker like me. Spent many nights out there with no issues unless it was caused by my own stupidity.
@@JerryArizona Yeah I was just being a smartie pants about the hair, but actually it didn't look to bad, as compared to other times you ask😊. I live in Colorado so my hat is off to you peeps that can do that terrain & heat, couldn't imagine. We have boulders & wind at higher elevations, but not like the desert. Yeah I must of seen something (can't remember) about people that have disappeared there, but we have that to here in Rocky Mountain Nat'l Park
Jerry: I don't know if you follow hiking engineer, but he just did this loop as a day hike!
I know, right? I've exchanged messages with him several times in the past but haven't met him in person. That dude is an absolute beast. My friend Breven (MoonJuice Hikes) completed the loop not long after I failed. Another friend of his (walkingwithawookie) completed it also, adding some extra peaks and even free climbing Weavers Needle along the way. I need to get back out there and finish it when the weather is right and I'm healed because people are putting me to shame. It is pretty awesome that others have done it though.
@@JerryArizona Hey man, you knock out of the park for our age group 😉. Those young guys are crazy like we were back then!
Covid really drains you. takes longer than you think to recover. I appreciate your grit. Stay healthy Jerry.
Jerry, I so enjoy your filming skills and your sense of humor! I really appreciate your postings. I hope that Tina will be well soon, and can you join you in these Expeditions also.Thanks as always! Keep up the superlative work.
When I saw the route, the first thought I had was, “Wow that is is going to be a real sufferfest, even under the best conditions.” Kudos to you for conceiving such a loop and for your good judgment for taking care of yourself up there. I love the Superstitions; happy that you love it too.
Hikers amnesia is absolutely a real thing.
The Supes have taken many of souls, including mine
Your still my local hiking Hero. Up to flatiron with the overnight pack and that much water would of ended me. Thanks for the fantastic camera shots from up
top . Your vids are so natural and real, thats what i like about them. and humorous to. Here is a idea , bring a big goat next time to pack water . And a good
hiking friend . You can go back and fourth calling each other sissy if you say you cant make it. LOL. All kidding aside , you did the smart thing when realizing
you did not have the water.
What a great story! Love your honesty as well as your tenacity. Your insights are so spot on regarding the time gap and remembering only the good parts of a hike. As to the recovery post-covid, it's been three months for me and I am still not back to the cardio shape I was in before. Awesome vid - we love your channel! Take Care
Ugh, sorry that one didn't work out man. I'm glad you got outta there safe, though. That didn't look fun!
It actually wasn't that bad.....no wait. That's the hiker's amnesia talking. It was brutal.
Situational awareness of the event is a true sign of an experienced hiker. You self assessed the situation and developed an exit strategy before things became dire and did not let pride get in the way. Those without this skill are the one’s who get helicopter rides. Teaching the concept that not every hike is successful will hopefully save someone’s life. Nicely done.
"...not my best decision..." Tina was your best decision.
Best decision for sure.
Jerry my wife is an ICU covid nurse and avid hiker. She told me to tell you your recovery from COVID could take as long as 6 mos. Don’t push yourself. Take it slower and you will get through it all.
Not what I want to hear seeing as how my next trip is going to be one of my hardest.....But I will definitely play it by ear. I'm not afraid to bail (obviously).
Great video! I, too, have been beaten by the Superstitions on occasion. Know your limitations and respect the Mountain or She will kill you.
Absolutely. Been out there many times since this trip, and they are always more rugged than I remember.
Thank you so much for sharing this video. It was excellent, although you were disappointed in not completing your original plan. It was in no way a disappointment to the rest of us. Hope you got the cheeseburger.
Actually got a nice steak on the way home and fired up the grill. Even better!
I went back and watched your video from last year where you climbed the Ridgeline. It was stunningly gorgeous, but physical challenges aside, did it not scare you? Because I'm certain I'd die if I tried this. I stumble over tree roots on my local flat wooded trails!
Definitely had some parts that were light scrambling. And the trail is worse now since the fire. I think it's washed out some. But overall, I don't feel like it's that exposed or scary. Just physically demanding. I think going down Carney Springs was the worst part, honestly.
Heading to Phoenix this weekend for some birthday hiking. Thanks again for all your other videos! Very helpful!
Perfect time for the Superstitions.
As The Dude would say "Sometimes you eat the bear, sometimes the bear eats you".
The Dude is very wise.
every time I do the ridgeline i inevitably get pricked by something, especially that first mile after the saddle near flatiron
Beautiful, scary and beautiful lol ... You succeeded a wonderful journey 👍💖 Hope you enjoyed your cheeseburger 🍔 😊
P.S. a cheeseburger not mexican food ? You were tired !
I was editing that and kept thinking "cheeseburger? What was I thinking?"
It’s OK. Being safe is the smartest move you made.
Just imagine if the river flowed into the sea. Like nature intended.
Wondering if aloe could be a fluid source when you are running dry? I love aloe juice, but not sure how much you would get just sucking on a leaf.
wind is demoralizing, no matter where you are....ever thought about, or are there places to put a water cache? Saw those on the Maah Daah Hey trail in Teddy Roosevelt. Or you do a water bladder? Not telling ya how to hike mind you, but for me, saves some space and weight carrying a camelback bladder inside my pack.
I went with a bladder and some Nalgenes. Figured I could use the Nalgenes with heated water if it got too cold at night. (It was fine without them; didn't even use my base layer.) I wasn't planning to stash; just refill west of Weavers if I was lucky or at Boulder canyon. Saw pictures of Boulder and water was running a couple days before, so I figured that was a safe bet. Second water/Boulder canyon junction worst case; I've seen water out there when it was dry as a bone in the Supes. But I saw a pool of water in the Siphon Draw chute and there was a seep and a little pool at Carney. The pool was after I was already going to bail. But I was just too slow and tired to get there. I've done 18 miles and 5K+ feet of elevation with a full pack before, so I figured Carney to Boulder would have (normally) been no problem. I wouldn't cache just for the simple fact that I don't want to climb Carney Springs or Peralta if I don't have to!
@@JerryArizona Roger that...think you got more experience than me anyways, just have never seen a bladder in the vids. Always suck to pull the ejection seat, but better than being on story on the nightly news, right?
As you well know, our "back yard" is an all to unforgiving environment where a day trip or grand adventure can turn south at any moment. Especially in the Superstition Range. Preparation, planning logistically, physically and emotionally are always the place to start. Despite your thoughts or feelings on the matter you knew when to call it. Most would be hitching a ride on the DPS Freedom Bird... I am glad there are still some that know their limits and are willing to act on them. We see to many that don't.
What you accomplished on this trip would be a test for most who take on our trails and back county let alone the adventure you initially had planned. My hats off to you and keep the videos coming.
I'll try to keep the videos coming. They just may be tamer adventures for a while.
Lol. Your doing great.
I created my own trails that are hell as hard and some are easy and moderate and huge
It was a good video. It’s ok to deal with reality and I applaud you for doing the smart thing. Thanks for sharing! 😀
I have done Flatiron 3 times in past 2 years but I doubt I will do it a 4th time but I love going to Siphon Draw when I can. I really enjoyed this video and your journey. Thanks so much for sharing 😊. P.s. I think going down from flatiron is harder than going up
When I first hiked Flatiron, it took me about 1 or 2 hours longer going down than going up. Carney Springs isn't much better to go down, but both are brutal.
@@JerryArizona I watched your sedona subway vid as well. Was just there. That was extremely gentle heck compared to the trails around Superstition
Jerry, does the Ridgeline trail connect to Robbers Roost or were you planning on bushwhacking? I’m thinking of stashing some water there and attempting the Jerry Arizona Iconic Route in a couple of weeks. Your videos always motivate me!
Best of luck to you! I was able to find some routes from Fremont up to Robbers Roost, but wasn't sure about the Carney side. I talked to a ranger at the Peralta trailhead a couple weeks before this hike and he said people do it. Did some more research and finally found a route....I had to draw it onto my gps by hand, but it looked liked I could figure it out. The Ranger said there is bushwacking involved and lots of catclaw, so plan accordingly. I've done enough canyon sneak routes that I'm not against a little 'off roading'. (I'd highly recommend you read up and pre-mark some 'successful' routes so you have a basic idea to follow. I'm sure it's very easy to cliff out and I would not want to be climbing up and down repeatedly looking for a path that works.)
@@JerryArizona excellent advice. I think maybe a little scouting hike up the Fremont way would make sense. See what it looks like coming from that direction… wouldn’t be more than a half day hike. See, inspiring me again! I’ll do this first, and will let you know what I find.
@@MoonJuiceHikes would love to know what you find out. That’s about the only part I haven’t done yet.
@@JerryArizona Good news! There is a route from the Carney Springs junction on the Ridgeline Trail to the Robbers Roost area. Its fairly easy to follow as you leave the Carney saddle and start heading up a canyon towards the right side, bet then it gets a little more difficult to stay on trail. Its rocky terrain. There are cairns here and there and I added quite a few more to help guide the way. I also cached a couple gallons of water in the Robber's Roost area to help lighten my load an ensure there will be water when I get there. I think this is going to be key if I have any shot at completing it. I loaded a little GoPro video of the scouting trip called "Jerry Arizona's Iconic Superstition Wilderness Loop - Scouting Robbers Roost to Carney Springs". I'm heading out Friday.
Missed this comment somehow. Just watched the scouting video. Looking forward to watching the trip video tonight.,
I've thought about doing something similar in the Supes, but that water is definitely an issue out there (not much this past weekend.) I was filtering some slow-flowing water over on Red tanks. I backpack solo all the time - definitely best to realize your limits and know when to bail. Somehow I thought the video would've ended on Mexican food!
I found a seep at the top of Carney Springs. I was drinking it a tablespoon at a time out of a Lifestraw. Figured I wouldn't see water again until Boulder Canyon, or possibly even Second Water. Dwindling water definitely played a factor on me planning this before I was ready.
I actually took advantage of the extra night at home to hang out with Tina and cook a nice steak for a change; I think I got out of there too early in the day for Mexican food.
@@JerryArizona Yeah, probably not much until then - and even that's probably some nasty puddles of stagnant water. Maybe give it another go after a decent rain?
you guys eat a lot of processed foods, drop them and it will up your game
Thank you for another great video!
Pierre de Coubertin say : l important est de participer.. bravo
It's great to set a goal like that, but don't forget. It's the journey that is the adventure, Not the "Goal". Don't rush through a beautiful amazing hike just to meet a goal. You should feel great about that hike. I really enjoyed it. Thanks for your great videos
You're welcome. I was trying to train for the Grand Canyon. Turns out the Grand Canyon was a breeze compared to the Superstitions. But I'll make this loop happen. I absolutely love the Supes.
@@JerryArizona I believe it was Louis L'amour that got me excited about the superstition mountains. Never been, but definitly on my list. We're tying top decide where to move to next, AZ UT or NM. can't wait to burn outta FL.
Thanks for sharing your mistakes and vulnerability on this attempt. I watched your video of the ridge line and when I saw what you were attempting here and knowing that you had Covid a month ago I was like, "This guy is either superman, or he is insane." Well, I won't call you insane, but... Doing it solo is also impressive. Setting up your camera for the walk away shots, knowing that you had to come back for it, over and over... That hurts. Even in the winter, it is hard to imagine carrying enough water for this hike. I know there are some streams on the West side to Weavers Needle, but I don't know how reliable they are.
In short, great attempt! Great sharing your humility and knowing when it just isn't safe to keep going.
I got squeezed by time. I knew I wasn't ready, but I also knew the window of decent weather and water was closing fast, so I went for it. Found some water on the trail, but either too early on, or after I decided to bail. I know there was some in Boulder canyon. Oh well. Maybe I'll make it this fall.
I wish Tina was with you on this hike! Or another hiking friend. Just getting over covid. Its not recommended by Dr Syed Haider who treat covid patients. Did you have a mild case? That terraine you showed hiking on was unreal! Glad you made it back safely.👏👏👏
I invited Tina. She's done Ridgeline and Battleship with me before and said it was a "hard pass" for her.
I was expecting a 4 wheel drive to come barreling along .
I asked Tina to pull around to the top of Carney Springs, but she wouldn't do it.....
We were out doing a short hike to Hieroglyphic on Saturday with my son and Julia and I talked about ridge line as we have done flat iron . It was early November when we got the C and we both still are not back to normal hiking abilities although we think we are . Remember you and Tina did it together on another video and that was Epic also . Remember it kicked your ass then ! Great video and yes Jerry you are Legend ! Battleship is our next hike in the Sups ! You have some great pointers on that one ! Thx Jerry ! Keep on keeping it real !
Good luck on Battleship! I think that's my favorite hike in the Supes.
@@JerryArizona can’t wait to see you make the epic loop some day ! Summit Weavers needle again for the cherry on top !
Respect for the attempt and the chutzpah to post a video of a DNF. You're the man
Finally got around to doing the Flat Iron and Ridgeline this Jan, loved it... The Superstitions are my favorite place in central AZ! I definitely hit the scree part...
It's still rough when you go the right way. Beautiful hike though.
Still what amazing trip!
WoW!! Still Quite The Hike, At My Age I Can Only Dream About Such Hikes I've Been To Weavers Needle But Wasn't Able To Do Much More Than That! THANK YOU For Taking Me Along!!!! The Views At Night Of The City Are Unbelievable!!!
My first backpacking overnighter was the ridgeline starting at carney. It was a bad idea! It was so much easier doing the ridgeline without a pack. I love this idea though. I did first water to the top of lower la barge canyon, and then in the morning headed down to the outlet by battleship. There was water running through out the canyon! It was awesome. 14 miles and less than 2000 feet in gain. Didn’t feel over exerted.
I'm surprised you had a second backpacking trip! Carney Springs would be horrible to go up. And Boulder-La Barge-Battleship is a great trip. Kicked off last year doing that one.
@@JerryArizona it took a friend and I 4 hours to get to flatiron with our packs to overnight it. I have learned that I like going up carney springs more than down. Trying to find my next trip, and am wanting to do rogers trough to reavis. I’m coming from mesa and saw that it would take around 5 hours to get to the trailhead. Did the unpaved road take super long when you did it last? My friend is up for taking his older Xterra… and I worry it won’t make it.
I'm bummed for you that you weren't able to finish this loop (this time... you'll finish it another time I'm sure), but I'm glad Tina got to make an appearance! You still kicked ass though!
Does anyone have a GPX track?
"Go to the left" lol. Yep, I've gone too far right and actually too.far left after the saddle before haha. Love that trail though, best in winter before sunrise.
Sorry you had such a tough go. It looks like COVID has really done a number on you. Hope things start to improve for you. Man we miss not being able to see the Superstitions and feel the Arizona sun.
Thanks. I'll get over it. Couple weeks ago I couldn't have attempted this. I'm very lucky to have this beautiful wilderness area so close by, for sure.
I always enjoy your videos…. The videography is excellent, the narration excellent, the excellent editing ….and maybe most of all ..the honesty. Don’t be too hard on yourself-it’s easy to overestimate conditioning when coming back from an illness. I think there’s always an element of wishful thinking that goes into that kind of comeback. You’ll get there. Always look forward to yours and Tina’s adventures. Thanks for all your hard work.
Thank you. I definitely over estimated my strength on this one. Just because you've done something before, doesn't mean you can do it at any time.
Thanks for being HONEST and knowing when to be safe and quit.
I like to show the good with the bad. They aren't all winners.
Hi Jerry, will you please make a playlist of your Arizona hikes to springs / bodies of water in which to swim? Thank you for all you do!
Possibly. Not sure if I'd have enough to make a playlist. But I am (slowly) trying to make compilation videos about different areas. Actually a swimming hole/bodies of water video would be perfect!
Since I’ve watched tbh is video, I definitely can say I’ve come back many time to it! I personally am training to try my stab at this one day! Not alone but eventually!
You and me both. Check out Moonjuice Hikes. He did it shortly after I failed.
Geez, I'm really sorry you're suffering the after-effects. wishing you back to 100% really soon. It sucks being down. On that note, I stumbled upon a youtube channel that is super entertaining that you might enjoy, if you don't already know about it: MattsOffRoadRecovery. He's based out of southern Utah and goes on crazy-assed recoveries. It might be a good way to spend some of your down time. :)
I've seen a couple of those videos. Hopefully I never need to call him!
@@JerryArizona no kidding! He gets people out of some pretty hairy situations.
listen Jerry... I love hiking and nature but a car accident blew out my knee so keep up the good videos they really help me relax
Glad to take you along. Hopefully you can get back out there.
Great video, we can't be rockstars everyday. Keep up the good work and hike on. I'll see those mountains in March.
You met my buddy bill while you were going up flat iron. Guy is amazing, he’s done flat iron over 300 times. He told me about your amazing loop and I have been waiting for this video for over a week. You kicked butt! The music in this video was great. I have no doubt that you will conquer the “whole enchilada” in due time. Thank you for the awesome video.
Thank you. Was that the dude I met at Fossil Creek also? I'm horrible with names. I felt bad after I told some people what my plans were since I only made about 1/3 of the loop. Oh well. Maybe next time.
You can do it! Lighten your pack, lol. I got a hernia just watching. 😆
I always swear I'm lightening things, but it always ends up weighing the same. One of these days I'm investing in ultralight gear.
@@JerryArizona Be careful, you might get addicted and become a gram weenie
I've already cut my toothbrush in half....It's too late for me. (Kidding. I don't take a toothbrush.)
At the 4min mark, are you using a phone or GPS? Looks like a Garmin Montana but can't tell.
That's Gaia on iPhone. Been using it for years now and it's incredible.
I just love your videos! Honest and funny.
I followed the right path up to the flat iron once. Would not do it again!
I always want to go to the right. I think it's because the flatiron is on your right so it's just natural to head that way.
Regarding Flat Iron...stay to the left of what?
When you're going up, after the chute, there are false trails that keep wanting to branch right. You need to always look to your left for people and adjust to make sure you are staying on the left side of the canyon while looking uphill. It's hard to explain and a lot of people end up too far to the right. Plus, that's the side the Flatiron is on, so you naturally just want to go toward it.
Was the "Black Luck" cap a deliberate metaphor for the aborted hike or just a "happy (if dark) accident? You're a lucky dude to have a sweet spouse who understands you & "has your back"!
Yeah....this trip was poorly planned. I knew I wasn't up to it physically, but had a Grand Canyon trip coming up and felt like I had to squeeze this in for training and before it got too hot. I need to get back and do this one again after I recover from shoulder surgery. Definitely lucky to have Tina tolerate my antics and help bail me out.
Great video, I like he fact that you’re human.
I felt very much like the old man I am on this trip....
Good to see you back on the trail...Sorry to see you were struggling. I had Covid myself and it takes a while to get your legs back. No shame in your game Jerry. Hope to see you back out there soon.