Intro to Sedona Canyoneering - Mushroom Drops in Boynton Canyon MoonJuice Hikes 2024-12-26 | When your canyoneering buddies invite you to Sedona for an intro to canyoneering adventure, there's not much to say other than YES, let's go!I've avoided canyoneering primarily because it generally involves rapping into freezing, stagnant and or dark water. Swimming with your gear, fully clothed and then hiking out sopping wet. Doesn't that sound like fun? I've dipped my toe into adventures like these a couple of times, and fun is not the word I'd use to describe it. However, rappelling into a dry canyon in Sedona is right up my ally. I will note that as a total novice, I find canyoneering to be much more dangerous than rock climbing. It's strange to see almost nothing is backed up. Single sling, single knot, single quick link, single rope, single tiny tree to rapp from. Nerve wracking to say the least...but a heckuva lotta fun!With @JerryArizona and @walkingwithawookie1097 , between the two of them there's enough experience to safely drag along a hiker like me and literally show me the ropes. Pun intended of course.Enjoy!Guitar Cover by @JamesBartholomewMusicBillie Eilish - No Time to Die (James Bond Theme)
Canyon of the Waterfalls - Superstition Wilderness Hiking MoonJuice Hikes 2025-09-29 | Join me and Troy "the Wookie" Dixon on a challenging off-trail loop through the rugged western edge of Arizona’s Superstition Wilderness — one of the most dramatic and unforgiving landscapes in the Southwest.This route includes:🥾 The Canyon of the Waterfalls off trail adventure⛰️ A summit of Peak 5025 — the highest point on the western edge of the Superstitions, with jaw-dropping 360 degree views over the entire Western Superstition Wilderness⬇️ A steep descent via the iconic Siphon Draw Trail🌵 A return along the scenic Jacobs Crosscut TrailWith dramatic cloud cover rolling over the desert and rugged rock formations towering overhead, this hike was equal parts brutal and breathtaking. Enjoy!
Lower Dillinger Canyon - Bear Mountain - Sedona, Arizona MoonJuice Hikes 2025-09-26 | Welcome to Lower Dillinger Canyon — affectionately known as Half Dilly — one of the most fun, efficient routes in the Bear Mountain circuit.Along with experienced canyoneers, Jennifer, JJ and our pal @JerryArizona this short but sweet adventure kicks off with a mild, off trail scenic approach from the Fay Canyon Trail up to the the 1st bench of Bear Mountain, and dives straight into the good stuff. Expect beautiful sandstone features, 4 rappels with a long, 170' free-hanging rappel finale.Arguably the best bang for your buck in this area for a morning adventure, Half Dilly is perfect for canyoneers looking for a fast, satisfying outing with minimal slog and maximum payoff.Music:Where Is My Mind?Pixies
John Muir Trail - 11 Day Solo Backpacking Attempt - FAILED! MoonJuice Hikes 2025-08-27 | After nearly two years and dozens of failed attempts, I finally scored the golden ticket: a permit backpack the legendary John Muir Trail (JMT). Running from Yosemite Village to Mt. Whitney at 221 miles, most backpackers take about three weeks to complete it. But I wanted a true challenge. My goal? Finish in just 11 days (with one extra day as backup), averaging 20 miles and climbing 3,500–7,000 feet of elevation each day—more than 42,000 feet total.To keep the experience as raw and organic as possible, I skipped the research. No YouTube videos. No studying the map in detail. Just a start point, a finish point, and one planned resupply at Muir Trail Ranch. I trained hard for months—long, hot desert hikes with a fully loaded pack, gear dialed in, and confidence high.The conditions looked perfect. Yosemite hadn’t seen rain in eight weeks, so I pared down my rain gear to the bare minimum: a rain jacket and what turned out to be a too-small pack cover. Would have been enough with typical afternoon showers - but the Sierra's had other plans…Instead of the usual short afternoon showers, I walked straight into a four-day storm—8 to 9 hours of off and on rain, lightning and hail each day. Wet clothes, soaked gear, and zero chance to dry out. My 20-mile days instantly slipped out of reach. At the end of the very first day, as I passed through Tuolumne Meadows, one of the easiest bailout points on trail, Mother Nature made the decision for me: it was time to step off.It wasn’t the thru-hike I dreamed of, but it’s not the end of the story.I’ll be back!
Mother Nature has other plans MoonJuice Hikes 2025-08-25 | #shorts #jmt #yosemite #hiking #backpacking
How to Stay Alive - Hiking in Arizonas Extreme Heat MoonJuice Hikes 2025-08-01 | All of us who participate in the social media aspect of the local hiking community, know there are a few topics guaranteed to spark debate: to cairn or not to cairn, blasting music from a trail speaker, irresponsible dog owners, painted rocks with cheerful messages, decorating Christmas trees on the trail, visiting Native American ruins, exposing “secret” hiking locations, painting arrows on rocks for graffiti-style trail navigation.When it comes to Leave No Trace, there always seems to be room for interpretation — and for disagreement. You name it, we can argue about it.But there’s one trail debate that’s far more than just opinion. One that can be the difference between making it home for dinner… or not.Hiking in the summer heat.When temperatures climb past the triple digits, hikers tend to fall into three camps:Those who believe no one should be out in that heat.Those who believe no one CAN be out in the heat.Those who actually do it with the right experience and preparation.Then there’s the gray area in between — the hikers who aren’t sure what’s safe, who can do it, when it’s okay, or how to even begin. The truth? Heat hiking isn’t just a personal preference. It’s an acquired skill. And it’s one worth talking about before you grab your pack and head out into the triple digits.To get to the bottom of this, I spent a couple of weeks on the Goldmine Trail in San Tan Regional Park. Not in the cool of morning. Not at sunset. I go during the hottest time of day, on purpose. The goal? To introduce some of the people (other than me) who actually do this — the “hot hikers” — and hear how they manage to thrive when many hikers believe acclimation is not even possible. Hope you find the information useful.
Prepping for the JMT! #hiking #backpacking #adventure #jmt #johnmuirtrail MoonJuice Hikes 2025-06-28 | ...
Cactus to Clouds to Cactus (C2C2C) - The 30 Mile Endurance Challenge MoonJuice Hikes 2025-06-15 | In October 2023, I completed the Cactus to Clouds hike from Palm Springs to the 10,800' summit of Mt. San Jacinto. With a net elevation gain of roughly 10,400 feet, it has one of the greatest elevation increases among day-hike routes in the United States. The elevation gain happens in only 15.5 miles, making it one of the steeper trails of its length in the world. It's hard. It's really hard. I swore up and down that I'd never do that hike again.Of course, I lied.This time, rather than taking the tram ride down, I decided to hike back down to Palm Springs. Cactus to Clouds to Cactus (C2C2C) is a 30 mile hike, with over 11,000' of elevation gain. In addition to the long mileage and intense elevation gain, this time of year, you have to deal with temperatures in Palm Springs above 100 degrees. Even for the most seasoned hikers, its risky. Do I want to do this hike again? Nope. But I'm never going to say never again.
Overnight Backpacking West Fork Trail #hiking #adventure #sedona #backpacking MoonJuice Hikes 2025-06-14 | ...
Post R3 Follow Up - Motion is Lotion MoonJuice Hikes 2025-05-28 | A few days after completing the famed R3 (Rim to Rim to Rim) double Grand Canyon traverse. Leg's are slowly starting to come back to life.
Grand Canyons Rim to Rim to Rim (R3) in a Day - 45 miles of Torture MoonJuice Hikes 2025-05-26 | Rim to Rim to Rim, a double traverse of the Grand Canyon, is one of those unique challenges avid long distance runners dream of completing. Clocking in at 45 miles with 11,593' of elevation gain, often in 100 degree temps, the "R3" is a once-in-a-lifetime achievement for any run-of-the-mill ultra marathon runner.For hikers, however, this is an insane idea. After successfully completing the Super Icon Loop in the Superstition Mountains, a unique 35 mile, 10,000' aeg gauntlet through the best of the Western Superstition iconic hikes, I was convinced there wasn't a more difficult day hike challenge (EXCEPT possibly R3).This was definitely the most gut wrenching day-hike I have ever completed. I have zero interest in going through this again, and consider myself lucky to have finished on my own two feet - not in a rescue helicopter.Make no mistake about it, R3 is for elite long distance athletes. By far, without question, one of the most challenging tests of physical fitness and mental fortitude Arizona has to offer.I loved it. Its been two days and I still can't walk. When I can, I'll strap on that 45lb pack and keep on keeping on. There are challenges out there I gotta do. Don't wanna, I gotta. Time is short.Music: @EiroNareth Kenny LogginsDanger Zone (from “Top Gun”) played on one guitar
Complete Guide to Reliable Water - Western Superstition Wilderness MoonJuice Hikes 2025-04-16 | If you are planning a long hike or backpacking trip in the rugged Superstition Wilderness, you are going to need to know where to find reliable water. This video shows all the reliable water sources in the Western Superstitions, what they look like and where to find them on a trail map.1. Charlebois Spring2. LaBarge Spring3. Bluff Spring4. Hackberry Spring5. Second Water Spring6. LaBarge Pool7. Brads Water8. Reeds Well9 Reavis CreekHonorable mentions: Cholla Tank, Dripping Springs.DISCLAIMER: This is a snapshot in time (April 2025). If you watch this video next week, or a year from now, or 5 years from now, this information may no longer be accurate. Please be sure to research current reliable water conditions before heading out into the Superstition Wilderness.
Siphon Draws Crying Dinosaur - Superstition Mountains MoonJuice Hikes 2025-04-01 | The Siphon Draw trail in the Western Superstitions is one of the more well known and difficult hiking trails in the area. If you've been up to the basin of the Siphon Draw, you'll notice its surrounded by rugged ancient volcanic rock rising hundreds of feet above the desert floor, offering some of the most spectacular scenery in the Sonoran desert. The "Crying Dinosaur" rock spire lives just south of the trail, producing a birds eye view of the Flatiron and the canyon that takes you to the summit. Having seen this formation many times, I was thrilled to learn that with some basic class 5 skills, a novice climber like me can stand on top of this amazing rock feature. Join me and my pal Troy Dixon on this fun adventure scaling the Crying Dinosaur, and living to tell the tale!Shout out to our pal Jeff Plamann, a 70 yr old snowbird and Superstition Legend who has summited Flatiron over 600 times! Enjoy.
Peralta Canyons Western Ridgeline - Superstition Wilderness MoonJuice Hikes 2025-03-03 | If you have been to Peralta Canyon, one of the more popular entry points in the Western Superstitions, you have probably noticed the rugged cliffs on the west side of the canyon, marking the entrance to the Peralta Canyon, Bluff Springs and Dutchman 104 hiking trails. I've looked at the edge of the Western Ridge and wondered if it would be possible to navigate all the way to Robber's Roost. It looks impossible at a glance, but at a closer inspection...it just might be possible - if you have enough arrows in the quiver to tackle such a daunting adventure.In order to find out, a multi-pitch traditional climb route will have to be completed blindly, since this cliff does not contain any established climbing routes. Once on top, wherever that is, reading the topography of the landscape should guide us up the ridge, eventually intersection with the Robber's Roost trail, near Cobra Head rock. Hiking, Climbing and Mountaineering skills would be needed to safely traverse this steep and unforgiving terrain. Join me and my pal Troy "the Wookie" Dixon has we explore this unknown section of the western Peralta ridgeline. An unforgettable experience to say the least!Music:@EiroNareth Twenty One Pilots - Heavydirtysoul (fingerstyle guitar cover)@KfirOchaionRed Hot Chili Peppers - Under the Bridge - Acoustic Guitar Cover
The Hardest Day Hike in Arizona? Super Icon Loop - 34.5 miles, 10,000 AEG MoonJuice Hikes 2025-02-11 | Is this the hardest day hike in Arizona? Well, that depends on what we all consider a “hike”! Ultra marathon runners can cover twice as much ground in a day. Certainly, whatever they are doing would be considered the hardest day hike – if running is considered hiking. I don’t consider running hiking, I think running is running. But then again, the Super Icon Loop includes scrambling and rock climbing - which most people wouldn't consider hiking either. What about the FKT holders on the Arizona Trail? They are hiking…many carrying heavy packs and they are still able to knock out 50+ mile days. Certainly some of these day hikes are harder than the Super Icon Loop. Fair enough, that’s a solid argument.Of course, the Rim to Rim to Rim is widely considered the hardest day hike in Arizona, with 11,000' of elevation gain and 42 miles! What a grueling trek that must be!I think the Super Icon loop is 100% in the discussion. Covering 34.5 miles and over 10,000’ of elevation gain, this loop covers the hardest on-trail terrain the western superstitions has to offer. It took 17 hours to knock out all 9 Icons, covering all 5 classes of terrain.Icon #1 – FlatironIcon #2 – Peak 5024Icon #3 – Superstition Ridgeline Icon #4 – Superstition Peak – 5057Icon #5 – Three SistersIcon #6 – Robber’s RoostIcon #7 – Freemont SaddleIcon #8 – Weaver’s Needle SummitIcon #9 – Battleship MountainHuge thanks to my support team Troy "The Wookie" Dixon, Jerry Arizona, Zhen "willgetbacktoyoulater", John "Money Shot", Mike "Old School" and, Kevin the "Hiking Engineer" for all playing a role in motivating me to try to knock out this insane day hike. I appreciate all the support!Check out Jerry's Icon Loop Video here:youtu.be/uytjg591Dd8?si=o1ygjgdRkL1vaJS_Check out Troy's Super Icon Loop Video here: youtu.be/7KH72U5q_MU?si=vnBGRbUwA5xuWv-sCheck out Kevin’s Icon Loop Plus Video here: youtu.be/tXo5MdEw_5g?si=8k1bsbY4Om3VkkE3Liquid nutrition recipe from 19:46 - hammernutrition.com
The Lonely Mountain Cave - Superstition Wilderness MoonJuice Hikes 2025-01-26 | The Lonely Mountain cave sits a couple hundred feet below the launch pad used by thrill seeking base jumpers, and 500 feet up the rugged cliffs of the western superstitions. Join me and my friend Mike "Old School" as we hike up to Headbanger's Arch, and attempt to access the Lonely Mountain Cave. Another incredible adventure in the Superstition Wilderness!
The Secret Canyon - Superstition Wilderness (Wheres the water?) MoonJuice Hikes 2025-01-14 | For those who have spent some time hiking in the rugged Superstition Wilderness, you know where the iconic trails and features are. The Flatiron, 5024, Superstition Peak, Robbers Roost, Battleship, Weaver's Needle to name a few. There's no shortage of amazing features in the Supes!There are also hundreds of cool places to see that are well off the beaten trail, if you have the ability to get there. While inspecting some of the reliable springs in the western supes (Bluff Spring, LaBarge Spring & Brad's Water), I took the opportunity to explore a hidden gem. I heard rumors of this particular canyon and have met a couple of people who have successfully traversed it, so I was anxious to get a look for myself. What an amazing spot! Very rugged, with class 4 and some low level class 5 terrain, this "secret" canyon is hands down one of the best I've seen in the Superstitions. Since very little has been published on this canyon, I decided to not share the name and location. In fact, I even used some tricky editing to make sure it looks like I'm in an area I am not actually in, to further ensure the secret canyon remains secret. Once the masses know how to find these precious locations, they bring with them bags of dog crap, trash, spray painted arrows, carved initials and everything else humans tend to do to ruin the natural esthetic of the untouched wilderness. I realize many hikers will know this canyon, if you do, please don't spread the word. Don't mention the name in the comments here (I'll delete it). I'd like to preserve this canyon for everyone, and not turn it into the next Camelback. You just gotta get out there and explore if you want to find some of these places for yourself! It’s out there, waiting to be discovered…Be safe. Have fun!
Climbing “Goliath” in Sedona Arizona #hiking #arizonahiking #climbing #sedona #adventure MoonJuice Hikes 2025-01-06 | ...
Superstition Icon Loop #shorts #hiking #hikingadventures #adventure #superstitionmountains MoonJuice Hikes 2024-12-30 | ...
Why I will never buy a Single Wall Dyneema Composite Backpacking Tent MoonJuice Hikes 2024-12-19 | It's a fact: the lighter your pack, the easier the hike. You've heard it before, ounces = pounds and pounds = pain. I can testify to this fact.As a new backpacker, its important to understand what you need to bring with you to ensure you have a comfortable experience, and what you don't need. Every trip could require slightly different gear depending on weather, and of course the length and difficulty of your trek. Until you get out there and test out your choices, you will inevitably carry way more than you need to. (food especially, for some reason, is always overpacked). For a single, overnight trip on a relatively short trail, I'll bring cold beer, a chair, sometimes even a Duraflame log. On a long hike, or multi day trip, all the heavy luxuries are left at home in exchange for more water and food. When it comes to gear, there are Ultra Lightweight options (UL), Lightweight options and there are Car Camping options (heavy stuff you'd never want to carry in a backpack).My gear is primarily Ultralight, but there are plenty of ways I could shave lbs off of my loadout that I have yet to take advantage of. One of those areas is my 1 person, double wall tents, which consist of a fully enclosed mesh with a removeable rainfly along with tent poles. Single Wall, Dyneema Composite tents, usually with trekking pole set ups, have been the topic of YT hiking guru channels for a few years now, with hundreds of gear review videos covering every detail. These tents are usually at least a pound lighter than most of the UL double wall tents, and for those going UL, its the tent style of choice. For me, it doesn't really matter. Carry whatever you want to carry, for whatever reason. There is no right way or wrong way to backpack. Gear is totally subjective, like your favorite color or food. Since the guru's cover gear so thoroughly, its never crossed my mind to discuss gear or my gear choices while filming my hiking adventures. However, I have been asked more than once about my tents, my pack and other gear related questions. So I thought I'd piece together a short video on the topic. While talking about gear isn't my thing, if you find this info helpful in any way, let me know and I'll force myself to do a few more from time to time. Otherwise, I'll stick to hiking and leave the gear videos to the full time YouTubers.
Long Distance Challenge - Day Hiking the Arizona Trail MoonJuice Hikes 2024-11-11 | Passages 16 & 17 of the Arizona Trail happens to be one of my favorite sections of the AZT and its also the most accessible stretch from my home in Gilbert. At 38 miles, this was the very first multi-night backpacking trip I ever took. Its also where the MoonJuice trail name was born. 5 years later and 40lbs lighter, I head off southbound on the AZT to set my personal day hike long distance record. 38 miles in a single day, which is 11 miles farther than I have ever attempted to hike in a single day. From Picketpost in Superior, to the Kelvin Trailhead near Kearny at the Gila River crossing, these are some of the best desert sections of the AZT. Refusing to give myself the opportunity to bail, or to camp overnight, I packed the bare minimum. I forced myself to either reach my goal and get to the end, or hit the SOS button for a helicopter rescue. With no choice...digging deep is a requirement. Enjoy!Music:Pearl Jam - Just BreatheAlabama Shakes - Always Alright
Picketpost Mountain to Reavis Ranch - Superstition Wilderness MoonJuice Hikes 2024-10-28 | If you're a new backpacker in Arizona, or you want to backpack in Arizona, Reavis Ranch is one of the best places to test your new trail legs. At 7 miles, with just under 1,000' of elevation gain, backpackers make their way from the Rogers Trough Trailhead on the Arizona Trail, to a pine tree forest - tucked in the rugged hills of the Superstition Wilderness. This oasis features a perennial creek with dozens of places to pitch tents. A favorite with the locals, an apple tree grove still produces apples every fall (though this years harvest was particularly small due to lack of rain).I met up with buddies Troy Dixon and Steve Faulker along with Troy's dog and adventure pal Edie Bark-ell (a nod to Edie Brickell & New Bohemians) who hiked via the standard route, while I chose a more Moonjuice style approach from the Picketpost Trailhead outside of Superior. This 26 mile approach has over 5,600' of accumulated elevation gain (AEG), but a couple of water sources along the way allows for a light and fast hike for the first 19 miles to the Rogers Trough Trailhead. The Superstition Wilderness always provides rugged trails, incredible desert scenery and the opportunity to test yourself in every way. Let's Go!
L2H - Lowest to Highest - Death Valley to Mt. Whitney (Full Length) Solo Backpacking Adventure MoonJuice Hikes 2024-10-04 | This is hands down the toughest, most grueling, yet the most incredibly rewarding adventure I’ve ever experienced. A 15 minute YouTube video cannot capture the reality of this brutal trek. I decided to take the 9+ hours of footage I recorded and focus on trying to show what the experience is really like. Not the fluff, not just the good times, the whole thing. The good, bad and the ugly. I realize that lots of people will never watch an hour and a half long video, but I really don’t care. I didn’t make this video for them. I have a non-monetized channel. I don’t record videos hoping for views, or likes, or whatever. There’s no money in it for me. I record videos so I can watch them. I want to look back when I’m in my 70’s and see, in detail, the stuff I was able to accomplish while my knees still worked. Before my hips gave out. When I was willing to risk it all, for an adventure. That’s what this video means to me.The “Lowest to Highest” route is just that, a route. I’m following a GPS track off trail, cross country, on dirt roads, paved roads, old mining roads, mule trails, game trails, and even actual hiking trails in some of the most inhospitable landscape in the U.S. Unlike every long distance hike I’ve done so far, with the L2H, I’m never exactly sure how far I need to go, or how much I need to climb each day, or where the next water is going to be, because I calculated my data based on a set of daily goals. Goals I failed to reach, day after day after day.Over 160 miles in total, with 33,000’ of elevation gain in 8.5 hiking days. It just doesn’t get much harder than this for me.From Badwater Basin in Death Valley, the lowest point in North America (-282 ft below sea level) to the highest mountain in the lower 48, Mt. Whitney at 14,505’. The Lowest to Highest route is not for the average backpacker. This is a personal test. This is a test of your ability to dig deep, over and over and over again. When you can’t dig any deeper, this route forces you to find another level you never knew existed.I wanted to quit on Day 1. By day 4, I was fighting back the tears of hopelessness all day long… wishing for a way out. The only thing that stopped me, was the fact that quitting in an area with zero cell service required pressing the infamous Garmin InReach SOS button to summon a Search and Rescue helicopter ride to the nearest hospital. What would I say? PLEASE come get me, my legs are tired? Please save me….I am really thirsty? Or Please come save me….I bit off more than I can chew.I’m not injured, I’m just swimming in self-doubt.I wanted to quit, but I couldn’t. What I did discover is, the tear ducts I thought didn’t work were like a dam holding back gallons of salty grief. With enough pressure, the dam broke and the pain and suffering became overwhelming. Somehow, I made it. I still can’t believe I actually made it.As I sit back and look at what it took to complete this route, I feel quite a bit of pride. Not the “let-me-brag-about-how-far-I-can-hike” kind of pride, but the kind that is based on the feeling you get when you are forced to fight against your self-doubt and despite every molecule in your body telling you there is no way you can do this, you overcome it. You win.I did it. I hated it. I loved it.BTW, if you watched this all the way to the very end, you are just as weird as me, and I’m glad to know I’m not alone. :)Big thanks to Brent Underwood for all the history and information on Cerro Gordo and The Saline Valley Salt Tram. Be sure to check out Ghost Town Living and support Brent's efforts to keep Cerro Gordo alive!www.youtube.com/@GhostTownLivingI highly recommend Brent's Book "Ghost Town Living". The story of Cerro Gordo and Brent's story of buying and restoring the iconic town. I absolutely loved the audio book!penguinrandomhouse.com/books/709605/ghost-town-living-by-brent-underwoodMusic:“Closer” Kings of Leon“I’m on Fire’ Bruce Springsteen“Righteously” Anna Ash "I will always love you" Whitney HoustonGuitar covers by James Bartholomew @JamesBartholomewMusic “Heart Shaped Box” Nirvana“Dancing on My Own” Robyn/Calum Scott“Take me to Church” Hosier“Say Something” A Great Big World ft. Christina Aguilera“Every Breath You Take” Police
Alone on top of Mt. Whitney, the end of the Lowest to Highest (L2H) #mountains #hiking #shorts MoonJuice Hikes 2024-09-29 | ...
Camelback Mountain - Echo Canyon Trail - The Praying Monk MoonJuice Hikes 2024-08-25 | Camelback Mountain is one of the most popular and crowded hiking destinations in Arizona. During good weather on a weekend, its so crowded that hikers often find themselves in a long line of hikers who eventually reach the summit only to find 100 other people already on top trying to get a selfie without 99 hikers in the background. We like to refer to it as the Disneyland Hike. Located near the heart of Phoenix, its one of the closest hiking areas for the 1.6 million residents. During the cooler temps, Camelback and the nearby Piestewa Peak see hundreds of visitors every day. In addition to those looking to reach the summit (via the Echo Canyon trail on the west end or the Cholla Trail head on the east end), Camelback Mountain has dozens of established sport and trad climbing routes. As beginners, this is a prefect place to practice early in the morning, before the triple digit summer temps hit. We're still learning the ropes, with all of the pun intended, and we're having a blast every step of the way!
Weavers Needle - Superstition Wilderness #climbing #hiking #adventure MoonJuice Hikes 2024-06-23 | ...
Camelback Mountain - The Praying Monk #hiking #climbing #adventure #outdoors MoonJuice Hikes 2024-06-08 | ...
Hiking Chapel Trail to Streaker Spire Sedona Arizona #hiking #shorts #sedona #adventure MoonJuice Hikes 2024-06-02 | ...
Lower Salt River Adventure - Wild Horses, Kayaking & Climbing MoonJuice Hikes 2024-05-20 | Coon Bluff along the Salt River has been a popular destination for recreation for decades. The name goes back to 1919 when a group of Boy Scouts cooked up a racoon for their parents and told them it was pork - just for laughs. In addition to boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, birdwatching, and other activities, rappelling has also been popular from the eastern side of the bluff. Over the years, little climbing development has occurred - likely due to the soft rock. A couple lines have existed on the east facing portion of the bluff, as top ropes (see River Runner and Up and Away) and also a bolted face. More recent development is on the downstream portion of the North facing wall, which tower above the waterline and provide amazing scenery, and cool water as well. The following pertains to those routes. It is not uncommon to see wild horses emerge downstream, along with river otters, turtles, vultures, big horn sheep, and an endless variety of birds and small animals relying on the Salt River for food and water. Location:Park in the Coon Bluff Recreation Area parking. You'll need a tonto pass for your vehicle. There are two ways to get there. One is a short hike. Walk from the parking area and head to where the bluff meets the river. You'll come to a fence. Go through a gate then go left. A trail will appear and follow the river downstream, between wall and water. Multiple trails develop like a poorly spun spider web but i tend to stay on paths on the higher, cliff-side. The trail will end where rock meets water. You can scramble about 25 feet on ledges past Anniversary Rock (semi-submerged boulder in the river) and you'll come to the larger ledges at the bottom of many climbs. As a fun and more adventurous option you can pack your things in a dry pack or put your gear on a tube and just float to Anniversary Rock. You can put in just past where you go thru the gate. Its refreshing and fun. Then you can do the walk back when you're done climbing. Approach by hike, 5 minutes, approach by water, even faster, and more enjoyable on a summer day.For a longer day adventure, launch kayaks at the first recreation area south of Saguaro Lake, and exit at the last stop - Granite Reef Park. #Saltriver #wildhorses #climbing #kayaking #adventure Info pulled from, Troy Dixon's "Rock Climbing On The Salt River" youtu.be/0LqkG3wVQPs?si=2Czv9R-bXaHz3uSPMusic:Wild Horses - The Rolling Stonescover by Cara Vel @ChiaraKilchling youtu.be/BzFBJ0lEPhQ?si=dePwp-I-_z_jMyUf
WHATS OUT THERE? Solo Backpacking the Eastern Superstition Wilderness MoonJuice Hikes 2024-04-25 | Join me on this long awaited, 3 day backpacking trip in the seldom seen Eastern Superstition Wilderness. Most trails in the Eastern Supes have been basically abandoned since the Woodbury fire destroyed many of the wooded canyons in 2019. With such destruction, the wilderness has reclaimed many miles of the trails in the area, and current info on water sources, camping spots and trail conditions is thin. Nevertheless, I trudged through and completed the 45 mile loop without a single ounce of energy left! Happy to check this box, because I can't imagine putting myself through this again, at least not until the trail crews make it out there. Trails Hiked:Haunted Canyon Trail #203Bull Basin Trail #270 West Pinto Creek #212Campaign Trail #256Fire Line Trail #118 Reavis Ranch Trail #109Reavis Gap Trail #117Guitar covers by @KfirOchaionSound of Silence - Simon & GarfunkelPatience - GNR
Exploring Barks Canyon & The Glory Road - Superstition Wilderness MoonJuice Hikes 2024-03-19 | If you have ever hiked the Bluff Springs Trail in the Western Superstitions, you've seen Barks Canyon. Barks is sandwiched between the Geronimo Cave Ridgeline and the Bluff Springs Mountain ridgeline, SE of Weaver's Needle. Like Peralta, Barks is a rugged canyon lined with clumps of tall hoodo-type rock formations visible to those who make it up and over Cardiac Hill - the local name given to the first mile or so of the Bluff Springs trail. As you descend the Bluff Springs saddle into Barks Canyon, heading towards the Terrapin Trail, you will see the large rock wall to the west. As a novice climber, this wall contains the most difficult outdoor climb I have attempted to date "The Glory Road".The Glory Road is a 300 foot traditional style climbing wall, with a 5.7 rating. Traditional or "Trad" refers to the style of climbing where the "lead" climber inserts removable protection into cracks and holes in the rock surface, referred to as "nuts" or "cams", while dragging a rope up the wall, clipping into the protection as you ascend. With a belay partner at the other end of the rope keeping slack out of the line, if the lead climber should fall, the rope would catch on the highest piece of protection, and the belayer should be able to provide a soft enough catch to avoid injury. At least, that's the idea.Good news is, as a belay partner to the lead climber, following the leader is much easier. The lead climber will belay you from the top while you pick up the protection and clip it to your harness as you climb - leaving nothing behind. The rope will be kept snug on your harness, anchored to bolts at the top of the route. As you step up, slack is pulled up by your partner, through a belay device. Any uneasy feeling of possible slipping should be resolved as soon as you feel the snug rope (should be, but I can tell you it ISNT!). With a mix of crack climbing, traverses and a chimney climb, all new skills for me, I was surprised how fatigued I got! The chimney of pitch 4 was the hardest part. Not much in the way of hand and footholds, it takes quite a bit of effort to move up the chimney constantly applying opposite pressure to the chimney walls. After 20 or 30 feet, I was spent!Of course, I wouldn't even have an opportunity to try without an experienced climber willing to lead. As always, big thanks to Troy Dixon @walkingwithawookie1097 Exhilarating, a little terrifying and overall another awesome Arizona adventure! Let's Go!Guitar cover by @KfirOchaion What's Up - 4 Non-Blondes
Carney Springs Waterfall - Rappelling Adventure in the Superstitions MoonJuice Hikes 2024-02-12 | A chance encounter with a couple of climbers on the summit of Weaver's Needle last weekend, provided insight into a rappelling adventure that begins at Robber's Roost in the western Superstition Wilderness and ends with a 230' rappel down the rarely flowing Carney Springs Waterfall. Along with my my pal Troy Dixon @walkingwithawookie1097 (who we learn is more of a Pink Lady apple guy), we carefully watched the weather all week. It appeared for a brief moment, after 2 days of rainfall, the sun would shine long enough for us to take advantage of what could be the best possible conditions! We jumped at the chance. Starting with a short, but very steep 1.5 mile climb up the Carney Springs trail, traversing East from the Ridgeline junction, we head up the canyon in route to Robber's Roost. From there, a short 15' rappel begins the real adventure. A second, and amazing 50' rappel put us in the path of freezing cold water of a small waterfall. While searching for a 3rd, 90' rappel down a few smaller falls, we ended up hiking around the intended rappel path (it seemed too overgrown in the canyon, and too shallow to rappel - at least that was the sense we got looking down the canyon towards Carney Falls).After cruising down the 230' Carney Springs Waterfall, we made a quick stop at the nearby Shaka Cave, eventually rejoining Carney Springs & the Wave Cave Trail back to the parking lot. I've had a lot of amazing days out in the Superstitions! Was this my favorite adventure in the Supes? It's certainly in the discussion. No doubt about it!Acoustic Guitar Cover by @KfirOchaion Metallica - Nothing Else Matters
Weaver’s Needle - Superstition Wilderness #shorts MoonJuice Hikes 2024-02-05 | After more than a year of gym practice, I'm able to lead Laura up Weaver's Needle for her first (of what will be many) summit!
Exploring West Boulder Canyon - Off Trail in the Superstition Wilderness MoonJuice Hikes 2024-01-29 | Winter in Arizona is a beautiful time of year to explore the rugged Sonoran Desert. Mild temps and recent rain set the stage for a really interesting off-trail adventure. NOTE: Hiking off trail in any wilderness area is dangerous. While we expected a day hike, we brought enough supplies to stay safe, even if we had to spend a night in the canyon. Despite 2 GPS Rescue devices, when hiking into unknown terrain, it pays to be overly prepared. Headlamps, extra food, clothes, space blanket etc. It take smore than water and snacks to ensure a safe adventure in the rugged Superstition wilderness.Peralta Canyon in the Supes is absolutely beautiful. The hike up to the Freemont Saddle reveals a gorgeous view of the iconic Weaver's Needle. As you continue down the Peralta trail, right next to Weavers, I can't help but to imagine what the next canyon over the western ridge looks like. Why isn't there an established trail in that canyon?With the safety of a hiking partner, Troy Dixon, I decided to explore the West Boulder Canyon to see for myself. Once we got off the Wave Cave Trail (where I can't help but to rant and rave over the graffiti), the real challenge begins. Navigating the rugged terrain requires traversing the canyon walls, above the valley floor and away from the thick vegetation. Without a trail to follow, we were pleasantly surprised to see cairns stacked along the first couple of miles of the canyon, reassuring us that our navigation choices had been made previously by those who have come before. After a few miles, the cairns slowly disappeared as we got deeper into the canyon. We used a topo map and common sense to guide us through and eventually out of the canyon.Turns out, the West Boulder Canyon was everything I look for in a hike. Remote. NO PEOPLE. Rugged, challenging, type 2 fun with beautiful views of my favorite wilderness area. An awesome adventure!Acoustic Guitar Covers by @KfirOchaion Ed Sheeran - PhotographPink Floyd- Comfortably Numb
REVERSE FLATIRON - Superstition Mountains (Massacre Falls to 5024) MoonJuice Hikes 2023-12-26 | Reverse Flatiron refers to an off trail route from Massacre Falls Trailhead, to hilltop 5024, just above the icon Flatiron landmark. This 9.3 mile loop, includes a steep bushwhack, and challenging scramble up 3,360' aeg to 5024'. With no GPS map to download, this "route" is certainly not for beginners. Essentially, its the Siphon Draw Trail, without the trail. Dangerous for experienced hikers, potentially deadly for beginners.Navigating simply by reading the topography of the terrain, avoiding cliffs while slogging up the steep, loose mountainside, is not easy. The climb up the northwestern slope of the rugged Superstition Mountains was certainly an exciting challenge. Look forward to doing this one again without all the clouds - see the views I missed!Hope you enjoy the adventure!Guitar Cover by @KfirOchaion Chris Isaak - "Wicked Game"
Hiking/Climbing The Praying Hands - Superstition Wilderness MoonJuice Hikes 2023-12-13 | On the Northwestern corner of the Superstitions, there are number of relatively easy hiking trails, with the rocky edge of the Superstition mountains as a backdrop. Easy hiking, with wonderfully rugged desert views, the "Praying Hands" rock feature is one of the cool rock formations to see on the along Treasure Loop Trail."Curator of Shenanigans" Troy Dixon, along with his very experienced climbing buddy, Matt Johnson, guided me to one of the most exhilarating hiking/climbing experiences I've had to date. With strong, freezing cold winds and zero experience, the Razor's Edge Route up to the top of The Hand was a incredibly exposed entry level rock climb, which might as well have been El Capitan for me. Once again, I'm happy to be alive!Hope you enjoy!Guitar Cover by @KfirOchaion Tears for Fears - "Mad World"
SCARIEST HIKE IN ARIZONA - The Motherlode - Four Peaks Traverse MoonJuice Hikes 2023-11-30 | Calling the Motherlode a "hike" is a colossal mistake. This has nothing to do with hiking, other than the short trail that takes you to the base of Brown's peak. From this point, there is no trail until you traverse all 4 peaks and get down. There is no route to follow. No GPS map. This isn't a hike. In fact, it isn't a scramble either. The Motherlode is a death defying traverse across class 4 & 5 terrain, with many "no fall" zones - where a slip would most likely result in severe injury or in many cases, certain death. It covers over 13 miles (avoiding private property) with 4,286 AEG and 4,388 AEL. I've hiked many more miles in a single day and I've climbed much higher, but I've never done anything this dangerous. Not even close.To be clear, I WILL NEVER DO THIS AGAIN.Free soloing class 5 terrain is incredibly terrifying for a novice climber. Thankfully my buddy Troy Dixon, an absolute stud when it comes to mountaineering here in the rugged desert, was leading the way. All I had to do was ignore the fear and follow Troy's lead. Luckily for me, Troy brought along a lightweight (but durable) homemade rescue rope, designed to allow you to rappel off something in a pinch, if you need to get off the mountain in a hurry. In my case, it was a perfect safety line. In fact, without it, I'm not sure I could have made it.Twice, while clinging to a vertical rock face fully exposed, I froze. The thought of downclimbing was terrifying, while continuing up felt only slightly less terrifying. The idea of pushing the SOS button on my Garmin started to creep into the back of my mind as a viable option if I can't calm myself down enough to start moving safely. Fact is, from a climbing perspective, this is entry level climbing, with expert level consequences. I'm 99% certain that I wouldn't fall, after all, there are plenty of good hand and foot holds. BUT half of that stuff was ready to break off any second. The rock was fractured everywhere (due to the freezing and thawing cycles at that elevation), hand and footholds were constantly breaking off. Even large boulders would occasionally move and break free when we stepped on them. On top of that, lets not forget how physically demanding this is. Part of my fear was simply based on the building fatigue. Do I have enough strength to hold myself? Are my legs going to turn to jelly before I get off this mountain? In some areas, almost nothing could be trusted without touching and and stomping on it to ensure it was stable. Even in very low rated 5.1 and 5.2 walls, which can easily be climbed with no fear of falling, become absolutley terrifying when you have nothing to save you in case of a fall. Add that to the fatigue, and it was simply terrifying. No other way to put it. In those situations where it just seems too risky to keep climbing, with no protection, Troy came through to save the day. After free soloing a wall, he lowered his "rescue" rope down to give me a little support (and confidence). As soon as I feel the loop snug up around my chest, under my armpits, while Troy riggs up some sort of friction belay around his body... I immediately feel a huge sigh of relief. I know I'm not going to fall here. If I do, I'm not going to die. The panic subsides and I scoot up the wall easily without missing a step. It's amazing how your brain reacts when the chance of death is an actual possibility and as soon as that possibility is removed, the anxiety goes away - almost instantly. Twice that rope gave me the confidence I needed to soldier on and get past the fear of climbing vertically on this "hike". Unfortunately, due to the poor GoPro performance in cold temps, much of that footage was lost. What remains is certainly enough to get the point across. HUGE thanks to Troy Dixon @walkingwithawookie1097 for guiding me up. Not a chance in hell I'd do this without his experience leading the way. The route finding required was insane. Without his prior failed attempts, finding the best direct route on your first try is impossible. There would have been no chance that we could have made it off those mountains before dark if we didn't take the most direct route. Let me tell you, downclimbing and working your way off Amethyst without trespassing in the dark, would make an already dangerous situation darn near impossible. Basically, I'm happy to be alive!Hope you enjoy!MUSIC: Love and Rockets - "So Alive"DRONE FOOTAGE:@shadoutdoors
Superstition Traverse - Canyon Lake to Peralta MoonJuice Hikes 2023-11-22 | There are very few trails in the Western Superstitions that I have not experienced firsthand over the last few years. The Boulder Canyon Trail (from Canyon Lake), the Eastern LaBarge Pool Route, and the 7 mile long Peter's Trail are a few boxes that I have been waiting to check. Trails in the Supes that I have not yet seen, is all the motivation I needed to embark on this weekends adventure. Follow along as I travel over 35 miles through the rugged Superstition Wilderness, in the RAIN, while still struggling to cover such challenging terrain. Only 2 water sources on this 35.8 mile end-to-end route, Charlebois Spring and Brad's Water. If you have ever wondered where to find permanent water sources in the Superstitions, 3 of them are featured in this video.Enjoy!AMAZING Guitar covers by @KfirOchaion November Rain - GNRSweet Dreams - EurythmicsTake on Me - Ah-Ha
Peralta Canyon to Weavers Needle Summit - Superstition Wilderness MoonJuice Hikes 2023-10-23 | The first time I stood on the Freemont saddle and got my first look at Weaver's Needle, I never imagined one day I would be standing on the summit, looking back at the saddle. I watched Jerry Arizona's videos and realized quickly that if I wanted to duplicate that feat, I had to first learn how to rock climb AND I would need to meet some experienced climbers who can lead the way. I buckled down and started training. I spent the next couple of years hiking longer and longer distances, pushing myself to build both stamina and confidence by willing myself up and down hundreds of thousands of feet of elevation gain/loss. I also joined a climbing gym, alternating training between hiking and climbing every other day. After a year of climbing indoors (significantly tougher grades of climbing than Weaver's) I was ready to give it a shot. I posted in an AZ Climbing FB group asking if anyone would be willing to lead me up, on an overnight adventure. Adding jokingly that your gonna be in a YouTube video, in case that's not your thing. As is often the case with social media, I was dumped on immediately by a couple of guys who thought no climber would ever drag a stranger up Weavers and then camp with him. I was informed that I needed to pay for a guide. They cracked jokes with each other, at my expense, and it seemed evident to me that the climbing community was not be as welcoming as the hiking community has been. I was seriously discouraged. I just deleted the post and started thinking about a plan B. Directly after that post, a paramedic friend and canyoneering guide (Cody Jordan) reached out. He said he saw that post and he'd be happy to take me up. A couple of weeks later, he took me out to the Mines, a climbing site East of Superior for my first outdoor climbing experience/lesson. It was awesome! Summer was approaching fast and with busy schedules, we didn't have time to make a run for Weaver's before the serious heat hit. I look forward to climbing more with Cody in the near future.Flash forward. In researching the infamous Motherlode scramble/climb in the Four Peaks, I found a number of extreme videos from Troy Dixon @walkingwithawookie1097.He was traversing the Motherlode (without a rope) and climbing Weaver's using rope to rappel, but otherwise free soloing all the way up. Troy, like Cody and most of the outdoor adventure folks I have met, was more than happy to join/lead me on this adventure. A kindred spirit to be sure. He was just as excited to show me the ropes as I was to learn. Finding a free weekend at the end of October, we decided to give it a shot despite the dry conditions and unusually late 100 degree temps. With proper planning, its not quite enough to stop us, so LET'S GO!!!The adventure includes a 4 mile hike up and over Freemont Saddle via the famous Peralta Canyon, to one of a few small camp areas near the trail on the west side of the Needle. This is dry camping, all water and cold beers needed to be humped in. Add camping and climbing gear and the heat...just getting there isn't easy! Additionally, there's a pretty steep approach and 3-4 pitches of easy trad climbing, depending on your route. We came, we saw and we....climbed!This was my first multi-pitch climb of any kind, and my first time even seeing trad gear. What an amazing learning experience! Can't wait to see what's next. Thanks to Jerry Arizona for the inspiration! @JerryArizona Thanks to Cody Jordan for reaching out and taking me outside!Huge thanks to Troy Dixon for leading this expedition. It was better than I hoped for, and it definitely won't be our last. This is just the beginning!And finally, thanks to Jack @bikerjack1 for laying down the challenge. I'm about 25lbs lighter (but not any younger!) so.... in your face! LOL!Guitar covers by @KfirOchaionMisirlou - Pulp Fiction ThemePink Floyd - Comfortably NumbColdplay - Yellow
Cactus to Clouds - The Most Grueling Day Hike EVER - 10,800 AEG MoonJuice Hikes 2023-10-16 | Cactus to Clouds is the most grueling day hike I've ever attempted and I will likely never do this again. At over 20 miles and 10,800' feet of elevation gain, the climb up to San Jacinto Peak is a serious sufferfest. Plain and simple. Starting on the desert floor of Palm Springs, the Skyline Trail is a monumental test for any seasoned hiker.If you are thinking of trying this, my advice to you is "don't". Unless you speak to your therapist first. Maybe he/she can explain why you would put yourself through this torture by choice. Then, if you don't mind, please share that info with me, I clearly need help. Enjoy the pain and misery. Guitar cover of Purple Rain - Princeby @KfirOchaion
Hiking Humphreys Peak - Highest in Arizona! MoonJuice Hikes 2023-09-10 | Humphreys Peak is the highest natural point and the second most prominent peak after Mount Graham in Arizona, with an elevation of 12,633' feet and is located within the Kachina Peaks Wilderness in the Coconino National Forest, about 11 miles north of Flagstaff, Arizona. One of a handful of peaks that make up the San Francisco Peaks. The trailhead is located at the base of Arizona Snowbowl, offering plenty of day use parking. There are a couple of additional trails that can be accessed from this parking lot including the "Aspen Loop" trail, a much easier (and beautiful) loop through the pine & aspen forest.Guitar covers by @KfirOchaion Metallica - Nothing Else Matters#hiking #adventure #arizona #flagstaffaz
Colorado Trail Thru Hike 2023 - PART 5 MoonJuice Hikes 2023-08-12 | The final CT video begins with a lucky ride back to the trailhead from Lake City, one of the absolute best places to take a zero along the Colorado Trail. Spent the last 7 days working through the rest of the San Juan's, the most beautiful part of the trail - without question. Dealt with a temporary bit of adversity, but as is often the case on trail, everything worked out perfectly! Managed to slide into Durango with a 27 mile day under my belt, capping off an amazing adventure I'll never forget. Guitar covers by @KfirOchaion GNR - Don't CryEvanescence - My ImmortalAlan Walker - FadedKfir Ochain original - DriftedLeonard Cohen - Hallelujah
Colorado Trail Thru Hike 2023 - PART 4 MoonJuice Hikes 2023-08-08 | I LOVE THIS VIDEO! My goal in sharing these adventures is to try and depict what it feels like to be on trail. What the trail looks like, water sources, camp spots, resupply and the people I meet along the way. Of course, I can't help but to share how I’m feeling about the whole experience. Sometimes I admittedly fall short in capturing the moment. After all, I’m not an experienced photographer or videographer. This video is as close as I have come to capturing the moment - some of the best hiking I’ve ever done! Covers the CT leaving Hwy 50 near the town of Salida, to Lake City. Mile 253.2 to 357.9.Guitar covers by @KfirOchaion4 Non-Blondes - What's UpBeatles - While My Guitar Gently WeepsEric Clapton - Tears in HeavenOriginal Song by Eldar Kadem - You And Me
Colorado Trail Thru Hike 2023 - PART 3 MoonJuice Hikes 2023-08-04 | Leaving Twin Lakes and parting ways with "square feet", I make my way towards the town of Salida, stopping at the Monarch Spur RV Resort for resupply, shower and laundry. After nearly a week of hiking with company, I resumed my solo adventure while continuing south on the Colorado Trail.With more perfect weather, this was another amazing week on the Colorado Trail.Guitar covers by @KfirOchaionDire Straits - Sultans of SwingDavid Bowie - Space OddityRHCP - Under the Bridge
Colorado Trail Thru Hike 2023 - PART 2 MoonJuice Hikes 2023-08-02 | As I leave Breckenridge and began climbing over the Ten Mile range for views of both Breck and Copper Mountain from above the tree line, I run into Levi "Square Feet". This fortunate encounter gave me a hiking buddy for the long trip to Twin Lakes, my next resupply stop and my first zero. With Levi's company, the next 5 days flew by. We also ran into Sage on our way towards Kokomo Pass, and enjoyed a few hours hiking with another friend, whom I was able to share a beer or two with later on the adventure.With beautiful views, good company and exciting weather... this was another amazing week on the Colorado Trail.Guitar covers by @KfirOchaionGNR - Sweet Child O' MineCranberries - ZombieQueen - Bohemian Rhapsody
Colorado Trail Thru Hike 2023 - PART 1 MoonJuice Hikes 2023-07-27 | The Colorado Trail has become known as one of the premier long-distance trails in the country, lauded by hikers, backpackers, mountain bikers and horse riders from around the world. The CT comprises 486 miles of trail between Denver and Durango and passes through some of the most spectacular scenery in the Colorado Rockies. Join me as I spend 30 days traveling end to end, encountering the high mountain lakes and towering peaks of six wilderness areas and eight mountain ranges while climbing over 90,000 vertical feet. The average elevation of the Trail is 10,300 feet, topping out at 13,271 feet.Part 1 covers the first week, from Denver to Breckenridge. As the trail continues towards Durango, the scenery and wildlife get better and better with every mile. Guitar covers by @KfirOchaionPink Floyd - TimeScorpions - Still Loving YouSting - Shape of My Heart
What is that? #shorts MoonJuice Hikes 2023-06-30 | Day 1 on the Colorado Trail Is the Blair Witch messing with me?
