AZT Part 10: Strawberry to Mormon Lake
Day 28 | April 18, 2022
25.4 Miles
After leaving the hotel, we walked along the road until we were able to catch a ride to Pine.
From Pine, we started Passage 26, which follows the Highline National Recreation Trail and then climbs steeply onto the Mogollon Rim, an impressive escarpment that forms the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau, and one of the hardest climbs on the trail.
The climb up to the Mogollon Rim marks a significant transition where the AZT leaves the lower-elevation deserts in the south and enters a landscape of pine-clad plateaus to the north.
I spent most of the day hiking alone, catching glimpses of those ahead of me through notes and names left in trail registers at trailheads. After hiking through dusk, I camped alone in the woods.
Day 29 | April 19, 2022
35.3 Miles
I woke up early and started hiking before 6:00am—an unusual occurrence for me.
My ankle was feeling a little better after my rest day in Strawberry and the miles flew by on the flat, smooth terrain. The conditions were perfect for my highest mileage day.
The day was defined by dirt roads, pine forests, and water tanks. I passed through Moqui and Blueridge Campgrounds and got trail magic at a nearby trailhead.
I hit the 500 mile mark and finished the day with nearly 36 miles done before 7pm!
Day 30 | April 20, 2022
12.5 Miles
The trail led me through the Coconino National Forest, across the flat, pine-shaded Mogollon Plateau, and into the small resort town of Mormon Lake.
While waiting for the others to arrive, I took care of some chores, and found myself sitting on top of a counter in the laundry room when I noticed a convertible with the top down pull up and park outside.
It was Sasquatch, who had decided to do some trail magic instead of continuing his hike. He brought cases of beer and snacks out of his car, which quickly attracted all of us hikers.
After taking some of us for a ride in his rental car, Sasquatch convinced us to stay at a hotel in Flagstaff for the night. We indulged in town food and alcohol, and relaxed in the hotel hot tub before returning to the trail the next morning, well-rested and ready to continue our journey.