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| - I have been on every trail in this park from start to finish. It took me almost 2 years, but I did it. And I have to tell you--after hiking/running South Mountain, all other hikes I've been on in other ares of the country seem really pretty easy by comparison.
Advice to first- (or even tenth-) timers: 1.) bring plenty of water. This does NOT mean a half-liter plastic bottle per person. I never go out here without at least 2-3 quarts on-board. It is better to have and not need than need and not have. Even in the winter, the excessively-dry climate and altitude/exertion will WIPE YOU OUT. 2.) print a good, clear map, put it in some sort of plastic sheet protector, and bring it with you, checking it as you go with the 3.) compass you also bring with you. As many of the reviews have stated, it is EXTREMELY easy to get lost/turned around on these trails, particularly if you are in a snaking river valley/wash. The trail markings are much better than they were 5 years ago, but not much. When in doubt, ask for help or GO BACK THE WAY YOU CAME to your car. Trucking along without a clue, thinking, "oh, I'll just turn left at the next intersection and eventually it'll loop around" is NOT the right thing to think! 4.) wear PRACTICAL shoes/boots. Most of the trails are extremely hard and sharp granite that will tear tennis shoes to shreds. I have worn out 3 pairs of hiking boots on this beast, and now use an extremely durable, professional trekking boot with thick Vibram soles. The rocks and scree will take their toll on you, even if you are in great shape, so plan accordingly.
I have been all over the East trails, and they are phenomenal. Great views, great workout. Also frequented quite a bit by mountain bikers who are, for the most part, somewhat courteous, but if you are hiking you'd better beware of those who are not, because they do not obey the rules of the road and yield for you. Many of them, to boot, really don't know what they are doing either, and their excessive speed, particularly downhill, could be hazardous to everyone's health. If you do not like to be around mountain bikers, avoid the Desert Classic all along its length.
West trails are a bit more difficult, including the Alta, which I read in a guidebook is the most difficult in the park and one of the (if not THE) most difficult in the state of AZ. Weekend mornings are usually isolated and quiet prior to 8 AM. We always take our out-of-state visitors here and they can't believe we have such an asset right here in the middle of a major urban area. Take care, and have fun!!!
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