Traveling alone has some benefits. Like changing my mind at random. Not many will put up with that.
Although I had planned to hike in Walnut Canyon National Monument today, a chance encounter with a lovely couple (Melody and Chris) outside the Camp Verde Community Library last evening gave me food for thought.
As they exited the library, they saw Lulu and were immediately attracted to her beauty and charm. Amidst the ohhhing and ahhhing, I steered the conversation away from Lulu to more important matters: hiking. Upon my inquiries they excitedly shared their local knowledge of the area and a must-do Sedona hike.
Driving away from Clear Creek C.G. at 6:30 this morning, practically spontaneously I went up 89A north towards Sedona instead of continuing on I-17. Destination: West Fork Trailhead, the recommended must-do by Lulu’s admirers.
The trail was long and easy up the canyon which followed the West Fork (of what I don’t know) till the canyon closed in and it was only the river with steep banks of rock.
The views of surrounding cliffs along the trail are nothing short of spectacular. Dead and decayed oak leaves, grasses and ferns from last fall are still flattened from winter snows. There’s still a few patches of the white stuff along the trail in perenially shaded areas. In another 3 weeks green grass shoots will emerge along with stalks of fern fronds and buds on the oak trees will have unfurled. The walk will then be lush although the surrounding views of cliffs more elusive.
I was able to overnight in the trailhead parking lot! Surrounded by stillness and beauty it was a peaceful sleep. And, allowed the opportunity for another early morning hike tomorrow.