AZ Outdoor Magazine

PRIEST DRAW - BOULDERING IN THE HIGH COUNTRY FREE November / December 2014

10

BICYCLING MUST HAVES BACKPACKING THE

SUPERSTITION MOUNTAIN WILDERNESS

PHOTO CONTEST WINNERS

SOUTH MOUNTAIN

AMERICA’S LARGEST MUNICIPAL PARK HIP HEALTH DISC GOLF TRAIL FORKED

Events Races Festivals

THE

OTHER SIDE OF THE

MOUNTAIN

VETERAN JACK TONGEN OPENS UP ABOUT PTSD, HIS LOVE FOR THE ARIZONA WILDERNESS AND HIS MISSION TO HELP FELLOW VETS FIND THEIR WAY.

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CONTENTS November / December 2014

Jack Tongen, Founder of Wandering with Warriors Favorite Arizona spot: West Clear Creek, Coconino National Forest

FEATURES

DEPARTMENTS

8

11

Backpacking the Superstition Mountain Wilderness

Forget the Clubs: Disc Golf Is the Way to Play

John Dzurka, owner and lead guide for Arizona Hiking Adventures, shares his passion for the Superstition Mountain Wilderness, and the entire Grand Canyon State, by educating his guests on the wonders of the Arizona desert.

Reader’s Photos of Arizona

12 15

SPORT

PHOTO CONTEST

CYCLING

BY JOHN DZURKA

10 Bicycling Must Haves

18

16

The Other Side of the Mountain Iraq war veteran and Arizona native Jack Tongen opens up about his tour in Iraq, his love for the Arizona wilderness and his mission to help veterans with PTSD.

BY BRANDON MARSALA

EATS

Amazeballs

24

HIGH COUNTRY

Rock Climbing: The Call of the Draw

25

TECHNOLOGY

28

Gadget Goodies

Happy Trails to You

26

Phoenix is lucky to have a mountain of recreation options right in our city. Here’s why we love to walk, ride and see the sights of South Mountain Park.

Hip Health

BY SARA ARNOLD

Running, Cycling, Farmer’s Markets, Festivals

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30

WEEKDAY WORKOUT

EVENTS/GROUPS

November / December 2014

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

WELCOME! About 3 years ago I was working late one night, cursing the fact that most of my life is spent in front of a computer. Owning a design studio, I spend many late nights working feverishly to meet client deadlines.

Don’t get me wrong, I love what I do. It allows me to use my creativity to help businesses meet their goals. But what about my goals? What makes me happy? Yes, I enjoy running my business, but what am I working so hard for if I don’t have the time to enjoy my hobbies? I sat there and realized, my goal is quite simple. I need to get outside more. It was then an idea popped into my head: combine my job and hobby. As random and crazy as it was, it somehow made sense. I could start an outdoor magazine.

I had many of the resources already in place through my design studio. Writers, designers, web developers, printers...all I needed was to map out the strategy and prove to myself that the business model could work. And then maybe, just maybe, I could create a vehicle that not only could be a successful business, but would also allow me to get out and experience more of this great state.

Well, after three years of researching, planning, saving and even shadowing a publisher client of mine, I decided that there’s no time like the present. So in July of this year, I made a 100% commitment to follow through with my idea. We launched AZOutdoorMagazine.com in July and started the social media campaign immediately.

Now, here we are a few months later and the debut issue is finally available.

Needless to say, I’m very excited to see where this adventure takes me. The outdoors are a passion of mine, and so is this magazine.

I look forward to providing you with all kinds of interesting and useful outdoor content that will inspire you to get out there and enjoy all that Arizona has to offer.

See you on the trail!

Cliff Cook Publisher cliff@azoutdoormagazine.com

VISIT US ONLINE! WWW.AZOUTDOORMAGAZINE.COM

FACEBOOK.COM/AZOUTDOORMAGAZINE @AZOUTDOORMAG

PUBLISHER Cliff Cook cliff@azoutdoormagazine.com MANAGING EDITOR Tamie Hayworth tamie@azoutdoormagazine.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sara Arnold, Brandon Marsala, John Dzurka, Sofia Deva, Melanie Kosach ART DIRECTION, PRODUCTION & AD DESIGN Made You Look, Inc. hello@madeyoulookstudio.com PHOTOGRAPHY Kendra Enriquez, Tyler Meester Chris Howland, Melanie Kosach ILLUSTRATION Kendra Enriquez ADVERTISING Cliff Cook 480-201-1851 cliff@azoutdoormagazine.com PUBLIC RELATIONS Bridges Media Group db@bridgesmediagroup.com 602-466-2128 DISTRIBUTION Ken Keppler Presidio Distribution 520-296-8024 kenkeppler@presidiodistribution.com

AZ Outdoor Magazine is published by:

Made You Look, Inc. E Indian School Rd. Rd 6125 E. Suite #2005 Scottsdale, AZ 85251 480-201-1851 hello@madeyoulookstudio.com www.madeyoulookstudio.com

Annual subscription (6 issues): $19.99/yr. subscriptions@azoutdoormagazine.com

© Copyright 2014 Made You Look, Inc. All rights reserved. AZ Outdoor Magazine is published 6 times per year by Made You Look, Inc. Publisher assumes no liability for loss or damage of unsolicited material, advertising or editorial. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use in whole, or part, any manner without written permission of Made You Look, Inc. is prohibited.

While every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained in AZ Outdoor Magazine is accurate and complete, no liability can be accepted for any error or omissions. AZ Outdoor Magazine provides information in articles such as phone numbers, times, prices, etc. as a service to our readers. All information has been researched and checked for accuracy at press time. We are not responsible for any changes or variances in information following publication.

6 | AZ OUTDOOR MAGAZINE | azoutdoormagazine.com

November / December 2014

ADVENTURE

Trail Guide:

Backpacking the Superstition Mountain Wilderness ARTICLE & PHOTO BY JOHN DZURKA

Formed by volcanic eruptions 30 million years ago, the Superstition Mountains are home to impressive rock walls, jagged hoodoos of rock and narrow twisting canyons. As one of Arizona’s most rugged ranges, the Superstitions offer many miles of hiking.

No one knows these trails better than John Dzurka. As owner and lead guide for Arizona Hiking Adventures (arizonahikingadventures.com), John has been exploring Arizona since the early 1980s. Now he shares his passion for the Superstition Mountain Wilderness, and the entire Grand Canyon State, by educating his guests on the wonders of the Arizona desert.

in extremely rough shape, but the wonderful desert landscape takes our minds off of the bone-jarring truck ride. We are the first to arrive at the large parking lot, where we would leave our truck for the next 4 days.

This prehistoric cliff dwelling was constructed and occupied by Salado Indians approximately 600 years ago. The rain begins to fall, unusual for Arizona, and we dawn our rain capes, however the intensity increases and before long we are wet to the skin. Gary has visions of turning back to the trailhead and the comforts of the truck, but is convinced to continue onwards to the caves where we take refuge. The caves are well-preserved and worth exploring, however for today they will provide us much needed shelter allowing ourselves to dry, rest and wait our the storm. Gary crawls into his sleeping bag for warmth and soon his shivering body and purple lips fade and turn into a faint smile.

8:00 AM

2:00 PM

Backpacks secure, we begin the 600-foot descent into the valley of the Superstitions on Reavis Ranch Trail. 1.6 miles into the trail we arrive at our first junction where we head east on Roger’s Canyon Trail. Today’s goal is to locate the Salado Cliff Cave Dwellings, which are located on the north face of the canyon wall, 2.5 miles from the junction.

The rain stops and the sun shines brightly allowing us to continue east on the trail another two miles towards Angel Basin where we will set up our camp for night one.

In ultra light backpacking this consists of a 2-man tent, sleeping pads, bags and a camp stove. We are mindful that every pound that we pack we need to carry.

If you’re ready to get out and explore on your own, John has put together this 4-day travel diary that showcases some of the best scenery, ruins and wildlife the Superstitions have to offer.

DAY 1 5:00 AM wakeup call begins the first morning of our 4-day, 3-night backpacking trip into the Superstition Mountains. Situated 50 miles east of Phoenix, this wilderness region is one of the best hiking areas within an hour’s drive of any major city in the USA. With gear packed, my younger brother Gary, a computer software executive, and I are on the road by 6:00 AM for our drive east on Highway 60 to Roger’s Trough Trailhead where we will begin our adventure.

Exiting at Queen Valley Road, we enter fourwheel drive country at its best. The road is

*

There are bears throughout this area.

Be prepared before you hit the trail.

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November / December 2014

START: Roger’s Trough Trailhead TIME: 4 days, 3 nights DISTANCE: 23 miles, round trip

GPS KEY POINTS COORDINATES: Rogers Trough Trailhead 33.42223, 111.17325 Salado Cliff Dwellings 33.2516, 111.1025 Reavis Falls 33.31585, 111.10003 Reavis Ranch 33.49131, 111.15566 Circlestone Ruins 33.28394, 111. 08041 This is a great area for tenting and we have a couple of sites to choose from along the perennial running creek. The Superstitions are wonderful and dangerous at the same time. Wonderful for their scenery, ruggedness and solitude, dangerous for the lack of water sources, as we must ensure we plan our route for the ability to refill our supply. Treating water is essential and we carry iodine for this purpose, when the boiling of water is unavailable or nonpractical.

DAY 2 We awake chilled, as last night the temperatures dropped to 34°, unusually cool for this time of year. The Superstitions can be extremely hot during the summer

months with temperatures soaring over 100°, whereas during the winter months the evening temperatures can drop below freezing, with occasional snow. Packing appropriately is essential for comfort and survival.

I take the lead, and start the fire for warmth while igniting our stove to boil water for morning coffee. Warm oatmeal for breakfast and the sun rising in the horizon, the chill lifts and we pack up camp to begin the seven-mile hike north on Frog Tanks Trail.

Day 2 of this 4-day trip will prove to be the most difficult. Today we will gain over 1,200 feet in vertical ascent: beginning at 3,600 feet before we reach Windy Pass Hill at 4,800 feet. This is a very scenic, but littleused, trail and it is full of low lying cat claws that appear to jump out and grab bare legs and arms. It follows Fish Creek, which is another perennial source for water, and skirts Cimeron Mountain.

Today’s climb and the weight of the backpack begins to take the toll on Gary, his Stairmaster training workouts were cursed, and we need to take a few more rest breaks throughout today’s hike. Our initial goal for day 2 is to reach Windy Pass Hill by noon and then determine whether we would head east on trail 109 for another five miles to Reavis Falls, or head west on trail 109 to Reavis Ranch. Knowing that the trail to Reavis Falls, a wonderful 140 foot waterfall deep in the Superstitions, would prove to be

very difficult after our 1,200 foot climb with weighted backpacks, we opted to head to Reavis Ranch, where we would set up camp for the next two nights.

This Ranch is an old homestead of recluse Elisha Reavis. In the 1870s, he built a farm and planted an apple orchard along the creek that runs through the valley. His livelihood was selling vegetables and fruit to nearby towns and mining camps.

Although much of the land along Reavis Creek is full of dense brush, there are still some good camping spots in the meadows of the Ranch. Slabs of crumbling concrete and rusty scraps of metal lie scattered between the giant sycamore trees dotting the creek banks. Scattered apple trees still stand in the area, providing late fall hikers a tasty treat from Reavis’ long-abandoned orchard.

4:00 PM Arrival into Reavis Ranch, where two tired brothers set up camp along the bank of Reavis creek, another great year-round source of water. Anticipating another cool evening, a campfire is lit and the coffee pot is turned on prior to enjoying a pot of hot potato soup and Australian damper.

While I am at the creek filling water bottles, I hear the sharp shrill of a whistle that is repeatedly sounding off. Knowing that Gary was behind at camp I hustled back to see what the commotion was all about. Apparently he had heard a sound CONTINUE TO NEXT PAGE >

November / December 2014

azoutdoormagazine.com | AZ OUTDOOR MAGAZINE | 9

ADVENTURE from across the creek that sounded like a large animal. After a few minutes of whistle blowing, I convinced him to stop so we could determine the source of the noise.

Sure enough, he was correct. It was a large animal—in fact, two animals. Black bears are occasionally spotted in the Superstitions and all campers must be aware to bear-proof their sites. These bears proved to be no problem for us, and although my brother had his whistle in one hand and the bear spray in the other. All turned out okay, as the bears wanted no part of us and retreated back into the bush after their fill of water.

DAY 3 Another cold morning, frost on the tent, and again, I lost the coin toss earning the right to start the fire and prepare the coffee.

After 2 days on the trail and over 17 miles of backpacking, it was determined that we deserved a morning to relax before heading out for a day hike to the Circlestone ruins.

Although today’s 4.5 mile round-trip hike has over 1,400 feet of elevation gain, it would be enjoyable as we would leave our heavy packs behind at camp and walk with much lighter day packs.

The Superstitions are filled with a variety of pre-historic Native American dwellings and ruins. These primitive structures are a testament to those who occupied these mountains several centuries ago. None are more compelling than Circlestone, a sun

TRAILHEAD DIRECTIONS: East on Highway 60 from Phoenix to Florence Junction, exit two miles past junction on Queen Valley Road. Go north on Queen Valley Road, 1.5 miles to Forest Road 357 also called Hewitt Station Road. Take 357 until you come to a left turnoff onto Forest Road 172 also called Hewitt Canyon Road. Stay on 172 all the way to its end—about 9 miles. Allow up to 1 hour driving time from the exit of Hwy 60. 4WD is highly recommended.

station that was built by the Sinagua people around 1,000 years ago. Circlestone at 5,800 feet, is located in the highest point in the Superstition Mountains, only adjacent Mund Mountain is higher at 6,266 feet.

The stones of this ruin are arranged, in a large circle with two piles of stone radiating out from the center of the circle, like spokes. In the center of the circle is a square structure of stacked stones. Throughout the years this structure has collapsed, however you can get the sense of how the Sinagua used this structure to mark the seasonal solstices and equinoxes.

4:00 PM Arriving back into camp, a decision was made to move the tent from the low-lying meadow along the creek. Gary assumed the bears wouldn’t reach us a few hundred

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yards away in the higher meadow, and we were hopeful that higher ground, away from the creek, would allow us a warmer evening temperature. He proved to be correct, as the only sounds we heard this evening were the wind blowing through the sycamore and cottonwoods with the occasional hoot from a friendly owl.

DAY 4 Final morning, as we enjoy our coffee and eggs we break camp and pack our backpacks for the 7.5 mile hike out of Reavis Ranch.

During this 23-mile adventure we enjoyed the Superstitions ruggedness, scenery and solitude. This is an amazing region that one should not take lightly, as the terrain is difficult and the water sources are sparse.

However, with proper planning, you can enjoy a safe and memorable adventure.

November / December 2014

SPORT

THE BASICS: The rules are much like golf. There’s a course consisting of holes, and you must navigate each hole to land your disc into a specially designed basket.

Like golf, you’ll often have to contend with hazards such as trees and variable terrain. And of course, we’re smack in the desert, so you may have to watch for critters along the way.

Instead of clubs, you actually have different types of discs, including a driver and a putter, which are different from the Frisbee we all know.

As with most sports, the challenge is in learning the right form. Stance and throwing accuracy are everything in this game. “That was definitely the hardest thing about learning the game,” says Howland. “Figuring out the different discs, how to stand and throw each of them so they went where I wanted them to. But once you get the hang of it, it’s a blast.”

FORGET THE CLUBS: Disc Golf Is the Way to Play

BY SARA ARNOLD

“This is why we live here.”

It’s fall in Arizona, and our second favorite refrain about the weather (the first, of course, being, “It’s a dry heat”) is popping up in every conversation. It’s time for us to sport our smug superiority as winter snows loom around the corner for the rest of the country. With the weather we’ve waited several long, hot months for comes a rush to enjoy the outdoor recreation we’ve put off since spring. Unfortunately, everyone else has the same idea.

Those of you eager to break out your best plaid shorts, grab your clubs and head for the nearest golf course may find yourselves fighting for tee times and shelling out double greens fees as you vie with snow birds for limited space. Allow me to present an alternative to the stuffy clubhouse crowd: disc golf.

You like the outdoors. You enjoy the game of avoiding hazards in an effort to plop an object near or in a target. You revel in good shots, curse those that go awry.

You agonize over whether to lay up or go for it. You get all that with disc golf— but it’s much more fun.

“That’s actually why I like playing—it’s a lot less frustrating than real golf!” laughs local graphic designer and disc golf enthusiast, Chris “Hoss” Howland. Hoss was introduced to the sport two years ago by a friend who moved to Phoenix from California, where disc golf has been popular for years. No surprise there, as the pioneers of disc golf all hail from the state.

Disc golf wasn’t necessarily born there, but you might say it grew up in the parks of California in the 1960s into the sport it is today.

Disc golf is a legitimate sport, with national events put on by the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) and international tournaments held around the world. Just think—in time, you could be the Rory McIlroy of disc golf.

TALK THE TALK Don’t know your RHBH from your LHFH? Bone up on disc golf terminology at innovadiscs.com/home/disc-golf-faq/glossary-of-terms.html

November / December 2014

Most courses use the standard basket as your “hole”—to score, you must land your disc in the chains or bottom cylinder. However, you may find a course that uses old-school tonal poles as targets. The object, of course is to land your disc in the basket (or hit the pole) in the fewest number of throws.

WHERE TO PLAY: Arizona features nearly 50 courses, from Sierra Vista to Flagstaff, Bullhead City to Show Low. Thanks to the state’s varying topography, you could play among tall pine trees or around desert scrub, even hike up and down a mountain to get from hole to hole. Every course is unique, with it’s own set of obstacles and challenges to keep play interesting.

And many offer leagues you can join.

A quick word to the wise: some urban courses run near neighborhoods, so as Howland warned, you have to really watch your throws. “In the summer, we play pretty early in the morning,” he explains. “Someone in our group accidentally hit a house and woke the poor owner up at 6 AM on a Saturday.” So beginners, maybe you find a nice out-of-the-way course to play until you get your skills up.

To find a listing of Arizona courses,

including course information, visit discgolfunited.com/disc-golf-courses.

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PHOTO CONTEST

Arizona is a photographer’s dream. From the iconic sunsets of the Sonoran Desert, to the pine & aspen forests of the high country, it seems like everywhere you turn there is something new and beautiful to photograph. To celebrate the launch of AZ Outdoor Magazine, during the month of September we held a photo contest. This was an opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to capture a piece of Arizona’s beauty for a chance to be featured in our debut issue!

Thank you to all who participated. Here are the top 5 winners. Enjoy!

Erica Hanks | Window Rock

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November / December 2014

Tyler Sichelski | Picketpost Mountain

November / December 2014

azoutdoormagazine.com | AZ OUTDOOR MAGAZINE | 13

PHOTO CONTEST

Fred Mariscal | Black River

Karen Martin | Hassayampa River Preserve

Jean Peppard | Mt. Baldy Wilderness

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November / December 2014

CYCLING

10 1

Helmet

2

Water

3

A Spare Tube

4

Patch Kit

5

Tire Levers

Bicycling Must Haves Make sure to bring these important items on your next bike ride.

BY TAMIE HAYWORTH

I won’t debate whether or not you should wear a helmet. Some cities have laws requiring you to wear one so check with your local authorities.

Water is more than an excuse to stop and take a break. As you lose water from your body via sweat, you’ll need to replace that fluid with new water to stay healthy and prevent the effects of dehydration.

If you’re going to be out riding, the most common problem you will have is a flat. So bring another tube specific to your bike.

6

It doesn’t matter if you carry a patch kit or spare tube. If your tire goes flat, you will need a way to inflate it. This is where choice comes into play. The pump is usually clamped to your frame, and will put enough air in your tire to get you back on the trail or road. Some riders prefer to carry CO2 cartridges- batterysized cylinders that deliver a burst of pressurized gas in a fraction of the time.

They require practice to use. Make sure to store them properly, because you can puncture the value and release the gas without knowing.

In addition to a spare tube, you’ll want to carry a patch kit as well.

Why you ask? You may get a second flat and need to patch the new tube you just changed. Plus, in the bike world we always stop to help other cyclists.

If you’re going to fix a flat, you’ll need tire levers. These small tools slide under your tire and help pull it off your rim allowing you to remove the tube to patch or replace with the spare. They fit easily in a jersey pocket or seat bag.

November / December 2014

Pump or CO2 inflators

7

Multi-Tool

For any number of potential fixes and adjustments you might face on the trail or road, a multi-tool will become your best friend. This tool typically comes equipped with a dozen or more individual tools including Allen wrenches, hex bolt wrenches, screwdrivers, a chain tool and more. They’re tucked away into one tool like a Swiss army knife for your bike.

8

Cell Phone

9

Identification

10

You’ll need a phone for calling home in case you need to be picked up due to repairs, or checking in with other riders in your group. There’s no reason not to carry a cell phone if you have one.

Your I.D. is a “just in case” item that you bring and hopefully never need to use.

On the back of your I.D. write a list of emergency contacts as well as, special medical instructions or allergies. Another option is to invest in a road I.D. bracelet from www.RoadID.com. The RoadID is available in bracelet or ankle form. You can have your emergency contacts and special medical instructions engraved for first responders to see.

Money

Take a few dollars for sports drinks, water and snacks along the way. And, in case you actually split your tire, you can fold the dollar along the split inside your tire to keep your tube bulging out until you get it repaired.

azoutdoormagazine.com | AZ OUTDOOR MAGAZINE | 15

EATS

Amazeballs Mix all of the ingredients together thoroughly. Use your hands to roll into eleven 2 inch balls and line onto cookie sheet. Put the extra coconut shreds into a bowl and roll the balls around to cover them. This will make them easier to handle since the mixture tends to be fairly gooey. Put the balls in a single layer into a tupperware and freeze. You can eat them as a frozen treat or take them wrapped in plastic wrap to eat on the trail.

2 cups oatmeal 2 ripe mashed bananas 1/2 cup peanut butter 1/3 cup coconut shreds 3 tablespoons honey 2 tablespoons cocoa 1/3 coconut shreds (for rolling in)

*

Makes an average of 16 balls.

Trail Forked aims to help all of us nature junkies sick of crunchy noodles and sickening protein bars.

Join me for the adventure online at trailforked.com

16 | AZ OUTDOOR MAGAZINE | azoutdoormagazine.com

November / December 2014

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azoutdoormagazine.com | AZ OUTDOOR MAGAZINE | 17

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November / December 2014

THE

OTHER SIDE OF THE

MOUNTAIN HOW IRAQ WAR VETERAN JACK TONGEN IS TURNING HIS LOVE OF THE ARIZONA WILDERNESS INTO A PROJECT TO HELP SAVE THE LIVES OF THOSE AFFECTED BY PTSD.

BY BRANDON MARSALA

A

rizona-native and returning Iraq War veteran Jack Tongen is on a mission. A mission to help other returning vets afflicted by post-traumatic stress disorder.

“Right now, you’ve got 22 veterans a day that commit suicide. That is not okay,” Jack Tongen states in his matter-of-fact way. “Honestly, my whole thing is that I just want to help veterans. My goal is to see that 22 a day number drop.”

To achieve this goal, Jack is turning to the one thing that helped him cope in his transition from war-torn Iraq to the life of an American civilian: getting back to nature.

“Backpacking absolutely saved my life. I have extreme combat stress. If I could not get out in the woods, I would’ve just been another statistic—either dead or in prison.”

November / December 2014

|

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KENDRA ENRIQUEZ

Jack is in the early stages of forming Wandering with Warriors, a meet up group dedicated to organizing outdoor activities, like backpacking the Arizona wilderness, for veterans coping with PTSD. The project acts as both a support group and a way for former soldiers to escape the rigor of trying to acclimate to civilian life.

“Sometimes you just feel like you’re getting grinded on and you’ve got to get out in the woods. Just the sound of water and wind through trees. That’s it. Nobody expecting you to do something or be something more than you can. You go backpacking with a bunch of guys for a couple days and you come back with a bond that you just can’t replicate.”

AZ Outdoor Magazine sat down with Jack to talk about his experience fighting for his country, his struggle to overcome PTSD and how the woods of his childhood in northern Arizona became his saving grace. azoutdoormagazine.com | AZ OUTDOOR MAGAZINE | 19

You signed up for the Army at just 17.

What was your driving force?

Jack: I always kind of had the draw to be a soldier. I’ve always been super patriotic, and I was a senior in high school when 9/11 happened, and that was that. It didn’t take me long to decide. We were taking a test when a teacher interrupted and said, “We’ve been hit. America’s been hit by terrorist attacks.” I just couldn’t believe it. I’m like, “What? That doesn’t happen here.” So I walked out and called the recruiter.

Two weeks after I graduated high school, I left for basic training in Fort Knox, Kentucky. “Fort Hard Knox” they call it. I was a Cavalry Scout to start, light reconnaissance. We were a small team whose job it was to tell the major forces of the military what’s over the next hill. When you see the old movies and there’s the scouts and the cavalry that ride on up ahead of everyone, that’s what I did, but in a little bit better technology.

Then immediately following my 17 weeks of basic training, I started Airborne School October 4th. I graduated Airborne School, and then was stationed in Fort Polk, Louisiana.

“Sportsman’s Paradise” is what all the plates in Louisiana say. Shenanigans.

But don’t tell them that, because I don’t want them to come crowd my fishing hole.

The second week is Tower Week, and that week you learn how to properly exit the aircraft, because that’s super dangerous. If one person screws up, it’s sucking them, you, and everybody in front of you out of that plane.

Then the third week it’s Jump Week, and that’s the week you get to go out of the bird for the first time. That’s an intense feeling. It doesn’t get old.

When you’re cliff diving, you jump off and it’s like, man, I was scared a little bit.

But then the third, fourth time you do it, it’s nothing, you know?

But there’s just something unnatural about jumping out of a plane at 800 feet. I loved it. I mean yeah, I was scared, but there’s something so cool about it. It’s like everyone’s scared there, and you’re all scared together, but nobody’s going to quit.

“BEING IN THE MILITARY, ALL I COULD EVER THINK OF WAS MY HEART WAS IN ARIZONA. NO MATTER WHERE I WAS, I JUST COULDN’T WAIT TO COME BACK.”

What was Airborne School like?

Jack: That was a trip. The whole first week is called Ground Week, and you’re just learning how to fall. That’s it. You’re just beating yourself up. You’re jumping off stuff and it’s called parachute landing fall—you’ve got to land on the balls of your feet, calf, thigh, buttocks, pull-up muscle and you’ve got to roll. The whole first week is them teaching you to do that with various torture devices.

So from Airborne, I went to Fort Polk and took part in the JRTC, Joint Readiness Training Center. It is all war games. You come out and you shoot your real weapon, but with blank rounds. Our job was to give the Army the toughest fight of their life, so when they got into a real firefight they are like, “Holy crap, these guys suck!”

The 82nd Airborne, 1st Cav., Rangers, Special Forces.

They all came. They all got their ass whooped, too, because we were really good. Geronimo, 1st 509th Airborne infantry. That’s my unit. I love them boys.

Then in 2004, I went and did my tour of Iraq.

As I understand it, you volunteered to go over to Iraq at the height of the fighting?

Jack: They were trying to bulk up the infantry companies, because they were both going to war, and so I volunteered. I got put into Alpha Company and switched to an infantryman.

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We flew in to Kuwait City; it was the middle of the night. I remember distinctly landing on the tarmac. You actually fly over there in a civilian airplane, with your guns and gear. You even have flight attendants and everything. Of course, no one else is going to Kuwait, so you are the only ones on the bird, just your unit. She was bringing out food while you have your M4 under the seat, no big deal.

We landed at about 1:30 in the morning. It was so hot. I distinctly remember watching the temperature. It went up over 120 degrees, at like two in the morning on the tarmac. I am thinking, “Uh, this is not going to be good.”

November / December 2014

“BACKPACKING SAVED MY LIFE.”

We trained for a month before rolling out to Baghdad. And it took 3 days to drive. Fortyfive miles an hour, no radio, hot as hell.

Everyone had to pay attention.

It was just exhausting.

We finally get to Baghdad and get our sector, which is Abu Ghraib Village, right outside the prison. The “Abu Ghraib Scandal” went down when I was guarding that village.

We bounced around. We did Abu Ghraib, Sadr City, Baghdad. Sadr City was a nightmare.

We spent nearly every day outside of the wire. Sometimes we didn’t even come back

November / December 2014

inside the wire. I survived an RPG and two IEDs. I was attacked by mortar fire, shot at by snipers, and saw quite a bit of direct fire.

Early on, we got mortar attacked when we were out in a little hut with a tin roof. No wood on the roof. I remember that, you could see the metal.

We were sitting there and someone was just complaining about how we hadn’t gotten any contacts in a while. We were bored. I was leaning back on an MRE box. None of us had our helmets on. I didn’t even have my shirt on. Then, BOOM! A big mortar round explosion about 75 meters from the building we are in. We reacted like we were in a silent movie from the 20s, where they are moving

real fast—we were just throwing our gear on.

The next one hit on the opposite side of the building, but was much, much closer.

Probably 15-20 meters from the building.

The third one...my buddy was leaning out the window; it hit right by the window he was in.

I was horrified. Remember, we are in the building with just a tin roof. If one round comes in there, that’s it for everyone.

No reset button.

We were on the radio trying to get air support when they just stopped. We never found them. I don’t know, maybe they ran

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out of rounds. I will never know.

How do you deal with the stress of your life, and the lives of your friends, being in constant danger?

Jack: You think, “I can’t wait to go home.” But the thing is you never really come home in a way. That heightened paranoia that you have, you can’t just turn it off. I still have it.

“AT NIGHT IN IRAQ, I WOULD LISTEN TO JAZZ OR THE BLUES AND TRY TO CALM DOWN AND JUST THINK ABOUT ARAVAIPA CANYON AND CLEAR CREEK, AND THAT COOL WATER.”

You look at things different. You constantly keep an eye on rooftops. You see trash on the side of the road...if someone doesn’t swerve around trash and you get close to it, it still sends shivers down my spine, still, because that’s where they hide bombs.

I have PTSD, or shell shock or whatever. Even a year ago, I would not want my name with that stuff written about it. It’s tough because people have preconceived notions. It’s not that I saw things that I was too weak to handle. But I saw death on a massive scale before I was old enough to drink and that gave me a little bit of weird stuff to deal with for the rest of my life. I mean, you send a kid off to war, and he comes home as a damaged man. There was a time when a kid’s body parts were blown on me from an explosion.

How do you erase that from your mind? You can’t. It’s not easy to deal with.

I have mixed feelings about war and whether

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or not we should have been there in the first place, definitely whether it was worth the lives. But the democratic elections in Iraq were really cool, at least that is a good step. I felt like we were making progress.

Even sometimes when I am just having a bad day, I think about this time we were driving through this neighborhood, and this little girl, she was wearing a school uniform, and she had her little brother in her hands.

She ran out because she heard the Humvees coming. She runs out and stands in her door with just the biggest, most beautiful smile you have ever seen. She is waving and she cannot wait to wave to the Americans.

Before we got there, girls did not get to go to school. That chokes me up sometimes. That is a big deal. We made a difference there for nothing else than maybe women will have a better opportunity. It is still probably one of

November / December 2014

my proudest moments in my entire life. I will never forget that little girl. She was so happy to go to school.

You were stationed in Iraq for just shy of one year. What was it like coming home?

Jack: Being in the military, all I could ever think of was my heart was in Arizona. No matter where I was, I just couldn’t wait to come back.

When I got home, first thing I did was tell my dad we were going down to Aravaipa Canyon. So that is what we did, just me and him. We stayed for three or four days. I had an archery tag and I brought my bow, but we were just hanging out.

Clear Creek and that place are my favorite places in the whole world. My happy place, when I was feeling the stress, I would go to West Clear Creek. That’s my actual happy place; I have physical and mental happy places that are the same.

“I JUST WANT TO CREATE LINES OF COMMUNICATION FOR OTHER VETERANS SO THEY HAVE SOMEONE TO TALK TO OR A PLACE TO GO INSTEAD OF FEELING LIKE YOU’RE UP AGAINST A WALL ALL THE TIME.“

At night in Iraq, I would listen to jazz or the blues and try to calm down and just think about Aravaipa Canyon and Clear Creek, and that cool water. I would fantasize about that water so much, it’s so cold and clear.

There is nothing clean like that in Iraq.

After Iraq, I found out that I may not ever be able to relax like I did. The closest I can ever be is when I am in the woods. That’s the one spot I feel like I am safe. I never feel safe in the city, ever, ever. I always look at how many different places someone could snipe from.

It’s just weird; in town everything is so fast, why is everybody in such a rush? You’re rushing yourself right past all the good stuff in life. Slow down, go backpacking or something! Go catch a fish and re-think your priorities.

Tell me about how your love of the outdoors turned into the idea for the Wandering with Warriors project.

Jack: When I get in the woods, I think

November / December 2014

clearer, I breathe better, I’m sure my blood pressure goes way down.

It’s the only time I really can just be myself and do what I want to do.

The idea for the Wandering with Warriors project came while I was on a backpacking trip with my buddy Brian in Clear Creek. I had just heard one of my buddies had killed himself, and it tore me up.

I’m still torn up about it. He had so many people that he really could have talked to, but people take too much pride. There’s too much pride. You don’t want to say, “I need help,” because it makes you feel weak.

Anyway, we were backpacking together, Brian’s taking pictures and I’m fishing, and I was thinking how great it would be to do something for veterans. I thought, “What is better than this?” I know how to be in the woods, and be comfortable in the woods.

And I have a really strong passion for it.

What could be better than that?

That’s why I came up with Wandering with Warriors. If nothing else, I just want to create lines of communication for other veterans so they have someone to talk to or a place to go instead of feeling like you’re up against a wall all the time.

Something about looking over a campfire, it changes the way you see a person forever.

It’s kind of weird. There’s no better spot to bond any sort of relationship. There’s nothing to distract you, and there’s no triggers. Urban environments are where all the fighting is done over there. If you’re in

the woods there’s no triggers there, you’re not looking at treetops to look for a sniper. I really feel like it’ll help some people.

I have been helped by a couple of people.

Now I feel like I’m in a position where I have the capacity to help others. And I see the need for it. There’s a lacking of things for veterans. You hear about all these programs all the time but I’ve never seen one of them.

It takes six months just get an appointment at the VA and you need help NOW. My goal is to see that 22 a day number drop. To tell veterans that they are worth something still—you’re not used up, it’s not over.

Like it says in the Bible, “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” I created Wandering with Warriors to help these guys know they are not alone. That there are people out there who understand and are willing to help.

What is Wandering with Warriors?

Meet up/support group dedicated to helping veterans cope with PTSD through organizing backpacking trips and other outdoor activities in Arizona.

Want to help?

Donate old gear: tents, backpacks, headlamps and more.

Want to join?

All veterans are welcome to join any planned activities.

For more information visit: www.wanderingwithwarriors.com wanderingwithwarriors@gmail.com

azoutdoormagazine.com | AZ OUTDOOR MAGAZINE | 23

HIGH COUNTRY

The Call of the

Draw

Whether Wh eth et ther he yo you’re u’re ’ n new ew tto o bo boul bouldering ulderi ring i or a seasoned pro, Priest Draw offers up world-class world cla climbing for everyone.

BY SOFIA DEVA

PRIEST DRAW FLAGSTAFF, AZ ELEVATION: 7,000 ft.

LOCATION: 35.08350, -11.59602 While a passerby might only see caves scattered around a grassy field, to a climber, Priest Draw is core intensive bouldering heaven.

Limestone bluffs with names like Anorexic, Floor Pie, Puzzle Box and Carnivore draw climbers from all over the country.

The Draw, as the locals call it, is about 4 miles south of Flagstaff.

Getting there you pass the well-know lead climbing destination “The Pit” and travel down a small dirt road for about 3.5 miles before turning right to follow the sign for Priest Draw. Speaking from experience, make sure to drive a vehicle that can withstand a little offroading, as Priest Draw can also be known for some serious potholes.

There isn’t any major hiking to be done, so just wear basic trail shoes to hike in and out. While a day trip is a great option for those who live in Flagstaff, the Draw is also home to stellar campsites. From personal experience, a few hours simply isn’t enough time to explore everything Priest Draw has to offer.

To ensure a fun and safe bouldering experience, crash pads, thick foam pads designed to help cushion your fall, are on the top of the bring list.

Every route is different, so while some will only need a couple of pads, others require upward of six. (Beta Bouldering, a local Flag rock climbing gym, rents crash pads if needed.) You can climb in any type of climbing shoe, but aggressive downturn climbing shoes are perfect for the tricky overhangs.

If you don’t have an experienced Priest Draw pal, seek one out. Climbers are typically friendly and love showing off the crag to newbies. I always make sure to be in the company of a climber who really knows their way around Priest Draw (like my friend Cody Abernathy, winner of the first Priest Draw climbing competition).

Prime climbing season is from March to October, peaking in August, but the season stretches into the winter months of December and January.

If you’re a new climber hesitant about climbing outside, look no further, just pick up a guidebook and go climb.

Anyone, at any level can climb outside.

It tests you mentally and physically— plus it’s a blast!

PHOTO BY TYLER MEESTER

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November / December 2014

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Ditch the chest strap and get accurate heart rate on your wrist. Continuous heart rate monitoring, tested accurate at performance speeds, customizable with 3 usersettable heart rate zones, Bluetooth Smart®, and water resistant up to 30m depths.

Lifestyle action camera— weatherproof, shockproof, mountable and built to handle everything you can imagine. Packed with fun including 1080p HD video, 124° wide angle lens, and built in battery that records up to 90 minutes.

An outdoor solution to keeping your smartphone safe. The Gauntlet Colletction offers rugged protection with molded, secure-grip texture, while the Atmos collection boasts an ultra-thin design with up to 2-meter drop protection.

Yonder is a community of explorers and wanderers, of climbers and bikers, of skiers and hikers, sharing their love for the outdoors every day.

myFC PowerTrekk is a hybrid fuel cell charger that generates electricity from water and salt – to make sure you’ll have instant power anywhere, anytime.

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• Climbing Classes • After School Classes • Birthday Parties • AZR Ascenders- Youth Climbing Team • Boy & Girl Scout Badges • No Experience or Reservations Necessary • Camps • 31’ Climbing Walls • Private Events • All gear available • Corporate Programs • Air Conditioned • Team Building • Fitness Equipment

CHECK OUT OUR STATE OF THE ART YOGA STUDIO

480.502.9777 contact2@azontherocks.com 16447 N. 91st Street, Suite 105 Scottsdale, AZ 85260

November / December 2014

azoutdoormagazine.com | AZ OUTDOOR MAGAZINE | 25

WEEKDAY WORKOUT

HIP HEALTH Our bodies are a marvel of interconnectivity—muscles, tendons, joints and bones all working together to move us. And if you experience discomfort in one area, say, your knees, you may be surprised at the true cause of the issue.

1

Standing Hip Rotation Raise one knee in the air, keeping the thigh level.

Rotate the raised leg to the outside, opening the hip.

To that end, most people who engage in fitness or outdoor activities know the importance of core strength.

But did you know your hips are just as important? “Hip health affects everything we do,” explains Felicia Romero, a local personal trainer and fitness model. “If your hips are off or imbalanced, it can affect the way you walk, which in turn can lead to issues with your knees and joints.”

Think about it: your hips are pretty much at the nexus of your body. The muscles around your hips, called hip flexors, affect your range of motion.

When your hip flexors lack strength and conditioning, it can throw off all of your movements—from walking and running to simply going up a flight of stairs.

That’s why Felicia stresses hip health with her clients. “If hips aren’t properly conditioned, it can easily lead to injury while doing things like hiking or biking,” she cautions.

To help your hips stay in top condition, we got Felicia to share some of her favorite hip health exercises. Give them a try and see how much better your body feels.

B A

2

Hip Flexor Stretch Kneel with one leg up, ensuring the forward leg’s ankle is beneath the knee, and the back leg’s knee is beneath the hip.

Stretch the hip of the rear leg by pushing hips forward.

Learn more about Felicia Romero on her Facebook page: facebook.com/ FeliciaRomeroOnline or follow her on Twitter and Instagram at @FeliciaRomero

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November / December 2014

3

Felicia’s Tip

Lunge with a Twist Drop into a lunge position, ensuring the knee is behind the toe on the front leg.

Twist your torso towards the front thigh and hold for a moment before switching legs.

Form is key with these exercises, but it can be hard to hold your balance.

It’s ok to hold onto something!

B

A

4

Plié Squat Stand with your feet slightly wider than shoulder width, with your toes pointed outwards. Lower yourself into a sitting position, keeping your hips pushed forward.

5

A

B

Kick Outs Using a stretch band, loop the band around both your ankles. Kick one leg out to the side, using the band’s resistance to provide the hip stretch.

B

A

November / December 2014

EXERCISE

TIME/REPS

SETS

1 Standing Hip Rotation

1 min each leg

1 set

2 Hip Flexor Stretch

30 sec-1 min each side

1 set

3 Lunge with a Twist

10 per leg

1 set

4 Plié Squat

20 reps

1 set

5 Kick Outs

10 per leg

1 set

azoutdoormagazine.com | AZ OUTDOOR MAGAZINE | 27

ON THE TRAIL

HAPPY TRAILS TO YOU Phoenix is lucky to have a mountain of recreation options right in our city. Here’s why we love to walk, ride and see the sights of South Mountain Park.

BY SARA ARNOLD

The sun has yet to peek over the horizon, but the south side of South Mountain is already teeming with people— and a few canine friends— ready to take on Telegraph Pass.

On the east side of the park, dusty vehicles toting mountain bikes are winding their way through an Ahwatukee neighborhood, eager to snag one of the limited parking spots near the trailhead for the popular bike trails that crisscross the mountain face.

South of Baseline Road, cars make their way slowly up the main road through the park, heading for the incredible north-

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facing view at Dobbin’s Lookout or one of the several trailheads on the mountain itself.

HOOF IT, FOOT IT, PEDAL IT Whichever way you come, and whatever your outdoor pleasure, South Mountain Park never disappoints.

Covering 16,000 acres, South Mountain is the largest municipal park in the country and a favorite recreation spot for Phoenicians thanks to its accessibility and something-for-everyone variety of outdoor experiences.

As an urban park, South Mountain is hard to beat. The south Phoenix location

November / December 2014

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Mormon Loop Trail Mormon Trail

RH BON GH O EI Y N AN C

Got a day to kill? Take on the National, which traverses the entire ridgeline of South Mountain and offers spectacular vistas along the way. The terrain and elevation change varies along the way; the challenge is mostly in the length.

The trail is 14.5 one way, so prepare accordingly.

Beverly Canyon Trail VE R

NATIONAL TRAIL Length: 14.5 miles Trailhead: Primary trailhead is near 48th St. & Guadalupe Rd.

T

Download the trail map!

MORMON TRAIL/MORMON LOOP Length: up to 6 miles roundtrip Trailhead: 48th St. & Valley View Ave. The Mormon Trail is a 1.2-mile hike through rocky terrain, with some switchbacks to keep things interesting. At the end of the trail, you’ll reach a junction where you can either go left to do the Mormon Loop Trail, or right to head towards Hidden Valley. We recommend the right path, which takes you by the popular Natural Tunnel and Fat Man’s Pass

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EASY BEVERLY CANYON TRAIL Length: 1.5 miles Trailhead: 46th St. south of Baseline Rd.

TELEGRAPH PASS LOOKOUT

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CHALLENGING HOLBERT TRAIL Length: 2.5 miles Trailhead: Inside the park, east end of the Activity Complex

Though you’ll encounter a few short rocky or steep areas, Beverly Canyon is a pretty easy trail that runs from east to west, on the south side of the mountain. To extend the hike, hop onto the Desert Classic Trail when the two meet—another gentle trail that continues across the south face.

With an elevation change of about 1,100 feet, the Holbert Trail is a steep trek up the north side of the mountain. For some awesome scenic views, take the extension trail over to Dobbins Lookout.

is easy to get to from just about anywhere, thanks in part to the numerous parking areas and trailheads accessible on the north, east and south sides of the park.

Hike or bike? Try 51 miles of trails.

Prefer scenic views? The drive up is spectacular, and several lookout points offer sweeping view of the Valley. Want to play cowboy? Book a trail ride or bring your own nickering mount.

Even the more challenging trails in South Mountain are doable for the reasonably fit hiker, which makes it ideal for those trying to work their way up to the more difficult spots like Camelback

November / December 2014

Mountain and Piestewa Peak.

along the south face for about nine miles.

BRING THE KIDS (AND THE DOG) With an abundance of gentle trails, South Mountain is a great outdoor destination for even the littlest legs—human or canine.

Another bonus for families? The park features a number of restrooms and picnic areas with covered ramadas, so you can pause to rest, rehydrate and refuel.

Telegraph Pass is an especially popular spot for families and dog lovers. Situated on the south side, nestled in an Ahwatukee neighborhood, Telegraph begins as a wide, flat path that continues for about 1.2 miles, before culminating in a final (optional) 0.3-mile climb up a rocky trail. From Telegraph, you can also dogleg to the easy Desert Classic Trail, which goes east-west

Visit the Park The main entrance to the park is on Central Avenue just south of Baseline Road. Public areas open at 5 AM. For more information, go to www.phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/south-mountain.

azoutdoormagazine.com | AZ OUTDOOR MAGAZINE | 29

EVENTS/GROUPS

RUNNING

EVENTS November 1 Salute our Troops Run Estrella Lakeside, Goodyear 10K run, 5K run/walk, and family fun run.

10K 8:30AM start, 5K Run/Walk 8:45AM, Family Fun Run 9:45AM, Military ceremony and awards 10AM. saluteourtroopsrun.com November 1 Phoenix Walk MS on the Wild Side Phoenix Zoo and Papago Park Event starts/finishes at 1600 N. Priest Dr. Tempe 8AM start. 3/5 miles.

Lisa Cleary - 480.455.3954 lisa.cleary@nmss.org November 1 FunkFit Fall 5K Freestone Park, Gilbert : 5K run Great for beginners and challenging enough for intermediate.

480.855.0204 christina@funkfit.com November 1-2 Javelina Jundred McDowell Moutain Regional Park. 6AM start. Costumed 100 mile/100km trail run.

602.364.7440 aravaiparunning.com/network/ javelinajundred/

November 2 Step-N-Out 5k Run/Walk/Dash Scottsdale Sports Complex 9AM start Andrea Kobielski - 602.343.8572 tgenfoundation.org/step November 2 3tv Phoenix 10K And Half Marathon CityScape, Downtown Phoenix 13.1/10K/5K/1 Mile, and 5K team challenge. Phoenix10k.com

November 2 TRI-2-UNIFY Valley of the Sun Jewish Community Center. 7-11AM Benefits Special Olympic athetes.

2014Tri2Unify.kintera.org

November 8 Pecan Classic 15/5K and the Nut Run Green Valley Pecan Company 1625 E Sahuarita Road, Sahuarita 8AM start Steve Taggart - 520.820.6447 taggrun.com November 8 Wounded Warrior Project 8K Westgate, Glendale 8AM start www.woundedwarriorproject.org/ wwp-8k-runs November 8 10th Annual Veteran’s Day 5K Run and 2K Fun Walk OYCC Tennis Courts Sierra Vista 8AM start Jack King - 520.439.2302 sierravistaaz.gov

November 9 Everyone Runs TMC, Fleet Feet Veteran’s Day ½ Marathon, 5K and TMC for Children Fun Run Sabino High School, Tucson 7:15AM start Steve Landau - 520.797.7867 everyoneruns.net November 9 Xterra Trail Run Series San Tan Regional Park 7:30AM start A challenging 1/2 marathon course throughout park 602.363.7725 aztrailrace.com

November 14 Gilbert Days 5K and 1 Mile Run Freestone Park, Gibert Family Expo with largest participation of youth runners in Valley. Mascot Run 4:30PM, 1 Mile Run 4:45PM, 5K 5:00PM start.

480.503.6235 active.com

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November 15 Pass Mountain Trail Runs Usery Mountain Regional Park, Mesa 50Km 8AM, 25 Km 8AM 5KM 8:45AM, 10Km 9AM start Jamil Coury - 602.361.7440 aravaiparunning.com/passmountain/ November 15 Mile Fore Kids Whirlwind Golf Course, Chandler 7:30AM start 3.33 Mile Run & 1 Mile Kids Dash Percentage raised benefits Phoenix Children’s Hospital.

480.338.7041 startlineracing.com November 15 AZ Mudathon 5 Mile Run MacDonald Ranch, Scottsdale 26540 N. Scottsdale Rd. 9AM start 5 mile run with multiple mud pits and obstacles.

AZmudathon.com November 15-16 ROC Race Phoenix Salt River Fields at Talking Stick 8AM start 5K game-show inspired obstacle course run. All ages and level of experience. rocrace.com/phoenix November 15 Yuma Turkey Trot Gateway Park, Yuma 8:15AM start 5/10K for avid runners, joggers, and walkers. ci.yuma.az.us/events/ November 15 City of Peoria Veteran’s Day 5K Run/Walk Rio Vista Community Park 8:30AM start 623.773.7137 peoria az.gov/running

November 16 Phoenix Undy 5000 Downtown Phoenix State Capitol District 1600 W. Washington St. 5K 9:00AM, 1 Mile 9:10AM start Daniella Pena - 202.628.0123 undy5000.org

November 16 Mazatzals Trail Run Sunflower - 7:30AM start time 18m trail run. From Phoenix, take Shea through Fountain Hills to the turnoff to Payson, Hwy 87.

Take 87 north just after the 222 milepost. The sign will say Sycamore Creek to the left, Mt. Ord to the right. Turn left. There will be ribbons to follow to the start from there. 602.684.1496

November 22 Shun the Sun Skin Cancer Run Gilbert Civic Center 7:30AM start 10K, half marathon run though the heart of Gilbert. shunthesunfoundation.org November 22 Girls on the Run 5k Kiwanis Park, Tempe 8:30AM start Open to the public, all levels welcome. gotrmc.org/girls-on-the-run-5k

November 27 Anthem Turkey Trot Anthem Community Center 8:30AM start 10k run, 5k run/walk, kids dash.

4peaksracing.com/events/ anthem-turkey-trot-2014 November 27 Life Time Turkey Day 5K Wesley Bolin Plaza, Phoenix 7:30AM start Adult/youth 5/10K. 1 mile Gobbler Dash (12 and under), Tot Trot (6 and under). turkeyday-5k.com November 27 Mesa Turkey Trot Red Red Mountain Park, Mesa 8:15AM start 10K run, 2 Mile Fun Run/Walk, 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk. replaceevents.com November 27 Sedona Turkey Trot 5K Posse Grounds Park, Sedona 9AM start 10:15-10:45AM awards ceremony sedonarunning.com/TURKEY_ TROT_5K adam@sedonarunning.com

November 27 Thanksgiving Day Classic Peoria Sports Complex, Peoria 6:30-11AM. 10 Mile, 5K, 1-Mile Fun Run, and grand prix event starting and finishing at Peoria Sports Complex. hgensler@lblco.com arizonaroadracers.com November 27 Turkey Trot 5K Run and Fitness Walk Fountain Hills Community Center 7:30 AM start fh.az.gov/recreation

November 29 Renegades Run Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Mesa 8:30AM start 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run renegadesrun.com

December 6 Tempe’s Run From the Cops Tempe Town Lake 7:30AM registration, 9:00AM start A 5km single loop course around lake. Family activities. tempe.gov/city-hall/police/runfrom-the-cops-5k December 6 Cave Creek Luminaria Run Cave Creek Regional Park Camp Grounds. 5K Run/Walk, Little Kids Desert Dash, Big Kids Desert Dash. 4:45PM start luminariarun.org December 6 Going the Distance 5K Foothills Recreation Center, Glendale 8AM start startlineracing.com December 6 McDowell Mountain Frenzy Trail Runs McDowell Mountain Regional Park, Fountain Hills 50km/50K/25K/10M/5M. 7AM start aravaiparunning.com/mcdowellmountain-frenzy/ December 6-7 Tucson Marathon, Half Marathon and Relay 7AM start tucsonmarathon.com

November / December 2014

December 7 Hot Chocolate 15K/5K Salt River Fields at Talking Stick 7:30AM start The run with the rich reward of chocolate. hotchocolate15K.com/phoenix

December 13 12 K’s of Christmas Freestone Park, Gilbert 9AM start 12K Run, 6K Run/Walk 1.2K Run/Walk “Run in a sea of Santas” www.12krun.com December 13 Yuma Reindeer Roundup 5/10 K Run and Fun Walk Series for runners, jogger, walkers. ci.yuma.az.us December 13 Vail Jingle Trail 5K and Santa’s Little Helper 1K Cienega High School, Vail 8:45AM start Must bring a new unwrapped toy. taggrun.com December 13 Anthem Holiday Classic Triathalon 400m pool swim, 20K course, and 5K run.

9AM start time Adult and kids welcome.

4peaksracing.com/events/ anthem-holiday-classic-triathalon-2014 623.330.0913 December 13-14 Desert Solstice 24 Hour and 100 Mile Track Invitational Central High School, Phoenix 8AM, 9-AM start times A competitive ultarunning track meet. Event is by invitation or qualification only. aravaiparunning.com/desertsolstice/ December 13 Buckeye Marathon/ Half Marathon/5k Race to the Runway Buckeye Municipal Airport 3000 S. Palo Verde Road 8AM start Boston Qualifier! http://arizonaroadracers.com/ events/buckeye-marathon-halfmarathon-5k-race-to-the-runway

November / December 2014

December 14 27th Annual Runner’s Den/Fiesta Bowl Half Marathon & Food for the Hungry 5K Scottsdale Civic Center Plaza 7:30AM start Courses are flat and fast loops touring scenic Scottsdale and Gainey Ranch, courses are USATF certified. raceplaceevents.com

Arizona Road Racers Phoenix Group promoting health and well-being through running. arizonaroadracers.com

December 14 Winterhaven Run Through the Lights 3201 East Presidio Road, Tucson (right behind Winterhaven Square) in the parking lot of St. Frances Cabrini Church. 5k, 5-6PM. A non-competitive 5k run through holiday lights.

Fee: 2 cans of food. azroadrunners.org/races/detail/ winterhaven

Glendale Flash Glendale facebook.com/GlendaleFlash

December 20 Jingle Bell Run Reach 11 Sports Complex, Phoenix 8:00AM start 5km Run/Walk and Kid’s Dash, benefits the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, family activities.

4peaksracing.com/events/jinglebell-run-2014

December 21 Desert Classic 30K/5K/30K Relay Rio Vista Park, Peoria 8AM start A 30K, 5K a 30K relay on an out-and-back course starting and finishing at Rio Vista Park. arizonaroadracers.com

GROUPS/TEAMS American Diabetes Association Training programs designed for all levels. 602.861.4731 Feel the Heat Track Club Tempe Tuesdays and Thursdays.

A competitive, USATF, fun environment for track & field/long distance athletes at all levels. speedbyrawle.com/default.aspx

East Valley Runners Gilbert For the beginning to experienced runner, walker, triathlete or ultra-runner. eastvalleyrunners.com

Northern Arizona Trail Runners Association Group runs at various trails on Saturday mornings. natra.org Landis Tri-Club landistriclub.com/ Arizona Flames Track Club Chandler A member of the USAF. azflames.com AZ TriClub A triathlon club based in Phoenix with club meetups in and around the East Valley. aztriclub.com Arizona Track N’ Trail Runners SE Valley, Chandler/Gilbert aztntrunners.com First Triathalon Club Phoenix Group for triathalon and other multi-sport enthusiasts. Athletes of all ability levels. firstwavetri.com Marathon Coaching Consultants Phoenix Marathon training for athletes from high school runners, college teams, to Club teams. marathoncoachaz.com Nike+ Run Club at Nike Scottsdale Scottsdale Classes for athletes of any skill level. @NikeScottsdale OEP (Optimizing Endurance Performance)

Goodyear A small group that meets bi-weekly for morning runs. optimizing.wix.com/oep3#

Performance Sports Running/Cycling Club at Class Fitness Scottsdale 7 days a week.

Training classes for all levels and athletes to prepare them for any distance, triathlons, and Ironman. classaz.com Phoenix Bobcats Track and field club for all ages and ability. phoenixbobcats.org Phoenix Team Diabetes Phoenix Team Diabetes Phoenix is the marathon and half marathon training program of the American Diabetes Association and runs every year at PF Chang’s Rock-N-Roll marathon. main.diabetes.org Quest Club of Arizona Phoenix Adult running club located in the Phoenix Camelback Corridor/Biltmore area. azquestclub.com/blog Running Arizona Phoenix Training for individual running goals. runningarizona.com

Tri-Mesa Mesa Arizona Triathlon Club tri-mesa.com Tucson Tri Girls Tucson Meet monthly at TriSports.com Store. Member and non-members tucsontrigirls.org Vail, AZ Moms Run This Town Vail Free club for all (no need to be a mom), and all levels of ability. vailazmomsrunthistown.weebly.com

West Valley Runners Peoria Join fellow runners for short, medium or long workouts. All levels of runners welcome. meetup.com/runners Wildcat Running Club Tucson M-Friday at the Rec, 6PM. Open to the Uof A students, faculty, and locals. sites.google. com/site/uofarunningclub/

CYCLING

RX Running & Racing Tempe Coaching plans, running camps, and member support. rxrunning.com Sedona Roadrunners Sedona Weekly runs (road/trail) for all ages and abilities. sedonaroadrunners.com See Mommy Run Resource site for Arizona Moms to locate or start own running/walking group. seemommyrun.com/az Start 2 Finish Running Club Phoenix For the competitive and non-competitive runner, start2finishrunning.com Thunder Mountain Running Club Sierra Vista

EVENTS November 1 Tour de New River 2014 Scottsdale and Phoenix Pinnacle Peak Patio 630AM start Cycling for advanced and intermediate. tourdenewriver.com November 3 PHX Loops Monday nights at Civic Space Center.

8-10PM State Bicycle and PHX Bike teamed up to bring weekly social ride to Phoenix. 1-3 stops over 10-20 miles. info@statebicycle.com

thundermountainrunningclub.org

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EVENTS/GROUPS November 9 Scottsdale CF Cycle for Life DC Ranch Village, Scottsdale 8AM start CF Cycle for Life is a fully supported ride with route options of 15, 35 & 65 miles.

Ages 18+ age restriction. thanson@cff.org arizona.cc.org/cycleforlife November 9 Bike Ride Arizona with LaVerne – Tucson to Phx Tumbleweed Park tennis court 3AM start SAG supported 85 mile bike ride.

Meet at Tumbleweed Park tennis court on the SW side of McQueen and Tumbleweed park at 3 am.

We will load our bikes and drive to Tucson and bike back. oneononewithlaverne.com November 9 Silverbell Century Tucson Basis North School 7AM start 99/83/67/30 miles.

James Harms supportedrides@bikegaba.org November 9 Cave Creek Cactus Classic Cave Creek Arizona’s Mountain Bike Race starts at Frontier Town and makes its way through Spur Cross and Cave Creek County Parks. dfmba.org

November 22 12 Hours of Fury McDowell Mountain Regional Park 10AM start Mountain biking for intermediate and beginners.

4peaksracing.com/events/12hours-of-fury-2014 November 22 Special Olympics 32nd El Tour de Tucson Armory Park , Tucson 7AM start 104, 75, 55 or 40 miles, or choose the Fun Ride 12 or 5 miles or a fun 1/4 mile activity course too http://www.perimeterbicycling. com/el-tour-de-tucson/

November 23 Tres Vistas’ Road Biking Phoenix 7AM start A beginning to intermediate, 16+ mile roundtrip ride up South Mountain. Course designed to challenge and build confidence in new riders. active.com

Bicycle Haus Phoenix specializedriders.com

Southwest Hand Cycling Team Tucson southwesthandcycling.org

Verde Valley Cycling Club Sedona vvcc.us

San Tan Phoenix santanracing.com

Summit Velo Tucson summitvelo.org

Prescott Cycling Prescott prescottbikeped.org

Web-Op op-yours.com

The Cycling House Tucson thecyclinghouse.com

Team Winded teamwinded.com December 13 Chipotle Dawn to Dusk Mountain Regional Park, Pemberton Trail Fountain Hills 7:30AM start Endurance mountain bike event dcbadventures.com December 13 University Of Arizona -Triple C CX 4600 N. Silverbell Rd. Tucson Varied start times based on category azcross.com

December 20 AZ CROSS Series Finals 2155 E. Knox Rd. Gilbert Varied start times based on category azcross.com

December 21 TREK CX State Championships 2155 E. Knox Rd. Gilbert Varied start times based on category azcross.com

GROUPS/TEAMS Performance Great Ride Series Chandler meetup.com/PerformanceSaturday-Social-Group-Ride Team DNA Racing Phoenix dnacycles.com Swiss American BC Peoria swissamericanracing.com

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Two-Wheel Jones Racing Mesa facebook.com/twowheeljones Team Tolero Oro Valley teamtoleroracing.com Mountain Velo CT Phoenix ragecycles.com Procon Cycling Phoenix proconcyclingaz.com Biking for a Purpose Phoenix 602.570.1317 The Real Gift Foundation Scottsdale therealgift.org Team Bicycle Ranch Scottsdale bicycleranch.com White Mountain Road Club Tempe wmrc.org Aggress Tucson teamaggress.com DCB Extreme Adventures Tucscon dcbadventures.com El Grupo Youth Cycling Club Tucson elgrupocycling.org

AZ Bike Club azbikeclub.com Tempe Bicycle Action Group Tempe biketempe.org Southwest Bicycles Cycling Club swbcc.org ASU Cycling Team Tempe asucycling.org American Bicycle Association Chandler facebook.com/USABMX Global Bikes Chandler facebook.com/globalbikes Absolute Bikes Teams Flagstaff absolutebikes.net Red Rock Racing Flagstaff facebook.com/RedRockRacing RIDECLEAN Flagstaff facebook.com/ridecleanteam La Roue D’OR, LLC Glendale larouedor.com Mountain Bike Association of Arizona Mesa mbaa.net Eclipse Racing trisportscycling.com

Presteza Tucson presteza.com

University of Arizona Tempe uacycling.com

Saguaro Velo Tucson saguarovelo.org

Yuma Bike Club Yuma yumabikeclub.org

MISCELLANEIOUS November 16 Ironman Arizona Tempe 7AM–12 Midnight 2.4 M S, 112 M B, 26.2 M R hessam@ironman.com ironman.com November 17 Fight for Air Climb Renaissance Square, 2 North Central Avenue, Phoenix 9AM Climb begins 53 flights of stairs, 1272 steps.

Lonie Padilla - 602.258.7505 climbphoenix.com

RESOURCES The Mountain Bike Association of Arizona The MBAA promotes, protects and preserves the Arizona trail experience through advocacy, education and responsible recreational and competitive mountain biking. mbaa.net Rusty Spoke Community Bicycle Collective A volunteer based organization to bicycle advocacy in the Phoenix community. Provide space for DIY bicycle repair and recycling, to encourage bicycle awareness through education and outreach. rustyspoke.org Bike Co-Op During the academic year, the Bike Co-Op on the Downtown Phoenix, Polytechnic and Tempe campuses provides students with the tools and instruction they need to keep their bikes running smoothly and efficiently. fitness.asu.edu/services/bikeco-op Flagstaff Biking All things Cycling in Nothern Arizona. flagstaffbiking.org

November / December 2014

Phoenix Spokes People Phoenix Spokes People is a group of urban bicyclists dedicated to making Phoenix a friendlier, more welcoming place to ride a bike. phoenixspokespeople.org PHX Bikelab Promotes the bicycle as the noblest form of transportation, a mode which brings people and communities together. phxbikelab.org

FOR THE FAMILY FARMER’S MARKETS Downtown Phoenix Open Market Phoenix Public Market, Downtown Phoenix Wednesday 5-8PM Saturday 8AM-1PM Vendors include: Maya’s Farm, One Windmill Farm, Sun Valley Bees, Nami, Local First Arizona, and 10-20 food trucks in the parking lot Gilbert Farmer’s Market Downtown Gilbert Saturday 9-11AM Vendors include: One Windmill, Love Grows Farms, Double Check Ranch, and foodtrucks.

The Market at The Wigwam Resort Wigwam Resort Sunday 8:30AM-12:30PM Vendors include: Dust, Duncan Family Farms, Rainbow Farms, Classic Cakes.

Roadrunner Park Farmer’s Market Roadrunner Park Saturday 8AM-1PM Vendors include: Crows Farm, Southwest Herb, Horny Toad Farm.

Carefree Farmer’s Market Across from Carefree’s Visitor Center at Sundial Circle Fridays 9AM-1PM

November / December 2014

Singh Farms Singh Farms Saturdays from 8AM-1PM Locally grown produce with some imports from MJ’s Fresh baked breads, and the infamous apple cider from Wilcox. The farm also cooks special lunch.

Super Farm Market at Superstition Farms Superstition Farms Thursdays from 4-7PM Indoor market on a live dairy farm. Vendors include Udder Delights ice cream.

The Camelback Market at Vincents Vincents Market is held in the parking lot, 3930 E Camelback Rd Sundays 9AM-1PM Ahwatukee Farmer’s Market Ahwatukee Community Center Sundays 9AM-1PM Vendors include: Southern Boy Soups and Such, The Tea Side Express, Polish Goodies.

Old Town Scottsdale Farmer’s Market 3815 N Brown Ave, Scottsdale Saturdays 8AM-1PM Vendors include: Blue Sky Farms, Maya Farm, McClendon Select, Arizona Bread Company.

ASU Tempe Farmers Market Caddy Mall, ASU 11/4 and 11/18 9AM-2PM Gilbert Town Square Twilight Market Gilbert Town Square Wednesday 3:30-7PM (New!)

FESTIVALS & EVENTS September 27 November 23 Marioposa Monarca-Monarch ButterflyExhibit Open 9:30AM-5PM, Daily A live monarch butterfly exhibit at the Desert Botanical Garden. dbg.org

November 1-9 Pumpkin Days & Corn Maze Tolmachoff Farms Pumpkin patch, family corn maze, mini corn maze, and more. tolmachoff-farms.com November 8th 6th Annual Sahuarita Pecan Festival Green Valley Pecan Company 9AM-5PM Live entertainment, family-friendly activities, hayrides and more. sahuaritapecanfestival.com November 15 Eldorado Park Fishing Expo Eldorado Aquatic and Fitness Center 8-11AM The North Lake will be stocked with trout for fishing fun. Gear provided, raffles and prizes. scottsdaleAZ.gov/events 480.312.2483 November 21 20th Annual Holiday of Lights Festival Little America Hotel, Flagstaff The property is decorated in more than a million lights, activities for the family, and a visit from Santa. littleamerica.com November 28-29 20th Annual Glendale Glitters Spectacular Murphey Park in Downtown Glendale More than 1.5 million lights decorate the night sky.

Opening nights include holiday entertainment, food, children’s wonderland and snow, and more. glendaleaz.com/events December 1 - 31 Show Low Shines An extravaganza of holiday lights and decorations that light up the City, Christmas tree Lighting Ceremony, Electric Light Parade along the Deuce of Clubs follows on 12/6, Santa at Gingerbread Lane12/13 showlowaz.gov/recreation December 2 Downtown Street Scene Winter Wonderland Florence - Main Street Alley Classic car show, exhibitors, live entertainment, beer garden, merchants and restaurants open late, free, 5:30-9PM, cgmainstreet.org

December 5 Polar Express Jerome - Spook Hall Kids can participate in lots of fun activities, including writing a letter to Santa, making an ornament, hot chocolate, a great cookie and a reading of the classic children’s story, pajamas are welcome and encouraged, only 175 tickets will be sold, $5 jeromechamber.com

December 13 6th Annual Festival of Cheer Peoria - Centennial Plaza Park celebrating cultures, families, and holidays around the world to bring together all aspects of the community. Separate “Play Land” for children ages 12 and under with crafts, pictures with Santa, 20+ tons of snow, $5 child/$7 adult, 10AM - 3PM festivalofcheer.com

December 6 60th Annual Arizona Christmas Parade & Courthouse Lighting & Ceremony Prescott, 1PM Parade, free, 6 pm lighting, Frontier Christmas Open House at Sharlot Hall Museum, Christmas Indian Art Market at Smoki Museum, Jingle Bell 5K run prescottdowntown.com

December 19-20 Glendale Glitters Enchanted Evenings Historic Downtown, holiday entertainment, food, crafts, horse drawn carriage rides, this weekend features Jingle Bell Rockin’ Nights, free, 6-10PM lendaleaz.com/events

December 6 20th Annual Christmas on Main Street/ Electric Light Parade Casa Grande Parade ends at craft booths, entertainment and parade awards, parade starts at 5:4PM, activities start at 2PM casagrandeaz.us/rec/recreation/ special-events/community/ December 12-14 7th Annual Carefree Christmas Festival Carefree Electric light parade, fireworks, dance, shopping, live music, carolers, snow, food market carefreechristmasfestival.com December 13 13th Annual Discover India Diwali Festival Phoenix - Heritage & Science Park A celebration of Indian art, history and culture, food fair, clothes & jewelry bazaar, cooking and cultural demos, children’s games and activities, free, 11AM - 6PM, iaphx.org December 13 27th Annual Christmas in the Park Litchfield Park Town Center, annual kid’s Christmas celebration with holiday parade, marching bands, snow, musical entertainment, kid’s games, arts & crafts, Santa, free. litchfield-park.org

December 20 20th Annual Downtown Parade of Lights Tucson - Armory Park Holiday parade with commercial, non-profit, community entries, Santa, lighted vehicles, floats, music, food and musical groups, free, 6PM downtowntucson.org/visit/ parade-of-lights/ December 26-31 67th Annual Arizona National Livestock Show Phoenix - Arizona State Fairgrounds Livestock shows and sales, Cowboy Classics Western Art & Gear show, working ranch horse competition, Chuck Wagon Cook Off, Dutch Oven Cook Off, ranch rodeo, Farm Experience interactive area for children, $10 parking & admission per car anls.org December 31 New Year’s Eve Pinecone Drop Flagstaff - Weatherford Hotel Big countdown at 10PM & 12AM, giant, LED-Lighted Pine Cone is lowered from the top of the Historic Weatherford Hotel, free, flagstaffarizona.org December 31 31st Annual New Year’s Eve Mill Avenue Block Party Tempe - Mill Avenue District Family Fun Zone, Radio Disney’s Rockin’ Road Show early, local bands later, & fireworks, free, 5PM – 12:30AM millavenue.com

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November / December 2014

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November / December 2014

azoutdoormagazine.com | AZ OUTDOOR MAGAZINE | 35

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