advertisement
11 November 2024
The historic Highline Trail in the picturesque White Mountains of Arizona is undergoing colossal rehabilitation, potentially transforming Payson into a prominent bikepacking destination. This revitalization project aims to enhance accessibility and promote outdoor recreation while preserving the area’s natural beauty.
The Highline Trail has a rich history dating to its establishment in 1870. Initially utilized for travel between homesteads and livestock movement, it has witnessed significant changes. Today, it spans approximately 55 miles of non-motorized singletrack. However, many sections have fallen into disrepair due to erosion and neglect. In 2021, plans to rehabilitate and reroute parts of the trail were announced.
advertisement
The trail traverses numerous drainages, making its original design unsustainable. As a result, the restoration plan has three main components: maintaining existing trail sections, rerouting affected portions, and rehabilitating washed-out areas. This approach aims to preserve as much of the original route as possible while ensuring the trail’s long-term sustainability.
Significant efforts are being made to reroute sections of the trail to mitigate erosion. In addition, some of these reroutes measure over 36,000 linear feet and require nearly seven miles of new singletrack construction. The project is supported by volunteers from the Arizona Trail Association, who are instrumental in the realignment work.
The Highline Trail winds through the Mogollon Rim, protecting Phoenix’s water supply. Approximately two-thirds of American drinking water comes from national forests, making preserving trails like Highline crucial for recreational use and environmental sustainability.
Local organizations, such as Wild Arizona, will help plant native vegetation along the newly rehabilitated areas to prevent erosion.
advertisement
With nearly $1 million secured for the restoration project, work is underway on various Highline Trail segments. For instance, a significant 20-mile section from Pine to Washington Park has already been completed, improving conditions for bikepackers on the Arizona Trail. As the Highline Trail nears completion, Payson is set to emerge as a sought-after bikepacking destination.
There’s potential for various trailheads along the Highline, allowing visitors to explore shorter sections of the trail for a more manageable mountain biking experience. This flexibility will make it accessible for those seeking a one-night adventure or a more extensive journey.
With the ongoing restoration of the Highline Trail, Payson, Arizona, is poised to become a noteworthy bikepacking destination. As work continues toward completing the 60 miles by the end of 2025, the Highline Trail will undoubtedly be worth exploring for years to come.
advertisement
Arizona is more than just desert landscapes and the Grand Canyon; it’s a state that stands out for a variety of reasons that set it apart from many other states in the U.S. Arizona has developed a reputation for embracing individuality and, in some cases, doing things better than some states. Let’s explore some of the things that make Arizona unique that you may not have known. advertisement 1. No Daylight Saving Time One of the most unique aspects of Arizona is that the state does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST). While the rest of the country shifts its
Arizona is currently experiencing a period of remarkable growth. From adding jobs and increasing its population to welcoming more businesses, the state is solidifying its place as one of the fastest-growing regions in the country. Arizona’s transformation is not just a short-term trend; it’s a testament to strategic planning, smart policy-making, and an influx of motivated individuals looking to make Arizona their home. Here’s a closer look at why Arizona is on the rise. advertisement Booming Job Growth in Arizona In the last 10 years, Arizona added more than 380,000 new jobs, with the state’s job growth ranking fifth in
Arizona is home to an incredibly diverse range of wildlife, and the rich ecosystem faces many challenges, with habitat loss being the most pressing issue, leading to the endangerment of species across the state. Arizona currently has 71 endangered and threatened species, and efforts to protect these species are more essential than ever. Habitat Loss and the Impact on Arizona’s Wildlife Severe drought and climate change are exacerbating habitat loss in Arizona. In addition, non-native diseases and invasive species are further disrupting the delicate balance of Arizona’s ecosystems. These factors have left many of the state’s native species struggling to
Mesa, Arizona, has become the latest city in the Phoenix metro area to implement a ban on feeding wild birds, joining the ranks of Phoenix and Tempe, which have already enacted similar measures. The new law, passed in 2019, aims to curb the growing problem of excessive bird droppings in public spaces and private properties, but it has stirred up mixed reactions from the public.
advertisement
