Current Phoenix Weather:
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
In a city where the culinary scene is growing rapidly, one restaurant stands out for its authentic, innovative, and flavorful take on Thai cuisine — and it’s earned national recognition. Lom Wong, a Thai restaurant in Phoenix’s Roosevelt Row, has become a popular hotspot for locals and food critics alike. Chef Yotaka “Sunny” Martin, co-owner of Lom Wong, has made it to the finalist round for the prestigious 2025 James Beard Awards, among the highest honors in the culinary world. advertisement The Vision Behind Lom Wong Opened in 2022, Lom Wong is more than just a place to grab a
In our day-to-day hustle, it’s easy to overlook the beauty surrounding us while on the road. Arizona’s cities are surrounded by incredible landscapes such as the Sonoran Desert, the Sedona monuments, and Flagstaff’s trees and mountains. Still, it’s sometimes too easy to forget the daily beauty we have the opportunity to enjoy. It’s beneficial to remember that Arizona’s commutes can be far more than just a means of getting from point A to point B while trying to avoid traffic. advertisement Top Scenic Commutes in Arizona According to a recent survey by Quantrell Volvo, which surveyed over 3,000 commuters, several
Are you looking for a new breakfast restaurant in the Valley? Fortunately for you, the local breakfast scene is as diverse as the state. Let’s explore some of the best breakfast destinations according to locals. advertisement 1. Butterfield Pancake House (Scottsdale) Locals agree that Butterfield Pancake House is one of the top breakfast spots in the Valley. Known for its mouth-watering pancakes and classic breakfast fare, this Scottsdale establishment is a beloved local gem. True to its name, the pancakes are the star! Fluffy, warm, and served with various toppings make them unique and irresistible. 2. Over Easy Over Easy
When you think about Arizona, there is no denying you’ll also think about cactus. Not only is it the state flower of the blossom of a Saguaro Cactus, but it’s also illegal to destroy or vandalize a Saguaro Cactus in Arizona. But beyond cactus ‘s resilience in the harsh desert landscape, did you know this spiny plant is also packed with health benefits? From cactus fruit to cactus pads (called nopales), the versatile cactus has been a staple in indigenous diets for thousands of years. It is now gaining attention for its impressive nutritional properties. advertisement What Is Cactus Fruit?
advertisement
Cookie | Duration | Description |
---|---|---|
cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics | 11 months | This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". |
cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional | 11 months | The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". |
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary | 11 months | This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". |
cookielawinfo-checkbox-others | 11 months | This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. |
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance | 11 months | This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". |
viewed_cookie_policy | 11 months | The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data. |