Yet, adapting to changes in life is what inspires us to use our imaginations to find new channels of life to explore. With so many closures on various levels, we are the lucky ones to be able to explore the vast splendor of the Tonto National Forest in our great Southwest. How blessed are we to be able to walk, hike and discover unsurpassed beauty in the hills, deserts, mountains, and trails of the largest natural forest in Arizona! Boasting 2.9 million acres of pristine magnificence, Tonto National Forest entices with the promise of unending, immeasurable and unique adventures.

One picturesque adventure in the Tonto National Forest is exploring the majesty of the Highline National Recreation Trail which travails below the Mogollon Rim for an approximate length of fifty miles -- give or take. Originally, the Trail was established around 1870 to connect outlying homesteads to Pine, Arizona, a place to gather needed goods. Today, the Highline Trail is marked with identifying signs which pinpoint the Trail from Pine as it winds below the rugged Mogollon Rim, eventually reaching Highway 260, ending approximately thirty miles east of Payson.

Taking advantage of being outdoors, Don and I hiked part of the Trail one windy, cold day in December (not the suggested time to hike it). Primarily, it is recommended to hike the Trail March through November, as snow and ice may form on the Trail in the colder months of the year, causing a concern for falls and/or very frigid temperatures conducive to exposure. Because precipitation has been so low in Rim Country, we had a dry trail through gorgeous terrain composed of towering ponderosa pines, juniper trees, accented with manzanita and oak brush. The air hinted of the aroma of evergreens, crisp and fresh. Wonderful! Absolutely wonderful! Peaceful, very peaceful! (We did not see any other hikers. We did not see ANYONE. Everyone else was probably heeding the recommended time to hike as it was extremely chilly!) 

We hiked a section of the Trail west of Washington Park. An interesting note here is that the part of the Highline Trail from the Washington Park Trailhead to Pine is also part of the Arizona National Scenic Trail which extends from Mexico into Utah for approximately 800 miles. We have placed this Trail on our bucket list too.

This passage of the Arizona National Scenic Trail/Highland National Recreation Trail features a variety of wildlife. Massive bull elk, white-tail and mule deer, fox, coyotes, large grey squirrels and bear inhabit this wilderness grandeur. Also, there may be a mountain lion or two roaming the rocky, mountainous terrain.

The Highline National Recreation Trail is considered arduous and difficult for the inexperienced hiker. There is a climb and drop in elevation on many segments of the Trail. Places of difficulty arise frequently from rocky and challenging terrain. Yet, even with the tricky passes, it is one of the most stunningly gorgeous trails to experience (even when a little chilled).

Therefore, if you have your 2021 calendar -- or list of things to do -- I highly recommend a consideration of hiking the Highline. As with all hiking, consider your physical abilities and the weather conditions. Always, ALWAYS -- even in the winter -- take an abundant supply of water! Know your exact hiking plan and let someone know where you are, when you will leave and when you will return. Just a note here: cell phone service is somewhat limited which should also be anticipated.

Again, being a mother-hen, dress appropriately for the weather, especially in the winter. Wear hats, gloves and warm clothing. Wear sturdy, comfortable hiking boots with good bottom traction for climbing over rocks and rocky terrain. And do not forget those hiking snacks! (My favorite part! Personally, I prefer jerky, trail mix, granola, chocolate candy bars, chocolate chip cookies, potato chips, etc., etc., etc. Diet Coke, etc. Wish I could tote ice cream in a backpack! Mocha almond fudge, Rocky Road, cookie dough, etc., etc., etc. Alright! So, Don DOES snack healthier than I do and reminds me of this as he eats his apple slices and carrots, drinking his purified water.)

Although the Highline National Recreation Trail is rated on a more difficult level, there are other trails in the Tonto National Forest to explore. If you are visiting the Pine area, the Pine Loop Trail may be a must on your calendar. It is an approximate three-mile loop, looping through breathtaking acreage at the foot of the Mogollon Rim. And, while you are planning your 2021 calendar, you may want to slot some time to hike the charming Horton Creek Trail, an experience in the beauty of nature which gently slopes to the top of the Rim Road -- otherwise known as Forest Service Road 300. On a more difficult level, the Barnhardt Trail, located south of Payson, offers a scenic roundtrip hike of roughly seven miles, frequented with rock formations and rocky terrain.

Perhaps, life is unpredictable always but, when hiking the magnificent trails in the Southwest, it is easy to relax in the beauty of majesty, inhaling the peace of a wondrous existence. We do not know what tomorrow may bring, and 2020 could not validate these words more; however, we can relish and appreciate every precious moment while hiking in our beautiful Tonto National Forest.

May your trails be delightful in 2021. From our house to yours, be safe, be healthy and Godspeed! Very Best Wishes for the New Year!