Conquering the Arizona Trail: Your Ultimate Guide to Thru-Hiking Preparation
As we bid farewell to the old year and embrace the possibilities of the new one, it’s the perfect time to set goals that challenge, inspire, and transform us. If you’re seeking an adventure that combines physical exertion, mental rejuvenation, and breathtaking landscapes, look no further than the Arizona Trail (AZT). Embarking on a journey along the AZT can be the perfect addition to your list of New Year’s resolutions, promising an experience that goes beyond mere physical activity to become a transformative adventure.
What is the Arizona Trail?
The AZT travels the length of Arizona about 800 miles between the state’s border with Mexico in the south and Utah in the north. The route is incredibly diverse, ranging from low elevation desert in the Sonoran Desert, to red rock canyons like that of the Grand Canyon itself, to high alpine landscapes like those north of the Mogollon Rim near Flagstaff.
1. Research the Arizona Trail:
Before lacing up your shoes and hoisting up your pack, dive deep into researching the Arizona Trail. Understand the trail’s unique characteristics, varying terrains, and climate conditions. Familiarize yourself with the trail passages (sections), water sources, and potential challenges. The AZT spans approximately 800 miles, so knowing what lies ahead is key. Check out the Arizona Trail Association (AZTA) website for comprehensive information on trail passages, conditions, trail angel networks, logistics, and more.
2. When Should I Hike? Northbound vs. Southbound:
The best time to hike the AZT depends on which direction you plan on hiking. As a point-to-point thru-hike, the AZT can either be hiked northbound (NOBO) from the Arizona-Mexico border to the Arizona-Utah border or southbound (SOBO) in the opposite direction. NOBO is best approached in the spring, meaning you move toward the higher elevations of Northern Arizona later in the year when it’s not quite as cold. SOBO is best approached in the fall, as you start in milder temperatures in Northern Arizona and approach less extreme heat in Southern Arizona later in the fall.
3. Gear Up for Desert Terrain:
Gear selection is critical for a successful thru-hike of the AZT, especially considering the diverse landscapes ranging from the Sonoran Desert to high alpine regions. Invest in lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing, a durable backpack, and a reliable water filtration system. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sun protection are essential for the desert stretches. Choose your sleep system wisely and select campsites with caution, as desert flora like cacti and manzanita are not forgiving on gear like shelters and sleeping pads.
4. Water Management:
Arizona’s arid climate demands careful water management. Plan your water resupply strategy meticulously, taking into account the distances between reliable water sources. Consider carrying extra water capacity for the dry stretches, and always have a backup plan. It is also important to note that during certain stretches of the AZT, where there are water sources they can often be less than ideal (such as cow tanks). Carrying a solid filter and making sure to backflush it frequently will save you a lot of time and frustration.
5. Physical Conditioning:
Prepare your body for the physical demands of the Arizona Trail. Train for endurance and strength, paying particular attention to elevation changes and the challenging desert terrain. Gradually increase the weight of your pack during training to acclimate your body to the demands of long-distance hiking. Understand that at the beginning of your thru hike you will need to keep your mileage lower (even if you feel strong) in order to prevent overuse injury. From there, as you build up your “trail legs†you can start to increase your mileage. Check out resources such as Blaze Physio and Trailside Fitness, both of whom are physical therapists specializing in working with long-distance hikers before and during their thru-hikes.
6. Navigation Skills:
The AZT offers a mix of well-marked and less-defined trail sections. Hone your navigation skills and carry detailed maps, a GPS device, and a compass. Familiarize yourself with the trail’s signage and waypoints to minimize the risk of getting off course. The mobile app FarOut Guides has a full AZT package you can purchase that includes waypoints for campsites, water sources, etc. as well as trail town guides and crowd-sourced information via user comments. While useful, it is important to note that FarOut Guides is meant to be a support for thru-hikers and not a lifeline – thru-hikers should not rely on the app as their first or only means of navigation.
7. Permits and Logistics:
Although permits are not required for a long-distance hike on the AZT, be sure to check for any necessary local permits required for certain portions of the trail. Plan your logistics, including resupply points and potential town stops. Some segments of the trail may pass through remote areas, so ensure you have a well-thought-out plan for food, gear, and any other essentials.
8. Resupply:
Speaking of logistics, start thinking about your resupply strategy. Resupply refers to when thru-hikers get off the trail and into a town in order to stock up on food for their next stretch, as well as grab the occasional shower, hotel, or town meal. Sometimes, the trail will pass through a town (such as the urban route through Flagstaff), but oftentimes, hitch-hiking is the way that thru-hikers will get from trail to town and vice versa. You can also connect with trail angels (people who volunteer to help out thru-hikers in various ways) via Facebook groups or word of mouth to see if they are willing and able to pick you up.
Resupply can feel overwhelming at first, but with repetition it will become easier and faster. Look around online to see what various AZT thru-hikers resupply strategies are like.
9. Wildlife Awareness:
The diverse ecosystems along the AZT are home to a variety of wildlife. Educate yourself about the local fauna, practice responsible wildlife viewing, and take precautions to minimize encounters. Be aware of potential hazards such as snakes and ensure you’re equipped with the knowledge to handle such situations safely.
10. Weather Preparedness:
Arizona’s weather is diverse and can be unpredictable, with extremes in both heat and cold. Monitor weather forecasts regularly and be prepared for sudden changes. Carry appropriate layers, including solid insulating layers, as the desert can get very cold at night and because the trail passes through alpine terrain (such as the San Francisco Peaks/Flagstaff-area and Mt. Lemmon near Tucson).
11. Mental Resilience:
Thru-hiking the AZT is not just a physical challenge; it’s a mental journey as well. Prepare for the solitude, remoteness, and the mental highs and lows that come with an extended outdoor experience. Develop coping mechanisms and stay motivated with realistic daily goals. Oftentimes, on a thru-hike, days can feel longer than weeks!
12. Connect with the AZT Community:
Join online forums, connect with local hiking groups, and tap into the experiences of those who have conquered the AZT. Seek advice, gather insights, and build a support network. The wisdom of seasoned AZT hikers can be invaluable as you prepare for your own adventure. Be sure to take a look at the AZTA website for a variety of helpful resources.
As you contemplate your New Year’s resolutions, consider the Arizona Trail as more than just a hiking adventure. Thru-hiking can be an incredibly rewarding and affirming experience – an opportunity for physical fitness, mental wellness, connecting with nature, fostering community, and developing resilience. Make 2024 a year of transformation by setting the goal to hike the Arizona Trail, and let the journey become a metaphor for the incredible possibilities that await you in the year ahead.