Estrella Mountain Rainbow Valley Trails (East & West)

We hiked at a different park today. Traveled all the way to the west side to take on the Rainbow Trails. Getting there wasn't too bad since we were traveling against the traffic. The hike included both east and west Rainbow Valley Trails, part of the Toothaker trail, and part of the Gadsden Trail for a total hike of 9 miles in 4 hours....not bad...ehh! Our plan was to get started around 7:30 but we ended up starting about 7:50 and ended at 11:45. We started the hike on the west end, which was a good thing since it appeared to be the most strenuous in my opinion. But what exactly makes the hike strenuous? The book categorized the hike as moderate, but the park map included strenuous in its description. Anyhow, some of the challenges we experienced on this trail that we hadn't on the others were the rocks along the trail...tons of rocks, and the dirt was very loose, so we had put on quite the balancing act.

You will also notice the "snakes are out" caution sign, which made me feel particularly vulnerable. The last thing I wanted to see, was one of those rattlers, but thank God we didn't....WHEW!!!

It was quite hot, but occasionally there was a cool breeze to help keep us going. There were a few times that I wondered, "what was I thinking in agreeing to do this long of a trail again?" Then I realized, those thoughts came a little too late. :0)
Estrella Mountain Park is not a bad area, during our hike we experienced a few nice valleys...lots and lots of Saguaros. Oh, and lots of ants, there were ant holes all over the place. Also, how could I forget too mention...other types of holes...BIG holes (like burrows)...don't know exactly what live in them, and certainly did not want to find out. Towards the end of our trail, we came across one particular hole that looked almost like an ant hole, but had rocks around it which appeared to be wet...very strange, we weren't sure what had built it. Being curious and all, I thought it was a great opportunity for a Kodak moment. So take a look, and if you know what it's from, give me a holler.

Next weekend is Memorial Day weekend, and we're taking a break from our hikes. But we will resume the weekend after that and will let you know all about it. We've not decided where we will be hiking, but since it's getting hotter, we've tossed around the idea of driving up north for the day...dunno yet...BUT will keep you informed.