Sheep Bridge Loop
24 mi4,374 ft
4,993 ft
2,044 ft
Remote adventure in the western Mazatzal Wilderness, starting with crossing an old “Sheep Bridge” and exploring some of the old sheep grazing grounds on rugged trails.
Photos
Early morning light over Sheep Bridge and the Verde
Descending to the Dutchman Grave valley
An unclothed saguaro
A small campsite near the lower spring
Lots of pleasant green around the creek
Looking up at 4165', where the trail plays along
Along a hot, exposed saddle
Big cairns across the barren grasslands
One last climb before Mountain Spring
Flat line of Midnight Mesa at 5750'
Approaching the oasis of Mountain Spring
Ugly looking water at the spring
A long ways back to the Verde
Trail spur to Willow Spring
Very dry brush along the spur
Excellent water found at Willow Spring
A rocky, spiky descent
A greedy prickly pear overtaking the trail
A long, straight, and boring walk
Finally back at Sheep Bridge
Along the way
Spring 3
- Lower Spring
- Mountain Spring
- Willow Spring
Mountain 1
- HK Mesa
Trailhead 1
- Sheep Bridge (Verde River) trailhead
Junction 4
- Red Hills / Dutchman Grave Trail Junction
- Willow Spring spur junction
- Willow Springs Trail / Verde River Trail Junction
- Deadman / Willow Springs Trail Junction