Moderate walk to see the Christmas Tree on Helipad Hill but back in time to drive by the Ahwatukee Christmas Lights along Chandler Blvd.
Date: Sunday, December 15 @ 3:30PM
Total distance: 4 miles moderate
Time: ~ 2 hours (leisurely pace) excluding Hot Chocolate
Hike leader: Tina Strickler 602-722-0612
Go see it on the mountain! Each year someone carries a Christmas tree to the top of Helipad Hill in Ahwatukee. You'll have to see it to believe it.
We will walk along Desert Classic Trail which is mostly flat and then take the Guadalupe Perimeter Trail to the Helipad. This trail is mostly smooth but definitely gains in elevation so bring your lungs and your poles. It is rated moderate for the 300 ft of elevation gain yet the climb is steady vs. steep. We will have a chapter ornament for attendees to sign and put on the tree.
NOTE: Do not plan on taking the fastest way home! Be sure to drive East on Chandler Blvd so that you can enjoy the spectacular Ahwatukee Lights - one of the best Holiday drives in the Valley. In addition Tina will provide a list of Holiday light displays in the area that are a must see.
If running late day of hike, call your hike leader: Tina @ 602-722-0612
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Tina completed the Camino Frances from St Jean Pied de Port in Spring of 2018. She used Camino Ways to handle logistics and baggage transfers and stayed in hotels. She also walked to Burgos, then biked to Astorga (the Meseta) before walking on to Santiago. She is currently one of the coordinators for the chapter.
Water
Headlamp or Flashlight
Poles (may be helpful on the climb and descent)
A leave-no-trace toilet kit
Layers as the temperature will drop when the sun goes down and hot chocolate will only warm you up so much.
Camp chair (optional) for hot chocolate and door prizes after the hike.
Money if contributing to the Donativo jar (cash only)
There are bathrooms and water at the trailhead.
Please stay home if you are feeling sick.
Call or text your hike leader Tina 602.722.0612 if you are unable to make it or are running late.
No dogs allowed due to chapter liability.
We will share the trail with other hikers and mountain bikers so despite our engaging conversations we will be aware of our surroundings and courteous by stepping off the trail or walking single file when necessary.
Reminders: Our chapter activities are led by volunteers. Donativo contributions (cash only) are greatly appreciated and are used to support future activities. Look for the orange donativo jar by the signup at the beginning of each hike.
We always gather in the spirit of the Camino; therefore the hike leader will maintain awareness of the pace of the group, and will stop periodically at trail intersections to allow all participants to catch up. Hikers/walkers are differently abled and will not finish at the same time. There will be a sweep for larger groups and no hiker will be abandoned. Please review the trail description before signing up to be sure the hike is right for you and your abilities.
Desert Foothills Trailhead: 14251 S Desert Foothills Parkway, Phoenix
From I-10 EAST. Exit 202 West to Desert Foothills Parkway. Follow Desert Foothills Parkway to S 7th Pl - Trailhead is on the North side of Desert Foothills Parkway.