First Day, the Blackett's Ridge Fitness Hike

Sabino Canyon on the northeast side of Tucson. Very popular place with paved roads for the walkers/joggers, trails for hikers and miles of off trail routes.  The two most popular destinations are "Seven Falls" and "Blackett's Ridge".  That's the Ridge in the distance.  Doesn't look like much but it's 300' taller than the Empire State Building.  Being curious, I looked on Strava and out of 217 efforts, I have the 9th fastest time from the base of the climb to the top. 

The first 1.6 miles is flat to rolling and then the final 1.5 is steep, gaining 1800'.  I reach this river crossing and get my left foot soaked walking on the left wall.  Nice.  My expectations were low, just hopping to get under 1 hour from the parking lot to the top.  Quickly, my chest was heaving, legs ached but I kept plodding along.

I reached the top of the ridge where there is a post, stopped the Garmin and was thrilled to see a time of 56:20, all walking.  I think that is my 2nd best time but was disappointed to later discover I could not find the file to upload to Strava. 

Soon others arrived at the end of the trail.  Beautiful views to the west of the Tucson Mountains.

With lots of rain in recent weeks, the Sonoran Desert is green.  The forecast is looking good so lots of cycling and hiking to come.  Weekend in OH not looking too good on Saturday but should be a ride for Sunday.