Heidi HW

Heidi HW

Hike the Rattlesnake Dance Ridge Trail

04/16/17

It was a cool, sunny Spring day and there was a light rain the night before to help keep dust down and stabilize loose rocks on the trail. This hike is listed as "intermediate" but for beginning hikers beware, it is more "advanced" due to the steep terrain and loose footing. Hiking poles are a must to help over boulder fields and downhill descent. This is a rocky hike so solid footwear is advised. Two-thirds of the hike is a steep, uphill climb over a rocky trail,we loved it, but if you're just starting out to hiking and exercising, you might want to try a couple easier hikes first to build up your cardio and get familiar with trail footing. Wild flowers are just starting to bloom, the temperature was ideal (~45 degrees) and the views at the top were incredible, especially the Stuart Range. The valley below was lush green due to the recent snow melt off and bugs were minimal. There were only 3 hiking parties so it was nice to have the ridge mostly to ourselves. It is recommended on hotter days to bring lots of water & sunblock since this hike is fully exposed. Be sure to make a restroom stop beforehand, there is no place to take care of business on this hike since it is fully exposed to the road below and hikers above. :) Will Do this hike again - highly recommend!

4.0