Trailblazers – Water Wheel, plus

Wednesday, February 28, 2024 

North of Payson and just west of the Mogollon Rim is a bit of AZ history few know about. Just east of that is a state park with a geologic feature uncommon to these parts. 

                Shoofly Indian Ruins                  Water Wheel            Tonto Natural Bridge

We’ll mosey on up the Beeline and into Payson where we will stay on AZ87 north to the second roundabout. At Houston Mesa Road, we’ll turn northeast onto FR199. Our first stop will be the Shoofly Indian Ruins. The Shoofly Village was built around 1000 CE, and occupied over time by the Hohokam and Salado Tribes. Occupation appears to have ended around 1300 CE. 

Next, we saunter up the East Verde River to Water Wheel where James Greer used the wheel to power his mining claim during the Depression. It was built in Phoenix by a metal working class. It powered an ore crusher which was washed through a sluice box. He sold his claim in 1940, the gold soon ran out and the claim was abandoned. At that site, we’ll have a nice lunch.

After at Water Wheel, we’ll continue north a ways, then head 3 miles west down FR64 to AZ87 south FR583 and the Tonto Natural Bridge. There is light hiking at the last 2 sites for those with the inclination. We will have you home by 4:00.

Mark your calendar for Wednesday, February 28, Pardner.

Look for the sign-up sheet on the Cashiers counter at The CLUB. Bring your National Park Passes for entry into both parks. Passengers Trailblazer Fee is $25; Drivers receive $15 per passenger. Please bring cash the day of the event.

Agenda –

·       Meet at The CLUB at 7:15 AM for Coffee & light breakfast.

·       Leave promptly at 8:15 AM.

·       9:45 Arrive at Shoofly.

·       12:00 Water Wheel site and lunch.

·       1:30 Leave for Tonto Natural Bridge.

·       2:45 Leave for Fountain Hills

·       4:00 Arrive at CLUB.

Sign up at The CLUB or email Mike Bufford at got-aloha@att.net

Trailblazers – Water Wheel, plus

Wednesday, February 28, 2024