Two winters ago, my brother, Tim, and I went on a hike in the Superstition Mountains. Hiking with Tim is always great because we both love taking photos for fun and usually keep the same pace with all our photo taking. This time I decided to take some video and challenge myself to create a project outside of my norm. It was really fun to put together, but when it came time to share it I froze! Was this on brand with my style? What would it show future collaborators about the value of my work? Blah blah blah. A bunch of boring, little thoughts that get in the way. The great thing about discovering a project from a while back is that you have a new perspective. This definitely shows my love for the outdoors, for challenging myself, and for working in an intimate setting.
Hieroglyphics Trail is a pretty easy, non technical hike and gives you a beautiful view of the desert once you’ve reached the top. Roundtrip it’s less than 3 miles, so it can be a shorter hike. Or if you are like Tim and me, then you can take your time snapping photos and exploring the top without worrying about making it back to the car in time. You gain almost 600 feet in elevation, which I barely remembering noticing in the low desert since I’d been living at 7,000 ft, but Tim teased me that he could feel more of a difference. The trail is also a great place for families and dogs (if kept on a leash). If you come during the right seasons there will be wildflowers along the way and even small pools and a waterfall at the end of the trail.
When you get to the top there are petroglyphs you can look at, take photos of, or even sketch, but of course don’t touch the petroglyphs! Bears Ears Education Center has some great suggestions on how to visit places with respect. It’s important to respect the land for future visitors and just as important to remember we might consider this public land for everyone, but often these are archeological sites of indigenous people and there are laws about cultural artifacts. These places aren’t just objects of history or science, but a connection to people.
If you get the chance, check out Hieroglyphics Trail or the surrounding Superstition Mountains. It’s a gorgeous desert area that will give you appreciation for dusty browns and faded greens. Check out my video below for some desert views!