Challenge
Southern Arizona ’ s Sky Islands
SIERRA VISTA , AZ
Southern Arizona ’ s sky islands are like nowhere else on earth . These soaring mountains stand independent within long ranges , poking through clouds and cloistering unique wildlife and vegetation . Wildlife watchers flock to them , but so do hikers and mountain bikers , taking on trails suitable for both casual and extreme athletes .
If you want to take a bite of Southern Arizona ’ s sky islands , Sierra Vista is your natural starting point . This mid-sized community ( 45,000 ) is adjacent to the Huachuca Mountains , the southernmost island range with a valley elevation of 4,623 feet .
The trails into the Huachucas ( pronounce it “ wah-choo-kas ” to sound like a local ) are iconic and inviting , with names like Lutz Canyon , Joe ’ s Canyon , Pat Scott , and Bathtub Springs . But don ’ t let the folksy monikers fool you into planning for a wilderness stroll : the trails wander along the backbone of the islands with steep climbs and descents from ridge to ridge . The highest trail , Miller Peak , will send you up to nearly 9,500 feet . But the view of wilderness stretching out beneath a startlingly blue sky is worth every blister .
168 | Spring 2017 | Adventure Outdoors