We debated on traveling to Phoenix for a similar hike but because we were dining at my boss's home later that evening, we decided to stay near by.  The great thing about Picacho is that while it's a short hike, it's still intense because most of the way is a steep elevation gain/loss. It makes for an awesome workout.  Luckily we are in great shape.

Super happy to be outside.

I couldn't find where I last put my beat-up adventure camera so I used my iPhone to take pictures.  The quality is terrible but here's a view from the top.  You can also view better pictures of our Picacho adventures in our previous posts.

At the top!

For the first time ever, we were the only ones up there!  We actually didn't see too many people on the trail.  This is probably attributed to the heat still being a little uncomfortable.

This particular descent was a little more difficult.  Unlike our last 2 hikes, that loose cable up there used to be bolted as a lower hand rail....  I uh, guess the budget cuts means less maintenance on the trails....

I think, despite the pain, the girls had a pretty good time...  at least I hope so.  Haha!

Reviews

GU Chomps Energy Chews in Strawberry - I packed 2 of these to share on the trip.  I can't say that the flavor is the greatest (a little too intense) but it did provide a little bit of caffeine after the really steep climbs.  I don't think it was enough to make much of a difference...  maybe it was because we split these 2 packets (each containing 8 per pack) between 4 of us.  I don't think I would get these again though.  I prefer GU Energy Gels.