Signal Peak to Meadow Creek

September 3, 2024

It was just a day hike with Gila Hikers, but when it turned out to be just Ken, Dennis and me, we decided to go adventuring. Instead of our planned Signal Peak/Black Peak loop, we headed down the CDT "Classic" from Signal Peak Ridge.

The trail drops steeply to Bear Canyon Road, and then wanders for miles atop a ridge between Meadow Creek and Skates Canyon.

Pinewoods Geranium shimmering in the morning dew.

In an old burn scar, stalwart Ponderosas and venerable junipers are joined by ambitious young oaks.

As we descend, the well-canopied forest gives way to grassy meadows awash in summer wildflowers.

These psychedelic beetles caught my eye. Their name is "Acmaeodera rubronotata" and they are a species of metallic wood-boring beetles.

Chrysoecia atrolinea — a type of owlet moth — on a Birdbill Dayflower.

The most beautiful tree in the forest, a perfectly formed alligator juniper. This grassy meadow was our lunch spot and turnaround point.

Old style CDT trail sign on an ancient alligator juniper. We love our CDT, oh yes we do!

Ken and Dennis reassembled a bench that Ken remembered on a hike from four years ago. A fine day in great company!