I think I will keep Hellsgate as a backup option in case it's too hot. Looks to be about 15 dgrees cooler there and it's a simple out and back. I'm ok with 90 degrees but if it gets much hotter I'll fall back to plan B. I'd like to avoid higher elevations as it's just going to be too cold at night. ...

@CannondaleKid Thanks for the road conditions update. At this point it would be way too expensive for me to change my rental arrangement plus the cost of fueling an SUV for all the driving around the state I'll be doing next week isn't ideal. But I'll keep this is mind for next time I'm out there a...

@joebartels Thank you for the suggestions! I think Charlebois from Peralta is just what I'm looking for. I'm experienced with backpacking in the Northeast and have done a good amount of day hikes in the desert but never backpacked in the desert. I'm comfortable with hiking trails that gain 1000ft p...

Hmmm do you (or anyone) have alternate suggestions in the area? Hellsgate looked like the trail head was car friendly but not sure about the hike and water. I'm open to other suggestions. Just looking for a solid overnighter in a picturesque desert setting.

@SuperstitionGuy Unfortunately I'm going to have a rental sedan so no high clearance. Is it possible to park before the road gets rough and hike to the trailhead or will that add significant mileage? Thank you for your help!

I'll be visiting AZ next week and am looking for a good 1 night backpacking trip. I don't want to haul all my water so a place with reliable water availability at camp is key. I was looking at Hellsgate to Tonto creek or Reavis Ranch in the superstitions as options. Any thoughts or suggestions? I'm ...