Photo by Mare Czinar Mount Union, Prescott National Forest

HIKE OF THE MONTH.

Priceless glimpses of Arizona’s beautiful central highlands await hikers on the summit of Mount Union – the 7,979-foot highpoint of the Bradshaw Mountain range. Although this granite pinnacle is little more than the loftiest lump on a forested ridge above the Hassayampa River Basin, a hike to the peak still delivers an enjoyable mountain experience complete with panoramic views, dizzying canyon drop-offs and a fire tower that has been active since 1933. The uphill slog begins on the Dandrea Trail No. 285. At just under the 1-mile point, turn right onto Yankee Doodle Trail No. 284 and follow the cliff-hugging path to the peak through a landscape infused with weatherworn scrub and eroding volcanic rock.






Length: 4 miles roundtrip
Rating: moderate
Elevation: 6,849-7,979 feet
Driving distance from Phoenix: 130 miles
Getting there: From Phoenix, go north on Interstate 17 to exit 262 for State Highway 69. Go west (toward Prescott) on Highway 69 to Walker Road (County Road 57, just past the Costco center). Follow Walker Road south for 10.5 miles to Poachers Row Road, turn left and follow the road until it ends with a sign for trail No. 285 across the creek. There’s limited parking; do not park in or block off the private driveways in the area.
Info: 928-443-8000, www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott/recreation/trails/bradsahw.shtml