Organizer
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Andrew Walls
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Phone
530-264-6290 -
Email
atwalls@gmail.com -
Andrew is a full time resident of Palm Desert who actually hikes during the summer! Andrew is an avid hiker and backpacker who can be found strolling on and off trails throughout the Coachella Valley, Joshua Tree NP and Grand Canyon NP. In addition to his participation in CVHC activities, Andrew is a Certified California Naturalist and a hike leader with Friends of the Desert Mountains. Prior to moving to the CV in 2017, Andrew was a team leader with the Nevada County Sheriff's Search and Rescue team in Northern California.
Other Organizers
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Gary Ward
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Phone
949-285-4664 -
Email
gaudreygary@gmail.com
Location
Category
MECCA LADDERS CANYON- Trail Maintenance
On this hike we will inspect the ladders and hardware along the Ladders trail and identify items that require replacement or repair. A later hike will involve carrying replacement ladders and hardware in and bringing out old, damaged ladders and hardware. This is a joint operation of CVHC and the Sun City Hiking club.
The trailhead is an hour drive from Rancho Mirage, that last 3+ miles of which is a rutted desert dirt/sand road. Add driving time to the hike duration for planning. 4WD vehicle with high clearance preferred.
Even though this hike and the pace are rated moderate, it has its challenges. The beginning of the canyon requires either crawling through a small short tunnel or walking a catwalk about 10 feet long while holding onto the cliff wall to reach the opening of the ladders canyon.
There are several dry waterfalls that must be climbed using tall ladders (15-20 ft.). Narrow slot canyons open to wider higher canyons leading to an overlook ridge with a view of the Salton Sea. After proceeding up the ridge for approximately a mile, we drop down into the Big Painted Canyon and wind our way back to the parking lot about two miles away.
4.4 miles, 820 foot elevation gain.
If you haven’t hiked with Debbie before or have any questions about the hike, please call. Otherwise, please email and include your phone number.
HIKE LEADER: Andrew Walls & Gary Ward
HIKE LOCATOR: Mecca Chocolate Mountains
HIKE DIFFICULTY: Moderate
HIKE PACE: Medium
Note: You must be a current CVHC member to hike with the club! Join Now!
