Telegraph Pass- Yuma, Arizona

Yuma's most popular place to hike! Feel free to share your experiences and pictures!

There are a few paths that lead up to the mountain. Once there you will go around a gate and start walking up a concrete path. It is a steep walk so be prepared with comfortable shoes, sunscreen and plenty of water. Once up at the top you will enjoy views of Yuma and Wellton. Take your time to enjoy a small break, sign the guest book and eat a snack before you head back down. On the walk down, take your time. Remember you will be walking on concrete which can be hard on the joints.

For the more adventurous hiker, you might enjoy a trail that goes up the side of the mountain. It's harder to find from the bottom, but once up at the top, you can find it on the left side of the road as you start your decent. As always, watch where you put your hands and where you step. As it gets warmer, the wildlife will be more active. Also beware of the loose rock under your feet. It's very slippery and some rocks that look like they are sturdy are actually lite and very movable. Again, be careful.

During the spring you can enjoy many of the wildflowers in bloom as well as the blooms of the ocotillos and prickly pear cactus.

I recommend that you head to Telegraph Pass early in the morning come spring. It starts to heat up early in Yuma.

To get to the trailhead, take I8 to Foothill Blvd go north and turn (right) onto the North Frontage Road. Follow road until it dead ends. If you have a vehicle that can handle rough, rocky roads you can turn (left) at the dead end onto a path that will get you closer to the trail heads.

Basic rules to follow:

1. Walk at your own pace even if that means baby steps. If you are huffing and puffing you are pushing yourself too much.
2. If you have a dog, keep it on a leash as there are dangers that it can get into and have a supply of water for it.
3. Don't sit down to rest. If you need to rest stay standing and walk slowly in place.
4. Dress in layers. It may be cold in the morning, but you will get warm.
5. Sign the book at the top!
6. I hear a lot of people say it's harder on the knees going down. So if you have knee issues take it easy!
7. Don't "encourage" people to go faster. Chances are they are already doing the best that they can. A simple "hello" or "good morning" will suffice.

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