SAFFORD — The Gila Valley Hiking Club is going vertical.
The club is hiking to Heliograph Peak Loop, at 10,000-feet elevation on Mount Graham, on Saturday, May 13.
The 4.3-mile hike will be a challenge, with 2.1 miles of it being entirely uphill and passing through a portion of the 2017 Frye fire scar. However, conquering the climb will result in unparalleled views of the Gila Valley to the north and the Sulphur Spring Valley to the south.
The hike down will be 2.2 miles, passing through the area still recovering from the 2004 Nuttall Complex fire.
Due to the different types of terrain and vegetation that will encountered, it is suggested hikers wear long pants and have sturdy hiking footwear. Hikers should also bring a hat, sunscreen, walking stick, lunch and snacks, and at least two-liters of water.
Hikers are asked to meet at the Graham County Fairgrounds parking lot at 8 a.m. for the drive up the mountain to the starting point. There is no cost to participate.
