By Jayden Nance
On the occasion where Phoenix temperature exceeds the one hundred degree mark, seeking an area that provides the escape of cooler climate becomes necessary. I recently went camping at Rainbow Campgrounds on Big Lake in the White Mountains. While camping, we ventured out to do some hiking on Thompson Trail.
Thompson Trail is an 18 minute drive away from Rainbow Campground. This is a 5.1 mile long trail with an elevation of just below 300 feet and takes only 1 and half to 2 hours to finish. For people who want to have some quiet moments in the wilderness and also those who would love to have a break from Arizona heat, Thompson Trail is a good choice.
The road leading up to the trailhead is equally fascinating as the trail itself. The trailhead has a spectacular view of the West Fork of the Black River. However in some parts of the trail, it appears as though the river has run dry and it is quite interesting to think of the amount of water left in the river after yet another summer season in Arizona.
Once on the trail, those concerns of a dried up river disappear.
While hiking along the route you can observe the flowing river that offers nice pictures in comparison with the dried areas observed when you drive up to the trail. Pine trees offer shade for the major part of the path, while the flow of water provides the opportunity to relax and enjoy the natural sights. Instead of the hot desert air one gets cooler air from the mountains making the hiking pleasant even during the peak of summer. In addition to that there are sometimes wild animals observed along the way.
One of the greatest things about Thompson Trail is the simplicity of it. No steep parts make the hiking easier and allow the visitors to concentrate on the sights rather than trying to overcome the obstacles. It is great for families, casual hikers, pets and other people who want to spend some time outdoors without any difficulties.
For those who want to get away from the brutal summer heat of Arizona, without leaving the state, they can take a trip up to Thompson Trail. With cooler weather, forest shade, and a river running through it, it is proof that there are many more things in Arizona other than deserts. Sometimes, all one needs to see what Arizona has to offer is to escape up north.
On The Rocks host Claudia Collins has also ventured into the White Mountains.
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