Oak Flat is an ecological treasure located at about 4,000 ft east of Superior. In late summer, songbird migrants from the north are just beginning to arrive. They mix with local breeding specialties such as Gray Vireo, Crissal Thrasher, and Juniper Titmouse, attracted to the shady Emory oaks in the campground as well as the surrounding scrub. A large vernal pond is dry for much of the summer, but could hold water and attract more species after the August monsoon. The Apache people consider Oak Flat sacred and are fighting plans to develop a copper mine there. Our trip should give you a good sense of what the fight is about.
We will walk up to 2 miles through the campground and up a small plateau, looking and listening for birds as we go. Bring lots of water and a hat, plus sturdy footwear for small elevation changes. Meet at the Park and Ride lot in Mesa (440 E Main St, Mesa, AZ 85203) at 05:00 AM. We will carpool from this location to Oak Flat.
Limit: 10
Difficulty: 3 (up to 2 miles on dirt trails, with some rocks and mild/moderate elevation change)
Leader: Paul Heveran