I live in Decatur, Georgia, next to Atlanta, and am planning a solo 5-day primative camping trip in early October within 100 miles of Flagstaff. My criteria are:

–water

–seclusion

–much beauty

–strenuous is OK, maybe preferred

–bonus: good side trails, especially historic ones.

I’ve looked at 3 AZ trail books, & narrowed my choices to 5: Fossil Springs, West Clear Creek, Secret Canyon, Bell, and Kelsey-Dorsey. (BUT, I'm VERY open to other suggestions.)

I’m an experienced backpacker, with little experience in the West. Last fall, I spent 3 days with a buddy at Phantom Ranch–down North Kaibab, back up Bright Angel. 1st time at G.C. & 1st AZ trip ever.

I understand that some of these 5 are popular, but secluded on weekdays, especially in Oct. True? I'd appreciate any suggestions you have–the more broad and detailed, the better. Thanks so much.

Do the S.Bass > Tonto > Boucher Loop hike n GCNP
Do it in that direction Pay for a ride out to the S. Bass trail-head .
Navigating the West Tonto Trail will be a major challenge for you Trade tent weight for water carrying capacity and have a great time
Don't F** k Up ! because if you get hurt between S. Bass & Boucher there will be nobody out there to rescue you.

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My friends I want to go next weekend, however a lot of the campgrounds close on November 1st because it gets too cold. (Or at least that's what I'm going to assume.) Where is a good place that's still open to camp this time of year? I know it's not too cold ALL over Arizona. Its not even cold in the Valley yet.

Alamo lake and Lake Havasu is open during the winter months.

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Granddaughter Piper talks about the camping thing at a family campout. Distributed by Tubemogul.

Duration : 1 min 45 sec

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