I first want to say that I am a novice hiker, especially in Arizona.  This was a very challenging hike for me but very rewarding.  I have never been on a trail that involved scrambling/climbing like on this one.  My quads screamed at me the entire time.  I took lots of breaks and made the hike 2.5 hours each way with a 30 minute break at the top to take pictures, eat a snack, and take a little rest.  I don't know much about flora/fauna but the wildflowers and cacti were blooming and I saw 3 lizards.  Speaking of that, can someone identify the tree/bush in the next to the last picture.  It was very interesting to me and would like to know what kind it is.  The hike was great (once you get away from the road and the noise of the ATVs).  There were lots of great views and great people along the trail.  I am looking forward to the next one!

*(The quote that I used to name my hike has been used a lot over the years but I credit it to Mad Dog in Cannonball Run.)