As a local Prescottonian, I am an avid hiker.  Almost daily, I trade in my high heels and business attire for hiking boots and shorts.   As part of the Prescott eNews’ “Staycation” series of articles, I will be providing a series of reviews and recommendations on local trails in the Prescott area.  With over 1.25 million acres of Prescott National Forest, these “Talking Trails” comments will give everyone from the “coach potato” to the “intense hiker” something to experience!

Before you start any exercise program, we emphasize that you should visit your doctor and inform him/her what you will be doing.

In addition, here are “Talking Trails” hiking tips:

• Always use a map of the trails.  If you can’t find a map at the trail head, go to the office of Prescott National Forest and they will provide you with maps of all the trails in Prescott National Forest. (344 S. Cortez Street, Prescott, AZ  86303, 928-443-8000 or www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott/ )
• Take twice as much water as you think you’ll need!  The longer the hike, the more water. I takes 16 – 24 oz. per mile.  You may need more or less depending on the time of year, the heat and your ability to carry the amount of water you need.
• Take your cell phone. I will give you some insight in cell phone reception on all the hikes reviewed in “Talking Trails.”
• Take an extra set of clothes.  You never know what will happen on the trail.  You may need to call for help for yourself or another hiker.
• Always prepare for the worst. Sounds cynical, but if you bring enough water, clothes, food and other items, you will be safe.
• Use sunscreen. “Talking Trails” will give a review of the amount of shade and sun on each trail.
• Bring your camera! Not just for pretty pictures, but to document wildlife, plants and location.

Have fun and enjoy the beautiful outdoor areas Prescott has to offer while getting healthy!

For a quick review of the trails, look for the following symbols:

Difficulty Levels
	Everyone could hike this trail.  Typically a length of less than 2 miles and flat.
	Most people, in good health, should be able to hike this trail.  May be around 2 miles but more hilly.
	Not for beginners.  This trail would typically either be longer in length and/or more intense in elevation.
	This trail should be considered for those who are in good physical health and experienced hikers.
	This trail is for advanced hikers because of the length, elevation, ruggedness, etc.
Sun and Shade Levels
	Very little shade.
	Some trees, but still more sun than shade.
	An equal amount of sun and shade
	More shade than sun.
	The majority of the trail is shady.
Cell Phone Access
	No cell reception, or very little.
	Some cell reception.
	Good cell reception for much of the trail.
	Excellent cell reception.
Other Notes
	Bike friendly
	Stroller friendly
	Horse friendly
	Water at the trailhead
	Restroom at the trailhead
	Other ideas or comments
	Parking fee area (Usually $2 per day, or purchase an annual pass for $40)
	Picturesque