In the desert, one can see forever. From almost every vantage point in Phoenix, the iconic Four Peaks come into view. During winter, the peaks are often snow-capped, providing a glimpse of seasonal splendor from our sunny confines.

They seemed so far away—and yet were close—40 miles or so east/northeast of Phoenix. Although our route involved a four-wheel-drive accessible gravel road, Dave assured me that this was NOT the backway to Crown King—it was merely an 18-mile scenic jaunt to the base of Brown’s Peak.

We took FR 143 from the Beeline Highway, about 26 miles east of Mesa. As previously mentioned, this was the 4WD option, which ended up being well worth the effort.

it was Monday morning, and we had the place practically to ourselves. Dust levels were low, and Dave and I found ample opportunities to pull over to soak in some desert solitude. There were times, we could see miles of road ahead as well as behind.

Caveat: travel time was slow (8-10 mph) and quite bumpy as we climbed from saguaros to manzanitas and pine. Environs reminiscent of Prescott and the high desert came into view.

Around two hours in, we turned sharply onto FR 648, and continued for 1.8 miles towards the Lone Pine trailhead. It was the end of the road — as far as one could go without turning around.

Dave and I abandoned our plan to hike to the saddle of Brown’s Peak, which was close to five miles roundtrip. The energy to complete the hike wasn’t there. Two hours of constant twists, turns, and bumps took its toll. That said, we hiked for about an hour, up towards a ridge filled with manzanita trees — views of Theodore Roosevelt Lake below us, and Brown’s Peak in the distance.

We took SR 188 back to Phoenix, a much faster (20mph) dirt road that was graded and well- maintained. This is the route to take from Phoenix if you want plenty of time to get a hike in. Dave and I will keep that in mind for our return visit.

And we will return.