So enough of the x-c stuff. After logging nearly 80 miles and 12,000’ of climbing in Prescott over 3 solid days, it was time to give the muscles a break and hit some DH. Heading northeast towards Cottonwood, the terrain starts rising steeply. The former copper mining town of Jerome, AZ is precariously perched upon the side of the mountain at 5,000’. With narrow one-way streets and many original buildings, the town exudes that old west vibe. But even though the mines are now closed, we’re here to prospect for descents.
First was warm-up descent off the west side of Mingus. But before heading down, we checked out the lookout tower.
This is manned…er lady’d most of the spring and summer. Janet has been working as a Forest Service fire observer for 20 years and has worked her way up as the Prescott National Forest regional manager in charge of 12 area lookout towers. She explained that although camera technology have replaced many manned towers, it can take up to an hour or more before someone reviews the video. A human observer is still the fastest means of spotting the start of a fire. She also explained the spotting instrument, which though old, is still fast and efficient for obtaining the location of a fire.
Just down from the lookout, it was time to pick up 110 trail to Gaddes Springs. A fun, albeit loose 3 mi descent.
A little pedaling on FR 413 hooked us up with the 533 trail.
This was fun 2 mi descent with a couple of small jumps and rock features on the way down, ending with some large jumps near the bend of 89A.
Taking a left and paralleling the wash dumps back at the parking area. Just be mindful that some people climb up 533 and the trail does see occasional horse use as we found.
The premier descent of the day was from the top of Mingus down to the valley of Cottowood.
After enjoying the viewpoint looking down onto Cottonwood, it was time for some Coleman chunk.
Though a bit short, there’s some solid pucker factor.
When Cosmic Ray designates double skull & cross bones to a trail and further adds a disclaimer note of death, it usually steers me to the goods I’m searching. Joining up with Black Canyon 114, it starts out much like any other wooded trail.
But all that changes after bit of hiking,
And the valley floor unfolds below you.
Those accustom to riding a certain trail will feel right at home, especially as it’s all downhill from here.
This is backcountry technical riding at it’s finest. Many spots have little room for error and some pretty good exposure thrown in for good measure.
I suppose Ray’s note is probably for good reason, as this is true backcountry and don’t look for anyone to come to bail you out of trouble.
Finally, the end starts to come into view. Sedona’s red rocks of can be seen in the distance and the peaks of Flagstaff’s San Francisco mountains beyond.
All that is left is a bit of atv double track and an access road back to our vehicle with beers.
Coleman to Black Canyon provided a memorable backcountry experience: views, chuck, countless changes in eco systems, exposure, remoteness, and ruggedness. Although setting up this shuttle takes quite a bit of hassle, the ride was definitely rewarding.
Two rides from the top of Mingus Mountain barely scratched the surface of the veins of DH gold. But the prospects show at least a half-dozen different descents are available for the taking. Although Mingus doesn’t have the same notoriety as that of Prescott, Sedona, or Flagstaff, it just means you’ll have the trails all to yourself.
Gaddes Canyon 110 to Little Yeager 533
Distance: 7.81 mi
Descent: 2,379’
Acesent: 472’
Coleman 108 to Black Canyon 114
Distance: 13.24 mi
Descent: 4,245’
Acesent: 302’
Gil would be a monster singlespeed rider if he wanted........maybe someday?