Writers’ retreat at new Diablo learning center

Published 9:00 pm Friday, August 19, 2005

A book on hiking in the desert and another on hiking Arizona can help you find ways to enjoy time outdoors even in the hottest climates.

“Desert Sense: Camping, Hiking &Biking in Hot, Dry Climates” by Bruce Grubbs (Mountaineers Books, $16.95) offers practical advice, such as how to avoid being pricked by cacti and bitten by snakes. (Rule No. 1: Watch where you place your hands and feet.)

Another book from Grubbs, “Best Loop Hikes: Arizona,” describes 75 trails that end up where you started.

Summary charts classify hikes as easy, moderate or difficult; day trips or overnight; and desert or forest. The best months for each hike are also listed. Now through October, for example, check out Webb Peak in the Coronado National Forest and Kachina Loop in Coconino National Forest.

Associated Press

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