Courthouse from Bell Rock Pass

At approximately 4,400 feet, Bell Rock Pass lies between the NE face of Bell Rock and the NW "juniper-covered shoulder" of 5,451-foot Courthouse Butte. There is a "spur trail" coming up to the pass from the Bell Rock Loop Trail. However, there is NO trail on the opposite (south side) of Bell Rock Pass. So, if you do the entire loop of Courthouse and Bell, and then decide to take the spur trail to Bell Rock Pass, please allow for an 8-hour day. The view of Courthouse from the pass is phenomenal, especially late in the day. These "sandstone shadows" will take your breath away. The "flat-topped" mesa seen in the background (to the right) is Wild Horse Mesa. This is a great spot to watch the sun go down, but please bring plenty of Snickers Bars and warm clothing to beat central AZ's wintertime chill. :) January 9, 2009