Autumn in the Miller

The Miller Peak Wilderness is especially striking in the fall. We’ll hike a point-to-point route requiring a shuttle. Starting at Ramsey Vista Trailhead, the trail climbs 2,000 feet in under 2.5 miles to Carr Peak (9,200 ft) with views spanning the border, Sierra Vista, Fort Huachuca, and surrounding peaks.

From there, we continue toward Bathtub or Bear Spring, our first potential water sources, then join the AZT along the ridge for \~5 miles before descending Pat Scott Canyon to camp near the historic Hamburg Mine.

Day two takes us through Ramsey Canyon often glowing with sycamores and maples before a short climb and descent into Brown Canyon, finishing at Brown Canyon Ranch.

Difficulty – Challenging/Strenuous

\~15 miles total
\~9,600 feet of elevation change (3,600 up, 5,900 down)
* Steep, varied terrain, potentially rough trails

Logistics

Friday, Nov 7: Depart Phoenix after 12:30 pm (JCPenny), stage vehicles at Brown Canyon Trailhead by 4:00pm ; car camp at Ramsey Vista Campground.
Saturday, Nov 8: Start at Ramsey Vista TH, camp near Pat Scott/Wisconsin/Ramsey junction.
* Sunday, Nov 9: Hike out to Brown Canyon Ranch.

Water
Bathtub Spring and Ramsey Canyon.

Weather
Expect cold, windy conditions. Overnight lows near freezing.

Campground and Fires
Yes. Depending on conditions and restrictions.

* Campground fee: $15 per site per night (costs split).

Carpooling and Shuttle
Carpooling encouraged.

Brown Canyon Trailhead.
Ramsey Vista Trailhead (near the campground): Free, may require clearance. Sedans with low clearance will not be able to make it.
* \~45 minutes (\~12 miles) between trailheads.

Dogs
Yes.

Hiking Pace
I hike slowly uphill, \~2–2.5 mph on flats and descents. If you expect a fast leader, this may not be the right trip for you. Plan for steady pacing.

RSVP Questions
Incomplete responses = no spot on the trip.

Commitment
Life happens, but if you sign up, please be serious about it. Don’t take a spot unless you’re prepared or are sure you want to go. This trip involves tough terrain, unpredictable weather, long water carries, and a shuttle. Read the description and know what you’re joining.

Safety and Liability
This is an informal backpacking meetup, not a guided trip. I am not a professional hiking guide, and each participant is fully responsible for their own safety, choices, and well-being on the trail. Hiking and backpacking come with inherent risks, which may include personal injury, gear failures, or vehicle break-ins at trailheads. I cannot assume responsibility for any personal injury, damage to equipment, or property loss by theft.

By joining, you acknowledge these risks and understand this is simply a group of people hiking and camping together. Please arrive prepared, make responsible decisions, and look out for one another so the experience is safe and enjoyable for all.

Also check out other Trips & Adventurous Activities in Phoenix, Meetups in Phoenix.