Construction on the Copper Chief Trail on the east face of Mingus Mountain in the Prescott National Forest slowed recently due to all the moisture on the saturated soil combined with the grind through some tough terrain, steep rock walls, bedrock and vegetation so thick we couldn't see more than 5 ft ahead of the machine. This was slow going at about 150ft per day. However the constructed trail is beautiful with changing views and surroundings at every turn.  

On April 9, 2024, youth conservation corps members from Conservation Legacy (AZCC) augmented the Copper Chief Trail machine construction. They’re working to finish almost 2 miles of new trail. Construction will continue until early May when the season wraps up. 

The VVCC and Verde Valley Trail Fund have applied for $270,000 in Recreational Trails Program and Heritage Fund Grants from Arizona State Parks & Trails for the 2024-2025 field season to finish (hopefully) the Copper Chief Trail and make good progress on the Quail Springs Trail which will connect the Copper Chief Trail to the Ogden Ranch Trailhead permitting a ~13 mile loop from that trailhead and completing the Blowout Wash Trail System.

The views from the Copper Chief Trail are amazing.

Jungle Before

Jungle After

Small Machine, Big Mountain

Drainage Before

Drainage After

Rock Face Before

Rock Face After

Steep Slide Slope Digging