Cline to Pine Creek

As we began our hike in the early morning, a few members of the group said they hoped they wouldn’t slow me down.

After all, I was the junior of the group (by several decades). But mile after mile, it was clear that if anyone became dead weight, it would be me. These guys are serious hikers.

One of the group, Ben Hippe, invited me for a hike with the guys. The group included Ray Wells, Al Groven, Tom Kokesh, Jack Hostak, Hippe and me. After a quick breakfast, we headed toward Four Peaks.

Four of us (Groven, Hostak, Hippe and I) started at the Cline Cabin Trailhead. Kokesh and Wells started at the other side of the hike (Pine Creek Loop) and would meet us halfway in.

We had a bit of trouble finding the trail to start (tip: don’t cross the creek) but once we got going, the fun came fast.

The trail climbs Pine Mountain right away and doesn’t let up. It wasn’t dangerously steep, but it was relentless. The climb also exposes awesome up-close views of Four Peaks.

As the hike continues up the mountain, the flora changes with the elevation. Blooming hedgehogs and prickly pear cacti give way to tall pines. The trail eventually reaches about 5,800 feet, from a beginning elevation of around 4,300 feet.

Walking through the pines was the most enjoyable section of the journey. Fallen needles cushioned the trail, a cool breeze whistled and the trees offered much shade.

The four of us stopped for a water break at an old camp site. It was one of many good conversations that day.

We also came upon a small stream as we descended. The water was crystal clear.

As we continued, we left the security of the pines in exchange for the magnificent boulder-strewn hills of Ballantine Canyon.

The trail heads down the canyon through tall grasses. It’s downright dangerous in places – very loose gravel and steep grades. In some spots, the trail is vague and hard to follow. Fortunately, cairns (mounds of stones erected by hikers) mark the right path through most of the journey. Keep a sharp eye out, though.

We stopped for lunch at the next to a babbling stream at the canyon’s floor. Much of this section is level and weaves back and forth across the small stream.

Our group of four met up with Wells and Kokesh around this point. They joined us as we continued back down.

The boulder formations and tall saguaro are wonderful throughout the final stretch. The trail goes through Boulder Flat. One rock formation looks like a giant chair.

The Ballantine Trail descends steeply in some places, but the footing is much more secure than earlier. It eventually meets the Pine Creek Loop. The trail forks at that juncture. The easiest way is the trail to the right. It leads 1.5 miles down to the parking lot. (And, after 10 miles or so, that’s the path I chose).

The hike is roughly 12 miles. A shuttle is necessary. Leave a car at the Pine Creek Loop/Ballantine Trailhead just off the Beeline Highway at mile marker 210.

To get to the Cline Trailhead, take the Beeline east to Four Peaks Road and follow it for about 12 miles. A sign indicates the Cline Cabin Trailhead. Two warnings: the road is rough and the sign is in poor shape.

This hike was first featured May 2003 and revised February 2007.