For those who want a more adventurous trek up to Crown King, you can hop on a trail that begins at Lake Pleasant (NW of Phoenix), and take a jeep trail up the back side of the Bradshaw Mountains.  The trail gets a bit tricky in a couple of places, but I don't think it's nearly as difficult as local lore would lead you to believe.

Soon into the ride, we were stuck behind a couple of ATVs that weren't too keen on us passing.  After clinging to their heels a bit, I was finally able to shoot around them and decided to get some distance.  But the god of irony was paying attention, and I ended up spilling the bike a little further on.  That's what you get when you start trying to show off.  The quads came up on me right when I was picking it up, and I'm sure they cracked a smile or two.  (However, they did stop to make sure I was OK.) There's a lesson there somewhere...

Starting off on the Jeep trail	Getting into some nice scenery	Climbing up into higher elevations	Same location, panoramic view	Another good pano shot

Unlike the main road up to Crown King, you don't have to worry about cars and trucks around every corner.  However, you do have to watch for the occasional Jeep that simply parks in the middle of the tight trail.  (The drivers never seem to be anywhere near the parked rigs.  Not sure where they go...)

Fortunately, the trail gains altitude in a relatively short amount of time, so it's not long before you're up where the air is cooler and the views are inspiring.

Crossing through some water	Nice views	One of the tougher spots in the trail	Taking a break	The KTM from a distance

Given its close proximity to Phoenix and the sometimes challenging nature of the ride, I really enjoy this trail.  The key is to do it during the week, so there aren't as many yahoos getting in the way.

	Finally getting into the trees	Nearly at the top	The reward...