In August of 2001, Steve and I made a fantastic loop from Cave Creek to Strawberry via dirt roads and back through Payson on Highway 87.  We took a slight detour on Bloody Basin road (north of Seven Springs), but eventually found our way back to the correct trail.   (Thanks once again to Steve's "magic box," i.e., the GPS III+.)  The great thing about this route is the lack of traffic -- we saw only one other vehicle up until we reached the Verde River.  One unusual site was a flock of crows that was so massive, the sky seemed to turn black.

The highlight of the trip had to be crossing the Verde River, which was about three feet deep at the time.  The crossing took place at a campground, so there was no shortage of onlookers as Steve and I prepared for the crossing.  Steve blazed through without a hitch, but I wasn't so lucky.  My front tire nailed a boulder underneath the surface, which stalled the bike.   (Luckily, I didn't drop it, or I would have been in a world of hurt.)  After a few tries, she finally fired up and I stormed to the other bank as onlookers cheered (or laughed, depending on whom you ask).  It really was a blast.

The mountain road from the river crossing to Strawberry had no shortage of scenic switchbacks; we took a couple of breaks just to soak in the views.   Once in Strawberry, we stopped for some snacks and prepared for the highway journey home. What a great day.

Shown below are a few images from the loop.

Stopping for some shade	A few miles past Bloody Basin road	Great views from higher up	About half-way there	Great AZ scenery

Coming down on the Verde river	The spot where we crossed	Climbing back up on our way to Strawberry	This was an amazing road	Stopping for snacks in Strawberry

		Map of our route