There are two approaches to Reevis - the most popular attacks from the north. This old Jeep trail is a remnant of the days when this was a working cattle ranch (as late as the 1950s or 60s). It's wide by backpacking standards, but various washouts and small landslides over the years made it too narrow for motorized vehicles.

      Sporadic breaks of level hiking split the monotony of a consistent uphill climb. High desert flora and fauna as well as spectacular views of reservoirs that provide water to Phoenix also do their part to diminish the effort.

      Ten miles of hoofing it through these rugged mountains get trekkers to what's left of the old stone ranch house. Complete with tin ceiling tiles and a cast-iron wood stove, the property boasts a corral and small barn maintained by the US Forest Service.

- Linda Vinson