TURNBUCKLE TRAIL

TURNBUCKLE TRAIL

Skyline Regional Park, Buckeye

Turnbuckle Trail links to Valley Vista Trail for a summit climb

Buckeye Mayor Jackie Meck was spot-on when he quoted Andy Warhol during the grand opening ceremony of Skyline Regional Park. The 20th-century artist famous for his paintings of soup cans and celebrities said, "I think having land and not ruining it is the most beautiful art that anybody could ever want." Perhaps Warhol's spirit was riding shotgun on the mini track hoe that blazed the trails in this 8,600-acre West Valley outdoor recreation hub that was official rolled out on January 9, 2016. That's one possible explanation as to why the trail layout features so many beautifully framed vistas and organic vignettes. Much like a perfectly executed brushstroke or acrobatic back flip, the system is fluid and comfortable in its skin. The "skin" consists of the pristine washes and foothills of the southern White Tank Mountains. The dirt paths wrap around the terrain like whispers revealing secrets contained within area's natural elements without ever getting in the way. 

Although it's located just 2 miles north of Interstate 10, the blissfully quiet site has a wild yet accessible feel to it.

The 3-mile, moderate-rated Turnbuckle Trail is the longest of the seven Phase I routes. Like most hikes in the park, it begins with a stroll across a graceful, oxidized bridge spanning Mountain Wash. It loops around a prominent mountain peak and connects with Valley Vista Trail for an optional 0.33-mile, difficult climb to the summit. This short hiker-only trek involves some steep, narrow sections with drop offs.

So far, 6 miles of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding are complete. Eleven more miles are on deck to open by September of this year. Mayor Meck concluded the opening ceremonies by describing future plans for even more trekking routes and enhanced facilities promising the crowds, "You ain't seen nothin' yet."

LENGTH: 4 miles

RATING: moderate-difficult

ELEVATION: 1,500' - 2,300'

FACILITIES: Restrooms, picnic tables, campsites

FEES: None for day use. Camping is by reservation only.

GETTING THERE:

2600 N. Watson Road, Buckeye

From Interstate 10 in Buckeye, take the Watson Road exit and go 2 miles north to the park. Roads are paved and

sedan-friendly dirt.

INFO:

http://skylineregionalpark.com/

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