BLEVINS TRAIL

BLEVENS TRAIL Usery Mountain Regional Park Open to hikers, horses, mountain bikes and dogs on leash, you can expect lots of company while hiking this popular trail. Restrooms, hitching posts and wide, well-signed juctions make for a perfect family-friendly outing among the cholla forests bordering suburban Mesa. TO FIND THE TRAIL: From the park entrance, follow the signs to the horse staging area (shown as the "trailhead staging area" on the park map). From here, you can pick up the trail on either the east or west side of the parking lot. Then just follow the signs to complete the loop. LENGTH: 3-mile loop RATING: easy ELEVATION: 1,800 – 1,925 feet BEST SEASONS: October - April DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 35 miles GETTING THERE: From central Phoenix, go east on I-10 to US 60 east to the Ellsworth Road exit. Go north on Ellsworth to the Usery Mountain Regional Park entrance. FEE: $6 daily fee per vehicle INFORMATION http://www.maricopa.gov/parks/usery/Directions.aspx

WINDGATE PASS

WINDGATE PASS McDowell Sonoran Preserve Although this trail climbs more than 1,300 feet, the route meanders uphill in graceful, zig-zagging style—making the ascent less steep than it looks. Beginning in the lower foothills of Scottsdale’s McDowell Mountains, the path provides a tour of classic Sonoran desert terrain. Abundant saguaro, barrel, cholla and hedgehog cactuses flourish among ironwood and paloverde trees. In spring, the slopes and washes are ablaze in wildflower color. Continually changing points of interest such as contorted rock formations and boulder strewn gullies serve as previews to the high point of the hike---Windgate Pass, a scenic saddle with far-reaching views. There are many ways to get to Windgate Pass—just pick up a map at the Gateway Trailhead and customize a hike to fit your needs. Our route is described below. THE HIKE: For a quick out-and-back trip to the Pass-- begin at the Gateway Trailhead, cross the bridge and follow the signs to the Gateway Loop trail. Hang a left at the junction and follow Gateway Loop 1.2 miles to Windgate Pass trail. From here, it’s 2.2 miles to the Pass. We returned the way we came. LENGTH: 7.5 miles roundtrip RATING: modertate-difficult ELEVATION: 1,671-3,031 feet BEST SEASONS: October - April GETTING THERE: From Scottsdale, take Bell Road east to Thompson Peak Parkway. Go north (left) and continue to the Gateway Trailhead on the right. INFORMATION: http://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/ or http://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/preserve.asp MORE PHOTOS: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=18460&id=1795269672

BARNHARDT FALLS MARCH 13, 2010

BARNHARDT CANYON Mazatzal Wilderness Record rain and snow this winter has resulted in one of the best water shows I've ever seen in Barnhardt Canyon. See my prior entries for more info and directions to the trailhead. If you're ever gonna visit this amazing place---do it this year. The best time to see the waterfalls is from mid-March through mid-April. Don't miss out! See additional photos on my Facebook photo page.

PERALTA CANYON to the LONE PINE

PERALTA CANYON to the LONE PINE Superstition Wilderness Anyone who has hiked in Arizona for more than 5 minutes knows about this trail. It’s extraordinary beauty, proximity to town and easy access make the Peralta Canyon Trail #102 a mecca for trekkers. Although short in length, the route is rugged and rife with obstacles such as slick rock, water crossings (in winter) and sections where---to the untrained eye—the trail seems to disappear. Surprisingly green for a desert hike, the route is shaded by hardy trees and shrubs including hackberry, Arizona madrone, desert oaks, jojoba and sugar sumac. Throughout the hike, contorted volcanic rock formations vie for attention, increasing in complexity with each foot of elevation gained. A popular turnaround point for the hike is the Fremont Saddle where views of the signature landmark of the Superstition Wilderness—Weaver’s Needle---dominate the sweeping valley vistas. From here, a fun way to extend the hike is to continue on to the lone pinion pine visible on the northeast ridgeline. To reach it, simply head east from the saddle along the many paths-of-use for just under a quarter-mile. The extra effort pays off with up-close views of the Needle and refuge from the crowds at the saddle. LENGTH TO FREMONT SADDLE: 5 miles round-trip LENGTH WITH SIDE TRIP TO THE TREE: 5.5 miles roundtrip RATING: moderate ELEVATION: 2,400 – 3,800 feet GETTING THERE:From Phoenix, take US 60 east to about 8 miles past Apache Junction and look for the “Peralta Trailhead” sign on the side of the road. Turn left onto Peralta Road (Forest Road 77) and drive 8 miles to the trailhead. NOTE: FR 77 is good dirt and passable by sedan. There are nice restrooms but no water at the trailhead. The parking lot fills up quickly on weekends, so plan to arrive early or park in the overflow lot. NO FEES.

LEVEE TRAIL

LEVEE TRAIL McDowell Sonoran Preserve Sorry, you can’t drive your Chevy to this levee. That’s because it’s located within the McDowell Sonoran Preserve where efforts to preserve our beautiful desert include restricting motorized vehicles to designated parking areas. This makes for a nice, quiet amble among saguaros, chollas, creosote bushes and myriad desert trees, shrubs and wildflowers. And, the views aren’t too shabby, either. The majestic peaks of the McDowell Mountains, which rise to 4,000 feet, make an impressive backdrop for this easy desert stroll. Open to bikes, horses and foot travel, the Levee Trail is a major connector route for many of the more challenging trails in the preserve. However, by itself, it’s a worthy destination for novice hikers, those with tots in tow or anyone looking for an effortless, local outing. LENGTH: 2.4 miles roundtrip RATING: easy ELEVATION GAIN: minimal GETTING THERE: From Loop 101 in Scottsdale, take the Bell Road exit and continue east on Bell to 104th Street. The trailhead is on the north side of the road. INFORMATION: http://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/ OR http://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/preserve.asp

BURRO CREEK

BURRO CREEK Burro Creek Wilderness Area Betcha haven’t hiked THIS one. Burro Creek is a 23-mile-long desert waterway located in the rugged and remote wilderness north of Wickenburg. There’s no “official” trail--just follow the creek. Conditions vary according to water levels. In dry times, it’s possible to hike for miles without getting wet feet. However during periods of heavy rain and snowmelt, wading is required. The area is known for its active wildlife including beavers, javalina, shore birds and families of wild burros dodging among the copper-colored cliffs and mesquite forests. When we visited here in January 2010, we were “greeted” at the head of the access road by a resident landowner who reminded us to respect the private property in the area. As long as you park in the Burro Creek Campground and stick to the creekbed, you’re legal. LENGTH: 6-9 miles round trip RATING: difficult ELEVATION: 1,960 – 2,100 feet DRIVING DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 114 miles 1-way. Roads are paved up to the last 1.5 miles, and passable by sedan. GETTING THERE: From Phoenix, go NW on US60 (Grand Ave) to Wickenburg. In Wickenburg at the intersection of US60 and US93, go north on US93 for 59 miles to the turnoff for Burro Creek campground—between mileposts 140 and 141. Turn left (west) onto the campground access road and continue 1.5 miles to the parking lot. Facilities include restrooms and running water. INFORMATION:
http://www.blm.gov/az/st/en/prog/recreation/camping/dev_camps/burrocr.html

BELL PASS

BELL PASS McDowell Sonoran Preserve Just look at what we here in Phoenix have right in our backyards---thousands of acres of beautiful Sonoran Desert with miles-and-miles of hiking trails ranging in difficulty from barrier-free to extremely difficult. Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve boasts some of the best desert outdoor recreation around—all within walking distance from suburbia. For a good work out and amazing views, try the Bell Pass Trail. Although there are many access points and loop options; here’s one that works well if all you want to do is an out-and-back hike to the Pass. Here’s the plan: from the 104th St. trailhead, head north on the closed road for .2 mile to the Levee Trail junction. Turn right (east) here and go 1 mile to the Paradise Trail junction. Go left (north) on Paradise for .2 mile to the Gateway Loop junction. Turn right (east) and follow Gateway for .2 mile to the Bell Pass Trail turnoff. From here, it’s 2 miles to the Pass. This route is almost entirely flat up to the Bell Pass junction. After that, the ascent starts out gradually and does not get unduly steep until the last half-mile. The Pass itself is a narrow saddle straddling Thompson Peak (the one with the antennas) and McDowell Peak---these are the two most prominent peaks when viewed from Scottsdale. This sweet spot features views of the Mazatzal Mountain range and the confluence of the Salt and Verde Rivers. From the Pass, the trail continues another 1.25 miles and connects to both the Prospector’s Trail and Windgate Pass Trail. LENGTH: 7.2 miles roundtrip RATING: difficult DOG RATING: 2 paws (dogs must stay on leash) ELEVATION: 1,704 – 3,204 feet DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 35 miles GETTING THERE: From the Loop 101 in Scottsdale, take the Bell Road exit and go east on Bell to 104th Street. There’s a small parking area (room for about 16 cars) on the north side of the street. INFORMATION: http://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/ or http://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/preserve.asp

WIND CAVE

WIND CAVE Usery Mountain Regional Park Seriously—this hike feels longer than its advertised 1.5-mile length. That’s because the long, lazy route takes its time climbing in sweeping, serpentine style from the desert floor up the cliffs of Pass Mountain to the famous cave for which it is named. Then again, the reason why this hike feels so long might be because there are so many things of beauty to behold along the way. Contorted rock formations, hefty clumps of ocotillo cactuses, blooming wildflowers and countless scenic overlooks make this trail one to savor. Given its many attributes, it’s not surprising that this trail is the park’s most popular attraction---so, you should expect a lot of company when hiking this one. As advertised, the trail ends at the “wind cave” a shallow depression in the cliff walls. Worn slick by the feet of countless visitors, the rock walls of the cave are home to dozens of chipmunks who aren’t shy about begging for the “people food” snacks that could make them sick. Please help protect the health of these amusing critters by NOT feeding them. LENGTH: 3 miles roundtrip. RATING: moderate ELEVATION: 2,020 – 2,840 feet GETTING THERE; From Phoenix, go east on U.S. 60 to exit 191, Ellsworth Road. Go north on Ellsworth for 7 miles to Usery Park Road, turn right and continue 1.7 miles to the horse staging trailhead. FEE: $7 daily fee per vehicle INFORMATION: Maricopa.gov/parks/usery/

LOOKOUT TRAIL

LOOKOUT TRAIL McDowell Sonoran Preserve Here’s a sweet little side trip to consider when hiking one of the longer trails in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. The turn off for this spur trail is located at emergency marker TL1 on the Tom’s Thumb Trail—you can’t miss it. From here, it’s an easy uphill jaunt along a desert ridgeline featuring magnificent views and interesting geology. Topping out at 3,858 feet, the trail dead-ends at the abrupt edge of the ridgeline where unobstructed vistas roll out in all directions showcasing the steep slopes of Thompson Peak, Fountain Hill’s famous water spout and the ring of mountain ranges surrounding the Valley of the Sun. LENGTH: 1 mile roundtrip (5.8 miles total from North Access Area or 11.6 miles from Gateway Access Area) RATING: easy-difficult depending on your route ELEVATION: 3,500-3,858 feet (from the trail junction) GETTING THERE: NORTH ACCESS: From the Loop 101 in Scottsdale, take the Pima Road/Princess Drive exit and go north on Pima to Dynamite/RioVerde Drive. Turn right and continue east to 128th Street. Go right (south) on 128th St. and follow the signs to the temporary trailhead. As of January 2010, the last few miles are on unmaintained dirt roads. Although there are a few rough spots, we got through in passenger cars, but wouldn’t attempt it when the roads are wet. A mo-better trailhead, which will be called the North McDowell Access Area, is scheduled to open in 2011. Check the Web site below for additional access points and loop hike options. INFORMATION: www.scottsdaleaz.gov/preserve

TELEGRAPH PASS

TELEGRAPH PASS South Mountain Park From its starting point at the edge of a residential subdivision to the Depression-era lookout tower at its terminus, the Telegraph Pass trail satisfies the needs of stroller brigades, tri-athletes in training, and everybody in between. The route is paved and flat in the first half-mile, making for an easy stroll among saguaro-and-ironwood-cluttered Sonoran desert foothills. After that, though, the trail becomes more rugged, gradually transitioning into a steep climb. A gallery of 600-year-old Hohokam petroglyphs tapped into craggy cliffs makes a convenient place to take a breather before huffing and puffing your way up the switchbacks ahead. The official route ends at the 1.5-mile point where the trail meets Summit Road. Still aching for more of a workout? Head left from here and continue uphill for another quarter-mile to Telegraph Pass Lookout where a stone pavilion frames far-reaching views of Metro Phoenix. LENGTH: 3 miles round-trip RATING: moderate ELEVATION: 1,480 – 1,990 feet GETTING THERE: From Phoenix, go south on Interstate 10 to the Chandler Blvd. exit, turn west (right) and drive 5 miles to Desert Foothills Parkway. Turn right and go 2.8 miles to the trailhead parking lot. INFORMATION & MAPS: City of Phoenix Parks & Recreation
http://phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/south/hiking/index.html

TOM'S THUMB

TOM’S THUMB McDowell Sonoran Preserve Visible from most Scottsdale locations, the curious rock knob known as Tom’s Thumb stands out among the pinnacles of the McDowell Mountains. Up until very recently, only little known, primitive routes (mostly used by climbers) provided access to the base of this 140-foot landmark. Alas, through the efforts of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the City of Scottsdale, there’s now a beautifully manicured, well-signed network of trails which make visiting Tom’s Thumb a cinch. From the north access point, the trail makes nice wide switchbacks for an (almost) effortless ascent. The route snakes among classic desert terrain and granite outcroppings showcasing the margins of Arizona’s basin-and-range topography as well as Scottsdale’s suburban sprawl. Because of its new easy access and outstanding views, this hike ranks high on the “must do” list for locals and out-of-town visitors alike. LENGTH: 4.5 miles roundtrip RATING: moderate-difficult ELEVATION: 2,716-3,780 feet GETTING THERE:
UPDATE: Oct 18, 2012.

NORTH ACCESS: From the loop 101 in Scottsdale, take the Pima/Princess Road exit 36 and continue 5 miles north on Pima to Happy Valley Road.  Turn right (east) and go 4.1 miles on Happy Valley to Ranch Gate. Turn right on Ranch Gate, follow it 1.2 miles then turn right onto 128th St. and continue 1 mile on 128th to the signed trailhead. Roads are paved (finished Oct 2012) all the way.

Address: 23015 N 128th St, Scottsdale, AZ, 85255. Check out directions and map here: http://mcdowellsonoran.org/trailhead/displayLocation/8
INFORMATION: Map: http://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/Assets/Public+Website/preserve/Preserve+Trail+Map.pdf
McDowell Sonoran Conservancy: http://mcdowellsonoran.org/
MORE PHOTOS:
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1076950022718.11039.1795269672&l=37f81fca21&type=1

DOG HIKE AT USERY MOUNTAIN PARK

There's always something fun going on at Usery Mountain Regional Park in Mesa. To learn about programs such as bird hikes, yoga classes, kid hikes and nighttime critter hunts, log on to: http://www.maricopa.gov/parks/usery/ and check out the calendar of events.

SUNRISE PEAK

SUNRISE PEAK McDowell Sonoran Preserve Among the cloud bumping mountain peaks that hover above the suburbs and shopping centers of North Scottsdale sits an impressive, pyramid-shaped pinnacle with a well-defined trail leading to its summit. A hike up Sunrise Peak offers commanding views, a respectable workout and a pleasing mountain experience without having to venture beyond the din of civilization. Nice signage at the trailhead shows the route: follow the Ringtail Trail for a half-mile then, go right onto the Sunrise Trail and follow the signs to a steep, rocky spur path off the main route for a short climb up to the top. This final haul rewards with 360-degree vistas that transcend the urban landscape below to showcase the rugged ridgelines of the Sierra Estrella mountain range to the west and the high peaks of the Mazatzal Wilderness to the north. LENGTH: 5.5 miles round trip RATING: moderate ELEVATION: 1,786-3,069 feet GETTING THERE: From the Loop 101 in North Scottsdale, take exit 41 for Shea Blvd., turn right and continue to 124th St. Go left (north) on 124th St. to Via Linda, turn right (east) and continue to 128th St., turn left (north) and follow 128th St. all the way to the end and park at the Ringtail (128th St.) Trailhead. HIKE DIRECTIONS: from the trailhead, follow the Ringtail Trail for .48 miles to the Sunrise Trail. Turn right and continue uphill to the peak. INFORMATION: call 480-312-7013 or visit scottsdaleaz.gov/Assets/documents/preserve/Preserve+Trail+Map.pdf