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MARICOPA TRAIL: SPEAR S RANCH DAY HIKE
Phoenix
Spanning 240 miles and linking 10 county parks, the Maricopa
Trail is a unifying, non-motorized system of existing paths, closed roads and
new construction. Forming a massive circle around the Valley of the Sun, its
course brushes against busy recreation sites, suburban neighborhoods and desert
wilds with entry points in the parks and at special trailheads. Spear S Trailhead was established in
2011 and gives access to a splendid stretch of rangeland via paths established
by the Hohokam people who lived in the area from
 |
| trailhead |
One scenic option is to do an out-and-back hike to the
Cave Creek area parks. This route jogs along saguaro inhabited hillsides, shady
washes painted green with plant life and heart-stirring open desert terrain
with 3219' Apache Peak as a central beacon along the way. Trail signs are posted at all
junctions, but can be easy to miss.
At the 2.9-mile point, the trail splits. Turn north to continue to Spur Cross or stay straight for
Cave Creek.
LENGTH:
4 miles one-way to Cave Creek Regional Park, or
6 miles one-way to Spur Cross Conservation Area
RATING: moderate
ELEVATION: 2050' - 2295' (as described here)
FACILITIES: none
GETTING THERE: Andy Kunasek at Spear S Ranch Trailhead: 41799 N. New River Road.
Go north on I-17 to Carefree Hwy (SR74) exit. Go east
(right) to 7th Street, turn north (left) and go 4.5 miles on 7th St (turns into New River Road) to the
trailhead on the right (located just
 |
| Apache Peak |
INFO & MAPS: Maricopa County Parks & Recreation,
602-506-2930
MORE PHOTOS:
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