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SONORAN DESERT (HAWES) TRAIL SYSTEM
Tonto National Forest, Mesa Ranger District
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| Salt River viewed from Saguaro (aka Mine) Trail |
Originally constructed by mountain bike enthusiasts, this
intertwining system of trails overlooking Granite Reef Dam on the Salt River in
Mesa is just too interesting for hikers to ignore. In 2005, 10.3 miles of the 20-mile web of social trails were
adopted into the Tonto National Forest System. As would be expected of bike
trails, these routes offer an entertaining mash up of twists and swooping turns
tracing the site’s hills and valleys. The 5-trail maze is also known as the "Hawes
System" after the longest route in the mix. As bikers heavily use these
trails, hikers should stay alert and share the dirt accordingly. Trail courtesy
dictates that bikers yield to hikers and everybody yields to horses---especially
the wild mustangs that roam this riverside terrain. However, a bike careening
through a hairpin turn at break neck speed won't necessarily be able to avoid
you without drawing blood. So, although riders on these trails are generally
courteous and careful, be prepared to relinquish the right of way whenever
possible---after all, they were here first.
LENGTH: 10.3 miles (maintained trails only)
Hawes Trail #52: 3.4 miles
Ridge Trail #59: 1.7 miles
Granite Trail #54: 0.7 mile
Saguaro Trail #50: 3.1 miles
Saddle Trail #51: 1.4 miles
RATING: moderate
ELEVATION: 1150’ – 1760’
GETTING THERE:
From Phoenix go east on Loop 202 to exit 23 for Power Road
in Mesa. Travel 2.1 miles north on
Power Road to the Hawes Trailhead on the left. Trail begins across the road.
INFO & MAPS: Global Bikes
Tonto National Forest
MORE PHOTOS:
