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NEW TRAILS AT SKYLINE REGIONAL PARK
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| Skyline Crest Trail |
Attention hikers, be on the
lookout for new trails in the coming weeks! The West Valley's newest
hiking destination is getting ready to roll out fresh dirt just in
time for fall hiking season. By the end of September 2016, Skyline
Regional Park in Buckeye will have added 5 new trails for a total of
17 miles of non-motorized routes. Since opening in January, the
8,700 acre mountain preserve located just north on Interstate 10 has
become a busy hub for hiking, riding, camping and picnics. The park
also hosts regular stargazing events and educational programs that
focus on native vegetation and animals. The interconnected system of
trails offers something for everybody. From flat, easy strolls to
quad-busting climbs to dizzying high points. Already on the map are
the Quartz Mine, Skyline Crest and Lost Creek trails. Tie these three
route together and you've got one magnificent loop hike with a short
climb up Crest Summit for sweet views of the surrounding desert. The
Skyline Crest Trail is a new personal favorite because it traces a
knife edge ridgeline that offers some mild exposure, a good climb and
a perpetual feast of changing scenery. With cooler weather just
around the corner, these new routes will be welcome additions to the
growing repertoire of West Valley hiking attractions.
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| Quartz Mine Trail |
HIKE DIRECTIONS:
Begin on Quartz Mine located
at the picnic ramada on the south side of the trailhead parking lot.
Follow the QM signs 2.6 miles to Lost Creek (LC) Trail. Turn left and
hike 0.4 mile to Skyline Crest, turn left go 1 mile to the optional
0.17-mile slog up to the summit. Do it or skip it then hike 0.3 mile
back to QM and retrace your steps back to the trailhead.
Check the park website for
news of new trail unveilings.
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| Trail junctions are marked with location maps |
LENGTH: 6.14 miles
RATING: moderate-difficult
ELEVATION: 1400' - 2100'
HOURS: sunrise to sunset
daily
Free admission. Restrooms\
GETTING THERE:
2600 N. Watson Rd. Buckeye.
From
Interstate 10 in Buckeye, take the Watson Road exit 117 and go 2 miles
north to the gatehouse. Turn left at the stopping and follow the signs to the trailhead. Roads are paved and sedan-friendly dirt.
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| Quartz Mine Trail |
INFO & MAPS:
Fall Programs:
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