Sonoran Trail

Let's hike the newest trail in the McDowell Mountain Preserve.

Think of a giant dirt Chutes and Ladders!  This trail has it all! Tight twists, rolls, switchbacks! It is challenging in both directions.  I had a blast hiking it!

Intermediate/Difficult

Length: 7.6 miles

Style: Out and back

Elevation: 600 feet multiple times

Terrain: Smooth, switch backs and rolling

Duration: 3+ hours

County Park Fee:  $2

Description:  This one has it all!  A challenging workout that starts off flat through a residential road and then a flat trail.  It branches off of the Dixie Mine Trail to gain elevation across several mountain peaks.  Don't let the elevation trick you.  It gains, looses, and gains again four times.  It has panoramic views in all directions, with the beauty of the McDowell Mountains, that will challenge the fittest of hikers.

Optional lunch at DJ's Bagels on Fountain Hills Blvd.  Best bagels and sandwiches in the east valley.  Dogs are allowed on the outside patio.

Dogs on leash are ok on this hike. Bring sturdy hiking shoes, 3 liters of water, a snack, sunscreen, and $2.00 exact change for the park trail system fund.

Easy Directions to Trailhead:  Shea Blvd to Palisades Blvd. North on Palisades for 3 miles. At second stop sign turn North onto Golden Eagle Blvd. Head North for 3.2 miles to the end of road. Park at gated entrance parking lot or along street.

 

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  • Rene

    1700 feet elevation change! dang, now that's a nice hike

    November 25

  • Chele Kliphon

    Thank you everyone for hiking with me! That was a really fun hike in both directions. I enjoyed the scenery and the company! I am looking forward to attending another hike with the group.

    November 24

  • Kaveh

    Fun hike, good company. Thanks Chele and Rene!

    November 24

  • John Haggerty

    AWESOME !

    November 24

  • Marshall

    I really enjoyed today's hike! Thanks for hosting Chele & Rene.

    November 24

  • Perry Bruneo

    I'm there in spirit! Moving to Phoenix in early January! Looking forward to meeting u all and getting a good workout. Have a great time.

    November 24

  • Faith Amadori

    This is my first time driving up to that area. Is there someone that can give me their contact information in case I need it? I'm coming up from Queen Creek. Is there anyone along the way that would like to car pool?

    November 21

    • Marshall

      Faith ... my cell phone number is [masked] if you need to call. I won't be in service area until after 7:30 AM.

      November 23

    • Faith Amadori

      Thank you Marshall. I went on a hike today that turned into an all-day event so I'm not going to make the hike tomorrow.

      November 23

  • John Haggerty

    Looking forward to the hike. I was sonoran this morning after all that turkey!

    1 · November 23

  • Susan Levin

    Sorry I will not be joining you. Enjoy.
    Next time

    November 23

  • Chele Kliphon

    Hi Paul,
    The trail does not go to any big peaks, but do not let that fool you, because the trail will climb and then descend to climb again several foot hills. It is a really fun and challenging trail to hike!

    November 13

  • Paul

    does the trail go the top of Thompson Peak? or other big peaks?

    October 7

  • Chele Kliphon

    I just hiked Sonoran over the weekend. Trail is in great condition! It is loose through the switchbacks, so take your time going down.

    October 7

11 attended

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