Hike to the Wind Cave via the Maricopa Trail

Hike the out-and-back 8.8 miles on a meandering and scenic trail up to the Wind Cave for a fantastic vista of the East Valley, then be wowed by the views on the return descent.

Mileage: 8.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 1460 feet
Elevation Range: 2030 - 2730 feet
Rating: Difficult
Dogs: okay on leash
Est hike time: 3.5 - 4.5 hours

We start at the Bulldog Trailhead, which is roadside. Vehicles require no extra clearance. See below for photo of trailhead parking lot.

Restrooms:

1. None at the trailhead, however you can make a stop at one of the nearby Tonto Forest recreational sites on the way. Please allow extra time.
2. At the junction of the Maricopa Trail and Wind Cave trailhead parking lot, about 3 miles into the hike.

Link to Map: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/wind-cave-via-maricopa-and-pass-mtn-trails-hike-3200dca

**********************************
Carpool Options (once at the carpool location, self-organize whoever shows up, then arrive at the event by start time).

NOTE: We do not guarantee rides, or that anyone will even show up at the location. It is just offered as a possibility for those who would like to self-organize to carpool.

• Fountain Hills - Target (16825 E Shea Blvd, Fountain Hills, AZ 85268). Meet near the Shea Boulevard entrance. The event leader, Steve, will there by 8:20AM, and depart promptly at 8:25AM in order to be at the trailhead before 9AM.

• Mesa - Home Depot (6838 E Superstition Springs Blvd, Mesa, AZ 85209) exit S. Power Rd, meet in front of BK at 8:25 AM. Depart at 8:30 AM.

************************************
Food Option, Post-Hike: All American Sports Grill, 16872 E Ave of the Fountains, Fountain Hills (by the lake)

************************************
Below are Best Practices and Essentials for Hiking:

• Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
• Caution: be aware that physical demands of hiking are typically more strenuous than exercising in a gym
• Gauge your physical fitness as much as possible to the fitness level needed for the hike
• Bring PLENTY of water- a good rule of thumb is to drink at least 1/2 liter for every hour you hike. A standard Nalgene water bottle is 1 Liter.
• Pack everything the night before and use a checklist to make sure you don't forget anything.

REI’s Essentials Checklist

• Navigation: map, compass,(For backpacking: altimeter, GPS device, personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger)
• Headlamp: plus extra batteries
• Sun protection: sunglasses, sun-protective clothes and sunscreen
• First aid: including foot care and insect repellent (as needed)
• Knife: plus a gear repair kit
• Fire: matches, lighter, tinder
• Shelter: carried at all times (can be a light emergency bivy)
• Snack (energy bar, trail mix, etc.)
• Extra food
• Extra water
• Extra clothes

************************************
WAIVER, RELEASE, AND ASSUMPTION OF RISKS

I hereby waive, release and discharge the Meetup group Hiking, Biking and Socials +40s and its leaders, organizers, members, and participants from any and all claims for personal injury, illness, property damage or death resulting from my participation in any of the group’s events

I acknowledge that the event has risks, and I assume these risks with the full understanding that injuries may result from my participation in any event. I intend this release to discharge the above named from any and all liability arising from or connected in any way with my participation in any event, even though that liability may result from the negligence or carelessness of the above named.

I certify that I am of sufficient physical condition to participate in this event, and that my equipment is in proper condition for use at the event.

I have read this waiver and release and fully understand its terms and agree that it shall be binding on my heirs and assigns. I consent to emergency transportation and care at my own expense if I become injured or ill.

My RSVP and/or participating in this event is my signature on this waiver.