We’re doing a lakeside hike at Saguaro Lake on the Butcher Jones Trail. This is a great out-and-back with shoreline views, and it’s easy to turn around whenever you want based on your pace/energy.
When: Sunday, February 1, 2026 at 8:30 am
## 🥾 Family Hike: Butcher Jones Trail (Saguaro Lake)
Trail: Butcher Jones Trail
Location: Butcher Jones Recreation Area, Saguaro Lake
Vibe: Easygoing, family-friendly, come-as-you-are
Who’s invited: Dads + spouses/partners + kids (all ages welcome)
### 🗺️ Trail Overview (What to Expect)
- Distance: ~5.8 miles out & back
- Families can turn around at any point—no pressure to complete the full trail
- Difficulty: Easy–moderate
- Terrain: Packed dirt, some rocky sections, minimal elevation gain
- Scenery: Lakeside views, desert plants, shaded coves
- Pace: Relaxed, stroller-friendly only in very limited sections (carriers recommended)
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### 🎟️ Parking & Pass (Important)
- Pass Required: Tonto National Forest Day Use Pass
- Cost: ~$8 per vehicle
- Where to get it:
- Purchase on-site at the kiosk or
- Buy ahead online (recommended to save time)
- Display: Place on your dashboard when parked.
Getting there (high level):
Butcher Jones Trail is located at Saguaro Lake in the Tonto National Forest, just northeast of Mesa / Apache Junction. From the Valley, head east toward Saguaro Lake (Bush Highway / Usery Pass area) and follow signs for Butcher Jones Recreation Area.
Once you’re close:
Follow E Butcher Jones Beach Rd all the way to the Butcher Jones Recreation Area parking lot. This is the main access point for the trail and lake shoreline.
Where we’ll be:
We’ll meet near the main trailhead / shoreline area closest to the parking lot. Look for a small group of dads and families gathering near the trail entrance before starting the hike.
Important timing + parking note:
Parking at Butcher Jones can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Please plan to arrive on time or a little early to secure parking and get settled. A Tonto National Forest Day Use Pass is required and should be displayed on your dashboard.
If you arrive a few minutes late, head toward the trailhead and shoreline area — we’ll be nearby and easy to spot.
***
### ☀️ What to Bring
Required / Strongly Recommended
- ☐ Sunscreen (apply before starting + bring extra)
- ☐ Water (more than you think—especially for kids)
- ☐ Hats / sunglasses
- ☐ Comfortable walking shoes
- ☐ Tonto Pass displayed on dashboard
With Kids
- ☐ Snacks (easy, mess-free)
- ☐ Baby carrier (preferred over stroller)
- ☐ Extra clothes for kids (dust + water nearby)
- ☐ Small first-aid kit (band-aids, wipes)
Optional but Nice
- ☐ Bug spray
- ☐ Blanket for lake breaks
- ☐ Camera / phone for photos
- ☐ Light lunch or picnic items
***
### 👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Notes
- This is not a race—stop, snack, explore, turn back anytime
- Kids love the shoreline coves (always supervise near water)
- Dogs are welcome on leash (bring water for them too)
- Expect limited shade midday—sun protection matters
***
### ⏰ Timing & Flow (Suggested)
- Meet-up: Trailhead / parking area
- Start hiking: After quick hellos + sunscreen check
- Midpoint: Snack break / photo stop
- End: Head back whenever your family is ready
***
### 📌 Final Reminder for the Group Post
- Bring your spouse/partner and kids
- Grab your Tonto Day Use Pass
- Sunscreen + water are non-negotiable
- Come to connect, fresh air, and an easygoing hike
***
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