MODERATE: East Loop, Javelina & Partial Ridgeline at South Mountain

MODERATE: EAST LOOP, JAVELINA, & RIDGELINE - partial AT SOUTH MOUNTAIN PARK
Hike leader: David Coffman 425-330-2183 and Jim Bauer 630-485-1397
Date: April 28, 2025
Trailhead: Pima Canyon Parking lot which has multiple trails
Description: Loop
The first 1.75 miles of the trail has gradual grades with views of the golf course and homes surrounding the golf course on the East Loop trail. We continue hiking this trail until it connects with the Pima Canyon Trail where we hike by condos and past the start of the Ridgeline trail to the north side of the mountain and the start of the Javelina Trail. The Javelina Trail includes a mile plus of gradual climb to a saddle where the Ridgeline and Javelina Trail intersect. We continue hiking ascents & descents of about .3 miles of Ridgeline Trail to where it descends to the Pima Canyon Trail which takes us back to the parking lot.
Like all South Mountain hikes the trail consists of loose rocks and uneven surfaces so good hiking shoes and poles are recommended.
Hike Distance: 6.2 mile loop
Accumulated Elevation Gain: 870 feet
Trailhead Elevation: 1200 feet
Driving Distance: 35 miles R/T 20 minutes
Drivers Fee: $3
Trailhead facilities: nice bathrooms and gathering area
Meetup: 6:45 Cottonwood parking lot

Driving Directions to the Pima Canyon parking lot:

If using a GPS device enter Pima Canyon Trailhead

Leave the Cottonwood parking lot to Riggs Road take left (east) for 2.5 miles to I-10 and go North towards Phoenix for 9.5 miles to the Elliott Road exit and take a left
Go 1/2 mile to 48th Street and take a right go for 1.1 miles to a Y in the road take a left and go for about a block and take a left into the entrance of the Pima Canyon Parking Lot (there is a small unmanned guardhouse at the entrance)
The main parking lot is about 1/2 mile in but if the lot is full numerous parking spots are along the entrance road