MODERATE PLUS: Gila Trail (NEW HIKE)

Gila Trail is a NEW HIKE for the club using Chandler Blvd Trailhead.

Location: South Mountain
Hike Leader: David Coffman 425-330-2183
Distance: 6.3 miles

Trailhead elevation: 1,259 feet, AEG: 1300 feet

Driving Distance: 36 miles R/T

Driver's Fee: $3

If using a GPS application enter Bursera Trailhead for directions.

The hike starts from the TH for Bursera and Gila trail; formerly Pyramid trail.
This is an in and out hike on the Southwest side of South Mountain.
The first mile and last mile of the hike is relatively flat. Starting out on the Bursera Trail and Lost Ranch Trail before joining the Cholla Flats Loop and then the Gila trail.
Expect a good workout with some steep climbs, especially during the 2nd mile, ascending switchbacks to Gila Peak. We will see some great views of the Estrella Mountains and Ahwatukee and hopefully the rock Pyramid at Gila Peak.
From the peak we start hiking the breezy ridgeline on the Gila Trail with rollercoaster dips and climbs swooping for a mile before we intersect with the National Trail and head down to the Ramada on top of Telegraph Pass for a snack break; which is our turn around point.
We then head back to Gila Peak and descend to the starting trails and parking lot.
Hiking this trail in the winter usually leads to more wildlife sightings and winter flowers. Check your boots for good tread (needed for the rough trail and loose rocks). Hiking poles are suggested.

Directions:
Apple Maps: Enter Area 620 Trailhead
Google Maps: Enter Bursera Trailhead

Proceed from Cottonwood to Loop 202 Westbound via (a) Riggs to I-10 then north to Westbound 202, (b) Dobson to Price to Westbound 202.
Proceed westbound on the 202 to 17th Ave exit 62. Turn right on 17th and proceed 1 mile to Chandler Boulevard. Turn left on Chandler Boulevard and travel about 1 mile to the trailhead on the right.
Note the trailhead is about a 1/4 past the new Firehouse.

Leader: David Coffman 425-330-2183