Mellow: South Mountain Lost Ranch ***Late Start***

8:45 LATE START
Hike Leader: Nancy Patterson
Lost Ranch – South Mountain
3.0 miles, AEG 300’
Tucked in a canyon of South Mountain is The Lost Ranch. Was it a nudist colony? A home base for the CCC? Its history is clouded in mystery.

Wildflowers may be starting to pop as we begin the trail with a slow ascent. The trail takes a turn and then you can see the ranch in the distance, up the canyon. This is a lovely hike with great views, plenty to explore and places to sit for a snack. This trail is part of a lollypop trail that continues around to explore the Lost Ranch Mine also. We are not doing that portion, but it’s nice to know in case you want to explore another time.

Hiking poles may be useful. There are some areas of loose rock. There are no bathrooms or water at the trailhead.

Driver fee: $3. 18 miles to trailhead

Directions: “Bursera Trailhead” on your phone.

....OR head W on Riggs, N on I-10W, take 202West, N on 17th Ave, W on Chandler Blvd 0.5 miles until you arrive at the trailhead on your right. NOTE: The “old” trailhead was at 19th Ave, but now the trailhead is 0.2 miles farther west of the new Fire Station.