Mellow+: L. Mine, Granite, Mo Ridge, Ridge, Lower Hawes, Saguaro and Upper Mine

This is a new mellow plus hike in the lower Tonto National Forest near Usery Mountain. It is an upper end mellow hike and a loop hike. Typical low Sonoran desert foliage with some very good panoramic views of Red Mountain and the Salt River at the high points. Although it is only 4.5 miles and an AEG of 350 ft. it has numerous challenging areas. The hike starts out on the Lower Mine trail, then onto the Granite, Mo Ridge, Ridge, Lower Hawes, Saguaro and finishes on the Upper Mine. The hike is mostly a steady climb with lots of ups and downs. At it’s highest point we will pause at the entrance of an old gold mine shaft for pictures. After that we will descend on a fairly steep portion of the Mine trail back to the trail head parking lot. Hiking poles are mandatory. A very good workout. Trails are mainly crushed stone with rocky areas with some loose rocks and several tricky and steep areas.

Driving directions:
East on Riggs to McQueen, north on McQueen to the 202E. Stay on the 202 to Exit #23B (East McDowell Rd.), turn left on McDowell Rd. to Power Rd. (This will be the first street you come to after you turn onto McDowell. Turn right on Power Rd. (eventually becomes Bush Hwy.) After about 3.8 miles from the McDowell/ Power intersection the trailhead parking will be on your left. NOTE: Just before the parking lot you will see a large gun range sign on the right side of the road. We will meet in the parking lot before crossing Bush Hwy. to the trailhead.

NOTE: There are no facilities at the trailhead. After you exit the 202 there are gas stations at both the SE and SW corners of McDowell and Powers.

Hike Distance: 4.5 miles​​ 350 ft. AEG
Drivers Fee $6 Driving distance: 70 Miles
Hike leader: Tim Donovan 248-393-1297