MELLOW: Balance Rock

MELLOW: Balance Rock Trail

The Balance Rock hike is a 4.5-mile loop with an AEG of 285 feet in the Scottsdale McDowell Sonoran Preserve North leaving from the Granite Mountain trailhead. This is one of the favorite hikes of the group. There are facilities at the trailhead with flush toilets but no other water.

Driving directions:

Exit flagpole parking lot to Riggs Rd right turn to Alma School Rd. Turn left onto Alma School Rd north to Hwy 202.
Turn left going west on Hwy 202 and then turn right onto Hwy 101 going north.
Off Hwy 101 take the 2nd ( not the first) Pima Rd exit to the right WHICH WOULD BE EXIT 36.
Follow Pima Rd to E Dyamite Rd. There take a right at the light.
Take Dyamite Rd east and it does change names to E Rio Verde Dr after you pass by N Alma School Rd.
St.
CONTINUE UNTIL YOU GET TO 136th ST.
Turn left onto 136th St and continue to the Granite Mountain Trailhead on your left at Lone Mountain Rd.
Big parking lot so park up close to the building.
Horses are allowed but no donkeys. 😋

One-way driving distance: 45 miles. The driver’s fee is $8.00.
After hike we have an optional lunch at the Pinnacle Peak General Store Restaurant at 8711 E Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale. Retrace your drive back to Pinnacle Peak road off of Pima Rd and take a right turn at light. Go about a block (first left turn) and turn into the General store next to the Shell station. We can sit inside if to hot outside.
From here trace your ride back to Sun Lakes.
Leader is Richard Schugel - Cell: 952-303-1421