Moderate: Amphitheater/Cathedral Rock-McDowell Sonoran Preserve
Details
*Meetup at 6:30 am for 6:45 am Departure*
Hike Category: Moderate
Hike Title: Amphitheater/Cathedral Rock McDowell Sonoran Preserve
Hike Distance: 8 miles (lollipop)
Trailhead: Granite Mountain TH, 31402 N. 136th St., Scottsdale
Description:
We hike several trails in the northern region of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, taking in the rock formations of Balanced Rock, the Amphitheater, and Cathedral Rock. The mid-section of the hike is a loop around Cholla Mountain. The trails are fairly smooth and there are no steep ascents or descents (except for possible exploration around the rock formations).
Hike Distance: 8 miles (lollipop)
Trailhead Elevation: 2570 ft.
AEG: 600 ft.
Driving Distance: 48 miles one-way
Driver’s fee: $8
Trailhead facilities: Restrooms
Hike leaders: Henry Silberblatt (480-895-1133) & Diane Alessi (480-277-5359)
MEETUP: 6:30 AM at Cottonwood Flagpole parking lot