MODERATE: Ranger Trail from South Central to Ramada, in and out

Moderate Plus: Ranger Trail from South Central To Ramada out & back at South Mountain
Hike leader: Jack Rubino, (602) 510-9959

Trailhead: Ranger Trailhead at South Mountain

Note: This is a moderate plus hike due to the AEG of over 1000 feet.

Hike Description: Ranger Trail from South Central (see AllTrails) starts with a false flat up to the summit road and then a series of switchbacks up to National Trail where we walk along the ridgeline, and descend to the Ramada where we’ll stop for a snack. Pace will be as the incline dictates. Round trip hike time is about three hours. Trekking poles advised for the descents. Lots of climbing and descending on this hike. Excellent views to the north and south of South Mountain. Might be some hang gliders launching.
Hike Distance: 5.3 miles
Accumulated Elevation Gain: Approximately 1266 feet
Trailhead Elevation: 1200 feet
Driving Distance: 49 miles R/T
Drivers Fee: $4
Trailhead facilities: None. No toilets, no water at TH.

Restrooms: See comment below. No restrooms at the Circle K at Central and Dobbins. The best bet for restrooms coming and going is one of the fast food restaurants along Baseline.

Meetup: 6:45 Cottonwood parking lot

Driving Directions: If using Google Maps enter “Ranger Trailhead”. Using AllTrails search for “Ranger Trail from South Central”.

From Cottonwood parking lot go north to Riggs Road and turn left; drive 2.5 miles to I-10 west towards Phoenix. Stay on I-10 west for 21.5 miles and then take the Baseline Road exit. At the bottom of off-ramp turn left onto Baseline (west) and then travel for 9.6 miles. Turn left onto Central Avenue and go 2.4 miles (your navigatrion app might suggest a left (south) turn at 20th Street and that will get you there fine). There are two gate houses at the park (no fee required). After we pass through the first gate we might stop at the second gate where the restroom facilities in the Ranger building are still closed and under repair. There are four of the nastiest post-DOGE port-a-potties located here for your use, if you dare. Half mile after the Ranger building turn left following the sign for "Five Tables" (not “Three Tables”), then take the first right and park at the TH (disregard the “Exit” arrow markings on the road which marks the route out of the TH parking lot). Meet you at the ramada. Suggest you exit to the left out of the TH parking lot when you depart after the hike.
Hike leader: Jack Rubino, (602) 510-9959