MODERATE: Go John/Overton Loop Hike
Details
Hike Leaders: Ron Deraas (701-263-5605) & Joan Carlisle (254-931-2601)
Hike Category: Moderate
Hike Title: Go John/ Overton/ Clay Mine Loop
Date: Monday, December 28, 2026
Trailhead: Cave Creek Regional Park; Go John Trail Trailhead Parking
Description: Hike is located at the Cave Creek Regional Park. This park, in addition to several trails has a campground, picnic areas and a horse corral. The area is known for its geologic formations, scenic views in all directions and Sonoran Desert flora/fauna. This trail is well marked with changing trail conditions. Initially it is well groomed with loose stone, but as the trail progresses the rock size will increase and climbs/descents will be solid rock formations. However, no rock scrambling will be encountered.
The trail starts out pretty level but does start climbing and descending over a few smaller passes. We will be hiking several ridge lines around the tallest peak of the park. Near the half way point, we will see a boundary/gate with the Maricopa Trail system leading to the Spur Cross trail. Around the 4.5-mile point is the intersection with the Overton Trail.
At this point two opinions are available. Opinion 1: Turn right and hike along the Overton Trail. It will descend for 1.5 miles and come to the Clay Mine Trail. We will turn left onto Clay Mine and ascend to connect with the Go John Trail. A right turn onto Go John will bring us back to the parking lot. NOTE: The Overton and Clay Mine trails are heavy horse traffic trails. Option 2 is to stay on Go John (not take Overton), climb to a saddle and then descend to the main parking lot. Option 2 is about 1 mile less travel but an additional slow climb to the saddle.
Hike Distance: 6.8 miles, loop
AEG: approx. 880 ft
Driving Distance: 63 miles, 1 hour 4 min.
Driver’s fee: $7; shared $10 vehicle entrance fee
Trailhead facilities: flush toilets
Driving directions: If using Apple or Google maps enter "Go John Trailhead"
Follow AZ-101 Loop N; Take exit 34
Turn right on N Scottsdale Rd
Turn left on Carefree Hwy
Turn right onto N 32nd St which becomes Cave Creek Pkwy
Turn left onto Tonalite Dr and left to Go John TH parking
MEETUP: 7:30 AM at Cottonwood Flagpole parking lot for 7:45 AM departure