Cave Creek - Midweek Hike - Spur Cross Conservation Area/Tonto National Forest

We will be hiking in the Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area and the Tonto National Forest along Cave Creek (Creek). Approximately half the hike will be on a section of the "Maricopa Trail".

This is an 8 mile RT hike (4 miles in and 4 miles out).

Our goal is to hike to the Petroglyphs and Metates, explore the area, take a snack/lunch break, then return the same way we came.

On the way to the "Petroglyphs" we will be hiking through a "Mesquite Bosque", going by some of the largest "Saguaro Cacti" in the area, passing by the site of the old "Spur Cross Guess Ranch" (only foundations and a pond left). On a recent hike we passed a Bobcat on the trail by the pond.

This is a moderate hike, along Cave Creek that follows old roads and trails that have less than 1,000' of elevation gain/loss.

We suggest hiking poles, we will be making several crossings of Cave Creek and your chances of staying dry increases with poles. Cave Creek is a perennial stream, however it often only flows underground. If there have been recent rains, we may need to do some rock hopping.

Of course if you don't want to do the entire hike you can wait for us to come back or turn around at any time and go back on your own.

Bring at least 2 liters of water, sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection, a personal first aid kit and snacks/lunch.

There is a $6/person entry fee to Spur Cross Conservation Area. Best to bring exact change.

Well behaved dogs welcome.

Feel free to join us after the hike for something cold to drink and a late lunch at "El Encanto" restaurant in Cave Creek. We can watch the ducks and turtles in the pond while we eat.

• Meetup organizers are not first responders, tour guides or park rangers. Expect the same risks and take the same precautions you would take if you were hiking alone. You are solely responsible for your own safety and well-being.
• By signing up for and/or attending this Meetup event, you acknowledge, understand, accept, and agree that hiking and other outdoor activities can be dangerous and can cause serious bodily injury and possibly death. The organizers of this group and current and former members cannot be held responsible or liable in any way for the actions of any participant - including you - at any event.
• All attendees participate at an event at their own risk and are solely responsible for any damage to their property, and/or any injury to themselves or their guests.
• By signing up for and/or attending this Meetup event, you affirm that you understand this disclaimer, and that you knowingly and voluntarily agree not to bring any type of claim arising out of or related to this Meetup event against the organizers of this Meetup group.