Friday Dreamy Draw More Sunset and City Lights (Int)

Join us for a relaxed evening hike at Phoenix Mountains Preserve! You said you wanted more city lights, so here it is!
On this hike, you'll see many of the best city views at Dreamy Draw as well as a lovely Arizona sunset.
The hike is intermediate difficulty. We'll take enough breaks to ensure everyone can make it, but it may be difficult for a new hiker. The hike is mostly shaded until we get to Irregular Link and is timed to catch an amazing sunset. We hike at a moderate pace where we stay together and nobody is left behind. We always encourage you to meet new and interesting people from Phoenix and beyond!

We'll take the outer loop of Dreamy Draw Nature Trail over to Perl Charles trail before we head up the Irregular Link, a slightly more difficult trail with much better views of different parts of the city. Most of the views from Irregular Link face west so the sunset should be great! The trail has more elevation gain divided between a few switchbacks that make it manageable, with sections that are narrow and bit rocky. Each switchback shows new and better views. At the top of Irregular Link, we will head a few switchbacks up Freedom trail to one of my favorite hidden overlooks that looks directly west before we head back. On the way back, we'll rest at a vista that overlooks the Central corridor/Downtown. There is a short optional climb to make the views even better! Then we'll head back the way we came! Please bring a flashlight or headlamp!

Distance: 3.8 miles in and out
Time: approx 2 hours +/- 15 minutes
Elevation gain: 900-950 ft
Leashed and well-behaved dogs: usually welcome, but prohibited by city ordinance due to heat! Please, no dogs.

We’ll meet at the area by the water fountains, which are at the largest structure visible from the parking lot at 6:35pm, and head out promptly at 6:40pm. Sunset is at 7:42 so please be on time. The meeting spot is at the very top of the stairs. If you see trail maps just turn around and you're in the right spot. My phone is 303-596-0206 if you need to find us. See you there!

Trail Composition: Compacted dirt, loose rocks, gravel

Bring: WATER (2-3 liters), hats and sunscreen.

DRIVING DIRECTIONS: The Dreamy Draw Recreation Area is located at the END of Northern, just East of SR-51. The park access gate closes promptly at 7:00 pm but the exit gate is always open. If you are coming either North or Southbound on SR-51, take exit # 7 (Northern).

Please understand, hiking has its dangers. By signing up and attending this, and any 3H events, you are responsible for your own safety, and organizers and their assistants cannot be held responsible for any injuries or other mishaps that may occur.