Follow Piedras Dr. to connect to Kiwanis Trailhead. More interesting scenery than our other hikes so far. There will come another point soon after where the trail seems to end at a long wall of humongous rocks. Its a popular hike that offers amazing views of the valley below, making it a great choice for hikers looking for a challenging and rewarding experience. Proceed to Javelina Canyon Trail. Beverly Canyon Trail will have some short rocky and steep areas that cross the Pima Canyon area on the way to meeting the Desert Classic Trail on the south side of South Mountain. Proceed to Geronimo Trail. Once on the trail it is simple to follow up to the National Trail. South Mountain Park/Preserve Trails Master Plan, Register for Hikes and Outdoor Nature Programs, Learn AboutSouth Mountain Park Trails Master Plan, South Mountain Towers Contractor Information, Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department facility. From Pima Wash Trail, turn right onto Pima West Loop. Gnarly descent. 1. Experience this 2.4-mile out-and-back trail near Phoenix, Arizona. The trail descends down off the hills in the flats, then meanders and undulates until meeting up with the Bajada trail at the San Juan gate area. From there, the trail continues upward to the top of the ridge, where hikers can connect with other trails in the park, such as the Hidden Valley Trail and National Trail. 4. WebMormon Trail South Mountain I'd like to give credit to alltrails for some of my imagery The Mormon Trail The Mormon Trailhead is a popular hiking trail in South Mountain Park and Preserve, located just outside of Phoenix, Arizona. The list below contains all of the passages in order from south to north. Desert FoothillsTrailhead14251 S. Desert Foothills Pkwy. Don't worry, though, it is big enough for most adults to fit through. Though it approaches a mile and a half high, South Pass is the lowest point on the Continental Divide between the Central and Southern Rocky Mountains. It would be terrible to let distractions asphyxiate its virtues. Access: Start at Pima Canyon Trailhead. As always, pack in what you take out! An amazing hike see some of the tallest Saguaro cactus in Arizona. * Please remember to hike at your own risk. WebMormon Trail South Mountain. TRAIL DESCRIPTION South Mountain is one of the most notable mountains in the East Valley due to its different trailheads in Ahwatukee, Chandler, and Phoenix. It is a 1/2 mile walk from the San Juan gate to the start of the trail on the north side of the road. Nearest Town: Phoenix, AZ Fun going through Fat Mans and the slide-through gap. In just under a half-mile, the trail encounters Fat Mans Pass. In order to get to this wild play area, we first need to take a couple of hiking trails. I am in moderate shape. During this incline, you will undoubtedly notice the large boulders in the middle of the trail- just watch your step as these appear in several spots. Yes, you can ride a mountain bike on the road. The Passage Profile refers to the downloadable trail elevation profile available for this passage. How long is Mormon Loop trail? Once you have reached the ending trail marker for Mormon Trail youll see two trail markers. Access: Start at the Park Main Entrance. Proceed to Pyramid Trail. Respect wildlife and stay at a safe distance, as many desert animals can be dangerous. Well worth the hike! 6 People = $500. Most South Mountain Park hiking trails are shared with Mountain Bikers, so be on the lookout as you continue on your hike. spots so either be early or nearby streets. Travel south on Mormon Trail and proceed to National Trail. WebSouth Mountain Park is beautiful and this is a popular trailhead. Trail was mostly up hill with an uneven, rocky path. The Mormon Trail usually followed the north side of the North Platte River west through Nebraska and Wyoming to follow the Sweetwater River farther west. Finally, you will end the loop at Fat Mans Pass, which is a very narrow passageway formed by huge boulders. Again, this is nothing technical, its just how you want to decide what is the best way for you. Absolutely beautiful. The Holbert Trail also provides a route to connect with the National Trail just east of the T.V. We will be doing an intermediate afternoon/evening hike to Hidden Valley via the Mormon Trail. Mormon Trail is pretty short seeing as how it is a little bit over a mile long. The Mormon Trail begins with an immediate incline and it doesnt let up until you are at the junction with National Trail. 4. Access: Start at 19th Ave. Trailhead. Great trail, well marked. Might have had a few bikes out on the loop - all well mannered & no problem! There are a few signs of overuse and even graffiti along this trail, try to set an example to others by reversing some of that damage. The most direct path is to take Mormon Trail to National and then to Hidden Valley. 2. If youre willing to hike another half-mile, you can see the natural tunnel on Hidden Valley Trail. Please turn on JavaScript and try again. Register for Hikes and Outdoor Nature Programs. Proceed to Pima Loop Trail. Sign in. Length 3.6 miElevation gain 925 ftRoute type Loop. 8. Heritage sites, gnarly rock passages and hidden finds. Access: Start at Pima Canyon Trailhead. It took us almost 2 hours. Do it Right." Thank you S Mountain for sharing your land and resources with me today. You'll pass through a small valley area where the scenery completely changes as the trail looks more like sand. There were a few bikers and other hikers. Access: Start at Pima Canyon Trailhead. Although, not a very long trail, it does offer direct access to the National Trail and Telegraph Pass Trail, once you reach the roadway at the trails end. However, the challenging climb is well worth it, as the trail offers some of the best views of the Phoenix area. Alta Trail is steep on both ends as it rises to the crest of the Ma Ha Tuak Range in South Mountain Park. These are some of the best views in my opinion! Do not expect to receive a spot in the lot (not along the road) if you want to hike in any combination of: weekends, during tourism season, before noon. From there, we will make our way through Hidden Valley and scramble over a variety of interesting rock formations. Once we lose our sense of wonder and the ability to see beyond loud, immediate things on a hiking trail, whats left are rote progressions chronicled on Instagram. Continue right onto Pima Wash Trail. Access: Start at the Park Main Entranced. Open full screen to view more. As you continue to follow the signs for Mormon Trail, you will eventually come across a sign that point's out Fat Man's Pass on the left. Request Tour (602) 628-8175 Send an Email Highlights Here are some of the most popular amenities Patio Floor Plans 1 unit available 4+ Bedrooms 4 bed 3 bath 2283 sqft Access: Start at Mormon Trailhead to connect to Mormon Trail. This trail is great for hiking, mountain biking, and trail running. Access: Start at Pima Canyon Trailhead. Access: Start from Warpaint Dr. Access Trailhead. This trail also provides alternative routes through connections with the Derby Loop, Bajada Trail, and Las Lomitas Loop, while traveling upward to the roadway. WebMormon Trailhead: 8610 S. 24th St. Beverly Canyon Trailhead: 8800 S. 46th St. Pima Canyon Trailhead: 9904 S. 48th St. Telegraph Pass Trailhead: 14251 S. Desert Foothills Parkway Trailhead Hours: 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. Gated entrances will close at 7, but trails remain open until 11 p.m. Remember to take short breaths, to drop your pack or hold it over your head, and to take your time squeezing through the two boulders. After 1 mile, the trail slows its steady incline as you reach the first intersection. Any GPS, map, or phone app will be able to get you to the right place. There are a lot of bikes. Not a trail for the faint at heart. To learn more please refer to our Hiking Disclaimer. At the west end of Hidden Valley there is a 'Fat Man's Pass' and naturally smooth rock 'slide.' Continue right onto Pima Wash Trail. Youll wait for some people but its still pleasant. On average it takes 1 minutes to complete this trail. //]]> Access: Enter from the Park Main Entrance and proceed on Stephen Mather Dr. to connect to San Juan Rd. Getting there: From central Phoenix, go south on Seventh Avenue to Baseline Road. Instead of hiking down the rocks below, if you look to the right you will notice a little side path where you can get down by walking around the bigger rocks which feels much safer. WebThe portion of the Overland Trail in Wyoming, especially between Fort Bridger and Cheyenne Pass, had been scouted eastwards in 1850 by Captain Howard Stansbury of the U.S. Topographical Engineers, who was looking for an overland trail south of the Mormon-Oregon Trail in order to avoid the heavy snows of the more northern route. And by narrow, I really mean narrow! The parking lot for the trail-head will be on your right, at this curve. 3. (Meet by the veranda). Proceed to Dirt Road Trail. Mormon (Mormon Loop to National) is a 1,145 ft popular blue singletrack family friendly trail located near Phoenix Arizona. The trail is steep and rocky, with loose gravel and occasional switchbacks. Elevation: 1,280-2,080 feet. So while it may get you breathing heavy and your heart rate up, it wont take too long to do so. Proceed to Warpaint North to connect to Desert Classic by taking a left. This is a popular rest and picture spot! Directions: Head south on 24th Street, dead ends into E Valley View Dr. (additional overflow parking on 24th St., as well as E Euclid Ave.) This hike, as described, is a straight shot to Fat Mans Pass, and a straight shot back. The Mormon Trailhead is a popular hiking trail in South Mountain Park and Preserve, located just outside of Phoenix, Arizona. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 5 min to complete. But, in case you are not able to fit, no worries! Yes, leashed pets are allowed on the trail. Judging from trail wear, lots of people start this trail, but most don't go far. WebFeaturing city views, desert life and distinct rock formations, South Mountains Hidden Valley Trail stands out among the areas best loops. WebThe Mormon Trail is 1,300 miles long and extends from Nauvoo, Illinois to Salt Lake City, Utah. Take, for instance, the Mormon Trail-Hidden Valley Loop in South Mountain Park. Mile 1.0: After a challenging climb, youll reach a saddle with sweeping views of the valley. I would suggest starting Hidden Valley at the Fat Mans Pass end. At around a total of 1.9 miles there may be some confusion. At times, there will flat rocks to hike down and/or up but the trail will be clear to see once over the rock section. Access: Start at the 19th Ave. Trailhead to connect to Ma a Tauk Trail. difficulty rating. If crowds really annoy you, go on a weekday. WebMormon Pioneer National Historic Trail National Park Service 324 South State Street, Suite 200 Salt Lake City, Utah 84111 801-741-1012. past the gate for 0.5 mi to connect to Alta Trail to your right. The trail continues along traversing the hill until it ends at the Max Delta Trail. Especially for the hike back down. WebNational Trail: A favorite on South Mountain. This is a very popular area for birding, hiking, and mountain biking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Phoenix is so big its hard to give general directions that are accurate. This blog was thoughtfully written by Danielle Rodriguez. Proceed leftto Marcos De Niza Trail. Coming up in the opposite direction, much of your view would be blocked by the boulders and it might be more difficult to navigate. With its moderate difficulty level and easy accessibility, the Mormon Trailhead is a great option for hikers looking to experience the beauty of South Mountain. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 34 min to complete. TBD S Mormon Flat Rd, Golden Valley, AZ 86413 | MLS# 999759 | Redfin HOT HOME Street View See all 16 photos TBD S Mormon Flat Rd, Golden Valley, AZ 86413 $20,000 Est. From Fat Man's Pass, you can begin the hike back to the trailhead, or continue through Hidden Valley (if you have done your research and know where to go). Proceed right to Pima Wash Trail. WebAt more than 16,000 acres, South Mountain Park/Preserve is one of the largest municipally managed parks in the nation and consists of three mountain ranges - the Ma Ha Tauk, Gila and Guadalupe. Wear sun protection such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to prevent sunburn and heat exhaustion. Always carry a first aid kit and emergency supplies, including a whistle and a map or GPS device. These are busy trails on weekdays and insanely busy trails on the weekends, be sure not to leave any litter behind, and to stay on the designated path. Beyond the tunnel, go right at the National Trail junction and follow the route 1.4 miles to the Mormon Loop Trail. Bring your game. Proceed to Max Delta Trail. Ramada Usage inSouth MountainPark/Preserve: The ramadas inSouth Mountain Park/Preserveare available for public use, andseveral require a reservation. The trail will dip down and then flatten itself out. Took us 2:57, we took pic etc. The buckles are only available to finishers who complete the survey and are made available at no cost thanks to our friends at Follow the loop back to the intersecting point with National and return home the way you came. November 1 to April 30 - 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. This multi-use trail can be used both directions and has a moderate overall physical rating with a 17 ft blue climb. This area is so wide that you are able to walk up to these rocks and climb, inspect and explore what is around them. Access: Start at Geronimo Trailhead. When approached from a see-the-forest perspective, even oft-maligned, old standard trails can qualify as top destinations. This scenic trail offers hikers stunning views of the desert landscape and a glimpse into the areas history with its historic stone houses and other landmarks. The trail will start out easy and flat, then ascend up and traverse the hills behind the ranger station. Loved this trail. You can alternatively make this a loop as a part of the Mormon Trail Loop, or you can add a loop at the Hidden Valley trail, following Fat Mans Pass through and continuing on the trail to add another half mile to the trail. The symbolto the rightof each trail name represents the Hang a left and walk the 1.1-mile return leg that traces a ridgeline embellished with a major rock-art site and a wash with many more petroglyphs etched by the ancient Hohokam people who were active in the area from roughly 450 to 1450. The Mormon Trailhead is a popular hiking trail in South Mountain Park and Preserve, located just outside of Phoenix, Arizona. The big-picture takeaway is that the Mormon Trail-Hidden Valley Loop is a wonderful hike just a few miles from downtown. Check. Mormon Trail starts off with an immediate incline. This trail offers a steady climb to the upper areas of South Mountain Park. During the Summer, starting before 7AM is recommended to avoid the sweltering heat. To start with the shorter Hidden Valley Loop, continue straight ahead on Mormon Trail and head right on the National Trail. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. I would like to think you're ripping the band-aid off straight away. WebMeet at the trailhead at 8:30 am. Access: Start at the Park Main Entrance. 5. Chandler Blvd. Might have been more hikers on the access trail to the loop - but all considerate & respectful! Exact location will be sent when your reservation is confirmed. Additionally, the roadways throughout the parkare a favorite forbicyclists. Turn left on Baseline, left again onto 24th st., and follow the curve through the neighborhood until you reach the parking lot at 8610 S. 24th St., Phoenix, AZ 85042. WebMormon Trailhead 8610 S. 24th St. Hidden Valley Trail Access: Start at Mormon Trailhead to connect to Mormon Trail. 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