Overview
Hike starts in the McDowell Mountain Regional Park, crosses over and ends in Fountain Hills Preserve.
Hike
The Sonoran Trail traverses the eastern slopes of the McDowell's overlooking Fountain Hills and connects the Dixie Mine Trail with the Promenade Trail at the southern end. From Dixie Mine junction it climbs gradually gaining about 600 accumulated elevation gain in the first 1.5 miles. Eventually, the trail tops out and begins traversing several drainages gaining and losing elevation as it continues south before connecting with Promenade Trail. Trail condition is immaculate by most standards and is typical of trails in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Also because the trail is on the Fountain Hills side there is far less hiking traffic than on the Gateway side making this short trail a pleasant hike.
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Because the Sonoran Trail is accessed from Dixie Mine Trail hikers must first drive to the Dixie Mine Trail Head at the end of Golden Eagle Blvd (see trailhead directions). Hike past the guard station from Dixie Mine Trail Head following the feather imprints on the sidewalk through the neighborhood that will lead you to the trail entrance. At the entrance, there is a fee station. From there follow Dixie Mine Trail 0.6 miles to the signed junction with Sonoran Trail.
When hiking several trails on a single "hike", log it with a generic name that describes the hike. Then link the trails traveled, check out the example.
WARNING! Hiking and outdoor related sports can be dangerous. Be responsible and prepare for the trip. Study the area you are entering and plan accordingly. Dress for the current and unexpected weather changes. Take plenty of water. Never go alone. Make an itinerary with your plan(s), route(s), destination(s) and expected return time. Give your itinerary to trusted family and/or friends.
McDowell Mountain Regional Park Regional Park 2023
Vehicle entry $7.00
Hike/Bike/Equestrian $2.00
Directions
Road
Paved - Car Okay
To hike From Loop 101 and Shea Blvd head east on Shea Blvd for 7.8 miles. Then turn left on N Palisades Blvd and continue 1.6 miles. Turn left onto Sunridge Dr for 2.7 miles. Then turn left onto E Golden Eagle Blvd and continue 0.5 miles. Turn left into the Dixie Mine Trail Head just before the guard station.
Route Editor
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