Scottsdale, AZ: Valley of the Sun Chapter, Granite and Cholla Mountain Loop Hike

Jan 22, 2022 9:00AM—1:00PM

Location

Scottsdale McDowell Sonoran Preserve - Granite Mountain Trailhead - 31402 N 136th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85262. From Hwy 101 take Pima Rd North for 6.8 miles to Dynamite Blvd. Turn right on Dynamite and follow for 6.1 miles (name changes to Rio Verde drive about halfway) to N. 136th Street. You will pass Fraesfield Trailhead just before 136th. Turn left onto 136th and follow it for 2 miles. Granite Mountain Trailhead will be on your left.

Event Contact Tina Strickler | Email

Categories

HIKE LEADER NAME & CELL NUMBER: Steven Coutinho 480-465-9732

This is a slightly longer hike around both Granite and Cholla Mountains in Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve. The beautiful rock formations and lush vegetation make this my favorite local hiking area. Trails are mostly sand and fine gravel, very comfortable to walk on with almost any kind of walking/hiking shoes. Total distance is about 9 miles in flat/undulating terrain, with 600 ft very gradual elevation gain, still under the typical daily Camino distance. Walking time will be about 3.5 hours at our regular easy pace, so expect a total hike time of 4 hours to allow for a few stops along the way.

BRING: Sturdy walking shoes, water, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, snacks if desired. Walking sticks are not required but suggested.

We are balancing our desires to get out and hike with the continued guidance from the CDC and the American Pilgrims on the Camino organization. Therefore, our hiking group shall not exceed 10 people.

Stay home if you are sick or not feeling well. If you are not vaccinated, bring face coverings, like masks or buff/bandanas, to wear upon arrival at the Trail Head.