Phoenix, AZ: Valley of the Sun Chapter, Holiday Walk to the Helipad

Holiday @ Helipad – Moderate walk to see the Christmas Tree on Helipad Hill but back in time to drive by the Ahwatukee Christmas Lights along Chandler Blvd.
Total distance: 4 miles moderate
Time: ~ 2 hours (leisurely pace)

Each year someone carries a Christmas tree to the top of Helipad Hill in Ahwatukee. You have to see it to believe it and in my 30+ years of living in Phoenix, I have yet to make the climb. Join me and cross this off our Holiday Nice-to-do List.

We will walk along Desert Classic Trail which is mostly flat and then take the Guadalupe Perimeter Trail to the Helipad. This trail is mostly smooth but definitely gains in elevation so bring your lungs and your poles. It is rated moderate for the 300 ft of elevation gain yet the climb is steady vs. steep. We will have a chapter ornament for attendees to sign and put on the tree.

NOTE: Do not plan on taking the fastest way home! Be sure to drive East on Chandler Blvd so that you can enjoy the spectacular Ahwatukee Lights – one of the best Holiday drives in the Valley.

BRING: Water, flashlight or headlamp, and an ornament for the tree (optional).

Facilities: There are bathrooms and water at the trailhead.