I was looking for a new hike close to home and less than 5 miles long to take our Springer Spaniel puppy. With South Mountain in my own backyard, I recalled Javelina Canyon Trail being mentioned in one of my Phoenix trail guides. I could see that a loop hike could be possible by combining Javelina (~1.5 miles), Ridgeline (~0.75 miles), and Beverly (~1.5 miles) for a combined 3.75 miles.

Start your hike from the 46th Street parking lot. The Beverly Canyon Trailhead is at the east end of the parking lot. The Javelina Canyon Trail Head is at the west end of the parking lot. We'll choose to start our loop hike on the Javelina Canyon Trail.

Although the Javelina Canyon Trail is well marked, there is a confusing section when you come to the first wash and side canyon. On the east side of this wash, the trail has been closed and you are directed into the wash. As you come out of the wash on the west side, there is a T-intersection with the trail heading south or north. There is no trail marker at this intersection and the trail seems to be equally traveled in both directions. Take the north fork (this doesn't seem obvious!) and it will soon bend around to the west and into Javelina Canyon proper. The signed posts provide assurance you are along the correct trail. The Javelina Canyon Trail will steadily climb up to the Ridgeline.

At mile 1.53 you will reach the Ridgeline intersection. GPS coordinates for Javelina Canyon - Ridgeline intersection are 33o 21.847 N, 112o 00.351 W. About 2 miles into the loop hike, you will find some inviting shade near a cluster of boulders. Take a break here and enjoy the view. Continue along the Ridgeline until the trail plunges down into Beverly Canyon.

At mile 2.44 you will reach the Beverly Canyon Trail intersection. GPS coordinates for Beverly Canyon - Ridgeline intersection are 33o 21.816 N, 111o 59.629 W. Beverly Canyon Trail has distinctive overhead trail markers. The constant "snap, crackle, pop" of the overhead transmission line certainly provides a rapid contrast to the wilderness-in-the-city philosophy of the South Mountain Preserve. There are multiple washes with ample shaded spots to rest along the way. Beverly Canyon Trail will brush-up against civilization near the trail head.

At mile 3.75 you return to the 46th Street parking lot completing the loop hike. Enjoy!.
- Oct 31 2005 Randal Schulhauser