Pointe Tapatio Golf Course Loop #1, AZ

The hike begins by dipping into a wash to look at a rusted-out old car. No idea how it got there. Then head south skirting the housing area. When you turn north into a small canyon, you begin the first of three short, but steep ascents.


At the top of that first climb, are good observation points both east and west, for viewing sunrise or sunset. Continue north descending to Trail 100 and the Sheriff's Posse corral. Turn east on Trail 100. Turn north at the first wash, then west up the steepest ascent of the hike. (130 feet in a tenth of a mile, equates to 1300 feet over a mile, or a 25% grade.)Drop back down, then continue east up the Golf Course Ridgeline, from whence this hike draws its name. Marvel at people paying big bucks to chase small white balls. The max elevation of 1686 feet is reached at the far east end of the ridgeline. Continue east to Thunderbird, where there is a mountain preserve sign. Cross the wash, then curl around the north and east edges of the hill at Thunderbird and Cave Creek. Descend into, and cross the wash to join back up with Trail 100. Turn west. Continue west on Trail 100 until you see the housing area you began from.

Trail 100 continues along the north edge of the ridgeline, but you should take the split along the ridgeline's south edge. After a bit, the trail turns south back to the trailhead. Wildlife: Owl, coyote, javelina, fox, homeless people. (If you do the hike near sunset, keep an eye out for the owl.)

2011-05-02 kingsnake