Overview: This is a new trail (as of December 2011) in the southern part of the Cave Creek Recreation Area. It can be used to create a short loop or to extend the Go John Trail loop for a longer hike. The views are nice and provide a pleasant change from those on this section of the Go John.
Hike: I did this hike as an extension of the Go John Trail, which I hiked in the clockwise direction. At 4.60 miles (N33 50.247 W111 59.176) on the Go John the new Quartz Trail goes left at a signed junction. The trail is well graded and easy to follow. It decends for a short distance then climbs gradually for about 1/4 miles. Then it decends gradually losing 300 feet while following the contours around the hills in the southern part of the park. The trail is 1.35 miles long and ends at the Slate Trail at N33 49.619 W111 59.290. Turn right onto the Slate Trail. From here you can follow the Slate Trail to its terminus south of the Go John trailhead or turn right on the Jasper Trail which will bring you back to the Go John, where turning left will bring you back to the trailhead. This was a total of 7.0 miles, adding about 1.2 miles to the Go John loop.
A shorter route would be to hike from the trailhead on the Slate Trail, left on the Quartz Trail and left on the Go John to return. I estimate this to be about 3.5 miles. Other options are available using the Slate and Flume trails as well.
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.
$7 per vehicle,$85 annual or trade your first born for the life pass
$2 walk, bike or horse ride into park
Directions
Road
Paved - Car Okay
To hike Directions to hike: Take 17 North to the Carefree Highway (Exit 223). Head east on 74/Carefree Highway. Turn left (North) onto 32nd Street. About a mile and a half up the road you enter the Cave Creek Park area. After the gate continue past the visitor center and turn left on the paved road to the Go John trailhead.
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