Overview
This is a connector trail that offers a relaxing, fun path between the Brown's Ranch Road and Watershed Trails. Remnants of the area's ranching history are still visible.
Warning
Textbook desert hike. Bring ample water and be educated about hot weather hiking.
Hike
The most popular entrance to this trail will be from the Brown's Ranch Road Trail. About 0.9 miles from the Brown's Ranch trailhead and parking lot, there is a clearly marked sign designating Maverick. Once on it, there is a very slight incline (not even noticeable to hikers; noticeable to this novice mountain biker) for its first 0.7 miles. After that mid-point, the trail veers toward the south for a slight decline (same) for another 0.7 miles, at which point it intersects with the Watershed Trail. At the Watershed, you can either head north toward what's known as The Amphitheater, or go south to meet the Powerline trail. Either direction involves no noticeable incline, with largely flat terrain.
The trail is what I call fun, in that it is narrow and winding even though it offers no elevation climb that many hikers typically prefer. In other words, if you're looking for a flat hike, this is a fun one. The desert vegetation is lush throughout, and there are nice views of the surrounding hills and mountains like Brown's Mountain.
area related McD Sonoran Preserves - North 2015 - 1
area related Axle & West
One-Way Notice This hike is listed as One-Way.
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.
Permit $$
None
Directions
Road
Paved - Car Okay
To Brown's Ranch Trailhead From the 101 in North Scottsdale, drive North on Pima/Princess drive and go East on Happy Valley Road to the stop sign at the instersection of Happy Valley & Alma School Road. Follow Alma School Road North past Dynamite until it ends at Brown's Ranch Trailhead.
From PHX (I-10 & AZ-51) 34.0 mi - 44m From TUC (Jct 1-10 & Grant) 135 mi - 2h 4m From FLG (Jct I-17 & I-40) 139 mi - 2h 15m
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