Donnelly Wash Trestle, AZ

Notice
Obey no trespassing signs, stay off private land, and do not enter forbidden areas. This hike may not be legal. Contact admin if you have solid information either way.


This route begins near the "intersection" of the railroad crossing and Cochran Road. The hike tends to run parallel to the rail line westward. The area is popular for ATVs and other off-road vehicles and though the hiking trail is not signed, it is well defined along the route. The hike westward gives nice views of the Gila River and the riparian vegetation along the way. In fact, the entire area is an interesting marriage of typical Sonoran Desert landscape abutting riparian vegetation along the Gila River. Several interesting rock walls were cut to accommodate the rail line to run next to the Gila that provides an interesting backdrop at times.There are a few washes that run perpendicular to the trail that may fill during and after heavy rains as they lead to the adjacent Gila River. At the end of this hike, you will get a nice view of a train trestle as it crosses the Gila River and as the rail line continues over the trestle it goes through a tunnel in the mountainside on the other side of the Gila River. The trail skirts left from this area and ends at a small sandy spot on the Gila River.

Simply enjoy the ample shade here for a short rest and return following this "out and back" the way you arrived.

There are a few spots just off the trail that you can find shade in several spots, but otherwise, the entire trail leaves the hiker exposed so be sure to bring the sunscreen and wear a hat! Also - bring water! There are no opportunities for potable water along this trail.

2015-04-20 capcyclone