Route Editor
Route Scout
Overview Hike starts in the McDowell Mountain Regional Park, crosses over and ends in Fountain Hills Preserve. Hike The Sonoran Trail traverses the eastern slopes of the McDowell's overlooking Fountain Hills and connects the Dixie Mine Trail with the Promenade Trail at the southern end. From Dixie Mine junction it climbs gradually gaining about 600 accumulated elevation gain in the first 1.5 miles. Eventually the trail tops out and begins traversing several drainages gaining and losing elevation as it continues south before connecting with Promenade Trail. Trail condition is immaculate by most standards and is typical of trails in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. In addition because the trail is on the Fountain Hills side there is far less hiking traffic than on the Gateway side making this short trail a pleasant hike. Because the Sonoran Trail is accessed from Dixie Mine Trail hikers must first drive to the Dixie Mine Trail Head at the end of Golden Eagle Blvd (see trail head directions). Hike past the guard station from Dixie Mine Trail Head following the feather imprints on the sidewalk through the neighborhood that will lead you to the trail entrance. At the entrance there is a fee station. From there follow Dixie Mine Trail 0.6 miles to the signed junction with Sonoran Trail. Leave No Trace and +Add a Triplog after your hike to support this local community.
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.
