Butterfield Stage: Enid to Xmas Camp, AZ

Maricopa Wells is now on the Gila River Indian Reservation, about a day’s wagon train travel from Christmas Camp. So, this segment starts at the nearest possible point, ¼ mile from the Rez, nine miles west of Maricopa.


0.0 mi.: It is one easy mile of dirt road, around a small hill, to pick up the trail (1.0), which manifests as a distinct wide spot between the creosote. After a half mile of trail, it peters out (1.5). I suspect wagon wear eventually turned into wash. Parallel to the south side of the shallow wash.2.5 mi.: Old ranch / way station / shooting range / who knows on "79th Ave." (Serious!)

3.0 mi.: 83rd Ave. (also dirt).

3.5 mi.: Cross Waterman Wash. Head cross-country, aiming for the south tip of the tan-colored hill (the dump).

5.1 mi.: Arrive at the intersection of 91st Ave. and 99th Ave., at the base of the dump. Lots of truck traffic. Check out the old brick building. If you need, a car could pick you up here, or down 99th Ave. at Mobile School. The trail heads to the southwest corner, but again, it has decayed to wash. (Switch between topo & sat views.) Make your way as best you can to Gas Pipeline Rd.

6.0 mi.: Rejoin the trail at the fiberglass post indicating the old forest road. Follow the road west.

9.7 mi.: The road bends north. At the fiberglass post, turn southwest.

10.3 mi.: On the edge of the Xmas Camp oasis, the road becomes very sandy. In 200 yds. is an intersection: Right to continue on trail, or access the corral/tank; left on also very sandy FR 8003 back to AZ-238.

12.4 mi.: AZ-238, just west of MP 26.

2025-12-05 kingsnake