Goat Camp Trail - White Tanks, AZ

Overview
Goat Camp Trail is your southernmost entry to White Tank Regional Park's backcountry. Compared to its two counterparts, Mesquite Trail and Ford Canyon, it is the most strenuous, partially due to its rocky terrain. After the climb up, the reward is a 3 mile, blissful stroll in the heart of the White Tank Mountains.


Hike
From the start of your hike, you are surrounded by classic desert scenery. Several large, rugged outcrops and the broad, tower-infested ridge of Peak 4018 paint the picture in front of you. Though it's tempting to look up, you'll want to watch your step frequently to keep from tripping. The trail crosses Black Canyon's wash just before mile marker one and doesn't get any less rocky. Half a mile later, you'll pass under a couple of mesquite trees to find a perfect rock bench on your left. Have a seat and take a breather. This is where things get fun.

The trail crosses the dry bed of Goat Canyon, followed by several switchbacks before skirting along the slopes of the canyon for half a mile. During this 570ft climb, you'll have great views of the prominent, thumb-like outcrop to the north (I like to refer to it as the Goat Thumb), as well as some incredible cliffs to the south. There will be plenty of time to admire the beautiful scenery as you stop to catch your breath. You'll top out at a nice bed of sand and small dryfall, then do a quick zigzag up some boulders to reach the second-mile marker.

The views continue as you enter a small valley. The once distant Peak 4018 looms above directly in front of you. While the rockiness subsides slightly, the climbing is yet to be over. Near the head of Goat Canyon, the trail bends to the north and begins a 220ft climb to the top of a ridge. The footing here can be loose, especially on the way down, so use some caution. The ridge makes for a lovely destination; however, turning around here would be a big mistake.

The remaining three miles are the big payoff that makes up for all of your hard work. It is groomed to perfection wherever possible, and despite some minor ups, the majority of it is an either flat or very gradual downhill. It's the perfect showcase with views east to the Valley of the Sun, numerous canyons, and the tallest peaks in the White Tanks. The best part is you won't be stumbling with every step you take, so go ahead and stare! When you reach the end of the trail, you can head back the way you came, loop around with Mesquite Trail, or do 11 more miles with Ford Canyon and Mule Deer for the complete White Tank Loop.

Water Sources
None on the trail. There is a spigot at the trailhead.

Camping
The nearest camping is located in the park. See here for details.

Check out the Official Route and Triplogs.

Leave No Trace and +Add a Triplog after your hike to support this local community.

2012-04-23 PatrickL