In terms of sensory overload, the Pass Mountain Trail functions much like an old 5-disc CD changer to deliver an ever-changing cycle of delights that, once activated, keep spinning.
The 12 km route through Usery Mountain Regional Park in Mesa and the urban-wild interface of the Tonto National Forest is packed with hiking equivalents of gentle vibrations of slow dancing, sultry tangos and hip rhythms. -hop thrilling.
Accessible via convenient trails in the park, the unique rocky trail mixes desert walks, a carousel of vistas, and just enough exposure to the rough mountains to serve as one of the most diverse and closest hikes to. the city in the Phoenix subway.
Park rangers recommend hiking the loop from the Wind Cave or Horse Staging trailhead clockwise (start by going left) for a longer but smoother ascent to the scenic hike saddle .
For those who just want to get to the highest point of view and then go back, this is the ticket. However, loop hikers should consider a counterclockwise approach (go right). It’s harder that way, but it speeds up the tough climb and takes the drudgery out of negotiating a steep, slippery descent on tired legs.
Starting from the Wind Cave trailhead, the trail almost immediately leaves the park boundaries and enters the Tonto National Forest. The relatively flat first half mile passes through classic desert foliage and tousled washes in the shade of pyramid-shaped Cat Peaks.
Over the next mile and a half, views of the Superstition Mountains towering above Apache Junction dominate the eastern horizon as the trail turns north and barely ascends on the face. east of the mountain.
Following:Discover the late-season fall colors on this hike in the Tonto National Forest
Residual glimpses of rooftops and roads are soon engulfed in folds and drainage cuts on the wild side of the mountain.
Below the destination is a valley flush with the saguaros – a U-shaped pass visible on the northern ridge line. The climb to get there is not too difficult until about a half mile from the summit where the road hangs over steep edges and a slickrock ledge for an adrenaline rush before the trail emerges on the price.
Bam! The jerk of wind in your face to climb into the 2,593-foot saddle is a breathtaking experience. With just one bend in the trail, the views make an explosive transition from saguaros and suburbs to layers of mountains and river valleys.
In the foreground, the colorful boulder and layered Goldfield Mountains rise above a ravaged ditch. Behind them, the iconic Four Peaks and rows of wild peaks rise above the Salt River Valley.
With the exception of a few minor drainage crossings and exposure, the rest of the trail is just a moderate walk that hugs the eastern sides of the mountain, stunning views of the Usery Mountains, and hazy glimpses of the mountain. McDowell Range near Scottsdale before switching south and descending to the base of Pass Mountain for the last 2 mile hike to the trailhead.
Following:Easy Scottsdale hike offers mountain views and mushroom rocks
Mountain hiking pass
Length: 7.5 mile loop.
Evaluation: Hard.
Elevation: 1,866 to 2,598 feet.
Getting There : Usery Mountain Regional Park, 3939 N. Usery Pass Road, Mesa. From US 60 at Mesa, take Ellsworth Road (exit 191). Go 6.7 miles north on Ellsworth (which becomes Usery Pass Road) to the park entrance on the right. The trail is accessible from the Wind Cave and Horse Staging Area trailheads. There are toilets at both trailheads.
Admission: $ 7 per vehicle.
Details: https://www.maricopacountyparks.net.
Learn more about the Mare Czinar hikes at http://arizonahiking.blogspot.com.
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