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Weekend Warriors
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If a short desert loop hike close to the Phoenix area appeals to you, then you'll like this hike. This hike is located near Fountain Hills, AZ. To get to the trailhead: from the Phoenix area, take HWY-87 North toward Payson. After passing Shea Road (entrance into Fountain Hills) go an additional 20 miles to the well signed Ballantine Trailhead on the right side of the road. The trailhead is right at the dirt parking area. Be Aware of: Road noise (ugh) 30 yr old Recommendation: A good introductory desert hike close to the Phoenix area. Too bad it's so close to the freeway. This hike is rated Easy. Elevation change: about 450 ft
One way elevation gain Distance: About 3 miles for the loop. Time: It took us about 1.5 hours for the loop. Time of year: Winter is best, but any time when the weather is cool would be OK. Solitude: Pretty good considering the proximity of this hike to the Phoenix area. Expect to see 5-15 hikers here. Map: Click here for map From the trailhead, there are two directions to pick from. This hike describes the Pine Creek Loop South to the Pine Creek Loop North. So you'll turn right here at the sign. From this point, the trail climbs steeply up to a hill overlooking the area. It's about 1.25 miles to the top of this hill for the views. Another 0.25 miles of hiking and a slight descent gets you to the intersection of the Ballantine trail and the Pine Creek North Loop (shown on the map as Jct 1). Turn left here to take the Pine Creek North Loop trail back to the parking area. This section of trail is more gradual than the South trail and has better views of Pine Creek. Both sections of hike provide good views of the Sonoran Desert. A short 1.5 miles later will return you to your car.
[hiking along the pine creek loop]
[Start of the Ballantine Trail (and 1/2 way point of loop)]
[More wildflowers]
This hike was done at the end of November, 2006 and again at the end of March 2008. |
