On this 4.9 mile hike, we take on the challenge of the Wilderness trail, the newest, most difficult trail in the Preserve. This hike will be led by SCFH Trailblazer DJ Willard who envisioned, designed and played an active role in building this trail. This unique trail is unlike any others in the Fountain Hills McDowell Mountain Preserve. The trail was designed to provide a true backcountry experience and is a narrow, rocky, and primitive path that was intentionally designed to be more demanding than any other trail in the Preserve. It is also the highest trail in the Preserve reaching elevations above 3,000 feet.
On this hike, we follow the Promenade to the Western Trail. About two thirds of the way up Western Trail, we connect to the Wilderness Trail. After the junction of the Wilderness Trail with the Sonoran Trail, we meet the Mesquite Hollow Trail and follow it back to the Promenade to return to the Trailhead. Along the way, you will hear from DJ Willard about the challenges with the design and construction of the Wilderness Trail - another trail hand built by the Trailblazers, all volunteers of SCFH!
Bring two to three liters of water and snacks or lunch. Wear a hat & sturdy boots. Hiking poles strongly recommended. No dogs, please.
Click here to register for this free event: https://www.scfh.org/programs