The Maricopa Trail is 315 miles of pathways, paved sidewalks, canal walkways, asphalt roadsides and standard desert trails around the Valley that connect most of the Regional Parks in the Maricopa County system and pass through several land agencies, towns, cities and locales along the way! This guided walk is designed to help 100 Miles in 100 Days Challenge participants meet their “third park” requirement by traveling on a segment of the Maricopa Trail. (You can learn more about the Challenge via the link below!). This walk is also open to non-participants who want to explore the Maricopa Trail in a non-mountain park setting. This walk can be either a one-way for 5.5 miles (You must make travel arrangements ahead of time to be dropped off/picked up or have a vehicle at BOTH the start and end points) OR an out-and-back walk for 11 miles (Add 2 hours for the return trip, not Ranger-guided). The starting point is Goldmine Trailhead on the north side of San Tan Mountain Regional Park and the end point is Mansel Carter Oasis Park (19535 E Appleby Rd, Queen Creek, 85142). If you park a vehicle inside San Tan’s lot, a $10 day use fee or Annual Pass is required. There is no fee to park at Mansel Carter Oasis Park. From the Goldmine Trailhead we will walk on compacted dirt, cement sidewalks and asphalt walkways in neighborhoods and along the Sonoqui Wash trail. The terrain is flat and level. We discuss local history along the way, including the story of local “Mountain Man” Mansel Carter and make a brief stop at the historic Desert Wells Stage Stop site along Sossaman Road. Wear comfortable, lightweight walking shoes, like what you would wear for a walk along your neighborhood sidewalks. It is recommended to dress in layers that can be taken off and either tied around your waist or easily stuffed in your bag/backpack. Wear a hat and sunscreen. There is little shade along the route. Bring plenty of water. Restrooms are water fountains are available at Goldmine Trailhead and Mansel Carter Park, but not along the way.
This hike is a great way to make progress towards your goal if you are participating in Maricopa County Parks “100 Miles in 100 Days” hiking challenge (Nov. 1-Feb. 8). For more information, please visit our webpage here: https://www.maricopacountyparks.net/things-to-do/activity/100-miles-in-100-days-challenge/
MEETING LOCATION: Goldmine Trailhead entry booth at the end of Wagon Wheel Road. (San Tan Mountain Regional Park)
Exact Location (Google Maps): https://maps.app.goo.gl/9fjqpug619F7EZBh8
Park Map: https://www.maricopacountyparks.net/assets/1/6/san-tan-8x11.pdf
Limit 30 participants. To register, please call the San Tan Nature Center at (602) 506-2930 ext. 7 with your name, phone number and number of people attending. If you find you cannot attend a program after you have registered, please call the Nature Center ASAP so we may contact those on the waiting list. Registration for this program will close on 12/31.