Plan Your Visit to Cave Creek Regional Park

Maricopa County’s regional park system welcomes thousands of visitors each year. With more than 120,000 acres across the park system, there are many opportunities to explore and enjoy the outdoors.

Visiting a new park can sometimes feel overwhelming if you are unsure what is available. To help make your visit to Cave Creek Regional Park enjoyable and easy to plan, the sample itineraries below offer ideas based on how much time you have.

Visit Ideas by Time Available

One to Two-Hour Visit

If you have a short amount of time, consider one or more of the following activities:

• Take a walk along the Overton and Clay Mine Trails to the Clay Mine. These trails are rated easy to moderate.
• Hike the Overton, Slate, Jasper, and Go John Trails. This route is approximately 1.7 miles and typically takes 1–2 hours.
• Visit the Nature Center to meet park staff and explore the critter viewing area and retail area.
• Enjoy a picnic with friends or family at a picnic area or under a shaded ramada.
• Attend an interpretive program led by a park ranger.
• Walk along the Slate Trail to view the “Michelin Man” rock formation, located approximately 0.5 miles from the Slate Trailhead.

Accessibility Information:

• The Nature Center is accessible and includes accessible restrooms and parking nearby.
• Some picnic areas and ramadas are connected by paved or firm, stable surfaces.
• Trails vary in surface type, width, slope, and terrain. Not all trails may be accessible for mobility devices.
• Benches and shaded areas are available in select locations.

Two–Three-Hour Visit

If you have a few hours to spend in the park, you may enjoy:

• Hiking the Overton and Go John Loop, approximately 3.5 miles, rated easy to moderate.
• Hiking the Go John, Quartz, Slate, and Jasper Trails, totaling approximately 3.3 miles.

Accessibility Information:

• These trails include natural surfaces, elevation changes, and uneven terrain.
• Trail conditions may vary due to weather and maintenance.
• Visitors using mobility devices may wish to consult park staff for trail recommendations.

Three-Hour Visit

With additional time, you may choose to:

• Continue along the Slate Trail to the Flume Trail to visit the historic flume site.

Accessibility Information:

• This route is a shared-use trail with hikers, cyclists, and equestrians.
• Some sections may be narrow or uneven.
• Visitors should be prepared to step aside safely when horses approach.

Four–Five-Hour Visit

For a longer visit:

• Hike the Go John Loop, a 5.8-mile trail rated moderate to difficult.

Accessibility Information:

• This trail includes significant elevation changes, rocky surfaces, and limited shade.
• It is not recommended for visitors using mobility devices.

Ranger Picks

Park rangers recommend the following experiences:

• Feeding Frenzy Programs: Ranger-led programs that explore animal diets and behaviors.
• Archery 101: Introductory archery classes offered several times each month. All equipment is provided. Registration is required.
• Guided Horseback Rides: Available during cooler months through an on-site vendor. Ride lengths vary.

Accessibility Information:

• Visitors are encouraged to contact the park in advance to ask about specific accessibility questions.