Maricopa County

Trail Ratings & Etiquette | San Tan Mountain Regional Park

Trail Rating & Etiquette

During the hotter months, when the temperatures and/or humidity are high, trails will be rated at least one level higher.

Rating Symbol

Brief
Definition

Surface

Grade

Obstacles/
Steps
Teal hollow circle icon indicating easiest trail with minimal elevation change and smooth terrain.
easiest		 Paved Accessible Trail Paved or hard and smooth A navy blue hiker and an individual in a wheelchair. This icon represents a trail with no obstacles and is the easiest trail. None

The solid teal hollow circle represents easy trails in the park.
easy

 Mostly smooth and wide Dirt with occasional unevenness A navy icon of a hiker representing an easy trail. These trails are mostly smooth and wide with dirt and occasional unevenness.      2" or less, rocks and ruts

The solid light blue square represents a moderate trail.
moderate

 Mostly smooth, variable width Dirt with occasional unevenness Navy icon of hikers on a moderate trail. Moderate trails are mostly smooth and vary in width with dirt, unevenness, rocks, and ruts. <8" rocks and ruts, loose material
The white diamond graphic outlined in navy blue represents mostly uneven trails with dirt, rocks, ruts, and loose materials.
moderate difficult		 Mostly uneven surfaces Dirt and rock Navy icon of hikers on a moderate trail. Moderate trails are mostly smooth and vary in width with dirt, unevenness, rocks, and ruts.       <12" rocks and ruts, loose material
Navy blue icon indicating difficult trail with steep grades and rugged terrain.
difficult		 Long rocky segments with possible drops and exposure      Dirt and loose rock with continual unevenness Navy icon of hikers on a moderate trail. Moderate trails are mostly smooth and vary in width with dirt, unevenness, rocks, and ruts. 12" or taller, loose rocks, exposure to drops
Orange icon indicating extremely difficult trail recommended for experienced users only.
extremely difficult		 Long rocky segments with possible drops and exposure      Dirt and loose rock with continual unevenness Navy icon of hikers on a moderate trail. Moderate trails are mostly smooth and vary in width with dirt, unevenness, rocks, and ruts.       12" or taller, loose rocks, exposure to drops, and excessive heat >90F

Trail Rating Card / Black and White Trail Rating Card

Know your ability and choose the right trail

Each year, more than 200 people require rescue while hiking in parks and preserves.

Choosing a trail that matches your ability helps you stay safe and enjoy your time outdoors.

Essential Safety Tips

ALWAYS:

  • Stay on designated trails.
  • Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
  • Carry enough water for your entire hike, including water for pets.
  • Turn around when your water supply is half gone.
  • Bring a charged cellphone.
  • Avoid hiking alone.
  • Wear sturdy footwear and appropriate clothing.
  • Bring a map, know your route, and understand the terrain.

ADDITIONAL OUTDOOR SAFETY REMINDERS:

Carry a Bandana

  • A bandana is lightweight and useful for many situations.
  • If you begin to feel overheated, wet the bandana and place it on the back of your neck or on your forehead.
  • Move to a shaded area, such as under a tree or shrub, to cool down.

Understand Map Miles vs. Effort Miles

  • On well-maintained trails, hikers may travel up to 2.5 miles per hour.
  • On most trails, expect a pace closer to 1 to 1.5 miles per hour, especially if you stop to rest, take photos, or enjoy the scenery.
  • Hiking uphills requires more time and energy. A 1,000-foot climb adds the effort of about one extra mile and may require an additional 10-20 minutes.
  • Downhill hiking may not be faster if the trail is rocky or uneven.

Watch for Wildlife

  • Be alert for rattlesnakes, especially at night or during cooler temperatures when they be more active.

Carry Signaling tools

Items that can help in an emergency include:

  • A whistle.
  • A signal mirror.
  • A brightly colored panel.
  • Matches or another fire-starting tool (where permitted).

Practice Leave No Trace

  • Pack out all trash.
  • Protect plants and wildlife.
  • Help keep trails enjoyable for everyone by minimizing your impact on the natural environment.

Phone: 602-506-2930

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