| when | Trip Report : December 19, 2015 | ||||||||
| Trip Report : December 6, 2008 | |||||||||
| where | McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Scottsdale | ||||||||
| the hike |
Starting from the Lost Dog Trailhead the trail climbs over a scenic saddle
overlooking Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural complex and a good
part of the valley.
Then it goes on to join the Quartz Trail, heading into the heart of the
McDowell Mountains.
About 0.3 miles into the Quartz Trail is a spur trail to the right that
leads up to a big Quartz outcrop.
It’s worth the slight detour (about a quarter mile) to see the
unique wall of Quartz.
It’s a bit of a climb too, so that helps get the heart rate up.
Back on the main Quartz trail, we continue deeper into the desert preserve.
The trail follows a wash for the remainder of the hike as you feel more
and more isolated from civilization.
The desert soon envelops you and it is a welcome experience.
The further you get into the desert, the fainter the trail becomes. After about 4.6 miles of total hiking, the trail will peter out. This serves as a good point to have a snack and turn around. Required: • Sturdy hiking boots • At least 3 liters of water • Rain poncho • Hat, sunblock, sunglasses Recommended: • Lunch or snacks • Camera |
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| distance | 9.5 miles | ||||||||
| time | 5 hours | ||||||||
| EC | +-1000' elevation change | ||||||||
| elevations | 1736' (Trailhead) to 2142' (Quartz Trail) | ||||||||
| type | In and out | ||||||||
| starting at |
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| on trail | 100% — Lost Dog Trail, Quartz Trail | ||||||||
| rating | "C+" Rate yourself as a hiker. | ||||||||
| dogs allowed | no | ||||||||
| cost | Sharing gas expenses with the driver. The club also allows voluntary contributions of $5 per non-member. |
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| weather | Fountain Hills | ||||||||
| meet | 7:30 AM at Lost Dog Trailhead. | ||||||||
| drive |
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| updated September 15, 2016 | © Copyright 2016, Arizona Trailblazers. All rights reserved. |