Jewel of the Creek Preserve — Attraction in Cave Creek

This is such a nice leisurely hike. Great for families. We did the whole loop and found a spot where the water is clear and a bit deeper, perfect for some water play. The small lot for the entrance, next to the driveway for the cool green house, fills up fast so just drive a little further down the road to the lots used for Spur Cross. You can also access Jewel of the creek from Dragonfly Trail through the Spur Cross entrance if you're looking to make a longer hike of the day. You will need to pay $3 cash for adults to enter Spur Cross. But Jewel of the Creeks entrance is free. When in Jewel you will see signs telling you when you are leaving the area and entering into the Spur Cross Ranch section that requires a fee, although you can't pay from there and no one is monitoring, they are trusting we...

Absolutely beautiful trail with stunning views. My favorite hike so far in Arizona. I chose the Dragonfly Trail Loop. It's ideal for walking your dog since there are shady spots along the trail. As everywhere in Arizona you need to make sure your dog doesn't get hurt by a cactus though, the leash is a must do.

The trail is also popular for artists who enjoy painting the diverse nature.

The trail has a nice length and is easy enough to walk there with children. It is uneven though and not recommendable for people with walking difficulties, that's why I put it on moderate level.

The parking at the trail is difficult on the weekend, but there are parking spots available at the grand parking lot down the road - a trail...

Outstanding, quiet, extra parking further up. Well maintained trail. Good family outing, easy exploration. The creek below was colorful with yellow, gold leaves changing colors and the wind rustling through sounding like water trickling. Discovered a cave like do not enter abandoned old mine opening. The creek was dry with a small puddle under a narrow walking plank like bridge.

Enjoy the fields of old saguaro cacti interspersed with cholla ( jumping) cacti. The hills/mountain makes a nice backdrop. We went on Dragonfly trail.

Water, hat, sunscreen is your friend. We didn't need hiking sticks, just good shoes. Some rugged fun...