Spur Cross Ranch Conservation — Attraction in Cave Creek

The first time I went to Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area, was on one of the hottest days of summer. I got there at five o’clock and thought I would look for a spot where I could wait for the sunset. Big mistake. As soon as I arrived, I had to pee in a giant porta potty that was hotter than a pizza oven. In fact, it did look like one. So, I started my hike already overheated. There is no shade on the trail. Flies tried to land on me while I swatted them with my camera strap. After what seemed like an eternity, I couldn’t stand the heat anymore and decided to return to my car. I had drunk most of my water and realized I would run out of water before reaching the parking lot. My head began to spin, and I felt like I was going to pass out. There was no one in sight, and I knew that if I called 911, by the time paramedics arrived I would probably be dead. So, I willed myself to my car, and guess what, I survived! By the way, if you ever go there, take cash to pay for the permit at the self-pay station and use the restroom at a gas station before you arrive.

I didn’t give up on the place, though. I returned to Spur Cross Ranch in January on a cloudy day and hiked the Tortuga Loop and Metate-Towhee Loop, which are marked as easy and are heavily trafficked but well worth it, because you get to cross the Cave Creek waters a...

When driving here, don't be thrown off when that concrete road turns to a dirt road. My first time seeing that, I was thrown off and thought I had made a wrong turn. Nope- keep going straight and you'll pass the stables area and then you'll reach an open dirt parking area. Weak phone signal/ internet signal out here, and there is only an outhouse and no water fountains. Make sure you have your water packed before coming.

The trails are smooth and gentle (easy to hike on)... except for Elephant Mountain which I'm told is pretty primitive. If you want a trail with a breathtaking view do the Mariposa Hill trail. It shouldn't take more than 20-30 minutes at a slow pace to reach the top of that trail from the trailhead. You get a 360 beautiful view from atop! Also, if you check the Maricopa website out, you can find when the ranger leads his night hikes. The ranger does a great job teaching everyone about the history and ins and outs of the area. Also, would recommend joining the hike where the ranger takes you to see the Spur Cross...

I love this place! This is by far my favorite place to hike in the Phoenix metro area. The drive through Cave Creek to get there is beautiful as well. Arriving just before sunset is amazing. Golden hour at Spur Cross is spectacular! Great photography opportunities and beauty abound.

Spur Cross Ranch is definitely worth a visit if you're from out of town, and many visits if you're from town. There are varying difficulties of trails from well managed to primitive, and long and short loops. With the various loops and trails throughout Spur Cross, you can hike as long or short as you like.

There are facilities for horse riding there, though I've never been. Parking is simple and I've never had trouble finding a spot, though it can get busy in peak season or special occasions.

While there is no fee to park, there is a fee at the entry gate where you walk into the conservation area to get to the hiking trails. The fee was $3 last time I was there, so make sure to bring some single dollar bills to pay. It's well worth the...