The San Tan Valley and Mesa are surrounded by hiking trails for outdoor lovers of all ages and hiking abilities. It is one of the most beautiful places in the country to enjoy a hike and hiking has the added bonus of being outdoors and easily social distanced from those you do not know. It is a great way to get out and get familiar with the area and to easily fall in love with it.
Here are some of the best hikes for all ages near Mesa and San Tan Valley Arizona
Usery Mountain Regional Park
There is more than 29 miles of trails that wind through this park for enjoyment of hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The park trails winding through the area range in length from just .2 miles to over 7 miles and range from zero difficulty to very difficult. Trails in this park are popular for their elevation gain that allow hikers to take in spectacular valley views. Detailed trail maps are available at the onsite nature Center.
Lost Dutchman State Park
There are many trails in this park that lead into the Superstition Wilderness Area and the surrounding Toronto National Forest as well. Those who enjoy taking a less demanding stroll will enjoy walking along the Native Plant Trail. Those who are avid hikers and enjoy a challenge will like Siphon Draw Trail that takes you to the top of Flat Iron. Hike for the day or enjoy overnight camping on site and enjoy several trails.
San Tan Mountain Regional Park
There are over 8 miles of trails winding through this regional park people enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding on these trails as well. The trails throughout San Tan Mountain Regional Park range in length from just 1.1 miles to over 5 miles and have a difficulty range of easy to strenuous. These trails offer a gorgeous and unique perspective of the Sonoran Desert full of wildlife, plant life, and scenic mountain views.
Tonto National Forest
The nearest areas for hiking in Tonto National Forest are the Four Peaks and Superstition Wilderness areas. The Mesa Ranger Station can help anyone interested in hiking this area find detailed hiking locations. Tonto Pass is a necessary access point for all of the trails in these areas.
Some Good Hiking Tips to Know Before You Go
No matter what level of hiker you are there are always some good safety tips to know before you head out into the gorgeous Sonoran Desert area of Mesa and the San Tan Valley. Here is a list of hiking safety tips that are good to know before you head out.
Always pack water: it is very important to avoid dehydration especially in this desert area make sure you are drinking plenty of water and taking sips often throughout your hike. A great rule to go by is to pack 1 gallon of water for a full day of desert exploring.
Wear the right clothes: Desert temperatures hit extreme highs as well as extreme lows that some people may not think about all within a 24 hour period. Wearing a series of layers will help to slow dehydration and will limit sun exposure to your skin. Make sure to always wear appropriate closed toed shoes with great soles that have plenty of traction on them. Wearing a hat and sunglasses is also a great idea
Use lots of sunscreen, lots: you can never use too much sunscreen even in winter around Mesa and the San Tan Valley. Make sure you are reapplying as well.
Never hike alone: it is always best to hike with a friend or in a group but should you head out by yourself make sure that you are letting someone know of your plans, which trail you plan to be on, and when you should be back. Also if there is a Ranger in the area let them know you are heading out on the hike on your own this way should something happen you will not be out in the wilderness on your own for long
Stay on the designated trail: make sure to stay on the marked path that has already been set before you. Wandering off into unmarked wilderness could end up in dangerous terrain or getting lost
Be alert of local wildlife: this area is full of wildlife including rattlesnakes, killer monsters, and scorpions just to name a few. All of these animals can be a danger to humans if they feel that they are being infringed upon. Make plenty of noise to let critters know you are in the area before they are close and make sure to treat them with caution and respect
Don’t forget you’re fine-tooth plastic comb: it is not uncommon to pick up some cactus needles while you are hiking, a comb will help to remove the needles it is never a good idea to remove them with your fingers.
If you are new to the area a guide is a great idea: there are knowledgeable guides available in the area to lead hikes throughout all of the parks near Mesa and the San Tan valley
For more information on San Tan Valley and Mesa Arizona or real estate in San Tan Valley please contact me at any time.
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