03/05/2026. 72 deg. Arrived around 10AM. Walked to to office and paid. The lady there was very helpful asking what distance and how much elevation we would like to do that day. She then gave us a map and highlighted the trail. Beautiful! Beautiful! Beautiful! Cave Ck. was flowing and wildflowers were blooming. Saguaros were castle-like. We had a great time. Did about 3 miles. read more

Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area - Cave Creek - Parks Near Me - Cave Creek, Arizona

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Spur Cross Conservation Area (also known as the Jewel of Cave Creek) was such a magical experience -- I totally see why it's called "the Jewel" One of the most beautiful and peaceful hikes I've done since moving to Arizona. Helpful tip for newcomers: when you drive in, you'll first see a small parking lot on the left (only about 8-10 spaces and it fills quickly). If it's full, keep driving about a quarter mile -- there's a much larger parking area on the right with restrooms, trail maps, and the entry station. Parking is free and it's $5 to enter (worth it). The restrooms were very clean and the staff were super friendly and helpful. The trails are absolutely stunning. The scenery changes throughout -- desert views, red rocks, mountains, wildflowers, and even a beautiful creek It honestly felt like walking through another world. The hike is mostly relaxed and scenic with some light elevation, very doable and peaceful. Everything was well maintained and clearly marked. As someone new to Arizona (from Michigan), I was blown away by the beauty here. If you're looking for a scenic, peaceful, and truly special hiking experience near Cave Creek, I highly recommend it. I'll definitely be back Thank you read more

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The drive from Cave Creek Road to Spur Cross Conservation Area is about 3 1/2 miles. The road is nicely paved en route. The closer you get, the road winds and is less paved. The road becomes gravel so you must slow down. The views coming into the park area are breathtaking; full of saguaros, Mesquite trees, Palo Verde, shrubs and lots of cacti. Trails are well marked. Trails vary from easy to difficult. Take water, trail mix bars, wear appropriate shoes, a small bit of cash to enter, and have a small first aid kit with you. There are portions of the area that do not have cell service. Free parking at the entrance. read more

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The whole area is a beautiful oasis in the desert. The Dragonfly Trail is a favorite to hike with kids and dogs. It's a fairly flat 1.5 mile trek that can be done in under an hour. We love taking our time and making multiple stops along the way to play in the water or just admire the views. Now that my kids are a bit older I may have to venture more to the other side and trails read more

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Jim, Erin, Gayle and I took the long drive from Buckeye to Cave Creek to hike a small portion of the Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area a couple of Sundays ago. It was a partly cloudy, sunny, warm, and clear day. According to the attached map, we easily hiked a ~2.5 loop within sections of SX and MI. It was a fairly easy and pleasant morning. The part of the 2154 acre Spur Cross Ranch Conservation area that we experienced consisted of rolling hills dotted with tall Saguaro cacti of various unique shapes and form. Other parts of this area also contain numerous archaeology sites and the remnants of early mining and ranching occupation. I'm hoping that we can come back to further explore this fascinating area. read more

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Spur Cross trail to the Dragonfly trail.......STUNNING scenery, and a healthy and totally manageable 3.9 mile hike for just about anybody! Our friend took us out on this hike, located just outside of the Cave Creek main drag. I would almost say it's hidden in plain sight, as I come to Cave Creek just about every time I come to Phoenix, and I never knew about this place! The trails I mentioned have some steepish inclines and descents, but honestly, as long as you take your time, you should have no problem. There are benches placed along both trails, and there are more than a few shady spots to stop, take in the view, drink some water, and catch your breath. Both trails have you crossing river beds (both were bone dry on our hike), with the Dragonfly trail making you actually walk IN the river bed, as well as crossing it. We saw a couple of baby lizards, but that was it, even though it is possible to see bigger ones, as well as rattlesnakes, Gila Monsters, and other wildlife. Saguaros, cholla, prickly pear, and barrel cactus are everywhere along the trail, so you just have to watch where you step so you don't fall into one. It is requested that you pay $3 per person to use the trails, and it is on the honor system, with envelopes and trail maps provided. This was truly one of the best hikes I have ever been on, and I look forward to checking out the other trails! 48/2023 read more

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Was an amazing hike through some beautiful scenery and wash areas. Thoroughly loved hiking The Jewel Creek area too. Can see why they call it the Jewel of Arizona read more

What a lovely gem and I can't believe I lived in AZ for decades and wasn't aware of this place. It cost $3 each to go in and there are several trails to choose from. It's a short hike, shaded areas, memorial benches to sit and enjoy if you're tired. Overall loved it and will be coming back. Ample parking as well. read more

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Beautiful views all around, and options for easy to more difficult trails. I'd love to go back next time I'm in town. Not super crowded, either and lots of parking available when I was there. read more

Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area - Parks Near Me - Cave Creek, Arizona

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The best part about Spur Cross is it's just a bit too far outside of the immediate Phoenix Metro area for most of the fair-weather hikers to commute to and that makes it awesome for the rest of us! Yay! UNLIKE the more popular trails in the Metro area flogged with giant piles of dog shit, soccer moms pushing double strollers & weekend warriors with their external Bluetooth speakers clipped to their packs bumpin' shitty music - you don't deal with those kind of shenanigans at Spur Cross. But *shhh!* don't tell your friends. The further you can get away from the parking lot, the better. Entrance fee is a nominal $3 per person (ca$h only). The trails are natural meaning they aren't overly groomed. Yes, it's rocky. Yes, you could twist an ankle. But it keeps the strollers & litterbugs & fair-weather hikers away from Spur Cross 'cuz they're too busy hiking in line up Piestawa or Thunderbird. #lol I love all kinds of hiking here in beautiful Arizona, but Spur Cross is my go-to. It's rugged, it's beautiful, the volunteers are kind and it's one of the nicest places in Arizona with all kinds of terrain. Pack out whatever it is you pack in. Don't litter. Be kind and have trail etiquette. Keep Spur Cross beautiful, quiet and peaceful. read more

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I did two hikes here, one was Elephant Mountain and the other was Skull Mesa. Elephant Mountain: I came here on a Tuesday weekday morning around 7AM, and after paying the $3 entrance fee, we got a map and started on the hike! The hike was quite scenic and not difficult. It also doesn't really go up to a peak of any sort which is disappointing, but the views all along the hike especially when going downward was great as the sun was shining and the mountains were in our vicinity! Took about 2.5 hours in total, and there were more cars when we got back. Skull Mesa: I came here on Black Friday, arrived around 10:15AM and the parking lot had quite a few cars but still had spaces to park. It's $3 to enter, cash only, and the people there provide a map which is nice! The trail is pretty rocky but the view is different than a lot of Arizona hikes for a change. Good hike, would recommend! read more

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If you like to hike through nature and have the option to climb high or not this is a fantastic place. We did the Tortuga trail then connected to elephant trail around the big mountain which is a bit of elevation and has an optional steep peak to climb and the way back around was a nice stable level path mid height around the peak. Some rocky terrain some river bed some smooth dirt paths. Great variety of climb and low key easy walk with benches. Park does cost $3 per person cash read more

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Nice hiking trail. Easy level with great nature and fauna. The cactus are amazing. Many birds and rabbits to see. $3 per person fee Cash only. read more

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AH!! From Yes, from sausage shop in Lincoln Square, Chicago to Dragonfly Trail in Cave Creek?... I definitely take the road less traveled. The connection is a friend from high school who recently asked me about great trails in the Phoenix area and this one popped to mind. I've roamed around the desert for over 25 years but only last year found this great trail although I'd known of Spur Cross for quite awhile. (Not sure how we'd overlooked it but noticed it on "All Trails" a handy app if you are hiking in any location, for that matter.) We luckily saw MANY dragonflies too the couple of times we'd traversed this passage. It's an easy enough trail that meanders 1.8 miles from up above down to a creek that had water during the winter months. Nice touch, Mother Nature!..natural rocks creating some small cave entrances as well. Quite scenic and serene here. Though the app states "heavily trafficked" we only saw other person and he was hard-core with camera and waders in the stream - trying to photograph dragonflies. Great trail, highly recommend! PS - we parked at the trailhead itself which is a small gravel lot - it's all well-marked read more

This is a really great underrated hiking trail! Especially with COVID it's nice to have lots of space between you and everyone else! A lot of the trails closer to the city can get really packed. I also find that there is such an array of plants, scenery, and directions you can go that you won't get bored easy. For this trail I don't necessarily like going alone as there are a lot of very brushy parts. I picture wild kitty cats and their cubs (and we know momma cat isn't going to be happy with anyone around). read more

Wow!!!! We have hiked so many places in our region but this one was a super fun hike!! It's so close!! Feels like just a hop, skip and a jump away from our front door! You can't beat it! Not to mention Culver's (dirty pleasures) is on the drive in! The road getting in is packed dirt and safe. We passed some sweet deer crossing and beautiful homes to get there. Once you get there you'll see a few "parking" spots but if you keep going just a tad further, the road ends and there's ample parking in on the right. Once you grab all your gear and your fur friends, you'll walk down the hill to the welcome station. They have a few little things for sale, some maps and can take your entry fee. The fee is sooooo well spent. It's $3 to get in per person. They take cask or check only so don't bring you American Express! This time it's safe to leave home without it! Once you get started, there's potties right at the entrance- use them- they're pretty clean with hand sanitizer!! Bonus! plus there's none on the trails. Once you cross the creek it's all mountains and cactus from there! Actually the terrain is pretty nice. A lot different from the trails in Phoenix. The weather today was pretty close to perfect! If you take the short drive out here from town or if you make the trip while visiting from some far off land, you'll be happy you did!! Happy Hiking!! read more

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We booked a group ride. The owner added a 20% tip right up front on the bill. All paid in full to reserve a spot. One of our group did not make it. I understand keeping the cost of the ride to reserve the spot but she refused to refund the tip. Sorry, but I feel that was wrong. Won't go back or take any of our visitors here. read more

Vacationing in Cave Creek, and found this place because of All Trails. There are a number of trails at this park, and you can either get a paper map at the entrance, or download the AllTrails app. The entrance fee is 3 dollars cash per person over 16. Make sure you bring exact cash in case there's nobody there to take the money, and you have to use one of those little envelopes. The trails themselves were amazing. Well marked, and well maintained. Again, it's summer, so I figured that some places that are bone dry right now would have water flowing through during the winter. The saguaro cactuses were so majestic. I loved the landscape. What I didn't expect was all the variety in plant life. I took the spur cross trail through the cactuses, and then connected to the dragonfly trail by the creek. The dragonfly trail felt like I was in a totally different area. There were trees lining the trail (shade!), and rocks and grasses and flowers. The entire hike was filled with sounds and sights of wild life. Birds, insects, lizards, dragonflies. If I lived around here this would definitely be one of my go-to places!! read more

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One of my best hikes by far. Easy drive and signage to let you know where you're going. You'll park in s dirt lot and walk down to an entrance where you will have to pay $3 per person cash/check only so be prepared. The person helping at the pay area was wonderful. This has been our first time hiking in cave creek and he not only welcomed us and answered our questions he gave us a map where he highlighted the best route so that we could see all of the best things the park had to offer. We ended up doing about 4 miles and could have done so much more if we weren't getting hungry. There are quite a few old home foundations, remnants of a swimming pool back from the 50s, a Lilly pond with wild life and all, 200 year old cactus, and you get to do a lot of the trail (Metate) near the creek. We also saw a metate which was used by native Americans to grind grain. It was so cool and after all the rain was filled with water and looked like a heart. Quite a few creek crossovers and beautiful wild flowers. Dog friendly and if you bring a picnic lunch you can definitely enjoy a nice family day. So worth the $3. If you love the outdoors this place is awesome! read more

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This is one of my favorite places to hike in the valley. There are usually hardly any people on the trails, unlike South Mountain or Squaw Peak, and it doesn't feel like you're still within an hour's drive of 4 million people. There's also an interesting history to the park (there are numerous Hohokam ruins, an old dude ranch, and a few other stories) and if you ever get the opportunity to take a guided hike with a park ranger, it's worth your time. $3 per person fee to enter the park (Cave Creek residents exempt) read more

Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area - Cave Creek - Parks Near Me - Cave Creek, Arizona

It's a good place to burn calories the day after eating a heavy Thanksgiving meal. The trails are easy to moderate. I like the serenity of the desert landscape. It's a great place to reflect and think about upon a new year. Definitely, it would be one of my favorite place to hike! read more

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This is by far one of my favorite park with best trails for beginners. It's dog friendly too but please pick up after your dog. The dragonfly trail has big portion of the trail in a shaded area for those hot days. It's also one of very few trails with water. My dog likes to take a dip when it gets hot. Highly recommend. read more

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I love this place. Shhh, don't tell anyone. It is picturesque with 5,000 natural acres. There is a hiking trail and horses to rent to ride. It is so quiet and so relaxing. It is a wonderful surprise to take a visitor to see. No one would ever guess that something could be this remote and beautiful so close to Phoenix. read more

Unexpectedly wonderful hike with a small Lily Pond, huge cactus and a variety of views. Weather was in the mid to high 80s, but certainly not too hot to hike because it was so dry and we had water. read more

Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area - Saguaro Cactus - Parks Near Me - Cave Creek, Arizona

So I have lived in Phoenix for 35 years now and driven all over the place to hike..... Now I live in Cave Creek, so I decided to check out Spur Cross that you can access just before you get to downtown Cave Creek...... So how good can it be so close to town??? We went this past Sunday and started off on an intermediate trail, which was just was it said, but then we were pleasantly surprised that the Creek was actually running!! They had boards over the first few crossings and then we had to do a little bit of boulder hoping on the later crossings. We went in about two miles until we got to the horse back riding stable (I think it is just a stop for their tours). Great scenery even if the creek was not running and even better that it was....... So on the way back we decided to do the 'Easy' leg to the parking lot and WOW!! There was some of the LARGEST Saguaro's I have ever seen in AZ! If you have out of town guests, and want to impress them, take them here! Its only 1.5 miles on dirt roads and the easy trail where the impressive cactus are is only about mile so even 'out of shape' guests can do it. Then head into Cave Creek for some food. You won't be sorry you took the time to drive up there!! read more

This is my favorite trailhead! There are about 15 different routs you can take and you can hike to Spur Cross from Seven Springs if you put a car at each trailhead. That's a great 10 mile hike downhill with several river crossings. From Spur Cross you can go past an old silver mine and find cool petroglyphs. read more

On Sunday I made my way up to Cave Creek to go hiking and found myself in one of the loveliest settings I've seen in a while. The reserve is endless, there are loads of trails of varying distances and difficulties and all are clearly laid out on the free map provided at the entrance. My cousin and I made our way up the Tortuga trail to get a clear view of Elephant Mountain and then along the first half of the Spur Cross Trail. There was a HUGE group of hikers who'd arrived just before us, and we found out that rangers offer free guided hikes throughout the reserve. The group was testing out the newly opened Dragonfly Trail which branches off Spur Cross and heads southwest. Cave Creek is verdant this time of year, which is a stark contrast to what I've seen in East Scottsdale lately and I even saw some new plants I couldn't identify. And on our way back down the Spur Cross trail we spotted a gila monster (see photos) and it was totally scary and rad all at the same time. I will definitely be back to explore more of this reserve this spring! read more

A great place to hike that's close to Scottsdale with a ton of hikes to choose from. The trails are well marked and you can choose easier or harder hikes along the way. Come over and get your fill of cactus! read more

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This hike was not too far from Phoenix and I saw the biggest Cati ever on this hike The drive into the conservation area is breathtaking as you see so many cacti on the hills. Take a look for Elephant Mountain as you drive in. I hiked on a Sunday and there was a table with two people sitting there taking money. It is $3/person and they don't accept credit cards. I only had $2 in cash and they let me in. However, it was worth the $3 as the ranger gave me a map and highlighted things of the trails. I did the Dragon Fly trail and also the Metate Trail. You don't have to do both. However, both are very different hikes. Metate Trail was 2 miles and had the biggest cati I have ever seen. The Metate trail is easy and had a lot of kids on it. The Dragon Fly trail had some inclines, but still not too difficult. Both trails very well marked. Parking is a little deceiving as there is a small parking lot before you enter the ranch. I was told that if you park there, you can enter the Dragon Fly trail from there. read more

Arizona is so cool for having loads of public access trails. The desert landscape is otherworldly, made even more so by the fact that I decided to hike 5 miles, uphill in both directions at 2 PM, full sun and 97 degrees. By the time it was over I was slightly delirious. Not really. But be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen when you decide to get your Carlos Castaneda on and wander the desert. read more

Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area - Parks Near Me - Cave Creek, Arizona

Love hiking in Spur Cross Ranch! If you are looking for a place that feels completely disconnected from the normal world with only the sound of nature, and very few people around, this is the place. It is a bit of a drive once you turn off the main street but it's a very pretty drive. The amount of cactus and greenery here is outstanding and the views are beautiful. There are easy trails and hard trails, and it's easy to get lost in a nice sort of way (aka it's not that hard to find your way back to the trail). Some of the trails go by a creek, which actually does have a good amount of water after a rain. After hiking in Spur Cross its easy to get a bite, a cup of coffee, or some beers in the quaint town of Cave Creek. read more

I don't know why I only gave this place 3 stars. I recently did the metate trail and felt like I was at an arboretum or botanical garden. Lots of plants, scenery, cactus and wildflowers starting to emerge. It's a great place for a nice walk! read more

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Pass up the small parking lot on the left and keep driving where you'll see a huge parking lot on the right. There is a 3.00 fee to enter the trails + the volunteers will give you a map. We hiked the Dragonfly Trail with a little dog. It's a beautiful hike with some shade, but mostly sunny. Bring water! Even at 70 it felt warm. It ended being almost 4 miles total with some elevation at the beginning. The huge cacti and scenery is breathtaking!! Added bonus, you can hear the stream running which made it so peaceful. read more

Good place to hike away from the city and people. There are a few trails out here (elephant mountain, sugarloaf mountain, Black Mesa, etc.) that have some awesome payoffs if you make it to the top. I have been here twice and once was in September (not sure what I was thinking hiking 10 miles in 102 degree weather) and once was during a rain in March; both experiences were good. There is quite the variety of flora (saguaro, cholla, Mormon tea, creosote, chaparral, hackberry, ironwood, barrel cactus, palo verde, and the like) and fauna (side-blotched lizard, mule deer, coyote, and other desert wildlife). It's $3 per person for entry into spur cross and there is not much trail until you enter Tonto National Forest. If you do your research there are a lot of Hohokam ruin sites in these hills; but please remember leave it as you found it and don't take anything from these sites. They are spiritual grounds to many people and we want to ensure everyone can enjoy them. If you do decide to venture into Tonto the maps are not very informative and you need to educate yourself on where to go before venturing out into the desert. Ensure you take water and proper supplies as it's pretty secluded and cell service is non-existent. read more

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Can I just say? That if there is a hiker heaven, than this place is pretty close, red rock, river, mountains, non travelled trails with spots that will take your breath away if you can find them (all part of the challenge) easy to get to, spectacular vistas and what in effect just a sea of saguaros by a river (running) bed, that will just astound and amaze you, grinding stones from the indigenous Indians and lots more await the adventurous. read more

Loved hiking here! Came here with the kids and they enjoyed it as well. The entrance fee is $3 for 16+ which is very reasonable. There's a lot to look at and the people that work there are super friendly! I also appreciated how clean the bathrooms are they are porta potties but they're bigger than the normal ones and actually smell clean. Will definitely come back here again! read more

Loved every minute of our multi generational family hike. Beautiful scenery, Blue skies, perfect weather to take a 2 mule hike. A wonderful time was had by all! read more

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We loved this hike! We did the whole loop, me, and my 9 and 12 year old... Every bend has its own beauty and intrigue. We enjoyed the ruins, the flowers, the creek, and especially the big old saguaro cactus. We had an amazing time. We are hoping to get back there very soon... Beautiful and energizing place read more

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This park has beautiful saguaro cactus! It has a range of trails for the casual stroller to serious hikers. There is a parking lot with maps, covered area with picnic tables and port-a-johns. Please take a lot of water. There is none on the trail. read more

my bf and i went on a hike here instead of going to the grand canyon so i was kinda bummed to not see the giant canyon but instead we saw cacti bigger than we could ever imagine as well as friendly hikers along the trail. i'm so glad we came here i love looking at this vegetation i'm from washington ive never seen a cactus before in my life! read more

Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area - Parks Near Me - Cave Creek, Arizona