You Need to Get Out of Town and Try This Picture-Perfect Hike in Arizona With the Most Gorgeous Views

You can take advantage of many great hiking opportunities in Arizona no matter what your hiking skill level is. The state is filled to the brim with gorgeous trails that lead to jaw-dropping destinations. If you want something light, scenic, and fun, the Wind Cave Trail is perfect for you! The hikers who have already been here will attest to the fact that this is a picture-perfect hike that gives the most gorgeous views! Keep reading…

The Wind Cave Trail Is the Most Popular Trail in the Park for a Reason

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This 4.5 kilometer heavily-trafficked out and back trail near Apache Junction, Arizona is considered the most popular trail in the park. The hike will treat all outdoor guests to scenic wildflowers, Sonoran desert cacti, including wildlife such as lizards, a snake, horned toad or a desert tortoise. You might also find a deer or coyote somewhere along the way during night time. While the trail is rated as moderate, you have to anticipate some challenges especially in the upper half of the trail. The area is steep and a bit more difficult compared to its lower half.

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Some hikers say their experience switches quickly from gradual climbing to what feels “a lot like many flights of stairs.” After that, you will need to cut across the face of the mountain and then climb more “stairs” up to the cave. It will take you about 2 hours for the entire hike.

The cave waiting for you at the end of the trail isn’t dark like the the famous haunted cave believed to be the site of the gruesome massacre of the Apache. In fact, it is not even grim or scary. The cave here is only about 10 to 12 feet high and is more like a gash carved out of the side of the mountain. If you are hiking the Wind Cave Trail during summer, this cave will be your refuge from the sun. Some hikers report that there are some bees near the cave.

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Make sure to check first and look around before coming inside. If you feel like staying there, feel free to do so. You may catch your breath before beginning the descent. We have to say, the scenery will absolutely be outstanding on clear days. You might even get a glimpse of the Fountain Hills fountain shooting water into the sky if you are up there at the right time. Isn’t that amazing?

This Scenic Hike Is a Bit Challenging

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This short hike still poses some challenges. After all, what’s a great hike without one? You will start in a relatively flat land with some subtle switchbacks. It will quickly turn into a steeper climb, and you will need to push past the small sections of rocky, technical hiking. You are more than welcome to take a minute to eat your trail food or hydrate along the way.

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The panoramic vistas look so inviting that you might instinctively reach for your phone to capture the beautiful desert foliage. Since this is a dog-friendly hike, you might also be tempted to take photos of your furry buddy every now and then! You also won’t get lost here because the trail is easy to navigate.

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Hikers who wish to be challenged further may take the loop left of the cave exit or continue past the cave at the main entrance. Our tip for you is to start hiking as early as 5 in the morning to beat the heat a bit. Some say that the trail is still shaded until around 7 am but the sun starts to peak over the ridgeline.

What You Should Know If You Want to Hike The Wind Cave Trail

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• Come see the scenery along the Wind Cave Trail and you might end up hugging a cactus. We mean it when we say the vistas and view out west are outstanding. You only need to pay $7.00 to enter the park.
• While this is a moderate climb, the trail is rather rocky and steep, making it a strenuous climb. This requires careful attention to footing.
• It will be really hot during the summer season so guests are reminded to take precautions. For instance, you might want to check that you have an adequate supply of drinking water before you go. The recommended supply is at least 1 gallon per person per day.
• You should practice the Leave No Trace hiking principle in Wind Cave Trail (or any other place). Do not litter or leave trash along the way. You have a responsibility to protect Arizona’s treasured lands.

Wind Cave Trail Details:

Distance: 4.5 km
Elevation Gain: 234 m
Route Type: Out & Back

Location: Usery Mountain Regional Park Usery Pass Road Mesa, Arizona 85207
Park Hours: Sunday to Thursday from 6 am to 8 pm; Friday to Saturday from 6 am to 10 pm.

Have you tried hiking the Wind Cave Trail? Share your experience with us in the comments below!

Before you go, you might find our article on the most scenic road in Arizona interesting.