| Approx hike distance (miles): | 3.0 | Area: | First Water |
| Accum. elevation gain (feet): | 300 | Park Entry Fee: | No |
| Low to high elevation gain: | N/A | SCAMR All Trails Map: | No |
| Recommended gas donation: | $10 | Website for reference info: | N/A |
| Unpaved miles: | 2.5 | Trailhead GPS Coordinates | N/A |
| Road Conditions: | Fair | High clearance vehicle req’d: | No |
Please arrive 10 minutes prior to departure to check -in |
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| Trail Conditions | |||
| Maintained Trail: | Yes | Uneven footing | Yes |
| Steep side drop-offs | No | Steep Trail: | No |
| Off Trial (scratchy) | No | Slippery Trail Surfaces: | No |
| Use of hands required: | Yes | Boulder Hopping: | No |
| Difficulty: | Moderate | Water Crossings: | Yes |
| Restrooms at Trailhead: | Yes | Gloves Required: | No |
Special Instructions:
This is an out and back trail from First Water Ranch to Hackberry Springs via First Water Creek. Park at the horse trailer parking lot, then walk .15 mile further on First Water Road to a narrow road on the left leading to a gate. Walk around the gate, continue forward and down the hill to the old First Water Ranch. Continue straight between the ramada and the old windmill tower to reach First Water Creek. Walk through the creek canyon to the left, possibly using both sides of the canyon. Turn left again when you reach the end of the canyon and continue around the bend where you will be in the shadow of the large rock mountain. This is a nice place for a rest, especially if there’s water in the creek. Return the same way. Bring plenty of water and a snack.
Directions:
Take Felix Rd north to Arizona Farms Rd, turn right. Turn left (north) on AZ 79. Turn left onto Hwy 60 West toward Phoenix. Exit at Mountain View Rd (just past Silly Mountain), and drive to the end. Turn right on Apache Trail. Drive approx. 2 miles to the First Water turnoff. Then drive 2.1 miles to the horse trailer parking lot. If you reach the end of the road, you’ve gone too far.
