San Tan – Dynamite-Goldmine Loop (I)

Date:					Destination:		San Tan-Dynamite-Goldmine Loop
Level:		Intermediate (I)			Area:		San Tan Regional Park
Approx hike distance in miles:		5			Hike leader:
Low to high rlevation gain:		800			Hike leader phone:
Accum elevation gain in feet:		N/A			Hike leader email:
Departure time - Union Center parking lot:					Please arrive 10 minutes early to check in
Recommended gas donation:		$5
Unpaved miles:		None			Park entry fee per vehicle:		Yes, see below.
Road conditions:		Good			Website for reference info:		N/A
High clearance vehicle req'd:		No			Trailhead GPS coordinates:		33.190585,-111.658370
TRAIL CONDITIONS
Maintained Trail:		Yes			Uneven Footing:		Yes
Steep Side Drop-offs:		Yes			Steep Trail:		Yes
Off Trail (scratchy):		No			Slippery Trail Surfaces:		Yes
Use of Hands Required:		No			Boulder Hopping:		No
Difficulty:		Moderate			Water Crossings:		No
Restrooms at Trailhead:		Yes			Gloves Required:		No

 

Special Instructions:

This is a loop hike that climbs up and over a ridge. There are good views of San Tan Valley. The Goldmine Trail is steep and rocky. The best route is to go up from the Goldmine Trailhead and return via the Dynamite Trail. Bring water and a snack. This hike requires an entry fee ($7/car) or Maricopa County Parks Pass (self-pay envelope available at trailhead). Please divide the cost of parking evenly among the carpool.

Directions:

Take Hunt Hwy north to Empire (past San Tan Flats Restaurant). Turn left on Empire and drive 1-1/4 miles to Wagon Wheel, turn left. Follow Wagon Wheel to T-intersection and turn right on Wild Horse. Follow Wagon Wheel to T-intersection and turn right on Wild Horse. Parking lot is at end of the road.