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Hike the Lower Salt River Nature Trail

Fort McDowell, Arizona

2.5/5
based on 4 reviews

Details

Distance

2.4 miles

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Calvin Weibel

This is an old trail near the Salt River that offers great opportunities for photography and viewing wildlife.

This scenic loop offers views of Four Peaks, the Salt River & Verde River, and a desert landscape with plenty of wildlife.  Keep an eye out for eagles, wild horses, and other wildlife while you're on the trail.  

This trail starts from the Phon D Sutton Recreation site, which is located at the Salt River and Verde River confluence.  To start the trail, begin at the west end of the parking lot and continue west.  The trail will begin near the river and fork into a loop soon after.  

This is an old, unmaintained trail.  You aren't likely to find crowds, but if you keep your eyes open you might find plenty of wildlife.

From Mesa, take Power Rd North as it turns into Bush Highway.  Follow Bush highway until you reach Phon D Sutton Rd, turn left, and continue to the recreation site.  Note that the Forest Service requires a Tonto Pass to park at the recreation areas.

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Features

Chillin
Photography
Running
Hiking
Bathrooms
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Picnic Area
River
Wildlife

Hike the Lower Salt River Nature Trail Reviews

The hike is nice along the Salt River and you might even be able to spot the wild horses, however there is often trash along the route and graffiti.

Views are lovely, and it’s a great way to spend an Arizona day (when it’s cool out), but there was SO much trash. Really spoils it...

Great place for pictures ! River is beautiful as well and the trails and nice

Terrible hike. It was dirty (graffiti and garbage everywhere)! The views were nice but wouldn't do it again.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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