Hitting the Trails: Experience All the Mountains
Tucked away here in Goodyear, there’s a treasure for outdoor enthusiasts to discover: The Estrella Mountain Range. Whether you’re simply a lover of nature or a seasoned hiker, mountain biker or runner, these diverse and rugged mountains offer a wide variety of trails with a combination of unique wildlife, desert beauty, and beautiful vistas.
Goodyear Arizona hiking trails
At lower elevations, you’ll be surrounded by palo verde trees, majestic saguaros, and prickly pear cacti. Up high, you’ll wind through a variety of rocky outcrops and desert plants. You’ll encounter many kinds of habitats, home to a diverse population of animals–desert tortoises, snakes, bobcats, coyotes, hawks, quail, and golden eagles. Plus, a visit in the spring will bring wildflowers bursting with color.
It All Starts at the Park
Estrella Mountain Regional Park covers over 20,000 acres, and offers a network of trails for all skill levels. It also has a nature center, staffed with helpful volunteers and rangers, a green space with plenty of room for playing ball and picnicking, and horseback riding facilities.
Here are a few trails you may want to try:
The Estrella Mountain Loop
The most strenuous trail, this loop offers a beautiful sampling of the region with a wide variety of ecosystems.
The South Mountain Trail
A little less challenging, this trail ascends more quickly and winds through rocky outcrops and giant boulders. At the summit, you’ll have a gorgeous 360-degree view of the desert that surrounds you.
The Black Rock Trail
This requires a moderate effort, but will reward you with rugged, meandering paths and a summit experience that includes other mountain ranges, valleys, and even a glimpse of urban Phoenix.
The Gila Trail
Recommended for beginners, this shorter trail offers a slower ascent and beautiful views along the way. It’s a great opportunity to spot wildlife too!
Come Prepared
Before hitting the trails, make sure you’ve covered all the essentials! First, let someone know where and when you are going and plan to check in with them. Bring a map and a GPS locator with an SOS function. Wear sun protection, and bring lots of water and snacks for the journey. Make sure your footwear is sturdy as you prepare for uneven, rocky terrain. Plan to arrive in the early morning or late afternoon, when temps are the mildest.
How to Plan a Visit
For more info, find Estrella Mountain Regional Park on www.maricopacountyparks.net.
Park Address: 14805 W. Vineyard Ave., Goodyear, AZ 85338
Contact: (602) 506-2930 ext. 6
Entry Fees: $7.00 per vehicle
Bathroom facilities: Several
4WD necessary? No
Whether it’s your first time on mountain trails, or it’s something you love to do year-round, you can enjoy all that nature has to offer right here in Goodyear.
