Sunflower Mine OHV Trail

To get to the trailhead, use the turnoff of highway 87 labeled Barnhardt trail (has a marked sign coming from both Payson and Phoenix). Barnhardt road is just over 4 miles and is unpaved. The road can be driven on by lower clearance cars because the terrain is not too rocky. Once at the trailhead the trail is very easy to follow. Right from the beginning you will gain elevation, the trail has m...

Horseshoe Dam is a stunning, family-friendly spot surrounded by nature, offering breathtaking views in every direction. Located in the Tonto National Forest, this hidden gem is perfect for outdoor lovers looking for a peaceful escape. The area is surrounded by BLM camping spots, making it easy to set up camp and enjoy the tranquility of the wilderness. To reach the dam, you’ll need to drive a ...

Starting at the trailhead you will begin hiking through oak trees and forest. At numerous times throughout the hike Roosevelt Lake can be seen to the northwest. Approximately 3 miles into your hike you will reach a small campsite in the saddle of the mountain. This is your turnaround point if you do not wish to climb through the chute. The chute, as it's become to be nicknamed, is a steep climb...

This is a 15.4 mile loop that has 879 feet of elevation gain and descent. We took this trail clockwise. The trail is very well marked and maintained. It starts out flat from the parking lot. Once you have made it across the road it begins to climb. You continue with a gradual climb until you've gone about 9 miles. The view keeps improving as you head toward the McDowell Mountains After that it ...

The Jane Rau Trail stands as a gateway to the Sonoran Desert's rich ecosystem within Arizona's McDowell Sonoran Preserve. This accessible 0.5-mile loop serves as an interpretive nature trail, honoring Jane Rau, a dedicated conservationist who played a pivotal role in preserving these lands. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or exploring on horseback, this scenic park offers breathtaking desert lan...

There is a fee to enter this area $7 per adult as of 2025 (see AZStateParks.com for updates). There are 4 trails with many viewpoints from the parking lot, all of which are out and back. We followed the recommendation of the ranger working at the visitor's center and took the Gowan Trail down to the observation deck located in the creek bottom. This park can be very crowded on weekends and holi...