Total distance: 6 miles
Elevation: ~750 ft
Duration: 3 hours (incl. stops at vista’s)
Difficulty: Moderate+
Meet at 7:45 am @ Apache Wash Trailhead Parking for departure @ 8:00 am
Apache Wash is part of the City of Phoenix Sonoran Preserve and is located in North Phoenix.
NOTE: Should you need to return to the Trailhead from Apache Vista Summit, after a few 100 feet along Sidewinder turn South (left) onto Apache Wash trail. Follow it to Ocotillo Trail where you make a left and it will take you back to the Trailhead.
FACILITIES: Toilets, NO WATER.
BRING: Sturdy walking shoes, recommended 2 Liters of water, a hat, leave-no-trace toilet kit, sunglasses, sunscreen, snacks/lunch if desired. Walking sticks are recommended.
Steven has been an integral part of our chapter since its revitalization in 2021 and is now a Chapter Coordinator. He has walked the Camino Frances and the Camino Portuguese (from Lisbon) and served as a Hospitalero in 2024. He has led many hikes in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
2L Water and snack
Hat or sunscreen
Toilet kit
Hiking Poles
Personal First Aid Kit
Money (cash) for the Donativo jar if able
There is NO water at the Trailhead.
There is a bathroom at the trailhead and please plan on using it BEFORE 7:45AM so we can get going on time.
Bring a toilet kit that includes plans to pack any waste products out.
Please stay home if you are feeling sick.
Call or text your hike leader Steven at 480.465.9732 if you are unable to make it or are running late.
No dogs allowed due to chapter liability.
We will share the trail with other hikers, so despite our engaging conversations we will be aware of our surroundings and courteous by stepping off the trail or walking single file when necessary.
Reminders: Our chapter activities are led by volunteers. Donativo contributions (cash only) are greatly appreciated and are used to support future activities. Look for the orange donativo jar by the signup at the beginning of each hike.
We always gather in the spirit of the Camino. The hike leader will try to maintain awareness of the pace of the group, and will stop periodically at trail intersections to allow all participants to catch up. However, hikers/walkers are differently abled and may not finish at the same time. If you want to hike ahead or stay behind and leave the group, please notify the hike leader or sweep. Please review the trail description before signing up to be sure the hike is right for you and your abilities. You participate at your own risk.
Please note freeway construction restrictions along Valley freeways may impact travel time. Visit https://azdot.gov/weekend-freeway-travel-advisory and plan your route and travel time accordingly.
Pro Tip: check the route on Google Maps the night before, to avoid confusion or surprises! Please be on time!
From the 101 freeway in North Phoenix, take the Cave Creek Rd exit.
Go North on Cave Creek Rd to E Sonoran Desert Drive, turn left.
Follow the road to the Apache Wash Trailhead Parking lot, on the right.