White Tanks MESQUITE CANYON - 8 Miles
Moderate Terrain and Difficult due to length & elevation
October 04, 2025  ·  Ramada Way #7
Meet at 7:00 AM @ White Tank Regional Park Nature Center/Library (BEFORE ENTERING THE PARK)
Start walking at 7:15
NOTE: A $7 entry fee or Maricopa County Parks pass is required to enter the White Tanks Regional Park. We can carpool from the Nature Center/Library to minimize out-of-pocket expense.

Hike: 8 miles (Terrain is Moderate difficulty but any 8 mile hike can be Difficult) 
Elevation Gain: ~1400 ft
Hike leader: Brent Price

This is a balloon shaped hike. From the Ramada Way (#7 on map), we will start on Mesquite Canyon, then connect to Willow Canyon to Ford Canyon until it connects with Mesquite Canyon, which will take the group back to the trailhead. If the group would like to add a mile, we can extend the Ford Canyon section for some awesome views of the Valley from there. 

The terrain is as diverse as that on the Camino. There are beautiful views of the Valley at times, as well as interior valleys and topography of the canyon. It is likely to become a favorite and so peaceful when you get into the interior sections of the park. Poles are recommended for a rocky descent. This beautiful hike is appropriate for those used to hiking 8 miles over rocky desert terrain with steep sections or continuous elevation gain.
LOCATION
Ramada Way #7, 20304 West White Tank Mountain Road, Waddell, AZ 85355
Location: Ramada Way #7, 20304 West White Tank Mountain Road, Waddell, AZ 85355
About Your Hike Leader
About Your Hike Leader

Brent is a transplant from Washington State, making Arizona his home about two years ago. Brent walked the Camino Frances from St. Jean Pied de Port in Spring of 2024 (April 27-June 4)! He is planning on returning to the Camino in 2026.

What to Bring

Water - Minimum 2 Liters depending on sun & weather. There is NO WATER at the trailhead or along the route.

Hat

Sunscreen

Your own first aid kit

Snacks to refuel

Poles (helpful for strenuous elevation gain)

Trail Map or link for route on your preferred navigation app. 

A leave-no-trace toilet kit. Long hike and no facilities along the route.


Facilities

There are water and restrooms at the Library and at the Trailhead.

Guidelines

Please stay home if you are feeling sick.

Call or text your hike leader Tina 602.722.0612 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 and mountain bikers 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.

Directions

WHITE TANK MOUNTAIN REGIONAL PARK

20304 White Tank Mountain Rd, Waddell, AZ

From 303 - Go WEST on NORTHERN AVE

NORTH on COTTON LANE to Olive Ave

WEST on OLIVE AVE which turns into WHITE TANK MOUNTAIN RD

PAY $7 ENTRANCE FEE (or show Maricopa County annual pass)

CONTINUE ~ 2 MILES

LEFT on WATERFALL CANYON ROAD for 1 mile

LEFT at RAMADA WAY