Wind Cave Trail
Overview
This is a easy out and back trail in Tonto National Forest.
Already at the trail head you can see a great view of the East Mesa area, surrounded by cactus and desert wildlife. As you head up the trail you will cross a few different washes that may have loose sand and rock. The higher in elevation you go the better your view of East Mesa and the surrounding areas will be.
This is a popular hike, wear good shoes with good tread. There are numerous places to stop to take a break and enjoy the views while heading up to the cave.
Once to the cave at the top you can proceed further at your own caution, it become extremely difficult and requires some vertical climbing to reach the peak of the mountain.
Use caution when hiking back down, its much easier to slip and fall.
Safety
This is a Desert Location. Make sure to bring plenty of water. There are many species of cactus, snakes and lizards. If you do come across any creepy crawlies allowing them time and space will encourage them to move along out of the path. Temperatures can reach upwards of 115 degrees during the August/September. Check local weather and prepare accordingly. Please follow the leave no trace principles.
Getting Started
Enter Usery Mountain Regional Park from the main entrance at Ellsworth Rd.
Entrance fee of $7 per vehicle to enter Park, Maps of park are available at station entrance. Follow Usery Park Road to Wind Cave Dr. Parking available all along this area.
May need to park along Pass mountain loop trail which is marked with signs, just follow this trail to the Wind Cave trail head.
Taking Children
This is a good hike for kids, just keep a good eye on them and pay attention to safety warnings. Trail can be slippery with loose pebbles and rocks. There are steep ledges that you will hike along. It is not recommended to take children past the cave. The trail becomes very unstable and should be avoided by those inexperienced with that terrain.
