GEOLOGICAL WONDER
Among the many interesting geological features in Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Balanced Rock is a star attraction. Hike to it by way of the many trails that begin at the Granite Mountain trailhead.
Getting There: Granite Mountain Trailhead, 31402 N. 136th St., Scottsdale. From Loop 101 in Scottsdale, take the Princess Drive/Pima Road exit 36 and go 6.5 miles north on Pima Road to Dynamite Boulevard. Turn right, continue 5.9 miles to 136th Street, turn left. Go 1.8 miles to the trailhead on the left.
Length: 5.6 miles round trip (or 4.2 to the rock and back)
Rating: easy
Kid Friendly: YES
Pet Friendly: YES
Elevation: 2,570-2,646 feet
Best Season: October-April
Facilities: restrooms, horse trailer parking
Photo credit Mare Czinar/PHOENIX
