Hike of the Week: Maricopa Trail – Bronco Trailhead to Spur Cross Ranch

Mare CzinarJanuary 1, 2023
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Start exploring the 315-mile, Valley-circling Maricopa Trail with a trek through its northmost reaches. This 13.6 mile segment runs from the Bronco trailhead in Tonto National Forest to Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area in Cave Creek.

LENGTH: 13.6 miles one way (Bronco Trailhead to Spur Cross)
The entire Maricopa Trail is 315 miles long.

RATING: moderate

ELEVATION: 2,400- 4,234 feet

BEST SEASON: October – April

FACILITIES: restroom

GETTING THERE

Bronco Trailhead:

From the intersection of Cave Creek Road and Pima Road in Carefree, continue 11.6 miles north on Cave Creek Road which turns into Seven Springs Road/Forest Road 24 to the Bronco Trailhead on the left.  The last 3 miles of FR 24 is an all-weather gravel road suitable for passenger cars.

Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area trailhead:

44000 N. Spur Cross Rd., Cave Creek

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