Desert Tortoise Trail
The Desert Tortoise Trail is a pretty hike near Dixie Mountain in the Phoenix Sonoran Desert Preserve. This hike is 4.3 km long and rated as moderate. It’s generally suitable for most skill levels and dogs are allowed to join you on this trail, although we would recommend keeping them on leash and close to you due to the number of cholla on the side of the trail. Expect moderate traffic.
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Route Description for Desert Tortoise Trail
The Desert Tortoise Trail is an enjoyable, scenic route near Dixie Mountain that shows off tall saguaros and a sea of cholla beside the trail. This hike feels further away from the suburbs than it is, and you might be able to spot some wildlife. The trail usually isn’t too busy and there are some extensions available if you want a longer hike.
We recommend sturdy boots due to rocky sections of the trail, and if you bring pets, keep them close to you. When we say there’s a lot of cholla on the side of the trail, we mean it. Remember to hike with water and consider sun protection.
This loop can be hiked either way, and our guide goes counterclockwise. From the Desert Vista Trailhead, take Hawk’s Nest Trail to the fork. Stay right and hike around the base of the hills, then through a flat section of desert. The trail turns towards Dixie Mountain and then back towards the trailhead, winding through the hills. Stay left at the final fork and then continue back to the starting point.
Getting to the Desert Tortoise Trail Trailhead
The trailhead for the Desert Tortoise Trail is at the end of W Desert Vista Trail.
Route Information
Desert Tortoise Trail Elevation Graph
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