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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
181 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
6.0 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1.5-2h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Javelina Canyon and Ridgeline Loop

Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Javelina Canyon and Ridgeline Loop makes use of two popular trails in the South Mountain Preserve of Phoenix to offer a 3.7mi hike with varied terrain and pleasant views. This loop travels partly through a canyon and then along a short ridgeline, giving you a vantage point of the city spread below and the mountains in the rest of the preserve. Expect heavy traffic on this hike.

Route Description for Javelina Canyon and Ridgeline Loop

The Javelina Canyon and Ridgeline Loop is a heavily trafficked hike in Phoenix’s South Mountain Preserve, one of the top hiking destinations in the city. This loop is at the far northeastern corner of the preserve, so the elevation gain is much more forgiving than some other routes in this area, but you still get views of the city and of the mountains in the preserve.

Make sure you bring lots of water with you on this hike and consider wearing sun protection like a hat and sunscreen. Start your hike early in the morning or early in the evening to avoid being on the trail at the hottest part of the day.

From the trailhead, our route travels counterclockwise, but you could do this hike clockwise if you prefer. You’ll take Javelina Canyon Trail as it heads towards Javelina Canyon. Hike through the canyon on a moderately graded trail. When you hit the 3-way junction at the top of the canyon, take a sharp left.

Follow Ridgeline Trail as it returns to the trailhead atop the ridge, making sure to check out the views in all directions around you as you hike back to the starting point.

Getting to the Javelina Canyon and Ridgeline Loop Trailhead

The trailhead for the Javelina Canyon and Ridgeline Loop is on S 46th Street.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    October-May

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Loop

Javelina Canyon and Ridgeline Loop Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

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