Maricopa Trail: Freestone Park to South Mountain Preserve

This 22.4 km (13.9 miles) section of the Maricopa Trail usually takes around 5 hours and 39 minutes to complete. Keep in mind that this is an estimated duration and can vary based on your pace and how often you stop.

Yes, this segment is considered very easy and 'bone flat' with minimal elevation gain. It's an excellent choice for beginners or those looking for a leisurely walk or bike ride.

The terrain is predominantly flat and consists of concrete paths, gravel canal roads, and some broken blacktop pavement. For a significant portion, the path runs alongside the Western Canal, sometimes switching sides.

You'll experience a mix of urban and canal-side scenery. The route passes through several smaller parks like Redden Park, Stroud Park, Palo Verde Park, and Marlborough Mesa Park, as well as larger ones such as Carriage Lane Park and McQueen Park, which features a duck pond. You can also catch distant views of South Mountain.

Yes, while you'll be on the Maricopa Trail for the entire route, it also utilizes sections of other paths. Notably, about 89% of the route follows the Sun Circle Trail, and smaller portions intersect with the Brake, Highline Canal Path, and Handlebars trails.

You can typically find parking at Freestone Park in Gilbert, which serves as the starting point for this segment. Parking is also available at various parks along the route, such as McQueen Park or Carriage Lane Park.

Yes, this section of the Maricopa Trail is generally dog-friendly. However, always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them. Be mindful of the heat, especially during warmer months, as the paved surfaces can get very hot.

The best time to hike this trail is during the cooler months, from late fall through early spring (October to April), to avoid the intense summer heat. Early mornings are also preferable to beat the heat and enjoy a more peaceful experience.

Yes, the urban nature of this trail means amenities are accessible. Restrooms can be found in some of the parks along the route, such as Carriage Lane Park and McQueen Park. You'll also find convenience stores like Circle K and fast-food options like McDonald's near Kyrene Rd.

No, there are no specific permits or fees required to hike this particular section of the Maricopa Trail itself. However, if you plan to explore deeper into South Mountain Preserve, check their specific regulations as some areas or activities within the preserve might have different rules.

While this trail leads to the vicinity of South Mountain Preserve, generally there are no entrance fees for the preserve itself. However, specific areas or facilities within the preserve might have their own rules or fees. Always check the official Phoenix Parks and Recreation website for the most current information regarding regulations, permits for certain activities, or potential road closures within the preserve.