Short Wind Cave Trail

Anyone looking for a quick jaunt into the desert will enjoy hiking the Wind Cave Trail at Usery Mountain Recreation Area.

Usery Park, just 25 minutes from Fountain Hills, offers 10 hiking trails.

Hikers who want a serious challenge should consider the Pass Mountain Trail, which begins at the same point as Wind Cave Trail.

Although the elevation change is only 700 feet, Pass Mountain Trail can test the endurance at 7.1-miles.

The Wind Cave Trail, though, is a favorite among hikers.

It offers some challenge, but at 3.2 miles roundtrip, it isn’t too tough.The Wind Cave Trail goes from 2,020 feet at the base to 2,840 at its highest point.

The first half-mile of the trail is truly easy as it meanders along the base of the hill.

From that point, the trail stitches up the hill, zigzagging back and forth to the wind cave.

Hikers who take the trail to the top are rewarded for their efforts.

The wind cave, for which the trail is named, is a smooth, cool spot etched out of the hill by time.

Moisture drips from the smooth walls and green plants hang upside down from the cave’s roof.

Animal lovers will also enjoy seeing some of the permanent residents of the area.

Several chipmunks have made the place their home. The furry little creatures are friendly to all hikers – especially to those who break out some trail mix.

But the biggest reward for climbing the hill is the awesome view of the Valley floor.

If timed just right, hikers looking directly north will see a tiny spray of water from Fountain Park

Trail etiquette

Because the trail is moderately easy and relatively short, Wind Cave Trail is a highly traveled trail.

Kids as young as five hike with their parents. Older hikers also pound the trail.

Hike the Wind Cave Trail on the weekend and be prepared to share it with 100 or-so other outdoor lovers.

When a trail is busy, though, some courtesy rules should be followed.

Remember that hikers on the way up the hill always have the right-of-way. Those coming down should yield to those coming up.

When a faster hiker is coming up from behind, step aside and let them pass. Speedier hikers should also announce their intent to pass.

And as a general rule for all hikers: bring water – no matter how easy or short the trail might be.

How to get there

The fastest way to get to Usery Mountain Recreation Area is by taking the Beeline Highway.

From Shea Boulevard, turn right onto the Beeline.

From the Beeline, turn south (left) onto Gilbert Road and then east (left) onto McDowell Road.

Follow McDowell Road until Usery Pass Road. Turn north (left) onto Usery Pass Road and take a right into the park.

There is a $3 per vehicle charge to enter the park.

Once inside, follow the road to Wind Cave Drive. The trailhead begins at the parking lot. Restroom facilities are available.

This hike was first featured March 2000 and revised February 2007.