Folks, this is the time of year to get outside and enjoy our amazing weather. Evening and early morning temperatures are still cool, but the days are warming up nicely. This is when me and my family go local because once the heat arrives, we try to escape it by heading up north.
Not to be confused with the Apache Wash Trailhead, the Apache Wash trail is just one of the many options there at 1600 E. Sonoran Desert Drive, Phoenix. Parking is free and plentiful, although it gets quite busy on the weekends. Our part of town has been discovered! Human restrooms are at the trail head.
Usually we head up the Sidewinder Trail that goes up and around the mountain, but today, we chose the Apache Wash or AW trail. Right after the restrooms, you take a right on the dirt trail. This is an easy, mostly flat trail down in the desert floor. It crosses the Apache Wash several times, so if it is raining, watch out for flash floods. I suspect you are like me and wouldn’t want to hike in the rain anyway.
We are always surprised how few people hike this trail. Do be mindful of 
mountain bikes, though, as they frequent the trail. AW is perfect for beginner bikers with very little rocks and no steep climbs.
All of the rain we’ve had greened up the desert. Wow! We are in for one spectacular wild flower season this year. Can’t wait! We already saw a few plants blooming. This trail is exactly three miles, and you keep going to the left at intersections to follow the AW signs.
Since you don’t climb up, you won’t have expansive views, but what you do have is tranquility. This trail is quiet and full of beautiful desert plants. Each time you cross the wash, you will have some big rocks and sand to contend with, but it isn’t bouldering or difficult. Just be mindful of your steps.
We did meet a few nice people and stopped to chat for a bit. Mom and Dad let me sniff to my heart’s content, and we made our way to the last left turn. This one drops you on the Sidewinder Trail (S), which connects to the Ocotillo Trail (O). Take a left on the O trail, and it brings you back to the restrooms and parking lot.
Allow 1 to 1 ½ hours for the loop and expect more traffic on the S and O trails. This go around, the bikers were friendly and considerate. Other times, not so much, and they have about run us over. Hikers have the right of way, but it pays to just watch out for yourself. Have fun out there!
My mom, Lorraine Bossé-Smith, is kind enough to help me share my Great Adventures, big and small. My mom is a motivational speaker, corporate trainer, executive recruiter, business consultant, coach, fitness expert, and author of nine published books. More importantly, she’s the best doggy mom ever!
Enjoy my blog at https://www.lorrainebosse-smith.com/category/kuma/kumas-great-adventures/
and be sure to follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Kumathedog/ and Instagram: kumaitothedog
Get outside! You never know what you’ll discover, and our paths just might cross. Happy tails!
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