Day Trip - Usery Mountain Park - East of Mesa

We did see a rattlesnake, best to just leave them alone.

This shows the cave from the parking lot.

Going up...

resting in the shade

The "cave"

What it looks like from up there.

Beyond the cave it is more like climbing then hiking.

The desert is a unique place to live, and there is much to learn from it, in our own backyards.

The difference in the plants and wildlife is a wonder that travelers to our state definately should see. Many of those living here take it for granted, but there is an amazing world waiting for us, just a few miles away.

Usery Park, situated in the east Valley community of Mesa, is accessible from Ellsworth Road. Take US 60 east to Ellsworth Road; travel north to the park entrance.

There are picnic areas and restrooms near the parking lot.

This day, we chose the WInd Cave Trail, the trail goes up and along the ridge visible in these pictures.

This is under 4 miles round trip. It includes many switchbacks, so the trail basically zigzags back and forth most of the way.

The cave often has bees, which have built hives up in the cave ceiling. They basically buzz alot, and stay to themselves. But if you have a bee allergy, you should be aware of this.

The view is wonderful, and there are so many things along the trail to enjoy. The different cacti, other plants, and the beauty of the mountain itself.

When planning a hike like this, spring or fall is best. Know when sunset is, and plan at least 150% of your hike up time, for your return time.

The obvious, take water, take water, wear sunscreen, wear a hat, no sandles, don't go off the trail. (There is a well worn trail, passed the wind cave sign, that people do hike on regularly, passed the "trail is dangerous" beyond here sign). Tell people where you are going. And did I mention take water?

This is a very popular hiking trail, and you will encounter people from age 5 on up. Be courteous to others.

With the cave as a destination, it is perfect to take a snack or lunch, have a picnic at the cave while you rest. Remember to take all of your trash out with you.

This park is 3,648 acres. There are a large variety of plants and animals (we saw squirrels, prarie dogs and a rattlesnake.) that call the lower Sonoran Desert home.

There is a campground (reservations not accepted), a group campground (reservations required).

Day-use area includes a group picnic area (reservations required) and picnic sites with grills, tables, ramadas and water. (There is a day use entry fee)

Usery Park has plenty of outdoor opportunities to enjoy hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding; a horse staging area is available with picnic areas and hitching posts. There is also a place for Archers.

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