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ForestMatters, LLC

Cave Creek Trail

Tonto National Forest, Arizona · 4 min read

Distance
7 mi
Elevation Gain
1,200 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
October through April
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
5 / 10
Trailhead Amenities
Restroom
Flush Restroom
Parking
Fee Required
Cell Service
Limited
Water
Nearby
Camping
None
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Accessible desert hiking close to the Phoenix metro area
  • Saguaro cactus forest and Sonoran Desert scenery
  • Cave Creek Canyon with seasonal water and riparian vegetation
  • Wildlife including javelina, coyote, and Gambel's quail

Overview

Cave Creek Recreation Area sits at the northern edge of the Phoenix metro area where the Sonoran Desert meets the foothills of the Tonto National Forest. The Cave Creek Trail system offers the closest genuine desert wilderness hiking to the city, with saguaro cactus forests, canyon terrain, and wildlife that includes javelina, coyote, roadrunner, and desert tortoise.

The 7-mile out-and-back described here covers the main Canyon Trail through the drainage, gaining 1,200 feet through alternating desert flats and canyon sections. Cave Creek provides seasonal water in winter and spring, supporting cottonwood, willow, and sycamore that create a riparian corridor distinct from the surrounding Sonoran Desert.

This is a Tonto National Forest trail for the October-through-April season. Summer heat in the lower desert reaches genuinely dangerous levels. Many hikers who visit in the shoulder season carry 2-3 liters of water; individual needs vary with temperature; in warm conditions (above 85 degrees), experienced desert hikers carry more. Tonto Pass ($8/day as of 2026) is required.

The Route

Miles 0 to 2.0: From the Cave Creek Recreation Area, the trail heads northeast through dense saguaro forest. The iconic tall cactus make this section visually distinctive: nowhere else do hiking trails pass through such mature saguaro stands this close to a major city. Javelina are commonly seen in family groups. The creek comes in and out of view.

Miles 2.0 to 3.5: The canyon narrows and deepens as the trail climbs. Cottonwood and sycamore appear in the creek bottom. The trail works higher on the canyon wall for better views down the drainage. Desert wildflowers are excellent in March and early April.

Miles 3.5 to 7.0 (return): The trail turnaround is at a natural canyon overlook before the terrain becomes more demanding. Return via the same route.

When to Visit

October through April. This trail is one of the more heat-sensitive in the Tonto given its lower elevation and proximity to the urban heat island. Even in October, morning temperatures can feel warm; plan to be done by 11 a.m.

Winter (December through February) after rain events brings the creek up and the desert flora to life. Spring (February through April) delivers the cactus wildflower season. March and April are peak times for saguaro blooming on the upper slopes.

What to Bring

  • Water: many hikers carry 2-3 liters; creek is unreliable; in warm weather carry more; individual needs vary
  • Tonto Pass ($8/day as of 2026); purchase before arriving
  • Sun protection: shade is limited in lower desert terrain
  • Light layers for cool winter mornings that warm quickly by mid-morning
  • Binoculars for Sonoran Desert wildlife

Introduce newer hikers to desert safety and Leave No Trace 7 principles. The proximity to the city makes responsible trail behavior especially important at Cave Creek.

Practical Details

Tonto Pass required as of 2026. The America the Beautiful Pass does not cover the Tonto Pass. Veterans should review veteran benefits in national forests.

Flush restrooms and water are available at the recreation area — use these before the trail since no facilities exist further in.

Cell service is limited but better than more remote Tonto areas given the proximity to Phoenix cell towers.

Getting There

From Phoenix: Take I-17 north to Cave Creek Road (Exit 223). Head east on Cave Creek Road approximately 12 miles to the Cave Creek Recreation Area entrance. The address is 37019 N. Lemon Ave, Cave Creek. The facility is well-signed.

From Scottsdale: Head north on Scottsdale Road to Cave Creek Road, then west to Lemon Ave.

Check current heat advisories and trail conditions. See checking conditions before you go for Tonto National Forest current conditions resources.

Trailhead Parking

Cave Creek Recreation Area, 37019 N. Lemon Ave, Cave Creek, AZ. Paved parking with flush toilets. Tonto Pass required.

← Back to Tonto National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cave Creek Trail close to Phoenix?
Yes. The Cave Creek Recreation Area is approximately 30 miles north of downtown Phoenix, making it one of the most accessible Tonto National Forest trails for Phoenix metro residents.
Is the Cave Creek Trail too hot in summer?
The lower desert terrain at Cave Creek sits below 3,000 feet and temperatures can exceed 105 degrees Fahrenheit in July and August. Summer hiking here requires very early starts (before 7 a.m.) and careful water management. Most hikers restrict desert visits to October through April.
Is there water in Cave Creek?
Cave Creek has seasonal water that runs after significant rains and may be present in winter and spring. It is typically dry by late spring and through summer. Do not rely on the creek as a water source; carry all needed water from the trailhead.
Is a Tonto Pass required at Cave Creek?
Yes. The Tonto Pass is required at the Cave Creek Recreation Area as of 2026. Day passes are $8.