Mesquite Trail (Lower) at the White Tanks (R2R)

Mesquite Trail (lower) toward Goat Camp Trail will be roughly a 12 mile, moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Waddell, Arizona that features beautiful wild flowers and is only recommended for very experienced adventurers. The trail is primarily used for hiking and trail running and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.

Distance: 12 miles Elevation Gain: 3,116 feet

Route Type: Out & Back

dogs on leash hiking running views wild flowers wildlife rocky

For the first mile and a quarter one experiences a gradual incline , walking on soft white sand for about one half mile, then the trail becomes rocky and towards the end more and larger rocks with steeper climbs. Up to the three mile marker, the trail narrows with very steep inclines and you need to know how to place your feet and to avoid falls. One rates this as the toughest part. Then up to three and a third miles one experiences the rocky climbs a little easier. One, therefore, can rate this hike as challenging