UU Outdoor Group Hike Saturday, February 11, 2023 – Butcher Jones Trail, Tonto National Forest
The Butcher Jones trail is a 5.8 mile out and back trail off of Bush Highway. There is only 636 feet of elevation gain. The trail winds around Saguaro Lake, both at the shoreline and across overlooks, enabling beautiful vistas.
Location: Take AZ-87 (B-line) to Bush Hwy, exit 199. Turn right onto Bush Hwy. and continue for approximately 3 miles. Turn left onto E Butcher Jones Beach Rd, go 1.9 miles to the parking lot. We will meet at the Butcher Jones TH sign.
A Tonto National Forest daily pass is required; it can be purchased at the nearby Chevron or at any Circle K for $8.
Meeting time: Two options:
- Car Pool – Meet at the Denny’s Restaurant at 17053 E Shea Blvd (Fountain Hills) at 8 AM, leave for trailhead at 8:10. Approximately a 20 minute drive to TH.
- Self-Drive – arrive to the Butcher Jones parking lot by 8:30 AM
We will start the hike at 8:45 AM
Dogs on leash are welcomed.
Don’t forget to bring water and a snack, wear sunscreen and a hat. Due to the rocky trail, wearing hiking boots is preferable. Bring trekking poles if you use them.
After the hike, which should take 2-2.5 hrs, depending on the route, we can all meet back at Denny’s for food and conversation.
Hike leader: Barbara Seltzer
Also, please check the calendar. If there is an open date and you would like to lead a hike, please send an email to outdoorgroup@phoenixuu.org with the date and location of the hike to be added to the calendar.
Gateway Loop Hike Review – January 28, 2023
Fifteen individuals and a dog enjoyed a beautiful day, great company, and a moderate hike on the Gateway Loop, McDowell Sonoran Preserve.