Usery Mountain Regional Park, Tonto National Forest Travel Guide

4.8 (3564)

Explore the Sonoran Desert's beauty at Usery Mountain Regional Park: hiking, biking, history, and stunning views await in Mesa, Arizona.

Home
Travel Guides
Arizona
Tonto National Forest
Usery Mountain Regional Park

Usery Mountain Regional Park, nestled on the eastern edge of Mesa, Arizona, offers a stunning showcase of the Sonoran Desert landscape. With over 29 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, the park provides outdoor adventures for all skill levels. Explore the iconic Wind Cave Trail, discover diverse desert flora and fauna, and immerse yourself in the rich history of the area, named after colorful cattleman King Usery.

A brief summary to Usery Mountain Regional Park

3939 N Usery Pass Rd, Mesa, Arizona, 85207, US
Click to display

Monday 7 am-2 pm
Tuesday 7 am-2 pm
Wednesday 7 am-2 pm
Thursday 7 am-2 pm
Friday 7 am-2 pm
Saturday 7 am-2 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Usery Mountain Regional Park.

Hike the Wind Cave Trail in the early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and stunning light.
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat, as shade is limited on many trails.
Visit the Nature Center to learn about the park's flora, fauna, and geology.
Check the park's website for upcoming events, such as ranger-guided hikes and stargazing programs.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Explore Usery Mountain Regional Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Usery Mountain Regional Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

From central Mesa, head east on US-60, then north on Ellsworth Road. Follow Ellsworth Road for approximately 7 miles until you see signs for Usery Mountain Regional Park on the right. The entrance fee is $7 per vehicle. Parking is available throughout the park, near trailheads and facilities.
Public Transport

From various points in Mesa, take Valley Metro bus routes that connect with the Ellsworth Road. From the bus stop, you may need to walk or use a ride-sharing service to reach the park entrance, approximately 1-3 miles depending on the bus stop location. A single bus fare is $2.00.
Taxi/Ride-share

From anywhere in Mesa, a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft) can take you directly to Usery Mountain Regional Park. The cost will vary depending on the distance and time of day, but expect to pay between $15-$30 for a one-way trip from central Mesa. There are no additional fees for drop-off within the park.

Discover more about Usery Mountain Regional Park

Usery Mountain Regional Park, a 3,648-acre haven on Mesa's east side, invites visitors to explore the captivating beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Established in 1967, the park sits at the western end of the Goldfield Mountains, near the Superstition Mountains, offering panoramic views and diverse terrain.The park's trails cater to all levels, from the accessible Merkle Trail to the challenging Pass Mountain Trail. The Wind Cave Trail, a local favorite, leads to a natural alcove with hanging gardens and breathtaking vistas. Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife, including Gambel's Quail, Harris's Hawk, and Gila Woodpeckers.Usery Mountain Regional Park is named after King Usery, a cattleman with a colorful past. In the late 1800s, Usery ran stock in the area and later found himself on the wrong side of the law, adding a touch of Wild West history to the park's allure. The Nature Center provides interpretive exhibits and ranger-guided programs, offering insights into the desert environment. With camping facilities, an archery range, and an outdoor fitness area, Usery Mountain Regional Park provides a multifaceted recreational experience.