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Usery Mountain Regional Park: A Sonoran Desert Jewel

Explore the Sonoran Desert's beauty with hiking, camping, and stargazing at Mesa's Usery Mountain Regional Park.

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Nestled at the western end of the Goldfield Mountains in Mesa, Arizona, Usery Mountain Regional Park offers a stunning glimpse into the Sonoran Desert. With over 29 miles of trails, a nature center, and diverse recreational activities, it's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking natural beauty and adventure.

A brief summary to Usery Mountain Regional Park

Local tips

  • Bring plenty of water, especially when hiking, and wear sun protection.
  • Visit the Nature Center to learn about the local flora and fauna.
  • Check the park's website for ranger-led programs and events.
  • Make camping reservations in advance, especially during winter and spring.
  • Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and holidays.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From downtown Mesa, head east on Main Street until you reach Ellsworth Road. Turn north onto Ellsworth Road and follow it for several miles until you see signs for Usery Mountain Regional Park. The park entrance is on the right. The vehicle day-use entry fee is $7.

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Mesa, take the Valley Metro Light Rail to the Mesa Arts Center station. Transfer to Route 30 bus towards Mesquite, and ride until you reach the intersection of Power Rd & McKellips Rd. From there, transfer to Route 136 bus towards Usery Pass. Exit at the Usery Pass Rd & McKellips Rd stop. Walk north along Usery Pass Rd for about 1 mile until you reach Usery Mountain Regional Park's entrance. A single bus fare is $2.

Unlock the Best of Usery Mountain Regional Park

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Discover more about Usery Mountain Regional Park

Usery Mountain Regional Park, a 3,648-acre park in Mesa, Arizona, has been part of the Maricopa County regional park system since 1961. Situated at the western end of the Goldfield Mountains and adjacent to the Superstition Mountains in the Tonto National Forest, the park showcases the unique beauty of the Sonoran Desert. The park's geological focal point is Pass Mountain, also known as "Scarface". The park was named after King Usery, a cattleman who ran stock in the area in the late 1870s and early 1880s. Usery's story is one of perseverance and, later, brushes with the law, adding a touch of Wild West history to the park's allure. Visitors can explore over 29 miles of trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Trails range from easy, like the barrier-free Merkle Trail, to more challenging, like the Pass Mountain Trail. The popular Wind Cave Trail leads to a cave with hanging gardens of Rock Daisy and breathtaking views. The park is home to diverse plant and animal life, including Gambel's Quail, Harris's Hawk, Gila Woodpecker, and various native plants. The Nature Center offers interpretive exhibits and ranger-guided programs. Other activities include camping, archery at a five-star-rated range, and stargazing.

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