4.5
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14,656
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02:14
8.14km
150m
Hiking
Embark on the Javelina Trail for a classic Sonoran Desert hiking experience, a moderate route covering 5.1 miles (8.1 km) with an elevation gain of 501 feet (153 metres). You can expect to spend around 2 hours and 13 minutes immersed in scenic desert landscapes, where the path winds through…
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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8.14 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
7.66 km
353 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
7.63 km
321 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (560 m)
Lowest point (470 m)
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Saturday 9 May
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This route was planned by komoot.
The Javelina Trail is approximately 8.1 kilometers (5 miles) long and typically takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes to complete. This duration can vary based on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.
This trail is rated as moderate. While it features some elevation gain (around 153 meters or 500 feet), it's generally manageable for hikers with a reasonable fitness level. The terrain can be rocky and uneven in sections, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
Yes, dogs are generally allowed on trails within the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, including the Javelina Trail. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to bring water for your pet and clean up after them.
The best time to hike the Javelina Trail is during the cooler months, from late fall through early spring (October to April). Summers in Arizona can be extremely hot, making midday hikes challenging and potentially dangerous. Early mornings are ideal year-round to avoid heat and crowds.
No, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, which includes the Javelina Trail. It is free and open to the public from sunrise to sunset.
The trail offers classic Sonoran Desert scenery, with diverse cacti, desert shrubs, and possibly views of the surrounding mountains. The terrain is a mix of packed dirt and rocky sections, characteristic of desert trails, and may include crossing washes. It's a great way to experience the unique desert landscape.
Yes, the route intersects with several other trails within the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. You'll find sections that overlap with the Quartz Trail, Maricopa Trail, and Taliesin Trail, offering opportunities to extend your hike or create different loops.
Specific parking information for the Javelina Trail within the McDowell Sonoran Preserve can vary depending on the trailhead you choose to start from. It's advisable to check the McDowell Sonoran Preserve's official website or komoot's detailed tour page for the most accurate and up-to-date parking locations and directions.
For a moderate desert hike, essential items include plenty of water (more than you think you'll need), sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), sturdy hiking shoes, and snacks. A map or GPS device is also recommended, as well as a first-aid kit.
Given its moderate difficulty and length, the Javelina Trail can be suitable for active families and beginners who are prepared for a longer hike with some elevation gain. It's a good introduction to desert hiking, but ensure everyone has appropriate footwear and enough water.
The McDowell Sonoran Preserve is home to various desert wildlife. While sightings are never guaranteed, you might spot javelina (peccaries), various bird species, lizards, and possibly even coyotes or bobcats, especially during cooler parts of the day. Remember to observe from a distance and never feed wild animals.