Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
400.00 ft (121.92 m)
Trail type
Loop
Distance
3.90 mi (6.28 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

This loop hike starts at the trailhead for Jewel of the Creek Preserve and travels through Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area.  From the trailhead at Jewel of the Creek, pass through the gate and follow the trail for about .75 miles where the trail drops down the Cave Creek.  This a popular swimming hole with locals.  The trail make a sharp right at the swimming hole and follows Cave Creek until it rise up and away through a dry wash and out of the wash onto the Dragonfly Trail.

The Dragonfly Trail is about 3 miles long has great views of Saguaro and Cholla cactus along with Ocotillo succulants.  Elephant Mountain can be seen off to the left.  At about 2.5 miles, the Dragonfly trail crosses Cave Creek and in a short distance exits out to a paved road for the Spur Cross Ranch Conservation area.  Parking and entering from this direction would require a $3.00 per person fee.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Swimming hole with nice views.

Cons

Could get crowded on weekends.

Trailhead Elevation

2,314.00 ft (705.31 m)

Highest point

2,484.00 ft (757.12 m)

Features

Near lake or river
Family friendly
Wildflowers
Big vistas

Typically multi-day

No

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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