My boys are not big fans of hiking, but the Hieroglyphic Trail is the one trail that they will gladly hike any day! The relatively short and easy hike leads to climbing rocks, a small cave, pools of water, and incredible petroglyphs. Keep reading to discover why the Hieroglyphic Trail is one of the best family hikes in Phoenix!
Everything you need to know before hiking the Hieroglyphic Trail
Table of Contents
- Hieroglyphic Trail information
- Where is the Hieroglyphic Trail located?
- What to expect when hiking the Hieroglyphic Trail
- Why the Hieroglyphic Trail is one of the best family hikes in Phoenix
Hieroglyphic Trail information
- Location: 4467 S King Ranch Rd, Gold Canyon
- Distance: 2.9 miles out and back
- Rated: easy/moderate
- Elevation gain: 567 ft
- Fees: No fee required
- Amenities: Paved parking lot with portable toilets
- Dog friendly: Yes (must stay on leash)
- Hours: The trail is open daily from 5 am to 10 pm
Where is the Hieroglyphic Trail located?
The Hieroglyphic Trail is located in Gold Canyon within the Superstition Wilderness just outside the Tonto National Forest. It is about 30 miles east of Mesa. It is also near the Wave Cave and Flat Iron trails.
From Hwy 60, take a left onto S Kings Ranch Road. Follow the trail signs as the road weaves throughout the neighborhood for 4.4 miles until you reach the parking lot at the end of E Cloudview Ave.
What to expect when hiking the Hieroglyphic Trail
The newly constructed paved parking lot has around 60 parking spots and a few portable toilets, but no running water. Although the lot is large, it can fill up quickly on weekends during the busy season from October to March.
Keep in mind that this parking lot also services the Goldmine Trail so it’s best to visit on a weekday and arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to snag a spot. Do not park along the street or you may get ticketed.
The Hieroglyphic Trail is one of the best family hikes in Phoenix because it is a relatively short hike but packs a big punch. The trail is well-marked and well-maintained. It also has a gradual incline and is not too steep for kids.
We first started doing this hike over ten years ago when it was much more of a local’s secret. Today the trail is heavily trafficked but is wide enough to still comfortably pass.
There are loose rocks, larger boulders, and uneven footing on some portions of the trail so use caution.
The trail is dog-friendly, but all dogs must be kept on a leash. Be sure to bring baggies to clean up after your pooch and enough water to keep them hydrated.
The scenery is stunning all along the trail with saguaro cactus scattered throughout the landscape.
The trail is mostly exposed with little shade so be sure to apply sunscreen, wear a hat, and pack plenty of water. Avoid hiking during the summer months with the extreme temperatures.
Why the Hieroglyphic Trail is one of the best family hikes in Phoenix
Towards the end of the trail, there will be some rocks that you’ll need to scramble over. My boys loved this part, but younger kids will need some help.
Once you make it over the rocks you’ll enter the mouth of Hieroglyphic Canyon. You’ll be rewarded with countless petroglyphs, rocks to climb, a small cave to play in, seasonal pools of water, and a small waterfall if there has been recent rains.
My boys spent a solid hour racing up the rocky cliffs like mountain goats, splashing rocks in the pond, studying the petroglyphs, hiding in the cave, and exploring around using their imaginations. It was the best way to spend a sunny winter day in the desert.
This is also a great spot to have a little picnic, so be sure to pack plenty of snacks to eat as they play.
My boys were fascinated with the petroglyphs. They asked lots of questions and had fun identifying familiar drawings.
Although this hike is the Hieroglyphic Trail, it is actually panels of petroglyphs that can be found etched into the rocky basalt cliffs.
Hieroglyphics refer to the Egyptian writing system while petroglyphs are images carved into rock that are indigenous to the southwest. Supposedly the early European settlers confused the petroglyphs with Egyptian hieroglyphics, hence the name.
The ancient petroglyphs are a silent legacy left behind by the Hohokam Indians who populated this region 1,500 years ago.
The Superstition Mountains served as their ideal hunting ground and the petroglyphs of sheep, antelope, lizards, and other desert animals reflect their diet.
It is so sad and disappointing to see that other hikers have taken the liberty to scratch their own artwork among the petroglyphs. It’s a good opportunity to remind your kids how important it is to preserve and protect this ancient art gallery.
The sweeping views from the top are also spectacular, especially if you witness it during the golden hour.
* For another fun family hike, check out the Hidden Valley via Mormon Trail at South Mountain!
We made our way back down the trail as the golden light gently grazed the horizon, it was breathtaking.
The kids were dirty and exhausted by the time we made it back to the car and they slept the entire drive home. A definite sign of a day well spent.
Be sure to check out our guide 101 Things to Do Phoenix with Kids for more fun things to do with kids in Phoenix.
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