
San Tan Trailhead
Discover the San Tan Trailhead, offering access to scenic desert hikes and bike rides with stunning mountain views. A great spot for outdoor adventure...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the desert heat

San Tan Trailhead
Best Time
Beat the desert heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the San Tan Trailhead, offering access to scenic desert hikes and bike rides with stunning mountain views. A great spot for outdoor adventure.
"It's a nice place to ride my bike. The views are great!"

💰 Parking Fee
Bring $7 cash for parking at the Goldmine Trailhead, or use your Maricopa County Annual Pass.
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry ample water, especially during warmer months. Dehydration is a serious risk in the Arizona desert.

Quick Facts
Rating
4.6 · 10 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Goldmine Trailhead
North side of San Tan Mountain Regional Park
A new, well-equipped trailhead with bathrooms and a visitor center. Offers wide, gradual trails perfect for all skill levels.

Goldmine Trail
San Tan Mountain Regional Park
A 3.4-mile loop with 700ft of elevation gain, ideal for a quick workout and stunning desert views.

Wildlife Sightings
Various trails
Keep an eye out for diverse desert wildlife, including birds, coyotes, and chipmunks. Always observe from a safe distance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trailhead Access & Fees
Best Gear & Hydration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Parking Fee
Bring $7 cash for parking at the Goldmine Trailhead, or use your Maricopa County Annual Pass.
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry ample water, especially during warmer months. Dehydration is a serious risk in the Arizona desert.
👟 Proper Footwear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes for comfort and stability on the trails. Appropriate clothing is also recommended.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Trails
Dogs are welcome on the trails, but ensure they are leashed and you clean up after them.
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Parking Fee
Bring $7 cash for parking at the Goldmine Trailhead, or use your Maricopa County Annual Pass.
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry ample water, especially during warmer months. Dehydration is a serious risk in the Arizona desert.
👟 Proper Footwear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes for comfort and stability on the trails. Appropriate clothing is also recommended.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Trails
Dogs are welcome on the trails, but ensure they are leashed and you clean up after them.
🚴♀️ Bike & Trail Ride
The trails are great for biking and trail riding, offering a good workout with scenic views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find San Tan Trailhead to be a nice place for hiking and biking with great views, though some feel it's overrated and not spectacular. The trails are generally well-marked and suitable for various activities, with amenities like bathrooms available.
"We only did 8.7 miles today. Slow hike.
Very nice. Wear the appropriate shoes and clothing. Bring water.
We saw wild animals- birds, Coyote and chipmunks.
Bikes and dogs shared the trail.
Benches occasionally available."
J Stone
"Terrific views, easy soft and sometimes sandy walking/hiking trails. Did a SanTan-Hedgehog-Moonlight trail loop approx 4.5m. Well marked trail signage. 5/5 from me the wife and the puppers."
Peter Clark
"WAY OVERRATED. It's a 3 star. Reviewers must have never been anywhere nice.
It's a nice fairly easy hike, but don't expect anything spectacular."
Warren Trout
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary access point mentioned is the Goldmine Trailhead, located on the north side of San Tan Mountain Regional Park. It's a newer facility with parking and amenities.
Yes, the Goldmine Trailhead has a parking lot. Be aware that it can fill up, especially on busy days.
While specific GPS coordinates aren't provided, it's located on the north side of the park. It's a good idea to use a reliable GPS app and search for 'Goldmine Trailhead San Tan Mountain Regional Park'.
Yes, there is a main San Tan Mountain parking lot, and some hikers have accidentally ended up at the Goldmine trailhead instead.
Public transportation options are limited for reaching remote trailheads like this. Driving is the most common and recommended method.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a $7 cash parking fee per vehicle at the Goldmine Trailhead. Alternatively, a Maricopa County Annual Pass is accepted.
Tickets are not required in advance; payment is typically handled at the trailhead upon arrival. It's best to have cash ready for the parking fee.
Park hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the official Maricopa County Parks and Recreation website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
There is no additional fee for bringing dogs to the park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times.
Yes, a Maricopa County Annual Pass is accepted as an alternative to the $7 cash parking fee.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Goldmine Trailhead offers wide, gradual trails that are generally not very rocky or sandy, making them accessible for various fitness levels.
The Goldmine Trail is described as a 'booty blaster' with 700ft of elevation gain over 3.4 miles, offering a good workout without being overly strenuous for most.
Yes, there are bathrooms available at the Goldmine Trailhead, along with a visitor center.
The trail signage is generally well-marked, making it easier to navigate the park's trail system.
Absolutely! The San Tan Trailhead is a great place for hiking, biking, and trail riding, with trails wide enough for passing.
🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at the trailhead. It's recommended to pack your own snacks and drinks or plan to eat before or after your visit in nearby towns.
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks. Staying hydrated is crucial, so carrying plenty of water is essential.
While there's a visitor center, it's not explicitly stated if potable water is available for refilling bottles. It's safest to bring all the water you'll need.
📸 📸 Photography
The desert landscapes, mountain vistas, and potential wildlife sightings offer great photographic opportunities. The 'golden hour' during late afternoons can provide beautiful lighting.
Always be aware of your surroundings when taking photos, especially if you're hiking alone or in areas with wildlife. Stay on marked trails.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warmer glow.
Drone usage is typically restricted in Maricopa County Regional Parks. It's best to check the park's official regulations regarding drone operation before flying.
Yes, but always maintain a safe and respectful distance. Do not disturb or feed any wildlife you encounter.



Social
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