I posted in the last newsletter about a moonlight guided hike at the Lost Dutchman State Park, and it seemed like a solid idea. I had to be out in Mesa for work on that same day, and a moonlight hike was something I hadn’t done yet.

I ended up getting to the park well before the guided hike was to start, and I decided to just do my own thing and set out on the trail. There wasn’t enough daylight left to get to crazy, Treasure Loop felt like the right amount of exercise & views for the time I had.

This trail isn’t very long, but it gets intense, at least for me anyways. The grade is pretty gradual and then it feels like it is straight up!

It is a good mix of being in the desert and being up close with some impressive rock structures.

My hike was only 2.6 miles and I spent some time at the top enjoying the views, ended up spending an hour and fifteen minutes on this adventure. You can learn more about the trail on AllTrails.

I made it back to the parking area just after sunset and spent another hour in the park at one of the nearby picnic tables which was only about 100 feet from my car and had this view of the mountains.

I love this park because it is relatively close to town and it doesn’t even require getting out of your car to experience the amazing views of the mountains. There are several easy & flat trail options if you do want to venture into the desert.

If you’re making the trip to Canyon Lake & Tortilla Flats, take the time to stop at

Lost Dutchman State Park, you’ll be glad you did. There is a $10 entrance fee to the park, but I think it is worth it.