Mescal Mountain is on the way to Enchantment Resort. There are numerous trails in this area. The featured image (above) is a view along the Mescal Mountain Loop trail.
Mescal Mountain Loop
Click on the section title above to see a trail map. This trail is 4.8 miles and has 421 feet of elevation gain. Parking can be a challenge. The ups and downs of the terrain are moderate. Views are good. Much of the trail gives a wilderness experience with occasional views of homes and of Enchantment resort. The trail passes through a ‘grove’ of ocotillos (see the first image in the photo gallery), which during the right time of year provide verdant greens and vivid orange flowers – the rest of the year these are non-descript grayish stalks. The hazardous/difficult sign photograph I posted is for mountain bikers. Don’t worry: the trail does not provide any substantial challenge, but like any hike, I recommend paying attention while hiking. At one point you can see Kachina Woman – this is a hoodoo which marks the location of a vortex. Allow 2.5 hours to do this at a leisurely pace hiking without a break.
Dining
While you are out in this area, consider dining at the Enchantment Resort. This is a very classy resort with a price tag to match. There are various dining choices. at Enchantment Resort This is a gated resort – simply tell them you have come to dine. While visiting the resort, you can also visit Rachel’s Knoll – tell the person at the gate. Rachel’s Knoll is a beautiful hilltop location within the resort that through Rachel’s bequest stays open so that anyone can visit. It is a fun place to explore with beautiful views and a gentle and appealing energy.
