Usery Mountain Regional Park
Usery Mountain Regional Park Map
About Usery Mountain Regional Park in Mesa
Usery Mountain Regional Park is a 3,648-acre park located on the east side of Mesa, Arizona. The park became part of Maricopa County's regional park system in 1961. It is situated at the western end of the Goldfield Mountains, adjacent to the Tonto National Forest.
The park showcases the beauty of the Sonoran Desert, with a diverse array of plants and animals native to the lower Sonoran Desert ecosystem. Visitors can observe various cacti species, including saguaros, barrel cacti, cholla, and prickly pear, as well as other desert plants like palo verde trees and ocotillos. Wildlife such as quail, coyotes, and various bird species can often be spotted in the park.
One of the most popular features of Usery Mountain Regional Park is the Wind Cave Trail. This 1.5-mile trail leads to an alcove high on the mountainside of Pass Mountain, where water seeps from the roof to support hanging gardens of rock daisy. The cave is formed at the boundary between volcanic tuff and granite. From its elevation of 2,840 feet, the Wind Cave offers breathtaking views of the surrounding plains and mountains.
The park offers over 29 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. These trails range in difficulty from easy to strenuous, providing options for visitors of all skill levels. The Merkle Trail, for example, is a barrier-free path suitable for those seeking an easy, short hike. For more experienced hikers, the 7.1-mile Pass Mountain Trail offers a challenging route around the mountain.
Usery Mountain Regional Park also features a nature center where visitors can learn about the local flora, fauna, and geology. The center provides educational programs and exhibits to enhance visitors' understanding and appreciation of the Sonoran Desert environment.
For those wishing to stay overnight, the park offers a 73-site campground suitable for both tent and RV camping. Each site is equipped with water and electrical hookups, making it a comfortable base for extended exploration of the park and surrounding areas.
