Mule Deer Trail (Maricopa Trail) - Mountain Biking near Waddell, Arizona
~Ford Canyon Trail, Waddell, AZ 85355, USA,Waddell,Arizona
33.5873278, -112.49950265
2.9 miles W of Waddell, Arizona
Address: ~Ford Canyon Trail, Waddell, AZ 85355, USA
GPS: 33°35'14.4"N 112°29'58.2"W
Maps | Directions
State: Arizona
Trail Length: 3.50 miles
MTB Difficulty: Intermediate
Trail Type: Out & Back
Hike Difficulty: Beginner
Elevation Gain: 298 feet

Pet Friendly State Park

Hike, Horseback, and Mountain Bike

Mule Deer trail is a 3.5 mile out-and-back trail that it part of the Maricopa Trail within White Tank Mountain Regional Park. This is a beginner to moderate friendly trail for both hikers and mountain bikers alike. 

This trail is relatively flat and quiet compared to other trails in the park; it's an easy desert walk or ride with only minor elevation gain (less than 300 feet), making it a nice option for those looking for something less strenuous to do, or if you are looking for some desert serenity.

Beginning at the north end of the trail, you'll do a bit of an unnecessary b-line and then pass a spur trail heading to Area 4's group picnic area. This is where much of the climbing is done. It's a measly and gradual 96ft that heads around a small hill. Soon after, you'll meet up with the Bajada Trail.
Should you choose to continue along Mule Deer, you'll pass along some horse stables on your left (east). The rest of the trail is a mild meander at the foot of the White Tank Mountains. After crossing the main road, you'll wrap around and meet up with the South Trail. Return the 3.3 miles you came, or begin the rest of your loop, whatever that may be - there are plenty of options.Courtesy of hikearizona.com

There is a $6 vehicle entrance fee for the park, or a $2 bike fee. 

659 Edited by kworthen

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Never modify trail features. Ride trails when they're dry enough that you won't leave ruts. Speak up when you see others on the trail and always yield to hikers, horses, and others coming uphill. Always ride on the established trail.

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Be courteous, informed, and prepared. Read trailhead guidelines, stay on the trail, and don't feed the wildlife.

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  1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
  2. Travel & camp on durable surfaces
  3. Dispose of waste properly
  4. Leave what you find
  5. Minimize campfire impacts
  6. Respect wildlife
  7. Be considerate of other visitors

Directions

From Waddell, Arizona

  1. Head southeast on W Burton Ave toward N Cortessa Pkwy (26 ft)
  2. Turn right onto N Cortessa Pkwy (0.7 mi)
  3. Turn right onto W Olive Ave (2.5 mi)
  4. Continue onto W White Tank Mountain Rd (2.1 mi)
  5. Turn right onto Wildlife Way
    Destination will be on the left
    (361 ft)
or

From the south, the Mule Deer Trail begins near the terminus of the South Trail and ends to the north on a dirt road next to the main trailhead.

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Night View of Mule Deer Trail courtesy of Sherry Lynn Delbridge Night View of Mule Deer Trail  courtesy of Sherry Lynn Delbridge↗

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