The best running trails around Willow Canyon

Willow Canyon offers a diverse range of running environments. In Arizona, you'll find classic Sonoran Desert experiences with saguaro cacti, dry creek beds, and moderate inclines. Higher elevations feature pine trees and small streams. In Southern Utah, expect high desert wilderness with striking red rock formations and expansive canyons. Death Valley's Willow Canyon even boasts rare year-round waterfalls and narrow canyon sections formed from ancient lava.

Yes, the routes highlighted in this guide are all considered difficult, offering significant elevation gain and distance. For example, the Soldier Trail is 5.6 miles (9.0 km) with scenic desert views and moderate inclines. Another challenging option is the Westfall Knob loop from Mount Bigelow, an 8.6-mile (13.9 km) path with expansive high desert views.

Yes, there are several excellent circular running routes. The Westfall Knob loop from Mount Bigelow is a difficult 8.6-mile (13.9 km) loop offering expansive views. Another popular choice is the Aspen Draw – Marshall Gulch Trailhead loop from Soldier Camp, which is 7.7 miles (12.4 km) and takes you through high desert landscapes with small streams and pine trees.

The Sonoran Desert areas of Willow Canyon are home to various wildlife, including mule deer, squirrels, rabbits, and birds. While beautiful, it's important to be aware of the potential presence of rattlesnakes. The Utah region also features desert bighorn sheep and other desert animals.

Absolutely! In the Arizona portion of Willow Canyon, you can find Seven Falls, where Bear Creek cascades down stone steps, especially stunning in spring. Hutch's Pool is a refreshing natural pool accessible via a side trail. In Death Valley, Willow Canyon is unique for its rare year-round double waterfall.

Beyond the natural beauty, you can explore several interesting points. The Bear Canyon Trail offers impressive views of the canyon and Tucson area. The Marshall Gulch Trail is part of the Arizona National Scenic Trail, winding through high desert with pine trees. You might also encounter ancient rock art and even dinosaur tracks in the Utah region, reminding you of the area's ancient past.

The best time largely depends on the specific location within Willow Canyon. In the Sonoran Desert areas of Arizona, early March can be particularly lush. Spring, when snowmelt swells the creeks, is ideal for seeing waterfalls like Seven Falls. Given the desert environments, cooler months are generally more comfortable for running, while summer can be extremely hot, especially in Death Valley.

While the routes in this guide are all difficult, the broader Willow Canyon area does offer easier options. For instance, near Willow Canyon High School in Surprise, Arizona, there's an easy 1.5-mile walking route with no elevation gain, suitable for a more relaxed run or walk.

The komoot community highly values the running experiences in Willow Canyon. With over 10 runners having explored these routes, they often praise the diverse landscapes, from the classic Sonoran Desert scenery to the high desert plateaus and unique canyon features. The challenging nature of the trails is also a draw for those seeking a more strenuous workout.

Access to many of the more remote and scenic running trails in Willow Canyon, particularly those within national forests or parks, typically requires personal transportation. Public transport options directly to trailheads are generally limited in these expansive natural areas. It's advisable to plan for driving to reach most starting points.

Yes, Willow Canyon offers several longer running routes for those seeking a challenge. The Westfall Knob loop from Mount Bigelow is 8.6 miles (13.9 km), and the Aspen Draw – Marshall Gulch Trailhead loop from Soldier Camp covers 7.7 miles (12.4 km). The Oracle Ridge Trail – Oracle Ridge loop from Faul Preservation Area is also a substantial 8.5 miles (13.75 km) with significant elevation gain.