Go John Trail – Clay Mine loop from Rodger Creek
Go John Trail – Clay Mine loop from Rodger Creek
4.9
(4793)
5,356
runners
Go John Trail – Clay Mine loop from Rodger Creek
02:38
22.2km
450m
Running
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: April 20, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
6.66 km
Go John Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
11.6 km
Cave Creek Regional Park
Nature Reserve
12.6 km
Clay Mine
Highlight • Cave
Tip by
22.2 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
9.75 km
5.84 km
5.30 km
845 m
472 m
Surfaces
12.3 km
5.89 km
3.56 km
472 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Monday 6 July
42°C
28°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a challenging and rewarding desert run, the Go John Trail – Clay Mine loop from Rodger Creek is definitely worth your time. This difficult jogging route covers 13.8 miles (22.2 km) with a substantial 1469 feet (448 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 2 hours and 37 minutes to complete. It's a perfect pick for experienced trail runners seeking a robust workout with stunning Sonoran Desert views.
What to expect on Go John Trail – Clay Mine loop from Rodger Creek
Prepare for a diverse journey through the upper Sonoran Desert. The Go John Trail starts out easy enough, but quickly transitions to rougher terrain with steeper grades, rocky slabs, and rolling hills, demanding careful footing. You'll wind past hundred-year-old Saguaro cacti and sandy arroyos, with long-range southerly views of the valley unfolding as you go. Keep an eye out for Elephant Mountain, a unique rock formation, and the old Clay Mine with its historical signage. This route is best suited for experienced trail runners who are comfortable with varied and sometimes uneven surfaces.
Planning your visit
Little shade is available on this trail, so carrying plenty of water and wearing a hat are essential, especially during warmer months. The best time to visit for comfortable jogging conditions is typically October through April. Intersections on the Go John Trail are well-marked, making navigation straightforward. Be aware that this is a shared-use trail, so you might encounter hikers, cyclists, and equestrians.
Trail details
- Distance: 13.8 miles (22.2 km)
- Elevation gain: 1469 feet (448 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 37 minutes
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