Willow Canyon Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Be careful of your footing, as the terrain can be uneven, rocky, and full of loose gravel.

This trail connects the Mesquite Canyon Trail and the Ford Canyon Trail. It is a well-maintained singletrack with some mild elevation gain. It also makes a nice alternative to running the western portion of the Mesquite Canyon Trail. From the Mesquite Canyon intersection, Willow Canyon starts off with a moderate incline as you head up and over the hills, traveling on some loose rock and gravel. Here you'll have some nice views of the desert landscape. It soon levels out as you wind along the canyon and drop down into the dry creek. This is a wonderful place to rest, have a snack, and even take a short nap on one of the large, smooth rocks in the canyon.

After leaving the creek, the trail slowly climbs into the vast, rolling hills where it ends at Ford Canyon Trail. Willow Canyon Trail can feel rather secluded and remote.

A variety of desert plants and cacti are plentiful. Watch for mule deer, squirrels, rabbits, and birds. Be careful as you run since there are quite a few rattlesnakes out there!