Wind Cave Trail
Hike to unique wind-sculpted caves and enjoy breathtaking desert vistas in Usery Mountain Regional Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps & golden hour light
Wind Cave Trail
Best Time
Cooler temps & golden hour light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to unique wind-sculpted caves and enjoy breathtaking desert vistas in Usery Mountain Regional Park.
"A classic hike with a spectacular ending, totally doable for anyone!"
☀️ Beat the Heat
Hike early morning to avoid extreme heat. Bring plenty of water!
🚗 Park Entry Fee
Expect a $7 per car fee for Usery Mountain Regional Park. Cash or card accepted.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Wind Cave
Usery Mountain Regional Park, Mesa, AZ
Explore unique natural limestone arches and hollows sculpted by wind erosion. A truly unique geological wonder.
Panoramic Desert Views
Summit of Pass Mountain, Usery Mountain Regional Park
Ascend beyond the cave for breathtaking 360-degree vistas of the surrounding desert landscape and Phoenix skyline.
Vivid Granite Cliffs
Along the Wind Cave Trail
Admire the striking patterns of lichen-covered granite cliffs, showcasing millions of years of geological history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Park Entry & Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☀️ Beat the Heat
Hike early morning to avoid extreme heat. Bring plenty of water!
🚗 Park Entry Fee
Expect a $7 per car fee for Usery Mountain Regional Park. Cash or card accepted.
🗺️ Navigation Aid
Use apps like AllTrails or Garmin to track your hike, especially past the cave.
👟 Sturdy Footwear
The trail has elevation gain and rocky sections; good hiking shoes are recommended.
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Beat the Heat
Hike early morning to avoid extreme heat. Bring plenty of water!
🚗 Park Entry Fee
Expect a $7 per car fee for Usery Mountain Regional Park. Cash or card accepted.
🗺️ Navigation Aid
Use apps like AllTrails or Garmin to track your hike, especially past the cave.
👟 Sturdy Footwear
The trail has elevation gain and rocky sections; good hiking shoes are recommended.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trail
Leashed dogs are welcome on the Wind Cave Trail.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Wind Cave Trail's unique geological formations and stunning panoramic desert views, calling it a classic hike with a rewarding summit. While the elevation gain and heat can be challenging, most agree the experience is well worth the effort, especially with early morning starts and ample water. It's a popular spot for a good workout and memorable photo opportunities.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Wind Cave Trail is located within Usery Mountain Regional Park in Mesa, Arizona. The trailhead is accessible from the park entrance. Follow signs for the Wind Cave Trail. 
Yes, there is parking available at the trailhead. It can get busy, especially on weekends, so arriving early is advised.
The park is typically open before sunrise and closes at sunset. It's always a good idea to check the official park website for the most current hours.
While GPS can get you to Usery Mountain Regional Park, it's best to use hiking apps or park maps once inside to locate the specific trailhead.
Public transport options to Usery Mountain Regional Park are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to access the trailhead.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a $7 per car entry fee for Usery Mountain Regional Park. This fee covers access to the park and its trails, including Wind Cave.
No, advance booking is not required. You pay the park entry fee upon arrival. However, it's wise to check for any special event closures.
Information on specific discounts is not widely available. The standard $7 per car fee is generally applied.
Usery Mountain Regional Park generally opens before sunrise and closes at sunset. Always verify current hours before your visit.
While the park opens before sunrise, hiking after dark is generally discouraged due to safety and park regulations. Stick to daylight hours.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Wind Cave Trail is rated as moderate. It involves a significant elevation gain of about 1,000 feet, with some steeper sections, especially towards the cave.
The out-and-back trail to the cave is approximately 3.2 miles. Some hikers continue further to the summit of Pass Mountain for even better views.
Wear comfortable hiking attire and sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good grip. Layers are recommended as desert temperatures can fluctuate.
Yes, it's a great family hike, but be prepared for the elevation gain. Younger children might need assistance on steeper parts.
Restroom facilities are available within Usery Mountain Regional Park, though not directly at every trailhead. Plan accordingly.
🎫 💧 Hydration & Snacks
It's crucial to bring ample water, especially during warmer months. At least 2-3 liters per person is recommended due to the heat and elevation gain.
There are no concessions directly at the trailhead. It's best to bring all your snacks and drinks with you.
Opt for energy-rich snacks like trail mix, granola bars, fruit, or jerky to keep your energy levels up during the hike.
There are no water refill stations on the Wind Cave Trail. Ensure your water bottles or hydration packs are full before you start.
Shade is very limited on the Wind Cave Trail. The desert environment offers little cover, making early morning or late afternoon hikes preferable.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photos, casting beautiful shadows and highlighting the rock formations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive desert views and the cave's unique formations. A smartphone camera is also sufficient for great shots.
The cave itself is a prime photo spot, as are the panoramic viewpoints at the summit. The lichen-covered cliffs also make for interesting close-ups.
Drone usage is typically restricted in regional parks. Check Usery Mountain Regional Park's specific regulations regarding drone operation.
Experiment with different angles from inside and outside the cave. Capturing the light filtering through the arches can create stunning effects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Bring plenty of water and snacks, as shade is scarce and the desert sun can be intense. Consider starting early in the morning to avoid the midday heat. The unique cave formations and panoramic views provide exciting rewards for the effort.
💰 Budget Travelers
+1Beyond the park fee, the hike itself is free. Pack your own water and snacks to save money, and enjoy the stunning natural beauty without breaking the bank. It's a high-value experience for a low cost.
🐶 Dog Lovers
Remember to bring extra water for your dog and be mindful of the hot ground and temperatures, especially during warmer months. Ensure your dog is comfortable with hiking and the desert environment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Geology of Wind Cave
+1This area showcases the power of natural forces over vast timescales. The trail itself offers a journey through this ancient landscape, with opportunities to observe the different rock layers and formations up close. It's a testament to the dynamic geological history of Arizona.
For those interested in geology, the Wind Cave Trail provides a tangible connection to the Earth's past. The exposed rock faces tell a story of sedimentation, uplift, and erosion, making the hike both an adventure and an educational experience.
Navigating the Wind Cave Trail
+1Many hikers recommend using navigation apps like AllTrails or Garmin to track your progress and ensure you stay on the correct path, particularly if you venture beyond the main cave area. The trail is marked with blue dots and arrows, but having a digital map can provide extra security.
+1While the cave is a primary destination, don't miss the opportunity to continue to the summit. The panoramic views from the top are often cited as a highlight, offering a stunning perspective of the surrounding desert and the distant Phoenix skyline.
The Best Times for a Memorable Hike
Weekdays generally offer a more peaceful experience with fewer crowds compared to weekends. This allows for a more immersive connection with nature and better photo opportunities without as many people in the background.
For those who prefer milder weather, the fall and winter months (October through March) are ideal for hiking the Wind Cave Trail. The temperatures are more forgiving, making the elevation gain more manageable and the overall experience more comfortable.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit