Exploring Gold Canyon's Trails: A Deep Dive into Holy Hill By-Pass and Gila Monster

Introduction: The Call of Gold Canyon's Trails

Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Arizona landscape, Gold Canyon boasts some thrilling opportunities for mountain bikers. From the Cloudview parking lot, an adventure unfolds along newly minted trails like Holy Hill By-Pass and Gila Monster. These trails offer cyclists an engaging mix of challenges and joys that make each ride a unique experience. If you're looking for a slice of mountain biking heaven in Arizona, you might just find it here.

Quick Facts: Trail Snapshot

• Distance: 7 miles
• Level: Difficult
• Route Type: Point to point
• City: Gold Canyon
• State: Arizona

Directions: How to Get There

Getting to the starting point is fairly straightforward. From Phoenix, head East on Highway 60, passing through Apache Junction. Continue until you reach Gold Canyon, then make a North turn onto Kings Ranch Road. After about three miles, make a right turn onto Baseline. Various signs will guide you to the hiking trail parking lot at the end of Cloudview Drive, which serves as your gateway to these captivating trails.

Trail Details: What to Expect

Holy Hill By-Pass

The Holy Hill By-Pass trail is a fairly recent addition to the Gold Canyon system, stretching for a modest but challenging 3/4 mile. Starting at the Cloudview parking lot, take the only trail and veer right after approximately 30 feet. As the trail meanders southward, the single-track climbs steadily up the hill before descending to intersect with the Vortex trail. If climbed from south to north, the grade becomes notably challenging, but the accomplishment is rewarding.

Gila Monster

Gila Monster serves as another excellent component of your ride, presenting an exciting 2-mile intermediate track. Boasting mildly technical features, including a curved wooden track, this trail integrates seamlessly with the Holy Hill By-Pass. It ends at a jeep road, which cyclists can then follow southward.

Warnings and Tips

1. Trail Markers: Navigational signs are well-placed, but always exercise caution.
2. Technical Challenges: Expect a few technical segments along Gila Monster.
3. Steep Grade: Holy Hill can be a leg-burner when climbed from south to north.
4. Terrain: The area is mostly a rocky desert landscape, which adds to the overall challenge.
5. Season: Best ridden in the winter or early spring, when the area is less crowded.

Closing Thoughts: A Well-Kept Arizona Gem

Despite its young age, the Holy Hill By-Pass and Gila Monster trails have already earned their reputation as among the best in Gold Canyon. Whether you're after the steep ascents of Holy Hill or the technical challenges along Gila Monster, the trail network here offers a bit of everything for the seasoned mountain biker. So gear up, make the drive, and experience this well-kept Arizona gem.