Phoenix District
| Contacts: | Pamela Mathis | , 623-580-5509 | , 602-402-7690 |
Wickenburg Area Equestrian and Hiking Trail Dedicated on Saturday, November 14, 2009
PHOENIX—The U.S.D.I., Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in partnership with the Wickenburg Conservation Foundation announces the dedication of the Sophie’s Flat Trailhead this Saturday, November 14, 2009.
Sophie’s Flat is a popular recreation trail northwest of Wickenburg. Equestrians and hikers will gather there Saturday morning at 9:00 to officially dedicate and open the 10 mile network of trails and associated facilities. Following the ceremony, the Wickenburg Conservation Foundation sponsors a two hour guided horse ride and catered lunch. Horses and gear are available for rental. Hikers are also encouraged to participate.
The Sophie’s Flat facilities include a day-use area with restrooms, graveled parking and loading lots, an informational kiosk and partial fencing – much of which was built with the help of the Wickenburg Conservation Foundation. This is a nonprofit organization formed to conserve Wickenburg’s trails and western lifestyle for equestrians, hikers, and bicyclists, using our public lands. The Wickenburg Conservation Foundation is accepting donations of $30 for the lunch and future trail development. Horse rentals, registration and information is handled by calling 928-684-0044 or emailing marcieamory@bwmail.us
Driving Access
- From the north: Drive south on I-17 to Carefree HWY / AZ 74 (exit 223) towards Wickenburg, approximately 35 miles. Turn right on U.S. 60.
- From the south: Drive north on 1-17 to Carefree HWY / AZ 74 (exit 223B) towards Wickenburg, approximately 35 miles. Turn right on U.S. 60.
- On the U.S. 60 in Wickenburg: Drive east of the Hassayampa River bridge, turn north on El Recreo Road. Proceed 0.3 miles to Constellation Road. Bear right and travel 2.9 miles to Blue Tank Road, which diagonals to the left (look for the brown directional sign). Take Blue Tank Road 1.4 miles to the trailhead. Constellation Road is unpaved past the county line. The dirt roads are maintained but high clearance vehicles are recommended, and they may be needed especially after storms.
The BLM manages more land - over 245 million acres - than any other Federal agency. This land, known as the National System of Public Lands, is primarily located in 12 Western states, including Alaska. The Bureau, with a budget of about $1 billion, also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. The BLM's multiple-use mission is to sustain the health and productivity of the public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. The Bureau accomplishes this by managing such activities as outdoor recreation, livestock grazing, mineral development, and energy production, and by conserving natural, historical, cultural, and other resources on public lands.
Phoenix District 21605 N. 7th Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85027