Hike the Dixie Mine Trail

The Mine

Dixie mine was established in 1877, when mining scouts noticed the large amount of quartz in the area. The Dixie Mine was sold many times throughout the 20th Century and was ruled no longer efficient in 1977 when it was sold to the McDowell Mountain Regional Park. 

The Petroglyphs

The area above the mine contains several petroglyphs above the arroyo. These petroglyphs are represented by three time periods: Archaic, Hohokam and Historical. You will also note "H.P. 1925" carved into a stone, which is believed to be from Henry Pemberton who ranched in this area between 1918 and 1925.

The Trailhead

You will walk through a community (follow the feathers on the sidewalk) for about 0.5 miles before reaching the trailhead. Don't forget to bring $2.00 for a self-pay fee. Another 0.6 miles you will intersect with the Sonoran Trail, continue on the main trail and in another mile you will start to see the tailings from the old mine. 

Be sure to take time to glance backwards and appreciate Four Peaks in the distance. On a clear day, you can even spot weavers needle! You will eventually reach the intersection that includes the Propector Trail, turn right and you will meet up with the Dixie Mine Trail. Quartz and large granite boulders will guide your route.

The Directions

The Dixie Mine Trailhead is accessible from Golden Eagle Blvd in Fountain Hills, 13.8 miles east of HWY 101. From HWY 101, exit Shea Blvd and head 7.8 miles east to Palisades Dr. Turn left (north) on Palisades for 3.1 miles to Golden Eagle Blvd.Turn left on Golden Eagle for 2.9 miles to the Public Parking Area just before the gated entrance to the Eagles Nest Community. Park in the designated lot and follow signs through the residential area to the trailhead. This is a .65 mile walk. There’s a $2 self-service fee (per person) to enter McDowell Mountain Regional Park from this location.