Thunderbird Bypass

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

The trails around the Franklin Mountains are often rocky and technical, so users unfamiliar with rough terrain should use caution. Trail shoes with rock plates are strongly recommended.

Part dirt access road and part singletrack, this segment is an option for runners looking to bypass Thunderbird's poorly-maintained southern section. The trail splits off from Thunderbird and Down and Out at a water tank, descending southwest towards the suburbs. Near the end of the access road, the trail turns south and becomes singletrack, crossing the aforementioned arroyo itself and passing two more water tanks.

The remainder of the trail is somewhat rocky and uneven, on par with many other Franklin Mountain trails. Cacti grow close to the path in this segment, and sometimes in the middle of it, so watch your step. The Bypass connects back up with Thunderbird near a rock cairn.

Your typical Chihuahua Desert vegetation, sotols, yuccas, acacias and cacti. Birds and rabbits