South Oak Creek Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Views · Wildflowers

There are no fees here... also no restrooms

Most of the trail is packed dirt with some small stones. The stones increase in size as you get further in, making the jog a bit more cautious, but doable.

The trailhead is on the side of the road 159 just south of the exit of the Red Rock Scenic Loop. You'll see a small area of fencing and parking marking the start of the trail on the West side of the road.

South Oak Creek Trail is an easy out and back run on a well worn path. You'll find other hikers, dog walkers, and trail joggers enjoying the route. The trail meanders through the exposed desert, without the luxury of shade, so avoid during warmer weather and bring sun block / water.

Mt. Wilson and Rainbow Mountain tower over the horizon directly in front of the trail giving runners amazing mountain views during the first half of the trail. If you run this in the later afternoon, you'll be protected from the setting sun by these mountains which will cast a cooling shade over the trail. If you travel this trail far enough, you'll eventually intersect with North Oak Creek Trail.

The trail is mostly a straight line with only minor bends here and there. After a little more than a mile, you turn around to run back facing 159 and the parking area from where you began. It's tough to get lost on such a straight and exposed route, but its simplicity makes it a great first run for novices looking to get some miles under their belt.

This is a great out and back run for beginners that lasts about 1 hour in total. Enjoy!~

You'll see a variety of desert plants/flowers, lizards, chipmunks, and birds.