MODERATE: Brown's Mountain & Cone Mountain

Hike Distance: 5.5 miles (loop) AEG: 645 ft. Trailhead: Brown’s Ranch TH, McDowell Sonoran Preserve, 30301 N. Alma School Way, Scottsdale Trailhead Elevation: 2,710 ft Driving Distance: 88 miles RT (50 minutes each way) Driver's fee: $6 Trailhead facilities: large parking lot, nice restrooms & water MEETUP: 7:45 AM at Cottonwood Flagpole parking lot Description: This is a loop hike circling around Cone Mountain before gradually climbing up and over Brown’s Mountain (summit 3,253’) and then returning to the trailhead. The cliff-like summit of Brown’s Mountain might look daunting to a novice hiker or someone not in great shape, but this is one of the easiest mountain climbs in the metro area. The trail takes us to the base and then we make a few easy switchbacks up the mountainside to a saddle. At the saddle we have two options. Those who are adventurous will go with one of the leaders to the summit along a short but steep 0.2 mile trail that features some loose footing. Otherwise, the other leader will accompany the group to a scenic overlook by the saddle. If it is a clear day, we will see the Four Peaks and Battleship Mountain in the Superstitions, Camelback Mountain, Piestewa Peak, and the South Mountain range, among others. You can also see the parking lot where this hike began. Hike Leaders: Henry Silberblatt & Diane Alessi Cell Phone #480-895-1133