We have passed Silly Mountain Park many times when traveling from hiking at Boyce Thompson Arboretum to Lost Dutchman State Park. It was time to stop and explore.
Location and Background
Silly Mountain Park is on the east side of US 60. North of towns Gold Canyon and south of Apache Junction. Trailhead address: 3565 S Silly Mountain Rd, Apache Junction, AZ 85119
The park is managed by the City of Apache Junction. There is a post with the history of the formation of the paths at the trailhead. Silly Mountain road used to be a four-wheel-drive road. Within 3 months the community changed the area into 3.5 miles of 10 accessible trails. No longer available to off-road vehicles.
Silly Mountain Park Fees
There were no fees to use this recreation area when we visited.
Trails
There are many trails to choose from at this location. If you want a flat walking path, take a stroll on the Botanical Walk (0.3 miles).
Per the map, the Brittlebush and Crest Trail are listed as easy. Note that the incline has very loose rocks. We highly suggest one wear sturdy hiking shoes.
We took the Palo Verde Trail (0.4 miles) up to the top and then the Brittlebush (0.4 miles) back down. The views from the top were great. We could see Flatiron. 360-degree views of the valley. We went in the afternoon. I think it would be great for an early morning hike to see the sunrise or an evening hike to see the sunset. We look forward to visiting again to try the other hikes.
Rest Areas
On the trails we took, there were multiple benches along the way to rest. The benches are created out of the surrounding rocks, which help them to blend into the landscape.
Silly Mountain Park Amenities
At the trailhead, there is a drinking fountain, a porta-john, and a picnic table. Bring your lunch and enjoy the desert landscape.
Animal Friendly
There is an animal waste station at the trailhead. The day we were there, many people were walking their dogs.
Silly Mountain Park Trail – Pinal County Arizona
Do you like flat trails or trails with elevation?
I have also driven past the signs. So often we fail to notice adventures in our own back yard. Sounds like a great day trip.
I agree. We were glad to stop and check it out.
Yes, I do like flatirons. I used to live in Colorado and enjoyed the different landscape from the east. I know I would really like this area. I think I would take the botanical trail first and then add to the hike.
That would be a good plan.
Silly Mountain looks like a great location for a hike! I love a good challenge, so I would say that I love trails with elevation.
We liked how the location is just off the main road. It is very simple to get to.
Love the name! What a fun place to hike to!
The name is cool.
Looks like a great hike! Beautiful area!
Yes, It is nice to see for miles around.
I prefer trails with moderate elevation. And those with fun names like Silly Mountain. Do you know the name origin?
Reportedly a public works employee asked to name it and that is what he picked.
I love the name alone! Sounds like a great place for a little hiking.
Right, the name is fun.
Looks like a fun park to hike and explore!
Yes, It is.
I love the name of this mountain and I would go based on the name alone. You live in such a beautiful area.
Right, it is a fun name.