The Wind Wolves Preserve is a hidden gem. The Hike is intended to showcase the beauty of this place with a comfortable 8 mile loop with an elevation gain of about 1200 ft. We start from the Crossing and will hike along the creek trail via San Emigdio Canyon than clockwise up the back of the mountain on the Tule Elk Trail. Stop for a break and snack and enjoy the breathtaking vista, then head back down to The Crossing and parking lot.
The wildlife here is abundant during the winter months as the Tule Elk migrate to lower elevations, as well as the Mule Deer. Plan on dressing in layers as it will be chilly here. Arrive by 8:45am to start hiking by 9:00am from “The Crossing”.
The drive from SCV will take an estimated 1 hour and 15 minutes. Wind Wolves opens at 8:00am.
Take Hwy 5 North to bottom of the Grapevine, exit 225 for Maricopa Hwy 166. Travel 9.9 miles, Signage and Exit will be on the left side of the road. The Crossing” is 5.4 miles from the highway entrance.
~ From the Hwy the Entrance is @ 3 miles, turn Right.
~ @ 3.7 miles, Left at Stop sign, following directions displayed on sign to “The Crossing”.
~ @ 4.8 miles, Straight through Stop sign, again following directions displayed on sign to “ The Crossing”.
~ Arrive @ 5.4 miles is “The Crossing” and its parking area.
There are clean flushing toilets, sinks, paper towels at the Crossing and further up the canyon. Entrance & parking is free
Encourage folks to car pool, although there is plenty of parking spaces.
