Jewel of the Creek Preserve

I had to return to the Jewel of the Creek Preserve and catch the sunset from the top portion of the Dragon Trail Loop. Last time when I was on the top part of the loop on my way back to the parking lot it was to dark. I could make out some of the features based off the silhouettes but I really wanted to capture some photos from the top part of the loop. Tuve que regresar a la reserva Jewel of the Creek y ver el atardecer desde la parte superior del círculo del sendero del dragón. La última vez cuando estaba en la parte superior del círculo de regreso al estacionamiento, estaba oscuro. Pude distinguir algunas de las características basado de las siluetas, pero realmente quería capturar algunas fotos de la parte superior del círculo.

Outstanding, quiet, extra parking further up. Well maintained trail. Good family outing, easy exploration. The creek below was colorful with yellow, gold leaves changing colors and the wind rustling through sounding like water trickling. Discovered a cave like do not enter abandoned old mine opening. The creek was dry with a small puddle under a narrow walking plank like bridge. Enjoy the fields of old saguaro cacti interspersed with cholla ( jumping) cacti. The hills/mountain makes a nice backdrop. We went on Dragonfly trail. Water, hat, sunscreen is your friend. We didn't need hiking sticks, just good shoes. Some rugged fun moments ✨️ ? ?

This preserve has such varied flora that I imagine just about every type of tree is represented! The easy going flow of the hike is punctuated by wonderful cacti that make for interesting views.

Absolutely beautiful trail with stunning views. My favorite hike so far in Arizona. I chose the Dragonfly Trail Loop. It's ideal for walking your dog since there are shady spots along the trail. As everywhere in Arizona you need to make sure your dog doesn't get hurt by a cactus though, the leash is a must do. The trail is also popular for artists who enjoy painting the diverse nature. The trail has a nice length and is easy enough to walk there with children. It is uneven though and not recommendable for people with walking difficulties, that's why I put it on moderate level. The parking at the trail is difficult on the weekend, but there are parking spots available at the grand parking lot down the road - a trail leads to it.

Nice shaded oasis in the desert. Easy hiking, but not for those with challenges walking uneven and rock strewn terrain. About 3 miles for the full Dragonfly loop where you intersect water 3 or 4 times. Parking is very tight and limited, but you can park further down the road and walk back. It's free. Please pick up after your dogs and use a leash if you bring them.

My two daughters and I enjoyed this hike into a shaded area with lots of vegetation and Cottonwoods. 50 minutes drive from Central Phoenix, near Cave Creek. The last 4 - 5 minutes of the drive is on a dirt/gravel road. The Jewel of the Creek parking area is small but free. A little further down is the much larger parking area for Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area. There is a $3 per person fee at that parking area, though seems to be the base for a lot of trails around Elephant Mountain. We'll definitely head back to explore more.

This place is so beautiful!! Such a fun hike that is easy enough for the whole family. My three year old loved walking on the little bridge over the stream. He was sad when the hike was over. Next time we will check out the longer dragonfly trail. Just an awesome spot for a chill, relaxing hike to spend time in nature.

This is a very easy trail, perfect for all family members young and old. I can't imagine hiking this during the summer as there are very little opportunities for shade. I hiked this trail in late November. I did catch a few trees changing color and the weather was perfect. A couple of people on the trail said this place is particularly nice after a rainfall. I will have to update this review as soon as I can catch some rain in this area. There is a $3 fee for the trail, no credit cards accepted. There is an envelope for you to put into a safety box.