Although the hike up to the Wind Cave at Usery Mountain Regional Park in east Mesa is very popular and generally crowded on the weekends, it’s perfect for a quick fitness hike after work. Three Trailblazers took advantage of the beautiful weather and met at the trailhead to hike up to the caves. David, Doug, and hike leader Debbie began hiking just before 5:00 PM and climbed the 800' ascent in less than an hour.

The first half of the trail is fairly level as it winds through the desert; the latter half has plenty of switchbacks to get your heart rate up. Wildflowers and cactus blooms were in evidence although most of the flowers were closing up as the sun began to set.

Hike leader Debbie shared several stories of interesting things to see from previous Wind Cave hikes. Shortly afterwards, several of these very things became visible to the group. These included a view of the fountain going off at Fountain Hills in the distance, a lone hiker who had previously resulted in a mistaken 911 call, and a helicopter flying in at close range that was actually lower than the caves. Fortunately, the group did not see any large bee swarms, rattlesnakes, or thunderstorms this time.

The hikers took a short rest up at the caves and timed their descent perfectly. They perched on a large flat rock about halfway down and watched a beautiful sunset.

Hiking in the desert after sunset offers different sights, smells, and sounds and the lights of the surrounding cities are visible in the distance.

The hike was completed in less than two hours and was a wonderful way to end the day.