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This small wilderness offers relatively easy access and spectacular views of the San Francisco Peaks and panoramic vistas of central Arizona. Created in 1984, the 5,923-acre wilderness ranges in elevation from 5,500 to 7,800 feet. Ponderosa Pine is the dominate overstory species located at the upper elevations which gradually changes to pinon pine and Utah juniper at the lower and relatively drier elevations. There is 1 maintained trail within this wilderness: #102 Woodchute Wilderness on Wilderness.net Mingus Mountain Brochure (1.86 MB) NOTE- _ Brochure Correction: Mingus Mountain Campground and Picnic Site do not have electricity available at this time._ The USFS Wilderness Stewardship brochure explains more about designated Wilderness and how you can become involved in helping care for this precious resource.
Woodchute Wilderness is an easy day trip from Phoenix. There is one maintained trail within this wilderness. After a small parking area, the road turns into dirt and may not be open or passable if snowed in unless you have a high-clearance 4-wheel drive.
A great out and back trail. A lot of ups & downs with amazing views. Not a lot of shade so hike early and bring plenty of water. Dog friendly, but remember not a lot of shade for fido. Also keep your eyes open to snakes. We have seen gopher snakes & rattlers.
