Hiking Jewel of the Creek Preserve in Phoenix With Kids

Hiking Jewel of the Creek Preserve in Phoenix with kids is one of the most amazing combinations of desert and lush trees, all in a couple hours. After hearing about this place for a few years, we finally explored one morning. And it quickly became one of our top five favorite hikes in Phoenix!

It’s worth nothing that while yes, there is a creek to cross numerous times on the trail, there may or may not be water present. When we hiked in April, it was dusty dry. But when the kids went with the grandparents in November, it had rained in the past week, and there was a good couple inches! So while this is a great hike any time of the year, timing a visit after a rainfall (i.e. summer months with the monsoon rains) will give a more lush oasis adventure.

From the main parking lot, the trail starts off with familiar desert plants as it descends into the valley. Keep your eyes on the cottonwood trees because that’s where the fun begins. The trail will become shady, green, and huge boulders will be so fun for the kiddos to climb!

We took the 2 mile Dragonfly Loop trail, named for the numerous dragonflies than can be seen when water abounds. We also ventured off on a couple side trails to get some photos, but always doubled back to the well marked loop trail. It was also more shaded and cooler. Keep your eyes on the lookout for birds and insects. We saw some unique little creatures in the brush too (like a Giant Desert Centipede!!!!!!)

If you’ve heard of a kid sized cave to explore on this hike, it is unfortunately closed off. You can see it on the cliff side, either right after or right before passing the huge saguaros (depends on which direction you hike).

If you search “Jewel of the Creek Preserve” on Google Maps, the location is accurate. There is a small parking lot at the trailhead; if that is full, there is a larger parking lot about 1/4 mile down the road at Spur Cross Conservation area (which is a great place to hike as well!) There are no restrooms.

Also, from the main road in Cave Creek, it’s about a 2 mile drive on a dirt road to the parking lot. The road is well maintained. It just feels like you’re heading to the middle of nowhere!

We wouldn’t call this an easy hike for kids. But it’s very doable! Take your time, talk about what you see along the way, stop for snacks, and this will be an adventure they will talk about for days.

Interested in more kid friendly hikes in Phoenix? Some of our favorites are Pinnacle Peak, Hole in the Rock, and Dreamy Draw Recreation Area. Or browse a list from our best hikes for kids blog post!