The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
When the idea of visiting a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) recreation area comes up, an image of driving hundreds of miles comes to mind. In most cases, BLM recreation areas are pretty remote. They are often a long drive from the closest town. However, that is not always the case. There are instances in which environmentally sensitive or historically significant areas have been put under BLM care to protect them from development. Such regions can be surprisingly close to major metropolitan areas.
The Sierra Estrella Wilderness is a BLM recreation area located on the southwest edge of Phoenix. The wilderness area is only 15 miles from downtown Phoenix, but the rugged terrain demands a 50-mile drive around the Estrella Mountains. Protected from development by the mountain range, the Estrella Mountain Regional Park, and the Gila River Indian Reservation, the wilderness area is a pristine example of Sonoran Desert topography and ecology. Though a short drive from metropolitan Phoenix, the location is largely unknown and seldom visited by locals.
Also located within the Sierra Estrella Wilderness, this out-and-back trail is more of a back-country hike. It follows a dry wash as it climbs toward Montezuma Peak. It does not reach the peak but provides continual views of it. The trail ends at the Don Joaquin Lost Spanish Mine. Desert scenery, the stone house, and the mine shaft are points of interest.
Length: 3.0 miles
Intensity: Difficult
From the Quartz Peak Trailhead, the out-and-back trail climbs 2,400 feet to the summit. Wildflowers cover the desert in early spring, adding color to the spectacular views. There is a vault toilet at the trailhead but no water and little shade. Bring as much water as you can handle. Avoid this trek in the summer months as temperatures exceed 100 degrees nearly every day.
Length: 5.6 miles
Intensity: Difficult
A summit suited for climbing within Sierra Estrella Wilderness is Hayes Peak. Since there are no designated trails, the 4,200-foot climb combines scrabble and rock climbing to reach the summit. Spectacular views of the Valley of the Sun are the prize for your efforts.
The Sierra Estrella Wilderness is a prime example of diverse desert ecosystems. Lower elevations are home to Gila monsters, coyote, and javelina. At this elevation, desert vegetation includes the iconic saguaro cactus, ocotillo bush, and paloverde trees. At higher elevations, mountain lions, mule deer, and even a small herd of bighorn sheep find a home. Live oak and juniper trees grow higher on the peaks. Giant whiptail lizards, golden eagles, and prairie falcons can be seen throughout the wilderness area.
The Estrella Mountain Regional Park is located north of the Sierra Estrella Wilderness area. The facility, run by the Maricopa County Parks system, has a large picnic lawn and 24 ramadas. Ramadas may require reservations on busy weekends. Playgrounds and restrooms are also located near the picnic areas.
Full service RV camping is available at Leaf Verde RV Resort in Buckeye, AZ. The campground has full hookups, a dump station, laundry facilities, and a pool. The facility is a short drive from Sierra Estrella Wilderness Area and close to restaurants and shopping.
Bureau of Land Management free camping is available within the Sierra Estrella Wilderness area. There is room for tent camping and a vault toilet at the Quartz Peak Trailhead. There are no other services within the wilderness area. Free dispersed boondock RV camping is available at the Ironwood Forest National Monument. The Silverbell dispersed camp area has ample room for even large rigs. The spot is quite popular, so it is often full. Gunsight Wash dispersed camping area also has several pull-through sites. To find other Bureau of Land Management campgrounds, do an internet search for "BLM camping near me" while you are in the area.
As a prime example of a desert environment, the Sierra Estrella Wilderness is hot and dry. Be sure to carry as much water as possible when you head out. The temperatures can be high even in the winter months. The air is always dry. In the summer months, temperatures can exceed 110 degrees, and monsoon rains can produce flash floods that make dirt roads impassable. Four-wheel drive or high-clearance vehicles are recommended.
People succumb to heat-related illnesses regularly in the desert. Protect yourself by wearing sun protection. Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and long pants are recommended. Large-brimmed hats and sunblock can help protect your head and face from the sun. Take every precaution and drink plenty of water. Before heading into the region, check out our BLM camping blog for tips and information.
Desert habitats are particularly susceptible to damage from visitors. Review the BLM "Leave No Trace" guidelines before heading to the Sierra Estrella Wilderness. Do not be a trailblazer--drive only on established roads. Camp in areas that have been set for human activity. Help maintain the pristine conditions within the wilderness area for those who follow you. Pack out everything you pack in.
From Phoenix, take I-10 west to Estrella Parkway. Drive south to West Willis Road. Turn west. At Rainbow Valley Road, turn south. Turn east on Riggs Road and continue into the wilderness area. The road will turn into an unmaintained dirt road. The wilderness area and Quartz Peak trailhead will be on the left.
Lower Sonoran Field Office: 2020 E Bell Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85022
Ready to visit Sierra Estrella Wilderness? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day of exploring, you'll have your RV to return to for the night, where you'll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here's a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
