Feldspar Loop Trail - 1.5 Miles Round-Trip

The Feldspar Trail makes a short loop through the eastern bajadas and granite rock formations of McDowell Sonoran Preserve. It offers a compact introduction to the area's unique geology, climbing access and trail extensions for Marcus Landslide, Tom's Thumb and McDowell Mt Regional Park.

Trail Map | Photo Gallery

This corner of the McDowell Mountains features large, rounded and light-colored granite that contrasts sharply with dark and jagged basalt, rhyolite and quartz that otherwise dominates the landscape.

About 1.4 million years ago, rising magma intruded overlying rhyolite and quartzite rock layers and lithified into granite. Granite masses can fracture into perpendicular joints, exposing square edges that become rounded through erosion.

Flat surfaces break down slower than exposed edges; the difference produces rounded shapes that can be further exaggerated as subterranean rock is exposed to water for longer periods of time.

The net result is a large, rounded cap with a narrow base – or mushroom. You’ll see mushroom formations at various points of their geologic lifecycle along this trail.

Looking east, the lower Verde River Basin separates the McDowell Mountains from the Four Peaks and Superstition Mountains. The Verde River originates southwest of Flagstaff and flows 195 miles into the Salt River east of Fountain Hills.

The Verde River is one of the oldest rivers in Arizona. It was born after an upstream lake overflowed into the basin, which formed 12-18 million years ago as parallel mountain ranges were pulled apart.

While granite rocks with a distinct Joshua Tree feel are the main attraction, the bajada itself is equally compelling. Water funnels quickly from steep slopes into the bajada, enabling vegetation to thrive.

Visitors will see above-average size plots of mesquite, palo verde, ironwood, cholla and jojoba. This lush floral community supports jackrabbit, quail, roadrunner, coyote, deer and many songbirds.