Cave Creek and Skunk Creek Loop
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Cave Creek and Skunk Creek Loop
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The Cave Creek and Skunk Creek Loop is an interesting trail with, frankly, mixed reviews. Some hikers prefer the Skunk Creek side and would rather do that as an out and back, some feel the same about the Cave Creek Side, and some enjoy the entire loop. Come try it for yourself and see which team you’re on. This route sees moderate traffic.
Getting there
The trailhead for the Cave Creek and Skunk Creek Loop is on FR 24.
About
| Backcountry Campground | Juniper Dispersed, CCC |
| When to do | Year-round |
| Pets allowed | Yes - On Leash |
| Family friendly | No |
| Route Signage | Poor |
| Crowd Levels | Moderate |
| Route Type | Loop |
Cave Creek and Skunk Creek Loop
Elevation Graph
Weather
Cave Creek and Skunk Creek Loop Description
The Cave Creek and Skunk Creek Loop can be a bit polarizing. Some hikers are firmly team clockwise, some counterclockwise, some prefer an out and back on one trail, others prefer out and back on the other, and yet some like the loop the way it is. Come try it for yourself and decide which part you like best!
The Cave Creek Trail is north of Skunk Creek, so going clockwise has you on Skunk Creek first and Cave Creek on the return trip, and vice versa. Going clockwise does require that you gain more of the elevation near the start and makes for an overall more physically demanding trip. The scenery of the Cave Creek side is debatably better with the creek flowing.
If you’d rather ride the downhill and start with better scenery, go counterclockwise. If you want to stay by the creek and avoid the steep parts altogether, do Cave Creek on its own. If you like to get your legs working and end with the best views, go clockwise. Build your own adventure here!
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