Pine Creek Loop is a 3 mile loop trail and from there one can access the trail to Ballentine Cabin. There are also several other options with the possibility to reach Four Peaks and beyond. There are so many picturesque rock formations it’s one of my many favorite places to hike. Many of these experiences are in a large area aptly named ‘boulder flats’.

Surrounded by saguaros, chollas, and depending on the time of year, beautiful desert flowers and the sounds of flowing water down in Pine Creek. The Ballantine Cabin trail is a round trip total of 9.9 miles long, with an elevation gain of about 3800 ft. Great area for one-day hiking.

Unfortunately in the summer of 2020 the Bush fire burned this area and has done great damage. The area is closed off because of threats from flooding and debris, but many of the native plants including the saguaros have been killed.