Trail 100 - Charles M. Christiansen Memorial

Dogs Leashed

E-Bikes Allowed

Features Technical · Views

This is a fantastic trail, located in the middle of a large metropolitan area. Wedged between Phoenix, North PHX, and Scottsdale, Trail 100 (also called CMC for Charles M. Christiansen) should be a go-to ride for locals and visitors to the area. Though marked as "difficult" due to its length and technical sections, the majority of T100 is pretty moderate. Because the trail has been mapped in three sections, this ride is shown as using multiple trails, though it is all technically one trail.

Parts of this trail get busy with hikers during cooler times of the year. Always stay in control of your speed. Water is normally available at Dreamy Draw Rec Area and at North Mountain Visitor Center on 7th Street, but it's best to bring all you think you'll need.

Most people use this as the main artery to make various loops in the Preserve, but its also worthwhile to do the whole thing out and back. If you want the full ride experience, I recommend starting at the west end, in Mountain View Park on 7th Avenue. For the most loop options, begin at the east end on Tatum Blvd (as mapped here). Or, don't take my word for it and just ride!

Parking at the Tatum Trailhead is limited, but there is on-street parking across Tatum to the east. There is no water at the trailhead, but a toilet is there.

Begin by climbing up Doubletree Canyon (thanks for leaving us this sliver of access, developers!) and into the main mountain preserve. You level out and the area opens up and gets faster. The trail is somewhat well marked, but a variety of side trails can make things confusing.

Follow the trail (or get lost, it's fun out here!) until it goes down to the Dreamy Draw parking lot. The descent from the summit is technical and often crowded with hikers. Descend under control. Water and toilets are at the parking area, and this makes a good place to turn around if you need to.

At the north end of the Dreamy Draw parking, follow the trail under the 51 freeway, then up a technical climb. Go around this mountain and follow bumpy and rocky desert singletrack through the hills paralleling neighborhoods. One VERY technical descent and climb at approximately Shea Blvd on the map. Be careful and know your skills here.

Cross under Cave Creek and keep following the trails. It may not be marked at this point. The trail gets sandier through more open desert. Follow it out to 7th St or all the way to the end at 7th Ave.