Goldfield Mountains facts for kids
The Goldfield Mountains are a cool mountain range in Arizona. They are right next to the famous Superstition Mountains. You can find them between Usery Pass and Canyon Lake (Arizona). Back in 1893, the southern part of these mountains was a busy place for mining. People were looking for valuable minerals there!
Contents
Exploring the Goldfield Mountains
The Goldfield Mountains offer different ways to explore. If you love hiking, you'll find trails for all skill levels.
Hiking Trails and Paths
The higher parts of the mountains do not have marked trails. This means only very experienced hikers should try to explore those areas. They need to be good at finding their own way!
Lower down, you'll find easier paths. These are mostly dirt roads. Miners and ranchers created these roads a long time ago. They are great for a simpler walk or ride.
Nearby Landmarks
Arizona State Route 88 runs along the south side of the mountains. To the north, you'll find the beautiful Saguaro Lake (Arizona). These spots are perfect for a day trip after your mountain adventure.
Nature in the Goldfield Mountains
The Goldfield Mountains are home to many amazing plants and animals. They are part of the Tonto National Forest.
Plants of the Goldfield Mountains
The plants here are typical of the Sonoran Desert. This area is sometimes called the saguaro-palo verde forest. You will see many types of trees and shrubs.
- Trees: Palo verde, mesquite, ironwood, desert willow, and catclaw trees.
- Shrubs: Ocotillo, saltbush, creosote bush, jojoba, agave, and hackberry.
- Cacti: There are many kinds of cacti. Saguaros are very common, and so are pencil cholla cacti.
Animals of the Goldfield Mountains
The wildlife in these mountains is part of the upper Sonoran ecosystem. Many different animals live here.
- Larger Animals: You might spot deer, javelina (which are like wild pigs), foxes, and coyotes.
- Birds: Look up for roadrunners, red-tailed hawks, and even bald eagles.
- Reptiles: Keep an eye out for the desert tortoises.
- Protected Species: Some smaller animals are protected here. These include gila monsters, smaller lizards, rattlesnakes, other snakes, ground squirrels, tarantulas, centipedes, and horned toads.
