Spur Cross, Dragonfly, Boca Grande Loop

The Spur Cross, Dragonfly, Boca Grande Loop has so far been the highlight of this season’s hiking itinerary. Located just outside of Phoenix, Arizona in the Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area, this hike will introduce you to the majestic Saguaro cactuses.

Leave the hustle and bustle of the metropolitan area and park at the large trailhead parking lot. We hiked this loop clockwise.  The initial Dragonfly Trail immediately immerses you into a veritable forest of Saguaros. I had only seen Saguaros sprinkled here and there prior to this. Here, they are everywhere, hundreds of them as far as you can see. They are spread across the sprawling foothills and even to the tip top of the peaks surrounding the trail.  

The trail was in great condition, clear to follow, and offered a nice bit of exercise. There were not many steep sections, and there were plenty of opportunity to be up close to these amazing cactuses. Their height is impressive, and the texture of the skin and needles is fascinating. Here and there you will see some Seguaro skeletons as well. 

Difficulty: Moderate.

Trail Stats: 3.8 miles, loop, 383 feet elevation gain.

Trail Finding: Straight forward.

Conditions: Packed dirt.

Would I Repeat This: Absolutely. 

Parking: Yes.

Timing: There is no shade, have caution with higher temperature days.

Downloaded Map: Helpful at the trail junctions.

Fees: If you are only completing the Dragonfly trail, no fee is required. If you do this whole loop, you will pay a fee. As of February 2026, 15 years of age and older were $5 per person.

Trails: Tortuga trail, Elephant Mountain trail, Metate and Towhee trail, Fairy Duster Loop, and more.