Lower Burro Mesa Pouroff Trail

About This Trail

The Lower Burro Mesa Pouroff Trail is a 1-mile roundtrip easy walk to a 100-foot vertical pouroff carved through volcanic rock. The first quarter-mile follows a fairly flat dirt and rock path before descending via uneven steps into a gravel wash lined with desert plants (Mexican persimmon, Mexican buckeye, desert hackberry). Geology dominates—yellow and orange ash-flow tuffs layer the surrounding volcanic hills, with large conglomerate boulders scattered across the valley floor. The pouroff itself is a dramatic scar in the landscape, though it remains dry most of the year; during rare post-rain periods in the monsoon season, it becomes a cascading waterfall.

Highlights

Insider Tips

• The pouroff is dry most of the year, but during rare post-rain events in monsoon season, it becomes a cascading waterfall—time your hike for the 48 hours after heavy rain to see it flowing • The geological story is written in the rock: those yellow and orange layers are ash-flow tuffs from ancient volcanic eruptions; the massive boulders are conglomerate from older erosion cycles • The vegetation shift from the upper trail to the wash is sharp—look at the plants and think about water: upper areas are drier; the wash draws every nearby plant species seeking groundwater • The false summit trap: don't assume the first drop-off you see is the end; hike the full mile to stand at the actual 100-foot vertical channel and look straight up • Arrive early (by 8 AM) to avoid afternoon heat and secure parking before the small lot fills

Best Season to Hike

October to April (mild temperatures, low precipitation risk)

Family Info

Excellent for families. Easy 1-mile roundtrip achievable for children ages 5+. The uneven descent steps require supervision and sure footing—hold hands with small children. No water source or restrooms; plan accordingly. Use this as a geology field trip—point out the volcanic layers and conglomerate boulders. Teach kids not to stack rocks (they mislead other hikers). Watch together for wildlife at safe distance

What Hikers Say

Hikers consistently praise the easy 1-mile roundtrip and dramatic geological payoff. Most say the walk is achievable for families and casual hikers. The primary complaint: underestimating water needs in the desert heat. Many report it's worth the drive into a remote part of the park for the unique pouroff formation and volcanic geology