Maryland Heights Trail | Frederick

Glassford Hill is a prominent geological feature located north of Prescott, Arizona.

Visual Characteristics

Glassford Hill is characterized by its exposed bedrock, primarily composed of volcanic rock formations. The summit area features a relatively flat plateau with sparse vegetation, consisting mainly of desert grasses and low-lying shrubs. The slopes are steep and rocky, with scree fields present in several sections. The overall color palette is dominated by earthy tones of brown, grey, and ochre, with occasional green from hardy desert flora.

Location & Access Logistics

Glassford Hill is situated approximately 8 kilometers north of downtown Prescott, Arizona. Access is via State Route 89 North. Turn east onto Glassford Hill Road, which leads to a designated parking area at the trailhead. The parking lot is unpaved and can accommodate approximately 20 vehicles. Public transport options are not available directly to the trailhead.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Glassford Hill is a remnant of ancient volcanic activity, formed approximately 18 million years ago during the early Miocene epoch. It is part of the Bradshaw Mountains volcanic field. Ecologically, it represents a high-desert environment with adaptations to arid conditions.

Key Highlights & Activities

Hiking is the primary activity. The main trail to the summit is approximately 2.4 kilometers one-way with an elevation gain of 213 meters. The summit offers panoramic views of the surrounding Prescott National Forest and the city. Observation of local wildlife, including various bird species and desert mammals, is possible. The area is also used for paragliding and hang gliding, with launch sites located on the western slopes.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The trailhead features a small, unpaved parking area. There are no restrooms or potable water sources at the trailhead or on the trail. Shade is minimal, primarily limited to the base of larger rock formations. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is intermittent and generally weak on the trails and at the summit.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for hiking is during the cooler months of October through April. Mornings between 7:00 AM and 10:00 AM offer the best lighting for photography due to softer shadows. Summer months (June-August) are extremely hot, with temperatures frequently exceeding 32 degrees Celsius, making midday hikes inadvisable. No tide considerations apply.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical oddity is the presence of a weather station at the summit, which has been in operation for decades, providing valuable meteorological data for the region. Local lore sometimes refers to the hill as a place where ancient spirits reside, though this is not substantiated.

Nearby Landmarks

• Watson Lake Park (3.5km Southwest)
• Lynx Lake Recreation Area (6.2km South)
• Thumb Butte (12.1km West)
• Sharlot Hall Museum (7.8km South)
• Downtown Prescott Courthouse Plaza (8.1km South)