Entry corridor into the developing Turkey Creek trail system complete

Del Sol, 3rd Rock, and Rodeo

The Del Sol, 3rd Rock, and Rodeo Trails together form an important entry corridor into the developing Turkey Creek trail system. Beginning at the Transept Trailhead, Del Sol also serves as a gateway into the system from the adjacent neighborhoods of the Village of Oak Creek (VOC). From this access point the trails guide users into the surrounding landscape while connecting to the broader network planned for the Turkey Creek area.

The three trails were carefully designed to complement one another while making thoughtful use of natural control points within the terrain. The alignments follow the natural shape of the hillside and slickrock features, revealing views of the surrounding red rock formations as the trails progress through the landscape. The result reflects the craftsmanship of the trail designers and builders, with an almost artistic quality in how the routes thread naturally through the terrain. Much of this work was brought to life through the dedication and skill of the Red Rock Trail Crew and many volunteers who helped construct these trails.

Together the trails create a layered experience across the hillside. Del Sol forms the primary corridor through the area, gradually descending toward the Legacy Turkey Creek Trail. 3rd Rock parallels above it along the hillside, offering a slightly higher route with broader views and natural rock features. Rodeo branches from 3rd Rock as an alternate descent, reconnecting back to Del Sol and helping distribute trail traffic along the corridor.

As the Turkey Creek system continues to expand, Del Sol will also provide access to several upcoming trails including Hyena, Lion King, and Upside Dawn, further increasing connectivity within the area and linking to additional planned routes.

Together these trails provide a welcoming introduction to the Turkey Creek landscape while helping distribute use, create multiple route options, and establish an important foundation for future trail development.

Del Sol Trail

Del Sol serves as the primary approach into the Turkey Creek system. Leaving directly from the Transept Trailhead, the trail gradually descends over 3.4 miles as it makes its way toward the Legacy Turkey Creek Trail.

The alignment traverses open terrain with expansive viewsheds and a smooth, flowing character that works well for a wide range of trail users. Its rolling terrain creates a series of gentle rises and dips that many users describe as a roller coaster–like experience, giving the trail a playful rhythm while remaining approachable.

As Del Sol contours across the hillside it provides sweeping perspectives of the surrounding red rock formations while guiding users deeper into the Turkey Creek landscape. In the coming phases of the system it will also serve as an important connector to new trails including Hyena, Lion King, and Upside Dawn.

3rd Rock Trail

Running above and generally parallel to Del Sol is 3rd Rock, a 1.8-mile trail that occupies a higher position on the hillside. From this vantage point the trail offers broader views across the surrounding landscape and a slightly more technical character shaped by the natural terrain.

Users often describe the relationship between the two trails as similar to Made in the Shade and Slim Shady. While Del Sol provides the primary corridor through the area, 3rd Rock offers a higher route that incorporates more slickrock riding surfaces and natural rock features created by the terrain.

These elements add variety to the experience while rewarding users with dramatic views toward the south face of Cathedral Rock.

Rodeo Trail

Rodeo is a 0.35-mile alternate descent branching from 3rd Rock that reconnects to Del Sol below. The trail was designed to help distribute traffic and separate faster downhill travel from other trail users along the steeper portions of the corridor.

Rodeo provides an engaging descent across rolling terrain and natural rock features while creating an additional connection between the two primary trails. This alternate route improves the overall flow of the system while offering another unique way to experience the hillside and reconnect with Del Sol.