#encyclopedia

Architectural ornament. Planches illustrées en noir et blanc de René Leblond/Illustrated black and white plates by René Leblond. 1909.

[ ☜ left ] arteries, from Diderot and d’Alembert’s Encyclopédie, 1751-1772

you can read here (warning for slight nudity, though it is not extremely prevalent:

West Wing Mountain Trail in Peoria, Arizona is a stunning desert hike offering panoramic views, volcanic terrain, and a peaceful escape just minutes from the city. The trailhead is located at West Wing Park: 27100 N West Wing Pkwy, Peoria, AZ 85383.

🥾 Overview Tucked into the northwestern edge of Peoria, West Wing Mountain Trail is a moderately challenging loop that winds through classic Sonoran Desert scenery. With a summit elevation of approximately 1,929 feet, this 3.6-mile trail rewards hikers with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, neighborhoods, and distant Lake Pleasant. The terrain is rocky and rugged, shaped by ancient volcanic basalt and tuff, making it both geologically fascinating and visually dramatic.

🌵 Trail Features

Loop Length: ~3.6 miles (with optional spurs for extended views)

Elevation Gain: ~500 feet

Trail Type: Loop with moderate difficulty

Surface: Rocky, uneven, with loose gravel in some areas

Best Seasons: Fall, winter, and spring for cooler temperatures and clearer skies

Wildlife & Flora: Expect sightings of desert cottontails, quail, and blooming brittlebush in spring

📍 Location & Access

Trailhead Address: West Wing Park, 27100 N West Wing Pkwy, Peoria, AZ 85383

Coordinates: 33.7376°N, 112.2446°W

Parking: Free public parking available at West Wing Park

Important Note: Do not follow Google Maps directly to “West Wing Mountain Trailhead”—it may lead to a dead-end cul-de-sac. Instead, navigate to West Wing Park for proper access.

Directions: From I-17, take Route 303 west for 15 miles. Exit at Lake Pleasant Parkway (Exit 131), head south for 2.3 miles, then turn left onto West Wing Parkway.

🌄 Atmosphere & Experience The trail begins with gentle inclines and quickly ascends into rocky ridgelines. As you climb, the city fades behind you and the desert opens up in all directions. Sunrise and sunset hikes are especially magical, with golden light casting long shadows across the volcanic rocks and saguaro silhouettes. The summit offers a quiet perch for reflection, photography, or simply soaking in the vastness of Arizona’s desert beauty.