Skip to main content
HomeEvents[C***] Saddlebrooke Trio: Tortoise Rock/Golder Dam/Balance Rock

Events - Event View

[C***] Saddlebrooke Trio: Tortoise Rock/Golder Dam/Balance Rock

About this event

SaddleBrooke Trio: Tortoise Rock/Golder Dam/Balance Rock. Pace: Moderate. Meeting point will be The Preserve Clubhouse parking lot at the basketball hoop.  After carpooling to the trailhead located on Willow Canyon Drive, descend to the Canada del Oro (CDO) to pick-up the Tortoise trail by the intake of the discharge pipe for Golder Dam.  Continuing north into several spectacular rock gardens along the mostly out/back trail to Tortoise Rock. Upon return to Golder Dam spillway, learn about the history of Golder Dam and its demise which eventually resulted in the establishment of The Preserve.  The trail continues through the spillway and south to Balance Rock before returning to the trailhead on Willow Canyon Drive.  Hike is approximately 3.5 miles; 600 feet elevation gain. *** rating due to short steep sections, loose rocks, and uneven terrain. Recommend cleated hiking boots, hiking poles and protective clothing. 

This hike is on and crosses Arizona State Trust Land: "The Arizona Land Department's trust management responsibilities include requiring a permit or lease and charging a fee for use of Trust Land. Please note that Trust Land is private (not public) and requires a recreation permit for hiking which can be obtained through the state land department."  Permits are valid for one (1) year from date of purchase.




Date and Time

Friday, September 18, 2026, 7:00 AM

Location

Arizona State Trust Land and Coronado National Forest just outside of The Preserve.
AZ  
USA

Guide(s)

Terry McCarthy

Category

C Hike

Registration Info

Registration is closed - Event is full
Arrive at The Preserve parking lot 15 minutes before departure.
Bring 1.5L water and snacks.
Registration cancellations will be accepted

Capacity

7 Total Slots
Event is full - Waitlist available