Events - Month View

Rams Creek Basin. Rating: C. Pace: Moderate [354, 09:00 AM, $2]. From the Rams Creek Pass subdivision, we hike up a wash on a new trail through nice vegetation and then climb 560 feet to a watering tank. There are great views of Rancho Vistoso, the Tortolitas, SaddleBrooke, and the Biosphere along the way. We then continue on to a waterfall where we will have lunch. The return is via the same route. Hike 5 miles; trailhead elevation 2600 feet; net elevation change 789 feet; accumulated gain 830 feet; RTD 21 miles.

American Flag. Rating: C. Pace: Moderate [8, 08:00 AM, $4]. The hike begins at the American Flag Trailhead on the old Mt. Lemmon Road and covers a section of the Arizona Trail. Hikers take the American Flag/Cody Trail to its intersection with the Oracle Ridge Trail, where there are great views to the west of Biosphere II and the Tortolitas. Hike 6.7 miles; trailhead elevation 4400 feet; net elevation change 995 feet; accumulated gain 1267 feet

The hike proceeds into the foothills of Pusch Ridge and is an excellent introduction to desert hiking. The trail gradually ascends to provide excellent views of Oro Valley. Hiking sticks may be helpful for rocky steps-up and steps-down. The trail passes through a riparian area and ascends to a rocky outcropping which is a good place for a snack break. There are magnificent saguaros throughout the drainage from Pusch Ridge.

DOG FRIENDLY HIKE in Oracle State Park

A walking tour to showcase this authentic, western town.

Sutherland Trail. Rating: C. Pace: Moderate [428, 8:00 AM, $2 + $2]. The Sutherland is a great trail for viewing wildflowers after adequate winter rains. Along the way, there are several beautiful saguaro cacti and great rock formations. There are numerous photo opportunities. We will also pass the cutoff to Dripping Springs which makes a nice short side trip if the waterfalls are flowing. The hike begins in Catalina State Park and ends at a very scenic, flat, rocky area. The return is via same route. Hike 5.4 miles; trailhead elevation 2700 feet; net elevation change 657 feet; accumulated gain 818 feet; RTD 24 miles.

Discover two dam remnants just outside of The Preserve on the CDO. Loop trail winds to top of Golder Lake Dam then to an ancient dam on CDO. Hike 1.5 miles. Net elevation gain ~200 ft. [Guide: Terry McCarthy t.mccarthy410@gmail.com]

Meet at 9AM Pace is fast

This hike departs from the south end of Arroyo Way in Unit 21 (after carpooling from the usual meeting spot at Mountain View). After crossing the Canada del Oro Wash, we share the first 0.5 mile with the Double Crested/Dome Rock Trail - up a steep hill then across a gentle mesa with prairie grass and mesquite trees. We then climb up a ridgeline, crossing Charouleau Gap Road, to a prominent overlook above the Dodge Tank gorge. It is an area where five arroyos join to form the main channel, with steep rock walls descending into the wash below. *** There are areas of steep hills with some loose rock on this hike - hiking poles are advised. We return for a short distance on Charouleau GapRoad, and then cross over to the trail up the backside of Dome Rock where we will have our snack. On our return we pass the beautiful double crested saguaro. Along the entire way are great views of SaddleBrooke, Catalina, and the Samaniego Ridge. Hike 4.8 miles; trailhead elevation 3200 feet; elevation change 750 feet; accumulated gain 830 feet; RTD 0 miles.

History and Culture

Beautiful hike with steep canyon walls and a good opportunity to see Desert Bighorn sheep

Peppersauce Canyon (short version). Rating: D. Pace: Moderate [321, 08:00 AM, $7]. From the Peppersauce Canyon Campground, the hike proceeds up Peppersauce Canyon approximately 1.5 miles and returns. There is a good mixture of vegetation to study. Some views, depending on how far we go. Bring lunch. Hike 3 miles; trailhead elevation 4600 feet; net elevation change 450 feet; accumulated elevation __ feet; RTD 53 miles (dirt).

We will meet in the lower parking lot at MountainView at 7:20 and leave for Oracle at 7:30 a.m. Our plans are to trim/remove vegetation, assess drainage issues, and enjoy the scenery along the section of the Arizona Trail between Tiger Mine Road to the windmill. Tools will be provided. We‘ll enjoy refreshments before heading back to MountainView around 11:30-12:00.

Archeology Southwest, Dr. Stephen E. Nash: "Visit with Respect: Archeology Southwest, Preservation Archeology, and You"

This is a beautiful hike through the Dragoon Mountains to a saddle that provided a hiding place for Cochise during the Apache wars. Finish up with visit to the Amerind Museum!

This is a loop trail with views of Oro Valley to the west and the Catalina Mouontains to the east, and pretty saguaros along the way.

Short local hike with instruction of basic use of the AllTrails tracking app

Morning classroom training and review. Afternoon incident hike.

The Preserve/Dome Trail. Rating: C***. Pace: Moderate [533, 08:00 AM, $0]. The latest addition to the SaddleBrooke Backyard Trails, this route begins in the foothills east of The Preserve and peregrinates to the Dome. We will first meet at Mountain View and carpool to the trailhead. The hike begins at the east end of E Willow Canyon Rd. After crossing the Canada del Oro wash, the trail continues into the foothill through beautiful granite formations and native desert flora. It first passes Balance Rock, continues along the ridgeline below Titanic Rock, and then past Helmet Rock until it intersects the Dome Extension Trail. It then continues to Dome Rock, with an option to visit Flag Hill. Along the entire way are great views of SaddleBrooke, Catalina, and the Samaniego Ridge. The special condition designation*** is that there are several sections that are steeper than on an average park constructed trail. Watch video, https://www.relive.cc/view/vDqg7xwQoVq Hike 4.8 miles; trailhead elevation 3350 feet; elevation change 580 feet; accumulated gain 970 feet; RTD 0 miles.

A pleasant hike in Catalina State Park.

Wasson Peak via Sendero Esperanza and Hugh Norris Trails. Rating: B. Pace: Moderate [480, 07:30 AM, $9]. The hike begins at Sendero Esperanza Trailhead off Golden Gate Road. The route follows the Esperanza Trail (1.8 miles) to the Hugh Norris Trail and on to Wasson Peak (2.2 miles). The climb is gradual and the Hugh Norris section is primarily a ridge trail with spectacular views. The 360-degree views from Wasson Peak include Tucson and Santa Catalinas to the east, Green Valley/Santa Ritas to the south, Sells to the west, and Picacho to the north. We will lunch on top of the Peak and return the same way. Hike 8.0 miles; trailhead elevation 2960 feet; net elevation change 1624 feet; accumulated gain 1776 feet; RTD 73 miles (dirt).

Madera Canyon Nature Trail. Rating: C. Pace: Moderate [253, 8:00 AM, $13]. This non-desert hike is in the Santa Rita Mountains. It starts from the Procter parking area and ascends 3.5 miles up the canyon to the Roundup Picnic Area (el. 5400 feet). Along the way, hikers enjoy the shade of Apache pines, Douglas firs, Emory oaks, Mexican blue oaks, willows, cottonwoods, and sycamores. The return is by the same route. There are panoramic views from a ridge on a trail breakout. Hike 6.8 miles; trailhead elevation 4500 feet; net elevation change 956 feet; accumulated gain 1004 feet; RTD 130 miles. There is a fee for parking unless you have a National Park Pass that must be displayed.

The hike begins at the Ritz Carlton Hotel hiker parking lot. The group will hike up Wild Burro Canyon a short distance to Lower Javelina Trail which we follow for 2 miles, then cross Wild Burro Canyon again to connect to Upper Javelina Trail. We will proceed along the Upper Javelina Trail for 3 miles; the end of Upper Javelina Trail is close to the new golf course. The group will then hike an easy 1 mile path back to the parking lot.

Nice hike along a ridge then down to the Sutherland Wash with interesting stops along the way. This is a dog friendly hike. All members are welcome with or without a dog.
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This is an out-and-back hike to a rocky ridge with views of Dove Mountain development, Tucson and Marana.

Hike No. Hike Description Driver Donation 268 Picacho Peak via Sunset Vista Trail (short version). Rating C. From the Sunset Vista Trailhead we follow the trail to the point on the foot of the Peak that starts the steep climb to Picacho Peak (entrance fee required). The return is via the same route. The southerly views from the turning point are excellent. Park entrance fee required. Hike 4.2 miles; trailhead elevation 1850 feet; net elevation change 751 feet; accumulated gain __ feet; RTD 90 miles

Key Exchange hike starting at Ritz Carlton hotel and ending at north end of Wild Burro Canyon. This hike is the compliment of the C hike going in the opposite direction.

Key Exchange hike starting at north end of Wild Burro Canyon and ending at Ritz Carlton hotel. This hike is the compliment of the B hike going in the opposite direction.

Alamo Canyon Loop. Rating: D. Pace: Moderate [6, 08:00 AM, $2 + $2]. The hike begins at the Romero Ruins Trailhead in Catalina State Park. This hike can be done on north side trail in-out or as a loop around Alamo Canyon going up one side and returning down the other (clockwise or counter-clockwise). Other than one short area by the wash, the elevation change is generally gradual. The south-side trail traverses several rocky washes. This is a lovely hike up to Alamo Canyon Falls and return. There is a very scenic large flat-rock area above the falls. Water may be present in the canyon after rainy periods, but there are no significant water crossings. Hikers may stop by the Romero Ruins and take the informative loop trail from there. Hike 3.5 miles; trailhead elevation 2700 feet; net elevation change 360 feet; accumulated gain 429 feet; RTD 24 miles.

[D] Honey Bee Canyon North Honey Bee Canyon North. Rating: D. Pace: Moderate [222, 09:00 AM, $3]. The hike takes place in Honey Bee Canyon at Rancho Vistoso. We‘ll see Hohokam petroglyphs, grinding holes and end for snacks/lunch at a one of two broken dams. For those exploring Honey Bee for the first time, this is a real eye opener. Hike 3.2 miles; trailhead elevation 2700 feet; net elevation change 200 feet; accumulated gain 178 feet; RTD 26 miles.

Dripping Springs is an offshoot of the Sutherland Trail in Catalina State Park. Features along the way include a crested saguaro, metate grouping and the natural air conditioning at Dripping Springs. Great way to get some fresh air and maybe even see some early blooming wildflowers. Guide: Terry McCarthy

Esperero Canyon/Rattlesnake/Phoneline Loop Trail. Rating: C. Pace: Moderate [539, 07:00 AM, $6]. From the Sabino Canyon Visitor Center, the hike proceeds along the Esperero Canyon/Rattlesnake Canyon trails to the Tram stop 1 picnic area on Sabino Creek - a favorite with views of Sabino Creek with velvet ash, cottonwood, willow, and Arizona sycamore trees. After a short break we will cross Sabino Creek (if water level permits) and climb a spur trail up to the Phoneline Trail where we turn to head back down towards the Visitor Center. We will finish on the Bajada Nature loop with a beautiful crested saguaro. Bring a camera and plenty of water and a snack. Hike 5.1 miles; trailhead elevation 2450 feet; net elevation change 500 feet; accumulated gain 780 feet; RTD 56 miles.

Wasson Peak via Hugh Norris Trail. Rating: B. Pace: Moderate [478, 07:30 AM, $7]. From the trailhead near Hohokum Road (off N. Kinney Road past Red Hills Visitor Center), the hike follows the Hugh Norris Trail to and from Wasson Peak. Hugh Norris is the longest trail to Wasson Peak, but the climb is gradual along a ridge with spectacular views. There are excellent 360-degree views from the top. There is little shade; bring plenty of water and sun protection. Hike 9.9 miles; trailhead elevation 2640 feet; net elevation change 2124 feet; accumulated gain 2400 feet; RTD 73 miles.

Interesting hike along Baby Jesus with short cut to Middle Tank and a steep climb above to Dude‘s final resting place

Dog Friendly hike starting out along the wildlife corridor to the windmill, back up Kannally Wash to the old ranch, then over to the nature loop.

Sabino Canyon

Key Exchange hike along the Hope Camp Trail and Arizona Trail in the Rincon Valley.

OSP East Loop. Rating: C. Pace: Moderate [307, 08:00 AM, $4 + $2]. The hike begins at the Kannally Ranch House parking lot in Oracle State Park. Hikers follow the Nature Trail to the Wildlife Corridor Trail where we go northeast to the AZ Trail. At the intersection, we turn southeast and follow trail to the intersection with the Manzanita Trail. We follow this trail west and onto the Nature Trail that takes us back to the trailhead. This route is fairly level with little elevation change with wide open views and interesting rock formations among the low desert plants. Hike 6.2 miles, trailhead elevation 4350 feet; net elevation change __ feet; accumulated gain 760 feet; RTD 40 miles.

Linda Vista Loop. Rating: D. Pace: Moderate [249, 09:00 AM, $3]. The Linda Vista Trailhead and parking lot is one block east of Oracle Road on Linda Vista Blvd. The hike proceeds into the foothills of Pusch Ridge and is an excellent introduction to desert hiking. The trail gradually ascends to provide excellent views of Oro Valley. Hiking sticks may be helpful for rocky steps-up and steps-down. The trail passes through a riparian area and ascends to a rocky outcropping which is a good place for a snack break. There are magnificent saguaros throughout the drainage from Pusch Ridge. Hike 2.9 miles (mileage may be extended by doing an extra loop ? ask the guide); trailhead elevation 2720 feet; net elevation change 400 feet; accumulated gain 535 feet; RTD 28 miles.

Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness: West (short version). Rating C !. Aravaipa Canyon is a beautiful and pristine canyon and a favorite for all who have been there. Hikers should expect stream wading and numerous stream crossings (up to knee deep) with dense riparian brush. Wear shorts, socks and shoes (that can get wet) with good traction (for wet rocks). Bring dry shoes/shorts/shirt for drive home, if desired (and a plastic bag for wet items). Aravaipa Canyon is a wilderness area with no trails, signs, or facilities. Hiking stick is recommended. Wilderness permits (fee required) must be reserved in advance and are non- refundable. Hikers must sign up two weeks prior to hike. Call the hiking guide for more details. Hike 5 miles; trailhead elevation 2600 feet; net elevation change 200 feet; accumulated gain __ feet; RTD 110 miles (dirt).$10 +$5. I have 4 permits