Pima Canyon Trail Coronado National Forest Santa Catalina Mountains Tucson, Arizona Distance: 5 mi (dam), 9 mi (Pima Saddle) Type: out & back Time: 3 hrs (dam), 8 hrs (Pima Saddle) Season: not summer Elevation Range: 2900-6400 ft Permit Required: No USGS 7.5' Topos: Tucson North, Oro Valley Trail Map (000 Kb PDF) About the map and trail profile Updated 1/9/05

Description

The trail is close to town (north of 1st Avenue and Ina Road) and goes out and back so you can hike as long as you want. Most hikers turn around at the dam for a 5-mile walk (about 3 hours). Beyond the dam the trail shows its lack of use and is rough and sometimes hard to follow. The trail gets steeper as you climb and has a few scrambles near the top. Count on a full day if Pima Saddle is your destination.

This is a people-only trail. No dogs or bikes are allowed. Pusch Ridge Wilderness is home to protected wildlife and no animals (other than us) are allowed on the trail.

Rating

The convenience of Pima Canyon makes it very popular year-round, which is the only down side of this trail. Otherwise, it's a great choice if you want something that's close to town but takes you away from the traffic and noise. If you want to explore Pusch Ridge and see views north and south from the same spot, this trail will get you up there. Be prepared, though. The hike to Pima Saddle (and back) is only recommended for those in good physical condition with sturdy footwear.

How to get there

Take 1st Avenue north past Ina Road. Slow down; this is a residential area and popular for morning walks and bicycle rides. The road will change names (to Christie Drive) and wind around until it stops at Magee Road. Turn right and follow Magee to the Iris O. Dewhirst Trailhead. The trail starts from the east side of the parking lot.

Trail Log

You can't get lost on this trail if the dam is your destination. It's well worn and follows the canyon so you'll quickly know if you've missed a turn. Above the dam is a different story; the trail is sometimes only a route. Be sure you have a topo map, a good compass, and know how to use them. A GPS is great to have but don't rely entirely on it. Tall canyon walls have a habit of blocking satellite signals just when you need them.

Hike Notes

Start early to avoid traffic and heat on the trail. Take plenty of water and drink it.

Stay on the trail. The trail has been widened in many places where hikers have bypassed rocky sections. Keep the trail scenic and stick to it.