Santa Catalina Mountains Loop

The Santa Catalina Mountains Loop is a 41.8-mile backpacking route traversing the expansive Santa Catalina Mountains, a prominent range that dominates the landscape north of Tucson, Arizona. This route captures the essence of Southern Arizona's diverse ecosystems and scenic beauty, guiding you through the iconic Sabino Canyon and the pristine Pusch Ridge Wilderness. It presents a journey of contrasts, marked by extreme changes in elevation and climate, alongside stunning biodiversity. This challenging loop boasts steep climbs rewarded with breathtaking views, reflecting the effort invested.

ROUTE DIRECTIONS

Starting from Gordon Hirabayashi Campground, head west/northwest on the Sycamore Reservoir Trail #39. You'll enter the Pusch Ridge Wilderness and continue northwest, following the East Fork Trail #24A, then the West Fork Trail #24 leading up to Romero Pass. From the pass, take the Mount Lemmon Trail #5 to the right and head east on the Wilderness of Rocks Trail #44. Continue onto Marshall Gulch Trail #3 all the way to the Marshall Gulch Trailhead.

Follow a paved road through the town of Summerhaven. Briefly turn right onto the Catalina Highway, then left onto Control Road FR38. Turn right onto the Crystal Spring Trail #17 and take it to the Butterfly Trail #16.

Turn left onto the Bigelow Trail and stay left on the Incinerator Ridge Trail. Continue on the Green Mountain Trail until you join the Bug Spring Trail and follow it back to the campground where you started.

CAMPING AND PERMITS

Backcountry camping is available along this route and within Coronado National Forest. Always check with local land management agencies for current information regarding permits. 

HIGHLIGHTS

• There is an option to take a side trail to Hutch’s Pool located off of West Fork Trail #24. 

• Iconic saguaro cactus’ throughout. 

• Incredible biodiversity. 

WHEN TO VISIT

The best time to visit this area is in spring, summer, and fall. There can be snow on the north slopes until early spring.

PERMITS

Check with Coronado National Forest for any permit requirements for overnight camping. Parking fee is required at Catalina State Park.

WATER 

Water sources can be scarce; carry sufficient water and a method to purify any found water. Water sources along the Arizona National Scenic Trail portion of this loop can be found by visiting:  https://aztrail.org/explore/water-sources/. 

WEATHER

Prepare for variable conditions; temperatures can fluctuate significantly with elevation.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION INFORMATION

• Arizona National Scenic Trail Association: www.aztrail.org

Coronado National Forest: www.fs.fed.us/r3/coronado, 1-(520) 749-8700.