Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
most the highest limit for saguaros, and as you rise above the 4,000-foot-elevation
mark, you'll see the vegetation change into thickets of small oak trees surrounded by
chaparral and grassland. It's remarkable to see this transition from saguaro forest to
oak woodland, and this is one of the best trails from which to observe the transforma-
tion.
As you climb, you'll see a valley to your left and a ridge to your right. When you
reach a rock where two oaks grow, the trail forks. The left fork is a social trail wan-
dering off to explore the valley; the main trail climbs right (northeast). A few more
minutes of hiking brings you to a saddle where you'll find a sign marking the end of
the trail.
There are fine views from here. To the northwest, you'll see the waterfall at about
the same elevation as the trail end, and there are unmarked social trails that will get
you closer. To the east-northeast, the landscape drops steeply to the curves of Mount
Lemmon Road as it hugs the slopes of Molino Canyon, beyond which are Agua Cali-
ente Hill and the Rincon Mountains. To the east-southeast, social trails gain different
views of Mount Lemmon Road, and far off to the south are the Santa Rita Mountains.
It's a scenic spot to enjoy a snack before returning the way you came.
Nearby Attractions
Molino Basin Campground
is reached by a turnoff from Catalina Highway, almost
3 miles beyond the Babad Do'ag parking area. It has 37 sites, drinking water, and
vault toilets, but no hookups. It allows RVs or trailers up to 22 feet, charges $10
per night, and is open November-April. Most sites are first-come, first-served. Other
campgrounds on the mountain are higher and are open in summer; this one is closed
in summer because of the heat. More information: 877-444-6667,
recreation.gov
.
Directions
From central Tucson, take Broadway or Speedway Boulevard east to Wilmot Road.
Turn left on Wilmot, which veers right at Pima Street and becomes Tanque Verde
Road. Travel east on Tanque Verde for about 4 miles, then turn left on Catalina High-
way, which veers northeast and goes straight almost 4.5 miles before reaching the
Coronado National Forest boundary. This is Milepost 0 on what is locally known as
