Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Overview
This is a very popular loop hike for Tucsonans looking to beat the summer heat. Com-
bined with a picnic lunch or a visit to a Summer-haven restaurant (see Nearby Attrac-
tions), this hike completes a relaxing day in the mountains. Going counterclockwise,
as described here, the trail follows an evergreen-forested stream and later emerges to
yield rocky vistas, followed by a saddle and aspen groves. Other hikers may prefer
the clockwise route, which starts off more steeply.
Route Details
At the north end of the parking area, to the right of the toilets, look for a sign indicat-
ing Marshall Gulch Trail #3 and a narrow trail zigzagging right and up into the trees.
After a couple of brief switchbacks, the trail straightens and climbs west through an
evergreen forest of ponderosa pine and Douglas-fir, mixed with oaks and madrones.
Down below to your left, the terrain drops to Marshall Gulch, a tributary of Sabino
Creek (which ends up in Sabino Canyon). The trail stays high for less than 0.5 mile
before dropping and easily crossing the narrow stream.
Almost immediately after you make your way across the stream, you'll reach a
T-junction, where you turn right. (Left takes you back to the parking lot, following the
stream bed and easily crossing it again for a loop of less than a mile.)
The trail climbs very gently, with the stream teasing you to your right. There's
water in it almost all year long. Take your time, enjoy the sounds of nature, and
maybe cool your feet. Before you know it, you'll be crossing the stream again, from
