Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Overview
This is the oldest, shortest, and steepest route to ascend the 4,000 feet from the trail-
head to summit. Desert dwellers can experience pleasing pine-forest smells, scenery,
and shade while taking a break from the heat. The trail is very popular and occasion-
ally becomes overrun with large hiking groups. With the exception of a few short,
rocky sections near the summit, the trail is well maintained and makes the ascent sur-
prisingly manageable, although the steep descent may take a toll on older knees. On a
clear day, views stretch from northern Mexico to north of Tucson.
Route Details
Begin from the southeast end of the extensive Mount Wrightson Picnic Area, at the
far south terminus of the Madera Canyon Road. You'll find an Old Baldy Trail map
board at the beginning of this trail. (Several other trails depart from this picnic and
parking area, so make sure you're on the right one.)
The first 0.25 mile follows a rough road (no vehicles) as it climbs southwest
through thick forest to an intersection marked by two welded metal signs and a bench
to rest on. One sign points the way southwest to Agua Caliente Saddle with the less-
than-encouraging words “Very Steep Trail.” Although this isn't our route, it is note-
worthy that the first section of this trail, before it gets very steep, is popular with
birders looking for the elegant trogon, a parrot-like bird from Central America. The
trogon's northernmost limit is a few canyons in southeastern Arizona and southwest-
ern New Mexico, with Madera Canyon being a hot spot; this trail section is among the