Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
gently sloping pyramidal peak, marked simply as 3,511 on topographic maps. This
will be the highest point of our loop, 0.5 mile north of the tank.
From the summit, enjoy great views of the Santa Catalinas to the north, the Rin-
cons to the east, Tanque Verde Ridge to the south, and the Tucson valley to the east.
You can even pick out your car waiting in the parking lot just over a mile away to the
northwest.
Carrillo Trail now descends quite steeply north and, after several hundred yards,
flattens and follows a narrow gully that might require wading after heavy rains.
The route goes west briefly before swinging north again and reaching a huge
saguaro—this marks the intersection with the Douglas Spring Trail, which takes you
to the parking area, 0.6 mile away. Turn left (northwest) and descend along the north
side of a hill with expansive views of the Santa Catalinas and Tanque Verde Guest
Ranch. In places the route has been stabilized with wide steps formed with log or
stone risers. Soon you'll pass the turnoff to the left for the Converse Trail, cross a
sandy wash, and continue past the beginning of the Garwood Trail and on to the park-
ing area.
Nearby Attractions
Tanque Verde Guest Ranch
is a high-end dude ranch immediately north of the park-
ing area. With 75 rooms and 180 horses, there's a perfect mount for everyone. While
guided horseback riding, sometimes into the national park, is the main focus, the
ranch also prides itself on its comfortable rooms and suites, fine dining, and barbecue
meals served at the end of a trail ride, sometimes with old-fashioned Western enter-
tainment. Riding lessons are available, as are children's programs. Mountain biking,
fishing, and hiking are offered; guests can also use indoor and outdoor pools, a nature
center, and a tennis court, as well as avail themselves of spa, yoga, fitness, wellness,
and arts-and-crafts programs.
At press time, all-inclusive rates run $480-$800 per night (double occupancy);
prices include tax and are dependent on season and room. More-expensive haciendas
with private patios are also available. More information: 800-234-3833,
tanquever-
