Near Oracle State Park 15.8 loop/trail
View of Oracle Ridge from Passage 13
Near Oracle State Park 15.8 loop/trail
The American Flag Trailhead on AZT passage 12
Near Oracle State Park 15.8 loop/trail
Trailhead for Passage 13 across the parking area from the American Flag trailhead.

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Oracle State Park 15.8 loop/trail

4.0 (2 Ratings)
This is a diffult trail with rewarding views of the catalinas. A gem in the greater Tucson area!
15.8
mi
Distance
1,732
ft
Gain
strenuous
Difficulty
Views
Access Issues
Check the operation hours of the Oracle State Park; a fee is required to enter the park

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
15.83mi
Distance
1,732ft
Elevation Gain
1,732ft
Elevation Loss
45%
Max Grade
4,615ft
High Point
3,738ft
Low Point
Path Type
Loop
Description
The terrain is a combo of very short minor rocky path, but is mostly groomed. The main challenge is that the trail has a net elevation loss for the first 11.5 miles, while the last 4.5 are mainly uphill, with some grueling big hills toward the end and rolling hills before that. It's one of the most pleasant trails in the greater Tucson area. One can choose to only do the loop part or go off to the American Flag hill to add a few more miles. Part of the trail toward the American flag hill intersects the AZ trail. You'll mainly see dessert-like flora (different types of cholla/cacti) and creosote, and will enjoy views of the Catalina mountains. The temperature over there is more likely to be lower than in the Tucson metro area, since the evelation is about 2k ft higher, so this will make the running/hiking this trail more pleasant on hot Tucson days.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
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Contributors
Vasileios Paschalidis