Near Douglas Springs Trail
My impression of a giant saguaro.
Near Douglas Springs Trail
The trail crosses the wash... depending on time of year and weather can be dry or full and flowing really well.
Near Douglas Springs Trail
Heading back to the trailhead on Douglas Springs Trail.
Near Douglas Springs Trail
A trail through the lowland desert beneath the Rincon Mountains.
Near Douglas Springs Trail
A view looking up at Bridal Wreath Canyon.

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Driving Directions
Hike Trail

Douglas Springs Trail

3.8 (11 Ratings)
The main trail leading into the Rincon Mountains from the end of Speedway.
10.3
mi
Distance
3,636
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
BirdingFall ColorsRiver/CreekSpringViewsWaterfallWildflowersWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
10.27mi
Distance
3,636ft
Elevation Gain
966ft
Elevation Loss
30%
Max Grade
6,126ft
High Point
2,750ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
This is the main trail leaving from the parking lot at the end of Speedway Blvd. You'll pass Garwood & Wentworth Trail as you climb then it levels out and intersects with Carrillo Trail. Continue on the trail... the next section has the most sustained climbing. After gaining the top of the hill, the trail levels out. You'll travel about 1 mile to reach the saddle and trail junctions of Bridal Wreath and Ernie's Falls Trail. Continue going straight; though rugged and undulating, there is only modest net elevation gain over the next 3+ miles to Douglas Springs campground. The next 2.4 miles is a steady climb of switchbacks and stream bed crossings traversing through manzanita, juniper and sycamore trees to CowHead Saddle. The various native flowers and plants like Sand and Desert Verbena, Fairy Duster, Desert Aster and New Mexico Thistle never cease to amaze. The views of the Catalina Mountains, Redington Pass and over towards the San Pedro Valley as well as the Tanque Verde and Tucson Valley are exceptional.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
Anonymous Adventurer
Some Issues
Anonymous Adventurer
Some Issues
Anonymous Adventurer
Some Issues
Anonymous Adventurer
All Clear
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Contributors
Mike Barcom