Canelo Hills Loop

The Canelo Hills Loop is a picturesque 37.5-mile trek nestled in the rolling landscapes of Southern Arizona. This route, featuring a total elevation gain of 3,643 feet, takes you through a section of the Arizona Trail (AZT) and offers an exhilarating blend of ups and downs, stunning views, and diverse ecosystems. This moderately rated route is accessible for runners, hikers, long-distance backpackers, equestrians, and mountain bikers. Your trek starts at the AZT / Canelo Hills West Trailhead, leading north into the Canelo Hills. You'll traverse a varied landscape, from mesquite groves and oak woodlands to grassy valleys. The trail offers well-maintained single-track paths with sweeping views of canyons and peaks. The undulating terrain zigzags along mountainsides and washes, embodying the rugged beauty of the rolling hills.Home to an array of wildlife, including deer, javelina, and various bird species, the Canelo Hills are a hotspot of biodiversity. Midway, the town of Patagonia provides a welcoming break with options for dining and resupplying.CAMPING AND PERMITSDispersed camping is permitted along the Arizona Trail. Choose spots that offer solitude and natural beauty, and practice Leave No Trace principles. While no specific permits are needed for hiking or camping, stay updated with the latest trail regulations.SAFETY AND CONSIDERATIONSWater can be scarce in the Canelo Hills;carry sufficient supplies or a means to purify natural water. Check the Arizona Trail Water Report for current information at: https://aztrail.org/explore/water-sources/.In summer, temperatures can soar, so it's crucial to check the forecast and prepare for the heat.Always let someone know your itinerary, and carry a map, compass, and GPS for navigation.Best Time to Visit: Fall to spring when temperatures are milder and the risk of heat exhaustion is lower.Hikers should remain aware that mountain bikers enjoy these trailsCattle grazing occurs within this area. Please close all gates unless they are intentionally wired open.As these trails are also popular with mountain bikers, hikers should remain aware of their surroundings and share the trail courteously.ADDITIONAL INFORMATION INFORMATIONArizona National Scenic Trail Association: www.aztrail.orgCoronado National Forest, Sierra Vista Ranger District, 5990 S. Highway 92, Hereford, AZ 85615 (520) 378-0311.BLM Information Center (602) 417-9300.