Charouleau Gap

Total Miles
18.9

Technical Rating

7

Difficult

Best Time

Spring, Fall

Trail Type

High-Clearance 4x4 Trail

Accessible By

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Charouleau Gap
5

Trail Overview

Charouleau Gap trail is known to be one of the best in the state. Its most intimidating obstacle, "The Step," is optional, but you'll find many more impressive spots that aren't. When Canada Del Oro Wash is flowing, the experience is epic. The Tuscon Rough Riders maintain the trail.

Photos of Charouleau Gap

Charouleau Gap
Charouleau Gap

Difficulty

Difficult: Long and remote with challenging obstacles and potentially deep water crossings. Very steep in places with loose rock. Route-finding can be challenging, even with GPS. Not for stock SUVs. Go with a group and be prepared for breakdowns.

Technical Rating

7

Status Reports

Julie Fyie
Jul 26, 2025
2019 Kawasaki Teryx4 800
Open
Kiss Rock is daunting at first sight. We'll be back in the future.
Ivan Ontiveros
Jun 21, 2025
4x4
Open
Rough/Deteriorated
Dean Guy
May 08, 2025
2022 Polaris General XP 4 1000
Open
Normal
Keith Morgan
Apr 12, 2025
ATV
Open
Normal
Dusty
Rough/Deteriorated
The Gap is a rough ride! Used to 4 wheel this trail a lot back in the day in trucks. It’s been at least 10 years since my last trip, but this time with a SXS & a Quad. This is not a trail for the inexperienced or easily intimidated. You can be hurt easily and badly. Do not go alone. A lot of the obstacles have a bypass, but not all and some of the bypasses aren’t great. Don’t overestimate your abilities or your rigs abilities. We started at 9:30 AM and went about 2/3 of the way down the backside before turning back due to time constraints. Total trip was 5 hours. Quads will have to negotiate with the trail to get through. My Honda Talon did very well and went where it was pointed. Be ready for a rough ride and sore muscles afterwards. Having said all that, it is a great trail & worth the trip. Just be careful!

Charouleau Gap can be accessed by the following ride types:

  • High-Clearance 4x4
  • SxS (60")
  • ATV (50")
  • Dirt Bike

Access Description

Head north on Highway 77 from Tucson. Turn right on Golder Ranch Road before town of Catalina. Drive east 1.2 miles and turn left on Lago Del Oro Parkway. Continue north another 1.8 miles to start of trail on right, marked with kiosk.

Charouleau Gap Map

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