Trail Overview

Gardner Canyon is a rugged forest road that features creek crossings, gorgeous grasslands, and a little local history. This trail is a scenic canyon drive dotted with mesquite, scrub oak, tall grasses, and cacti. This area is popular for ATVs and has large easy-access camping areas for RVs. Most of the trail is a hard-packed dirt road.

Photos of Gardner Canyon FR 92

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Difficulty

While there are a few rough and bumpy areas with some rather steep descents and some climbing involved, it is unlikely 4WD will be needed. A vehicle with decent clearance should be enough for the main trail. Rain or snow could affect the road, so definitely check the weather conditions before you head out.

History

The picturesque Gardner Canyon derives its name from the pioneering Gardner family, who constructed the homestead amidst the rugged terrain of the canyon in the 1870s. The sprawling property is now home to the Boulder Crest Retreat, which is a nonprofit organization that focuses on supporting combat veterans and their families and first responders.

Technical Rating

John Leipsic

Aug 03, 2025

Open

Totally fun and fairly easy in the Grenadier. Only the top portion or apex of the canyon was challenging. Went outbound from highway 83 right on FR92. Coming back down on FR 4104 (Santa Rita Road) we were privileged to see a small herd of Pronghorn. Felt like we were on Safari. A really fun, rewarding and accessible day trip from Tucson!

David Harden

Dec 26, 2024

Open

The trail was slightly dusty and washboarded in the beginning and then becomes a little rocky later on before leveling out. This trail leads to Melendrez Pass which has rocky switchbacks and a slight down grade slope. If you take FR 165B it will lead you down a moderately difficult trail with a few off-camber, rutted obstacles and finally to a beautiful mountain vista when the trail ends.

Richard Foard

Aug 11, 2024

Open