Route Editor
Route Scout
Overview: Loma Verde Trail runs 2.3 miles from the Loma Verde Trailhead on Cactus Forest Loop to the Shantz Trail near Speedway Blvd. Along the way you will have great views of Mt. Lemmon, Mica Mountain, and Tanque Verde Peak, as well as passing the historic Loma Verde Mine. Hike: From the Loma Verde Trailhead, follow the trail as it winds its way north through the trees. In rapid succession you will encounter Mesquite, Squeeze Pen, Monument Wash, and Cholla Trail. Past Cholla Trail, the desert opens up and you are treated to great views of the Tucson basin and the surrounding mountains. At .7 miles from the trailhead you will encounter a sign posted on your left that announces your arrival at the Loma Verde Mine. While the mine has been filled in and no longer looks like much, according to the NPS it reached a depth of 350 feet in 1902! Past the mine, the trail continues heading almost directly north until it reaches the first of two intersections with Pink Hill Trail. From here the two trails merge as you wind your way north, then east around Pink Hill. At a spot just north of the hill, the two trails diverge: Loma Verde turns left and Pink Hill turns right. Continuing north from Pink Hill, the trail continues along its mostly northward path as it heads gently downhill. The grade is so gradual that its almost impossible to tell you are loosing elevation. Soon you will encounter a signed intersection on your left for the western section of Vanover Trail, followed by an additional sign on your right .2 miles further north for the eastern portion of Vanover Trail. Heading north past the second intersection with Vanover Trail, Loma Verde will begin to loose elevation more rapidly. Soon you will drop into a tree lined area where you will encounter the terminus with Shantz Trail. You can return the way you came, or use one of the many other trails in the area to form your own loop. Cumulative Mileage From Loma Verde TH:
One-Way Notice This hike is listed as One-Way. When hiking several trails on a single "hike", log it with a generic name that describes the hike. Then link the trails traveled, check out the example. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
WARNING! Hiking and outdoor related sports can be dangerous. Be responsible and prepare for the trip. Study the area you are entering and plan accordingly. Dress for the current and unexpected weather changes. Take plenty of water. Never go alone. Make an itinerary with your plan(s), route(s), destination(s) and expected return time. Give your itinerary to trusted family and/or friends.
