Overview: Cholla Trail runs from Cactus Forest Trail to Loma Verde Trail. Despite its name, Cholla Trail does not actually encounter much Cholla along the way. Heading east from Cactus Forest Trail, it takes three tenths of a mile before you encounter your first patch of cholla on the left. Prickly pear cactus is well represented along the trail, but wouldn't roll off the tongue nearly as well as "Cholla Trail".
Hike: As you head east from Cactus Forest Trail you will immediately pass a huge saguaro on your left. In addition to being exceedingly tall, the saguaro has 12 arms of varying length that make it quite distinctive and easy to spot from a distance.
remove free decal offer
Past the Saguaro, the trail is mostly flat and well worn as it winds its way east/southeast through the desert. Visible ahead, Tanque Verde Ridge and Tanque Verde Peak appear much closer than they really are.
At 0.4 miles you will reach a signed intersection with Loma Verde Wash. Continue across the wash, climb the other side and follow Cholla Trail as it begins to work its way southeast. The trail here will gradually gain elevation as it works its way towards Loma Verde Trail. At 0.7 miles you will encounter the end of Cholla Trail at a signed junction.
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.
Permit $$
NPS
Saguaro National Park 2022 $25 vehicle • $20 motorcycle • $15 individual on foot or bicycle
Receipt is valid for 7 days
$45 Annual Park Pass View All
No fee required from Miller Creek Trailhead off Mescal Rd.
Directions
Road
Connector trail - Not Applicable
To Broadway Trailhead From anywhere in Tucson take Broadway Boulevard east almost to its terminus just before N. Camino Del Codorniz. It's 14.6mi from I-10 straight through on Broadway.
From PHX (I-10 & AZ-51) 128 mi - about 2 hours 15 mins From TUC (Jct 1-10 & Grant) 18.2 mi - about 39 mins From FLG (Jct I-17 & I-40) 271 mi - about 4 hours 21 mins
page created by joebartels on Jul 14 2012 10:46 pm