Cholla Trail - Saguaro NP, AZ

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.

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.

Check out the Official Route and Triplogs.

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2012-07-15 keepmoving