Devil's Bathtub Trail - Coronado NF, AZ

Devil's Bathtub Trail is a backcountry connector trail that comprises part of the Mica Mountain Complex of trails. Although only 1.2 miles long, it boasts some of the most spectacular views in the Rincons and a unique, unspoiled natural water park. This description will assume departure from the junction at Four Corners.

After leaving the junction, the trail winds its way around to the west behind a minor peak that essentially obstructs views to the south. This takes little away from the trail, whose course winds through a calm and scenic pine forest lined on both sides by mixed scrub and occasional cactus. After seven-tenths of a mile, the head of Madrona Canyon opens to the west and the trail meets Devil's Bathtub Spring.

Below the spring to the west along the Madrona stream course lies a rocky outcropping boasting a 15-20 meter waterfall with numerous pools and a small sandy beach in the canyon below. The views from the outcropping of Madrona Canyon and points west are stunning. The beach and pools can be accessed by way of an unofficial trail located about two-tenths of a mile further along the Devil's Bathtub trail.

After leaving Madrona Canyon, the trail follows a course along a pine and oak-clad ridgeline while gaining and losing little in terms of elevation. The next major attraction is a rocky vista that provides a great view west; otherwise, the views along this stretch disappear and reappear as pinyon and scrub do the same. After one-half mile, the trail encounters the Manning Camp trail in the middle of a small valley below a canopy of pine that comprises the head of Chimenea Canyon. Water is probably present here in wetter months.

Check out the Official Route and Triplogs.

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2010-11-02 Jeffshadows