Note: Page stats are for the full trail from ranger station.
Connects the Devil's Bathtub trail near Manning Camp with the Grass Shack Campground in Saguaro National Park's Rincon district and on to the Madrona Ranger Station (not accessible by private vehicle). However, this trail will eventually become a part of the Arizona Trail, since it is the shortest route from Madrona ranger station to Manning Camp. It is not, however, the shortest route from Manning Camp to either the Tanque Verde Ridge or Douglas Springs TH (as the author discovered the hard way).
The trail description is for the route as it heads down the hill from Manning Camp. It passes along the southern side of a large canyon below Manning Camp - eventually descending to the bottom of the canyon where the Grass Shack Campground is found. When we visited, this campground showed no signs of recent use, was completely overtaken by vegetation and felt a little eerie... However, water and facilities were present. The trail those choosing to head out to Tanque Verde Ridge or Douglas Springs trails will have to climb back up to Cow Head Saddle here - an extra 800' ascent after all that lovely lost elevation.
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Those continuing to Madrona Ranger station (along the route of the AZ Trail) will keep heading roughly downhill through the foothills. Access to the ranger station by car is blocked by a number of crossings of private land, so the closest trailhead to Madrona is the trailhead at the end of Camino Loma Alta, which takes hikers out to Hope Camp. From Hope Camp, it is possible to link together a number of informal routes to reach Madrona.
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 hike Access from Devil's Bathtub trail at the eastern end. the junction with the Tanque Verde ridge trail and Douglas Springs Trail about half way or Madrona Ranger station on the West
Route Editor
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