Tortolita Lasso Loop, AZ

This hike is a relatively easy lasso loop in the heart of the Tortolitas that uses 4 different trails to access the higher areas of the range. It is described as a clockwise loop.


From the Wild Burro Trailhead, hike north up canyon on the Wild Burro Trail. As you enter the upper basin you pass by the Alamo Springs or Cottonwood Springs. The Cottonwood is dead, but the remains of the well are still in the wash.Continue hiking on the Wild Burro to Burro Tank; a large tank and old windmill converted to a solar pump, holding water for cattle or sheep. You can't miss it. From the tank, the trail continues as the Burro Loop Trail and begins to gain elevation on very gentle switchbacks above the old dam. Expansive views of the upper basin are plentiful, as is at least 1 crested saguaro.

The trail turns into the Ridgeline Trail at the far east side of the basin. The ridgeline offers great views of the Catalina Mountains, as well as a lot of the surrounding area. There is another crested saguaro along the upper sections of the Ridgeline trail.

The Ridgeline trail gradually loses elevation as it works its way back towards the Alamo Springs Trail. The last leg is a short section of the Alamo Springs Trail and then you return to the trailhead back on the Wild Burro.

2021-12-22 Jim