Lemmon Rock Trail #12, AZ

This trail extends from a trailhead just below Mt. Lemmon's summit and the Wilderness of Rock deep within that picturesque area of the Pusch Ridge Wilderness. It is a very steep trail, earning its most difficult rating by dropping 2,000 feet in a short two miles. The views are worth it, though, especially since the most expansive of them can be seen from a rocky overlook at the top of Lemmon Rock at the end of a short spur off the main trail. From this overlook, which also serves as the location for a historic Forest Service lookout cabin, you can see much of southeastern Arizona and northern Sonora Mexico.

Closer at hand, the views are just as impressive. Rappel Rock, the saw-toothed edge of Pusch Ridge and the upper reaches of Sabino Canyon are some of the features that make up the panorama.

The point at which the spur to the lookout and the main trail part company is plainly marked. From this junction, the Lemmon Rock Trail drops steeply through a shady stand of ponderosa pines. At various points, the tree canopy opens to provide views of the spectacular rock formations which form the upper limit of the Wilderness of Rock. Included are close-up views of Rappel Rock and the Ravens. The trail becomes eroded and rocky as it nears its junction with the Wilderness of Rock Trail #44 at Lemmon Creek, which offers the only dependable water along this route.

Attractions: Marvelous views, accessible overlook, challenging trail and access to Wilderness of Rock!

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2008-02-28 HAZ_Hikebot