Looking for alternative overnight trip in Tucson area

[jsullivan]

Hi everyone, I'm a first time poster seeking some advice/insight from the AZ community! Two friends and I were planning on backpacking through Aravaipa Canyon this weekend, as we had purchased our permits months ago. Unfortunately after that huge storm we just got, the water level is so high that the east entrance is closed. So, it looks like we have to cancel our trip! We are now searching for an alternative around the area. Maybe just an "overnight-er" out and back kind of deal would work best for us. Difficulty level of the trail is not an issue, and a dog friendly area is preferred but not required (we weren't going to take them through Aravaipa anyway). Does anybody have any ideas of somewhere around the Tucson-ish area we can make an overnight trip out of? I'm sure many places are flooded/snow-covered still. We were thinking that somewhere low on Mt. Lemmon (prison camp area?) might accomodate us, but none of us quite know for sure. Any tips or suggestions are more than appreciated!

[joebartels]

@jsullivan
lower Catalina range looks prime for an overnight this weekend
nice temps & guaranteed water

for general reference
the stream gauge in Sabino has been at 1 ft for months
peaked on Fri the 15th @ 5 ft
dropped quick
now slowly rising to two feet, guessing snow melt
perhaps it'll be outta control this weekend?
ask in this thread, you'll get all kinds of response
or message @SAMBA for an earful about anything

[ Santa Catalina Trails :: map ]

[azbackpackr]

@jsullivan
[ Sabino - Bear Loop ]
With a side trip to Seven Falls, and another long side trip to Hutch's Pool. Or, you could just go to Hutch's Pool. You don't have to hike up the Sabino Canyon paved road to get there, you can hike the Phone Line Trail. [ Hutch's Pool ]

I don't think dogs are allowed. Didn't look very closely. Pima Canyon used to be fun for a quick overnight backpack. Most people day hike it, so you have it to yourself at night.

[Grimey]

Saguaro NP - Juniper Basin or Grass Shack? Not dog friendly, though.