Southern Arizona is one of the most unique places in the country to hike, as you can hike one day in the low desert and the next day be in pine trees in as little as an hour’s drive. In the Tucson area, some of the greatest hikes are within 100 miles or less, making a weekend hiking trip to a couple spots perfectly doable. Mt. Lemmon, north of Tucson, is one of the most popular hiking destinations, but many lesser known trails in the Santa Rita Mountains offer the same or similar features. The bonus is they are quieter; something most hikers can appreciate.
Agua Caliente Saddle, Santa Rita Mountains
Distance from Tucson: Approximately 40 miles
Vehicle Needed: High Clearance
Length: 5.4 miles RT
Level of Difficulty: Strenuous
Parking: Free
Agua Caliente Saddle is accessed from Madera Canyon or the west side. The trail from the west side is less used, and offers a strenuous workout to the saddle through oak woodlands into ponderosa pine and white fir.
To reach the trail, take Interstate 19 south to the Amado/Arivaca Road Exit (48). Turn left and go under the interstate. Turn left on the frontage road, heading north about 1 mile. Turn right on Elephant Head Road. Turn right on Mount Hopkins Road. Drive 5.5 miles until you see the sign for Forest Road 183, Agua Caliente Canyon. Turn left. Follow the dirt road until you reach a sharp left turn in the road where it crosses Agua Caliente Wash. Continue up the road until you see the metal trail sign on your right. The parking area is below the sign on your left.
This hike is steep and rocky, but that keeps it quiet. If rainfall is plentiful, the creek runs with many waterfalls. You will pass several abandoned mine shafts on your way to the saddle. The views are actually better on the way down, so have your camera ready.
Dutch John Spring Trail, Santa Rita Mountains
Distance from Tucson: Approximately 40 miles
Vehicle Needed: Car
Length: 3.6 miles RT
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Parking: $5.00
The trail is located in Madera Canyon south of Tucson. Once you enter the canyon, park in the parking lot just past the turn to Bogs Springs Campground. Make sure to pay where you park. The trail sign gives you a number of options. Follow the trail until you reach a junction sign pointing to a steep hill down to a drainage. Turn left. You come out at the Bogs Springs Campground. Straight across from the parking lot is the trail sign for Dutch John Springs.
This easy, trail takes you through sycamore trees and oaks. Following the trail leads you to two springs. The lush vegetation, especially after rains, makes this simple hike a beautiful change from the desert just down the road.
Reference: Betty Leavengood and Mike Liebert, Hikers Guide to the Santa Rita Mountains.