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A popular multi-use trail with fantastic views of the Sonoran Desert.


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Map Key

5.3

Miles

8.6

KM

99%

Runnable

3,094' 943 m

High

2,763' 842 m

Low

383' 117 m

Up

110' 33 m

Down

2%

Avg Grade (1°)

6%

Max Grade (3°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Runner Notes

Loose rocks can make footing tricky, but bold runners may enjoy the challenge.

Description

Arrive at Cactus Forest North Trailhead via Cactus Forest Drive. Head south enjoying views of the Sonoran Desert and surrounding mountains. Be aware that this is a multi-use trail open to hikers, runners, mountain bikers and horseback riders. This is the only trail within Saguaro NP available to mountain biking. In addition, mountain bikers are only allowed on the trail between Cactus Forest Drive.

After approximately a mile, there are remains of old lime kilns used in the early 1900's. The Park Service placed interpretive signs at the kilns detailing the source, and use, of the lime. Continuing south from the kilns, you'll weave up and down some small hills. The hills give you an elevated view of the park.

Just to note, in addition to access points within Saguaro NP, there are also access points just outside the park boundary on Broadway Blvd (on the north) and Old Spanish Trail (on the south).

Contacts

Shared By:

Chris McD

Trail Ratings

  3.8 from 8 votes

#12040

Overall
  3.8 from 8 votes
5 Star
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4 Star
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3 Star
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1 Star
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Trail Rankings

#389

in Arizona

#12,040

Overall
44 Views Last Month
2,696 Since Oct 1, 2015
Easy/Intermediate Easy/Intermediate

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Photos

Saguaro, prickly pear, and cholla cacti along the Cactus Forest Trail with Rincon Mountains in the background.
Oct 10, 2016 near Tanque…, AZ
Mica View Trail looking north at Catalina Mountains. While the trail is wide and smooth, look out for the jumping cactus.
Jun 28, 2016 near Tanque…, AZ
Looking north from Cactus Forest Trail. The Santa Catalina Mountains are in the distance.
Oct 10, 2016 near Tanque…, AZ
View north from the Cactus Forest Trail.
Oct 10, 2016 near Tanque…, AZ
Cactus Forest Trail
Oct 1, 2015 near Tanque…, AZ
Trail junction of Mica View and Cactus Forest Trails.
Aug 27, 2016 near Tanque…, AZ

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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

All Clear 92 days ago
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