Bull Pasture/ Estes Canyon Loop Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

This run features stunning views over the Sonoran Desert. There are lots of wildflowers (in the spring) and birds. In spite of being one of the most popular runs, in Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, you'll still find solitude and quietness here.

Bring plenty of water.

The run starts on the Bull Pasture Trail which gradually climbs up into the Ajo Mountains with views extending all over Organ Pipe National Monument and into Mexico.

Multiple species of giant cacti (Saguaro and Organ Pipes, of course...) and other vegetation typical for the Sonoran Desert can be spotted along the trail. The run can be shortened by taking the Estes Canyon Trail back to the Estes Canyon parking lot at the junction instead of running the Bull Pasture Trail up to Bull Pasture.

On the way back from Bull Pasture, turn onto Estes Canyon Trail to make a loop. You'll cross plenty of dry washes, and watch out for the cairns that mark the trail. You'll find lots of wildflowers in the spring like poppies and brittle brush. The trail offers little shade in summer, so bring plenty of water.

The Estes Canyon Trail ends back at a junction with the Bull Pasture Trail which you can follow back to the parking area to finish your run.