Canada del Oro #4

Dogs No Dogs

Features River/Creek · Views

The Canada del Oro spends many miles hiking along the creek and crossing it. This trail is the true definition of backwoods. It is a seldom traveled trail that is lightly marked. There are a few rough spots mixed in here and there but overall it is a great, relatively smooth trail through the deep oaks of Mt Lemmon.

The wash crossings are the trickiest spots and be mindful when crossing them to keep your eyes open for cairn's marking the entrance and exits. There are many sections of this trail that will leave you smiling ear to ear as you hike through the oak trees or open fields of wildflowers.

Take your time to pack a lunch and find a nice waterfall to enjoy while on the trail. The water here is also filterable so if you need to, filter away. Dont forget to take a minute once you get out of the deep trees to look back at the top of Mt. Lemmon and see how far you have already descended off the mountain.

There will be one junction on Canada del Oro with Red Ridge trail (signed), and you'll go to the left here. It will be the natural direction of the trail anyway and you may never even see the junction. Don't be too worried if you don't spot it. Keep heading north from there along what will become a rough, rock-filled wash until you come to the Gap Road. The Gap road marks the official end of Canada del Oro Trail.