Turkey Creek Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Views · Wildlife

This trail starts in the Coronado National Forest on the east side of the Rincon Mountains. The trail starts with some gradual hills and slowly begins the climb up the mountains. Approximately 3/4 of mile after the boundary to Saguaro National Park, the trail becomes much steeper and rocky. The trail is easy to follow through the juniper and scrub, but loose rocks and gravel make some parts of the climb difficult.

As you begin to enter the treeline, you'll be rewarded with views of the desert and mountains to the east. The trail becomes difficult to follow at some points once in the wooded section. The are blazes (metal flags) on some of the trees, but their spacing is not consistent or reliable. The trail is well worn in most spots, and this is only a minor issue.

The trail ends by connecting you to several trails that either lead to Rincon Peak or Manning Camp. There are several springs along the trail, but they do not contain water year round. Overall, this is an excellent hike; if you want to enjoy the Sky Islands of Southern Arizona without a crowd and don't mind putting in a little effort, this is the trail for you.