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One of the only Tucson area trails running along a water source.


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Map Key

7.8

Miles

12.6

KM

Point to Point

8,008' 2,441 m

High

4,534' 1,382 m

Low

40' 12 m

Up

3,493' 1,065 m

Down

9%

Avg Grade (5°)

29%

Max Grade (16°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features River/Creek · Views

Description

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.

Contacts

Shared By:

Vernie Aikins

Trail Ratings

  4.7 from 3 votes

#5

in Mt. Lemmon

#7595

Overall
  4.7 from 3 votes
5 Star
67%
4 Star
33%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#5

in Mt. Lemmon

#207

in Arizona

#7,595

Overall
7 Views Last Month
1,445 Since Aug 11, 2017
Difficult Difficult

0%
0%
0%
0%
67%
33%

Photos

A Great Horned Owl that I was able to spot thanks to a mob of Scrub Jays harassing it in it's tree.
Oct 7, 2019 near Catalina, AZ
A Nasua narica, or White Nose Coati, that I startled while hiking the #4 Canada Del Oro trail.
Oct 26, 2019 near Catalina, AZ
Gorgeous monster Sycamore tree near the junction of the Red Ridge #5 and Canada Del Oro # 4 trails
Oct 7, 2019 near Oracle, AZ
A bear print I saw on the #4 Canda Del Oro trail. There was very high winds and this track was VERY fresh. Bear spray is a must if you hike this trail!
Oct 26, 2019 near Oracle, AZ
This canyon trail is a great place to see fall colors too. It truly offers a little of everything.
Oct 26, 2019 near Catalina, AZ
One of countless Coues White Tail Deer I have encountered along the Canada Del Oro #4 trail
Oct 7, 2019 near Catalina, AZ
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Current Trail Conditions

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Check-Ins

Jun 17, 2023
DD Demers
Just Sutherland to Samaniego Ridge 0.6mi
Oct 25, 2019
Semi Feral
This trail is hands down the best trail for spotting wildlife in the Santa Catalinas. I already can't wait to hike this trail again. 17.2mi
Sep 12, 2019
Semi Feral
This trail never disappoints! I saw three or four small herds of deer, fresh bear scat, an incredible variety of wildflowers, and views like no other.
Aug 30, 2019
Semi Feral
FANTASTIC trail, very remote and seldom used. Loads of White Tail deer! I did see quite a bit of bear scat, one quite fresh so take bear spray. 6.1mi — 3h 00m
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