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This is a diffult trail with rewarding views of the catalinas. A gem in the greater Tucson area!


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Map Key

16.1

Miles

25.9

KM

Loop

4,630' 1,411 m

High

3,739' 1,140 m

Low

1,684' 513 m

Up

1,688' 515 m

Down

4%

Avg Grade (2°)

21%

Max Grade (12°)

Dogs Unknown

Check the operation hours of the Oracle State Park; a fee is required to enter the park

Overview

The views of the catalinas from this trail can be mesmerizing, especially in the winter and if there is snow on the peaks.

Description

The terrain is a combo of very short minor rocky path, but is mostly groomed. The main challenge is that the trail has a net elevation loss for the first 11.5 miles, while the last 4.5 are mainly uphill, with some grueling big hills toward the end and rolling hills before that. It's one of the most pleasant trails in the greater Tucson area.

One can choose to only do the loop part or go off to the American Flag hill to add a few more miles. Part of the trail toward the American flag hill intersects the AZ trail. You'll mainly see dessert-like flora (different types of cholla/cacti) and creosote, and will enjoy views of the Catalina mountains.

The temperature over there is more likely to be lower than in the Tucson metro area, since the evelation is about 2k ft higher, so this will make the running/hiking this trail more pleasant on hot Tucson days.

Contacts

Shared By:

Vasileios Paschalidis

Trail Ratings

  4.0 from 2 votes

#4229

Overall
  4.0 from 2 votes
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Recommended Route Rankings

#165

in Arizona

#4,229

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12 Views Last Month
219 Since Jan 30, 2021
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Photos

View of Oracle Ridge from Passage 13
Sep 30, 2019 near Oracle, AZ
The American Flag Trailhead on AZT passage 12
Sep 30, 2019 near Oracle, AZ
Trailhead for Passage 13 across the parking area from the American Flag trailhead.
Sep 30, 2019 near Oracle, AZ

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Current Trail Conditions

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Check-Ins

Dec 11, 2021
Ryan Whiteside
This loop is OK. Its not as nice as the the canyons and mountains of the South/West Santa Catalinas. Lots of solitude.
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