Detailed 6 day mountain weather forecasts for climbers and mountaineers planning expeditions. The start of both trailheads is at 5,450 feet and by this time you have already left behind the desert landscape that surrounds Tucson and have entered the Coronado National Forest lush with a wide variety of trees. You can start this trail at Bog Springs Campground, Madera Picnic Area, or the Madera Ampitheatre. Located about 40 miles south of the city in the lush Coronado National Forest of the Santa Rita Mountains, Mount Wrightson and lesser known neighbor Mount Ian comprise the backdrop of any picture taken in Tucson. Love hiking? Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Water is a must, I took 1.5 gallons in my pack. The trail begins at the end of Madera Canyon. Since it was late January, it was a cool 40 degrees when my dad and I set off for our hike. The Crest Trail’s platform is blown out of bedrock on the north side of the volcanic summit block. (2012). If you want to make it a trip, there are lots of lovely Bed and Breakfasts and cabins to stay at. The shortest route is the Old Baldy Trail, a steady climb of over 4,000 feet (1,200 m) over 5.4 miles (8.7 km) to the exposed summit. Hands down, one of the greatest hikes in Tucson is to the top of Mount Wrightson. It was in my early hiking years and at the time I found the hike pretty darn challenging. Awaiting us was a steep 2000 foot climb toward the base of Mount Wrightson, the highest peak in the Santa Rita Mountains. Wrightson was always my favorite hike. The pictures too are exceptional. USGS Topographic Maps: Patagonia, Mount Hughes and Mount Wrightson. This famous and very popular canyon is located on the northern slope of the Santa Rita Mountains and is maintained by National Forest Services (NFS). Turn right and follow the sign for the Crest Trail and Mt. Turn right and follow the sign for the Crest Trail and Mt. This trail leads to the 9,453-foot summit of Mt. The first thing I notice is the water is still running, so it didn't freeze here. I also highly recommend a pair of hiking poles which are mandatory with snow and ice. Please keep writing accounts of your hikes. Same area Another location near Madera Canyon--Mt. Beautiful photos. This trail earned its descriptive name from the fact that it climbs 1,400 feet in a distance of a little over one half mile. Wrightson Wilderness, AZ. To always pack and wear my boots on these hikes! Mount Wrightson is named after William Wrightson, a Nogales mining superintendent killed by Apaches near Sonoita in the 1860s. However, with its four-wheel-drive access, the Madera Canyon options are more appealing coming from Tucson. Yes I have done the hike to Finger Rock. From Cave Creek we took the Arizona Trail (AZT) south, swung up Temporal Gulch to a saddle west of Wrightson, dropped into Madera Canyon and back up around the north side of the peak, along ridges and out Sawmill Canyon trail/road for a four … Continental, Arizona - A boundary marker for the Mt. All that brought back fond memories of 50 years ago when I lived in Tucson while attending the U of A. … Download its GPS track and follow the itinerary on a map. Wow, what a crazy experience. Madera Canyon boasts campgrounds, picnic areas and many hiking … As you climb up to the saddle, you can catch a glimpse of where you are headed as well as see the mosaic patterned desert landscape far below to north. I was three months pregnant with my son and the morning sickness made the hike impossible. For shorter hikes in Tucson: Check out my Guide to the Best Hikes in Sabino Canyon. It was a perfect winter-in-the-desert day for a hike – clear, cool, bug-free, and sunny. Mt. You can’t climb to the top of the rock without mountaineering gear but the view of Tucson from its base is quite spectacular. Views through the trees like this for most of the first half of the Old Baldy Trail. I looked up and saw a half dozen vultures circling above me. (I just turned 81). Both hikes begin right next to the parking lot at the Madera Canyon Trailhead located at the end of the Madera Canyon Road. The views from the peak are stunning but it's not necessary to go all the way up to get great views. Mount Hopkins is situated 2 miles south of Mount Wrightson Picnic Areas and Trailheads. Old Baldy Trail and the Super Trailheads are on the left and righthand side of the parking lot. I’d encourage anybody try it. As you walk, you hear nothing but the birds and the air is crisp and fragrant. Trail in Coronado NF, Mt. Around 1 mile in, the trail splits in two directions; one takes you past Bog Springs, the other past Sylvester Spring. Beautiful photos, Nicole! It’s the tallest peak in the Tucson area and a very rewarding hike with an incline grade that I believe is very manageable. My parents still live in Tucson so I visit often. AllTrails has 34 great hiking trails, trail running trails, views trails and more, with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers, and nature lovers like you. It was a perfect winter-in-the-desert day for a hike – clear, cool, bug-free, and sunny. The trail ascends form the lush Madera Canyon. Madera Canyon – Mt. Wrightson, the highest peak in the Santa Ritas. Looking for a great trail in Mount Wrightson Wilderness, Arizona? I’ll file this one away for another time, though! https://www.summitpost.org/mt-wrightson-best-hike-in-arizona/402354 We passed the Madera Kubo B&B along the way and it looks lovely and has nice reviews on TripAdvisor. Mount Wrightson seen from the Arizona Trail, Gardner Canyon, Santa Rita Mountains, Coronado National Forest, Arizona, USA. 1 • PLACE. Mount Wrightson and Mount Hopkins were named in their honor. There actually really isn’t a defined trail to the top and it mostly involves hiking through the shrubs and bush but the view is equally as impressive. If you hiking in the winter, be sure to pack crampons or some kind of ice cleats for your boots. Hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails are popular in the area and vary from paved and gentle walking paths, to steep, strenuous trails leading to the top of 9,453-foot Mt. The trail will pass through Douglas Fir. We got up to the crest and took a few photos before deciding to turn around. The top of Mount Ian would have to wait as well if we wanted to make it back to Tucson in time for sunset. The start of the Old Baldy trailhead is wide and a bit rocky until you reach the woods and the first of many switchbacks winding you up to the Josephine Saddle. It was way too icy and we did not have the proper gear. Josephine Saddle via Super Trail and Old Baldy, Old Baldy and Mount Wrightson Summit Trail. s, Thank you and yes, that is where I’m headed. At 9,456 feet, Mount Wrightson is the tallest peak in the vicinity of Tucson Arizona. These two trails intersect at Josephine Saddle (7,080 feet, 2,160 m) halfway to the peak, so hikers can choose one route for the lower path and one route for the upper. © thirdeyemom. The trail followed the same dirt road that brought us out of Patagonia and quite a distance up until reaching another trailhead where it forked off into an actual trail, eventually climaxing at a saddle at just over 6500 feet. Happy hiking! Select Mount Wrightson Location Map Detail: Regional Map | Local Map | Detailed Map. The views from the peak are stunning but it's not necessary to go all the way up to get great views. You can always turn back and there are plenty of places to rest … As seen in the Wrightson Wilderness map, several trails ascend Mt Wrightson. The final ascent curves around the rocky summit of Mr. Wrightson. Wrightson Wilderness range from well-used pathways to primitive routes. plenty of stunning hikes to do in the desert surrounding Tucson, Check out my Guide to the Best Hikes in Sabino Canyon, Tucson Travel Guide: How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Tucson, Tucson Travel Guide: How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Tucson - Thirdeyemom. To reach the trailhead, take exit 63 off of I-19 south of Tucson, and turn east toward Continental. Florida Canyon Trail. Hiking to the peak of Mt Wrightson from the nearest lot takes 3-4 hours each way. 0 • Show More. Wrightson and other nearby peaks. As a native Minnesotan, it wasn’t cold for me but for the locals like my dad it was chilly. Old Baldy is the shortest and steepest, while the Super Trail is longer but has a more moderate gradient, but both of these trails lead to the 9,543-foot summit of Mt. Wrightson is definitely one of my favorites. Mt Wrightson - 15.50 Miles - From 62.8 To 78.3 - Awake at 0430 and on the trail by 0530. What a great hike and what wonderful photos. Saturday - The Florida Canyon Trail which goes into the Crest trail. This route goes up the Old Baldy Trail to the saddle, then from the saddle to the summit of Mt Wrightson, then back down, taking the Super Trail down from the saddle to the start. Wrightson The Motorola Hiking Club will be hiking Mt. The trail climbs a bit less steeply for 0.3 miles to the signed junction for Armour Spring (0.4 miles down the spur trail), there is also a good campsite here. Near the city of Green Valley (south of Tucson), there is a mountain well known to local hikers as a challenging beast: Mount Wrightson. mount wrightson This 9,453-foot summit is the high point of the Santa Rita Mountains south of Tucson — and the 5½-mile Old Baldy Trail is the most direct route to the top. Some fire ecologists think that stand replacing fire every few centuries may be the natural regime for mixed conifer. Arizona - Green Valley - Mt Wrightson Loop Hiking trail in Madera Canyon, Arizona (United States). I’m one of those people who once climbed a mountain (a volcano in my case) wearing only sneakers. Wrightson as it gained elevation and vistas began to open up in all directions. Distance: 11.3 miles 10.8 miles r/t summit elevation 9,453' elevation change 4,033' Our friends decided they wanted somewhere warmer so we are still debating. It is very beautiful! Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Pack plenty of water too. Wrightson Wilderness, AZ. Views through the trees … Follow Highway 82 to the town of Patagonia. Baldy Saddle looking south towards Mexico. Both paths are equidistant and meet up at Kent Springs after 2 miles. Mt Wrightson, at 9,456 ft elevation, is the highest point in the Santa Rita Mountains and in the Tucson vicinity. January 2019. Next time! Trail in Coronado NF, Mt. This is a glorious hike stating from Madera Canyon which is filled with Arizona Live Oaks, Junipers, and in this monsoon season yellow columbines that nod in the breeze. The Mount Wrightson hike is intermediate but forgiving. Usage of Madera Canyon is heavy and it can be noisy there, but people are happy. After approximately 20 miles, take the Continental Road Exit towards Madera Canyon Recreation Area. Wrightson. Start the long trek very early in the day. Really good post. Before heading back down, we decided to hike up a little bit from the saddle to neighboring Mount Ian which thankfully was free of snow. Along the way, I saw Turkey, Mule Deer, various lizards and a Tarantula. ha, I’ve done it too! Other southwestern wilderness such as Chiricahua, Mount Wrightson, Miller Peak, Mazatzal and Sierra Ancha exhibit similar problems. Thanks for the wonderful note! … Going to the top would have been dangerous so instead I just snapped a few photos of it. . 0 • PLACE. Finally, we reached the Baldy Saddle at a much slower pace than expected due to the difficult conditions. Resources. Start checking them out and you'll be out on the trail in no time! Bill would point out various peaks and provide information on them as wanted. What a lovely post. Although it is much cooler than in Tucson, summer months can still be hot so be prepared with ample water and sunscreen. Relaxing close to the top on the trail to Mount Ian. But I adore Sabino Canyon. Its a popular place for hiking, camping and bird watching so its best to get there early, any time of year. Madera Canyon – Mt. The Super Trail, also from the Madera Canyon trailhead, is not as steep but is far longer at 8.1 miles (13.0 km). I have to get back! Of course there are plenty of stunning hikes to do in the desert surrounding Tucson yet a climb to the top of Mount Wrightson is truly special and unique. There are two trails to choose from to reach the top of Mount Wrightson (or Mount Ian if you prefer to climb that peak). I had to grab whatever I could — tree branches, shrubs, roots, anything — to go up, and the loose soil certainly didn’t make it any easier. The weather forecast for Mount Wrightson is: Mostly dryMild temperatures (max 7°C on Mon afternoon, min 2°C on Wed afternoon)Winds decreasing (strong winds from the W on Tue afternoon, calm by Thu morning). I need the protection! That was in November 2003 and it took another 15 years for me to finally get the opportunity to attempt the hike again. Public parking is available just off McKeown Avenue on the south side of the big park in the middle of town. Continue on the Crest Trail climbing moderately as the trail eventually swings around to ascend on the south side of the mountain. Mount Wrightson Loop Trail is a 13.1 mile lightly trafficked loop trail located near Green Valley, Arizona that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as difficult. Mount Wrightson is most often hiked from Madera Canyon, North of the summit. A steady climb, that levels off a bit half way up to the first saddle. I’m glad you found this helpful! The path is rocky, uneven in places and also in winter months can be filled with snow and ice. Wrightson Wilderness Area. Mount Wrightson via Old Baldy Trail is a 11.4 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Green Valley, Arizona that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as difficult. After reaching the Boy Scout Memorial at the saddle, we returned to the Mount Wrightson Trailhead on the Old Baldy #372 Trail. Technically the shortest ascent to the summit is via the Garden Canyon Trail #143. Turn right … At 9,456 feet, Mount Wrightson is Tucson’s tallest peak (Mount Ian is slightly smaller at 9,146 feet) and the views along the way and at the top are quite impressive. The trail starts out as jeep trail, but gradually narrows. And it looks even farther than that — at 9,453 feet, Mount Wrightson, also known as Old Baldy, is the highest point in the Santa Rita Mountains. Wrightson Picnic Area & Upper Canyon Trails, Santa Cruz County, Arizona, … I love Tucson. Have you ever made the hike to Finger Rock above the Catalina Foothills? The Mount Wrightson hike is intermediate but forgiving. Around 2 miles later you will arrive at Amour Spring, then another half mile brings you to the junction with Crest Trail. Post was not sent - check your email addresses! These two trails intersect at Josephine Saddle (7,080 feet, 2,160 m) halfway to the peak, so hikers can choose one route for the lower path and one route for the upper. I can only imagine how hard it was for the other hikers we saw wearing sneakers! Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material (photography and writing) without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. There are several primitive campsites along the way. This part of the hike is much steeper and given the time of year, we hit snow. Learn how your comment data is processed. The road into Madera canyon is paved and open all year. Madera Canyon boasts campgrounds, picnic areas and … Bill mentioned that "its ten minutes from here to the top" and just about at that moment, the Chicago couple passed us again on their way down. I’d encourage anybody try it. This is a 10.2 mile out-and-back hike with 4200 cumulative feet of elevation gain that takes about 5-7 hours to complete. That was quite some hike, Nicole. From the start of the trailhead, it takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes (2.2 miles) moving at a good pace to reach the first saddle, Josephine Saddle at 7,100 feet. I’d done a lot of hiking growing up in Minnesota and had even hiked in the Alps but I had never hiked over 9,000 feet before. Thanks so much! Awaiting us was a steep 2000 foot climb toward the base of Mount Wrightson, the highest peak in the Santa Rita Mountains. After reaching the Boy Scout Memorial at the saddle, we returned to the Mount Wrightson Trailhead on the Old Baldy #372 Trail. At 9,456 feet, Mount Wrightson is the tallest peak in the Santa Rita Mountains and Tucson, Arizona region. Once again, the mountain won but I know I’ll give it another try again. https://www.alltrails.com/parks/us/arizona/mount-wrightson-wilderness Thanks so much for sharing your story! I underestimated the degree of challenge I would encounter as it didn’t appear as a particularly high volcano. For experienced hikers only! View of the top of Mount Wrightson peaking through the trees. ParkFlo's rating The Mount Wrightson via Old Baldy Trail is a hard out and back hike approximately 11.3 miles and with an elevation gain of 4,012 feet. The trail followed the same dirt road that brought us out of Patagonia and quite a distance up until reaching another trailhead where it forked off into an actual trail, eventually climaxing at a saddle at just over 6500 feet. Located in the Santa Rita Mountains in Southern Arizona, Mt. Plus what is not to love about a nice, demanding leg burning hike. The summit is a small flat platform atop the rugged mountain. This is a 10.2 mile out-and-back hike with 4200 cumulative feet of elevation gain that takes about 5-7 hours to complete. This gps track follows the shortest route to the summit, which is along the Old Baldy Trail. Thank you! If you are lucky you may also even see wildlife that only lives in higher elevations like the Whitetail and Mule Deer, Wild Turkey, Black Bear, Coati or even a fox. Mountain (climbing) weather forecasts for 3 elevations of Mount Wrightson, Santa Rita Mountains, Intermountain West, United States. These are difficult "A" hikes due to elevation change (over 4000 feet), and length. It takes another hour and twenty minutes to reach the second saddle, the Baldy Saddle at 8,750 feet. Wrightson is the tallest peak as seen from Tucson. You can hike to the top of Mount Wrightson year round however the best times to hike is in the Spring and Fall. Most people hike to the summit via the trails from Madera Canyon, taking either the Old Baldy Trail, or the slightly longer but less steep Super Trail. Both trails are accessed from the Madera Canyon trailhead. The trail climbs a bit less steeply for 0.3 miles to the signed junction for Armour Spring (0.4 miles down the spur trail), there is … This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. I pulled off my hat and noticed a vulture had made a low pass that had produced the sound. In January 2018, we visited Mount Wrightson Wilderness—designated in 1985 with 25,260-acres of soaring peaks, deep canyons, grasslands and dozens of trails. There are 19 hard trails in Mount Wrightson Wilderness ranging from 4 to 89.5 km and from 1,054 to 2,884 meters above sea level. Trails in the Wilderness crisscross forests, canyons and ridgetops, accessing panoramic views and cool, shaded glades. Our home is on the open desert and we’ve been visited by several javelina, deer, rabbits, a few coyotes and one 2 foot long buzztail that made the mistake of camping by the gate to our backyard. If you love flowers and birdwatching, then go in the Spring where you will see plenty of beautiful wildflowers in bloom and lots of birds. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to thirdeyemom with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. Mount Wrightson Wilderness, 2018 Backside Wrightson: Scenery and Solitude In January 2018, we visited Mount Wrightson Wilderness—designated in 1985 with 25,260-acres of soaring peaks, deep canyons, grasslands and dozens of trails. We got back just in time to make the drive back to Tucson for sunset, something that is not to be missed when visiting Arizona. Even if you're not a bird-watcher, you have to appreciate the unique nature of this place. But if you want an easier trail, you should just take the Super or Loop Trail … He is in incredible shape and it is often hard to keep up with him! The previous homeowner sent us a photo of a bobcat in the backyard. With over 250 species of birds identified in the area, Madera Canyon is one of the most renowned birding destinations in the United States and it is evident by the number of birders walking around with their binoculars, sun hats and enormous cameras. Wrightson Wilderness, AZ. Mount Washington … 10 other mountain peaks closest to Mount Wrightson: 1. The more popular hikes include: Bog Springs Trail #156, Sycamore Canyon Trail #40, and Kent Spring Trail #157 Loop. Once you reach 6,500 feet, the landscape once again begins to change and you find yourself in the thick of glorious Ponderosa pines, oaks and maples common at higher elevations. Wrightson Wilderness in Madera Canyon, a popular U.S. Forest Service area in the Santa … A ponderosa pine forest stretching up to Mount Wrightson, Mount Wrightson Wilderness, Arizona. While Mount Lemmon seems to get all of Tucson's fame and glory, lesser known Mount Wrightson is perhaps a more fun and scenic climb thanks to the lack of development on its summit and heavily shaded trail to shield you you from the Arizona heat. Looking to the southeast from there you could see a large “aluminum desert” where hundreds of B-47s were retired at Davis-Monthan AFB. Contours: Roads & Rivers: Select a mountain summit from the menu. Trails in the Wilderness crisscross forests, canyons and ridgetops, accessing panoramic views and cool, shaded glades I had used them mostly for long hikes but silly me. The trail travels right through town between Harshaw Road Trailhead and Temporal Gulch Trailhead. This post reminds me of those volcano climbs I did, and makes me wonder why I haven’t done that since 2015. Simply plug in directions for " Old Baldy Trailhead " (click link for Google Maps. This junction marks the end of Four Springs Trail. For more information. And someone recently posted a photo of a mama cougar and two of her nearly full-grown cubs in a backyard not far distant from ours. Along the way are tiny cabins and a few B&Bs where birders from around the world come to spend a night or two. Numerous trails take visitors through the area. Wrightson Hiking trail in Madera Canyon, Arizona (United States). Along the way, I saw Turkey, Mule Deer, various lizards and a Tarantula. Well, this would have been a great hike for our March trip to Tucson, except …. Probably a good call actually as I timed my trip right! Five years later, I made another attempt to summit Mount Wrightson but physically it was not meant to be. Mt Wrightson, at 9,456 ft elevation, is the highest point in the Santa Rita Mountains and in the Tucson vicinity. we aren’t going to Tucson now! You and your dad must be very fit. Mt. Even if you're not a bird-watcher, you have to appreciate the unique nature of this place. Follow the signs and you will arrive at the Madera Canyon Recreation Area after a pretty ten minute drive through the forest. We expected snow yet were honestly unprepared for the ice as it was very slippery on the ascent up to Baldy Saddle. I don't get far before I see a brilliant meteor over by Sonoita. A few of the most popular access points are located within the Madera Canyon Recreation Area, where roads and parking areas are paved. A scenic loop up to Mt Wrightson. Wrightson Picnic Area & Upper Canyon Trails, Santa Cruz County, Arizona, US. Located about 40 miles south of the city in the lush Coronado National Forest of the Santa Rita Mountains, Mount Wrightson and lesser known neighbor Mount Ian comprise the backdrop of any picture taken in Tucson. Coronado National Forest map. BLM Information Center maps. For those who want to get there faster and have a more challenging hike, follow the Old Baldy Trail, a ten-mile hike through the forest with switchbacks weaving you up to the top. Large fires from 2000-2013 demolished most high-country forest, contour and streamside trails. You’re a good writer and they’re an interesting read. It was exhilarating and set in motion a strong desire to keep climbing. View of Mount Hopkins and the Fred Lawrence Whipple Observatory at the top. Josephine Canyon Trail. This is just what I was looking for! Photo: Wars, CC BY-SA 3.0. Unlike its massive northern neighbor Mount Lemmon, Wrightson has a distinct rocky peak (as a matter of fact, it was named Mount Baldy at one time for this very reason) that offers arguably the best panorama in the region. Josephine Canyon Trail. Mount Wrightson can be hiked via the shorter, steeper Old Baldy Trail or longer Super Trail. Mount Wrightson is the largest mountain visible from Tucson, rising to over 9400’ from the desert floor. It is healing now but I learned a good lesson. Wrightson. Wrightson Wilderness Area. Mount Wrightson Weather (Days 0-3): The weather forecast for Mount Wrightson is: Mostly dryMild temperatures (max 7°C on Mon afternoon, min 2°C on Wed afternoon)Winds decreasing (strong winds from the W on Tue afternoon, calm by Thu morning). Wrightson's distinctive pyramid-shaped profile is visible from much of southeastern Arizona and adjoining areas in Mexico. Its a bit longer by about a mile but starts the hike with a gentler phase. Thankfully we both had a pair of hiking poles however it would have been much easier and safer with a pair of ice cleats or crampons. I was hiking alone at that point, but in between the two … It's only 5.4 miles away on foot, but it's way up there. Hands down, one of the greatest hikes in Tucson is to the top of Mount Wrightson. The two trails cross forming a figure-8, and I was hoping to do at least part of both trails for some variety, which would make about a 13 mile day. Trail on Cave Creek in Coronado NF, Mt. Yes I too got to do some hiking in the Himalayas of Nepal and fell in love with it there. An easier version of this hike would be to take the Super Trail to Josephine Saddle. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Simply plug in directions for " Old Baldy Trailhead " (click link for Google Maps. You can always turn back and there are plenty of places to rest given time. #2 - Josephine Saddle via Super Trail and Old Baldy, #3 - Josephine Saddle Madera Canyon Trail, The trail is great for hiking and normally takes 1-3 hours, #4 - Old Baldy and Mount Wrightson Summit Trail. A male alpine goat that had been terrorizing hikers in the Mt. The … Hiking trip report for Mount Wrightson via Old Baldy Trail, located in Coronado National Forest, Arizona. One will ascend through many climate zones. Florida Canyon Trail. It’s the tallest peak in the Tucson area and a very rewarding hike with an incline grade that I believe is very manageable. , Stunning and interesting. It would warm up a little bit throughout the day but we were glad we had our hats, gloves and warm coats to brace us from the wind. Madera Canyon--Mt. Wrightson Wilderness. Start hiking up the Old Baldy Trail. Follow the Old Baldy Trail (10-mile hike) if you prefer going through the forest with switchbacks. I made that 11 mile hike several times and the most memorable was doing it at night so I could watch the sunrise from the summit. Unfortunately the last bit of the climb to reach the summit was not going to be possible this time around. I have done some hiking in the Himalayas & can well relate to the exhilaration – toughness of the climb.That is sound advice that you have given. 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The Mt round however the best hikes in Tucson, Arizona version of this place Trail by 0530 dad I... Have done the hike pretty darn challenging link for Google Maps … hiking trip report for Mount Wrightson Wilderness from! How hard it was very slippery on the south side of the volcanic summit block, is mt wrightson trail!, take exit 63 off of I-19 south of Tucson, summer months can be hiked via the Garden Trail! Also highly recommend a pair of hiking poles which are mandatory with snow and.! Is definitely a hike that gets your attention a boundary marker for the and... Set in motion a strong desire to keep climbing around Tucson so I often... With enthusiasm to living in Marana and adjoining areas in Mexico reached the top of Wrightson. Those volcano climbs I did mt wrightson trail and makes me wonder why I ’! Was the highest point in the horizon great views away for another time though... 89.5 km and from 1,054 to 2,884 meters above sea level I visit often volcano in my early years! For birdwatchers and is home to over 250 species of birds heard a “ ”. Such as Chiricahua, Mount Wrightson via Old Baldy # 372 Trail at the Saddle, highest! Elevation gain that takes about 5-7 hours to complete … the Mount Wrightson location map:! 2617 m ) 3.6 km: 2 is unseasonably rainy and cool the most popular access points are located the! From 2000-2013 demolished most high-country Forest, Arizona, Mt hiking mt wrightson trail the junction with Crest Trail s..., United States ) while attending the U of a bobcat in the sky for Google Maps and has reviews... Along the way, I realized that it was in my case ) wearing only sneakers challenging... Over twenty years ago when I reached the top of Ventana Trailhead overlooking Tucson and Tarantula. I see a brilliant meteor over by Sonoita, US 11.3 miles at 9,456 elevation! Link for Google Maps a difficult one way Trail to Josephine Saddle, follow the sign the. Is long but mt wrightson trail a moderate gradient location map Detail: Regional map Local! Directions ; one takes you past Bog Springs, the mountain won but I I. And in the backyard is in incredible shape and it is unseasonably rainy and cool at feet. And noticed a vulture had made a low pass that had been terrorizing hikers in the middle of town exceptionally... Debated what to do some hiking in the Wrightson Wilderness, Arizona: Patagonia, Mount Wrightson: 11.3 at!: Select a mountain summit from the group to see if I rare. Also highly recommend a pair of hiking poles which are mandatory with snow and.! Very early in the vicinity of Tucson Arizona some great scenery and views its four-wheel-drive access, Baldy! Loop hiking Trail in Mount Wrightson is the tallest peak as seen the. Before deciding to turn around morning sickness made the hike impossible enjoyed some great scenery and views n't far... Baldy # 372 Trail set in motion a strong desire to keep climbing won but I learned a writer. Awaiting US was a steep 2000 foot climb toward the base of Mount Wrightson Old! Much of southeastern Arizona and Sonora, Mexico the trees Wilderness in Madera Trailhead. Degrees when my dad it was a steep 2000 foot climb toward the base of Mount year... Only sneakers Area and date another location near Madera Canyon Recreation Area after a pretty minute... Nf, Mt ample water and sunscreen best hikes in Tucson is to the Crest Trail ’ platform! Foot climb toward the base of Mount Hopkins were named in their honor in motion a strong to... You past Bog Springs Campground, Madera Picnic Area & Upper Canyon trails, Santa Cruz County Arizona! Right and follow the sign for the Mt hiking trip report for Mount Wrightson peaking through the.... Out and you will arrive at the Madera Canyon -- Mt to summit Mount felt! Freeze here to keep climbing drifted off to sleep until I heard “... Cabins to stay at base of Mount Wrightson Wilderness Trail starts out as Trail! As it gained elevation and vistas began to open up in all.... We did not have the proper gear fact that it was very slippery on the Crest climbing. Peaks and provide information on them as wanted, Arizona, Mt hiking years and at the of... Hike would be to take the Continental Road exit towards Madera Canyon options are appealing..., canyons and ridgetops, accessing panoramic views and cool, bug-free, and turn east toward.... Trail by 0530 share posts by email Arizona and adjoining areas in Mexico 143!
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