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 Reporter |
Summary: This hike takes you to one of the summits (6249 ft) of the Atscosa Mountains. The relatively steep rocky trail takes you directly to an old abandoned lookout tower. The trail starts out in thickets of agave and ends up in a forest of pinon and junipers. On a clear day the views from the summit are spectacular. You will be able to see the Baboquivaris, the Sierrita Mts, the Santa Rita Mts, and deep into northern Mexico. If you are in the area this hike is a very worthwhile and rewarding endeavor. Trailhead: To get to the trailhead follow I-19 south past Rio Rico to the Pena Blanca Lake turn off. Follow Ruby Road for about 12 miles to a large dirt parking area and FS trail marker 100. (Lat:31.40493 Lon:-111.14698) Trail Guides for Atascosa Lookout: FS Trail 100: Hiking Arizona by Bruce Grubbs and Stewart Aitchision (The Globe Pequot Press) Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Ranger Contact: Coronado National Forest, Nogales Ranger District Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Rob Brinkerhoff, who has posted 33 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Matthew on 6/5/2008 Home is Az but I work in the country of Qatar. Before every R&R I make a list of things that I want to do. I didn't have High hopes for finding this FireTower but I did. I unloaded my ATV at Lake Pena Blanka and Ruby was going to be the first stop. Well, Ruby was great and I ask "SunDog", Ruby's caretaker, if he knew where the Tower was. He gave me directions and at 3:15 I found the trail. This was on May 22, 08' and for those that remember a wind storm was blowing in. Really cooled down. Anyway, I started the hike even though it was late and the weather was iffy. I have a hard time making myself turn around. Anyway, really kept a hard pace to make it to the the top. Well, that was one of the highlights of my trip home. Can't wait to ca
Reviewed by RGB on 4/11/2008 Hiked on March 31, 2008. Dirt parking lot is on the left just BEFORE the 5 mile marker. Perfect weather, great views, blooming flowers. I second the previous suggestion for two hiking sticks/poles and also recommend Ibuprofen for those with sensitive joints. There is a great view of the fire tower just as you pass the second Ocotillo "forest" and again as you go through the gate at the beginning of the hike. Look to the right of the large "yellow" mountain. 
Reviewed by BJP on 3/31/2008 Our hiking group from Green Valley did this one on March 27, 2008. It was a warm day, but we took it slow and enjoyed all the wonderful scenery and beautiful wildflowers. I have hiked to the summit of Mt. Wrightson several times, but I enjoyed the more up-close scenery on this hike so much more! I would suggest two hiking sticks for this climb - especially helpful on the coming down!
Reviewed by LM on 11/5/2007 This is NOT a summer hike. Much of the trail is in the open and it can be hot. But it is definitely worthwhile -- absolutely beautiful views. Also, our info showed it as being around 6 miles, round trip.
Reviewed by Steve on 9/14/2007 Do your self a favor and hike up to Atascosa Lookout, spend the night if you have the chance. Sweeping views of the surrounding rugged country are incredible. The climb up can be a strain, but there's a nice saddle a short way in, a decent relatively flat stretch, followed by some switchbacks to make the last push in a hurry. Plus, it seems like the Forest Service is making a push to preserve the lookout with the help of volunteers. There's a nice, small saddle just a few minutes below the peak where you can set up camp.
Reviewed by Angela&Phillip on 4/10/2006 We hiked the trail Saturday. It was a strenuous climb but definitely worth every step. We are going to spend the night next time. Take plenty of water. You will need it.
Reviewed by Robert on 11/21/2005 Trailhead is almost exactly 14 miles west of I-19 (not the 12 stated in hike description), with parking on South side of road, and trailhead with sign on North side of road. Last hiked on 19 Nov. Lots of fresh bear sign as bears were dining on a plentiful crop of pinon pine nuts near top. One of the nicest hikes in southern Arizona.
Reviewed by Gary on 12/24/2004 We began the hike not really intending to go all the way to the top, but the further you go, the more the summit and the abandoned look-out tower beckon you to continue. The views from the top are spectacular - well worth the effort. The weather (late December) was cool and the wind at the top was relentless. The abandoned "shack" is full of interesting items... the old wood-burning stove, the cots, and especially the notebook that is full of writings from previous visitors. Many had spent the night, which sounded a little spooky. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Arizona Hiking, Arizona Trails, Arizona Hikes, Santa Cruz County Hiking, Santa Cruz County Trails, Santa Cruz County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||