LocalHikes - Thunderbird Trail

Reporter

Thunderbird Trail

Highlights:	Abandoned mines and connecting trails
Near:	Tucson, AZ
Scenery:
Distance:	4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:	434 ft
Hike Time:	2 hours
Difficulty:	Moderate
Trail Condition:	OK, but a few difficult spots
HikeType:	Out and Back

Summary: This is a quick hike that has the potential of exploring all of the northern foothills of the Tucson Mountains Range through connecting trails.

The first segment takes you around then down the western slope of a small peak that brings you to Gila Monster Mine (see picture). Be careful not to get too close, these mines have been abandoned for decades.

The final section takes you down to the intersection of Gila Monster Trail (to the right) and Cactus Canyon Trail (to the left); this is the end of the Thunderbird Trail. Return the way you came.

Trailhead: From Speedway and Campbell drive west on speedway to the I-10 Frontage Road. Turn right (north) on Frontage Rd. During I-10 construction follow Frontage Rd. to El Camino Del Cerro/Ruthrauff Rd. Turn left (west) on El Camino Del Cerro. Follow El Camino Del Cerro west for 5.7 miles to the El Camino Del Cerro Trailhead. (Lat:32.28865 Lon:-111.12077)

Trail Guides for Thunderbird Trail:

Best Seasons: Winter,

User Groups: Hikers,

Ranger Contact: Saguaro National Park - www.nps.gov/sagu - (520) 733-5158

Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Jeff Branscum, who has posted 24 other hikes on this site

Trail Reviews Submit your own review

Reviewed by John on 11/19/2009
This is a favorite trail because it is relatively easy and the scenery is Sonoran desert at its finest, especially in the spring. One can do a loop trip using the Thunderbird, Gila Monster, Coyote Pass and Cactus Canyon trails for an easy day hike. Watch for diamond backs as the spring warms up and I don't mean baseball players.

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, Pima County Hiking, Pima County Trails, Pima County Hikes