Hidden Canyon - Tucson Mtn Park, AZ

Overview
This is a short, easy hike that begins at Starr Pass and heads into the northeastern corner of Tucson Mountain Park. Make sure to hit the trail early or plan on avoiding weekends as the parking tends to fill up quickly.


Hike
From the trailhead, go past the signs and begin to work your way into the canyon. The desert landscape will quickly block the resort from view, making the hike feel much more isolated than reality. You will soon pass the first of several informative signs placed along the trail highlighting some of the native flora and fauna.The trail will follow a wash for the first quarter-mile before it begins to work its way up the hillside. The climb is rather pleasant and is just enough to get your blood pumping. Soon the trail reaches the top of a ridge, providing some less than impressive views of Tucson.

The trail now turns south from the ridge and continues its gradual climb for another hundred yards until it tops out. The trail will now begin to switchback down the hillside, but be careful here as there is a small use path that leads off the trail and can be confused with the main trail. After working your way down the hillside, the trail will gradually level out, and you will find yourself at the unmarked junction with the Bowen Trail. A left turn will lead you back to Starr Pass, while a right turn will lead you to Yetman Trail.

2010-11-19 keepmoving