Santa Rita Mts: Madera Canyon Nature Trail

Welcome to Mike's Quiet Hikes

NOTE: We will car pool from the Boot Barn
(see below)
• Distance: 7.6 miles out and back
• Total Elevation Gain: 1,000
• Rating: Intermediate
**RESTRICTIONS: No guests, dogs, firearms or tobacco/vaping
• Cell phones SILENT during hike
Google MyMaps route map here.
Hiking Route on AllTrails
We will take the time to enjoy the views and scenery and take photos.

By RSVP-ing "Yes" to this event you are agreeing to hold the event host/organizer not liable for any personal injury, death or property damage that occurs during the event or in transit to and from the event.

Carpooling:
The parking area at the trailhead often fills up so carpooling is strongly encouraged.
Arrive at the Boot Barn in time for a 9:00 departure for Madera Canyon.
If you choose not to carpool, you can meet us at the Proctor Parking area for a 9:45ish hike start. Let us know if you plan to meet us at the trailhead.

The Proctor parking lot is the very first one (Proctor Parking and Trailhead - Google Maps) on the right when you enter Madera Canyon.
It is the first right past the fee/info station entrance. Rest rooms and maps are available here.
The trail head is approximately 45minutes/35 miles south of Tucson.

Madera Canyon is a fee area
• There is an $8 day-use fee per vehicle or a weekly $10 fee per vehicle. Annual passes are also available for $40 per vehicle.
You can purchase a day pass at the trailhead.
• Madera Canyon is also accessible for holders of valid Interagency Passes, including the Senior, Access, or Active-Duty Military passes.
• For more information:
Interagency Passes
Coronado National Forest Pass
If you have any federal pass, PLEASE bring it with you.
A pass MUST be displayed so it is visible through the windshield.

SEE:
• [Coronado National Forest - Recreation Passes & Permits (usda.gov)](https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/coronado/passes-permits/recreation?cid=fswdev7_018713)
•[Passes and Permits | US Forest Service (usda.gov)](https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/passes-permits)
for more pass information

This hike starts at the mouth of world-famous Madera Canyon. This is a north facing canyon so it is relatively shady and cool. Especially when compared to the open desert. This, coupled with the elevation make it a summer haven for those in the greater Tucson area.
The canyon is also home to many species of birds which brings people in from all over for spring and summer bird watching trips.

The beginning of the hike starts with the ADA trail which is a gentle grade and partially paved. It winds along the creek through a forest of 100+ year old Oak trees and Alligator Junipers.

Where the ADA trail ends, the path turns to packed soil with some areas of both loose and embedded rock.

As the trail continues up the canyon and along the creek it passes by giant boulders, big Arizona Sycamores and more old oaks and junipers until it reaches the Amphitheater. We have now hiked 1.8 miles up the Canyon.

The next section of trail is somewhat steeper and rockier. On this section we will enjoy some nice views across the canyon to Florida Saddle and Mt Wrightson.
When we arrive at the Mt Wrightson picnic area, we will take our snack/rest break and then head back down to the Proctor trail head.
There are restrooms at the picnic area but no water.

RSVP etiquette:
• Sign up only if you really intend to come
• If you need to cancel, do so BEFORE the RSVP deadline so someone can get your spot
• If you change your mind, take yourself off the Going or Wait list
• Please don't be a no-show
Be sure to bring adequate water, food, trekking poles, etc.
As always - Hike at Your Own Risk

Questions?
Cell: 304.290.8066
WV-Mike
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About Madera Canyon:
Friends of Madera Canyon | A haven of natural beauty and serenity in southern Arizona.