Catalina Mts: Sutherland Trail to the Big Rock and Canyon Trail Loop

RSVPs OPEN on Saturday, November 9th, 2019 at 7am

• Total Length: 6.6 miles
• Total Elevation gain: +- 950'
• Rating: Intermediate
(See "What we're about" at https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Tucson/)

**RESTRICTIONS: No guests, dogs, firearms or tobacco
• Cell phones SILENT during hike

• State Park Fee - $7.00 per car (1-4 Adults)

Meet at the parking lot next to the Bank. Look for a white car with the trunk lid up. We will then car pool across the road to the State Park.
**** If you have a AZ State Parks pass - Bring it! ****

We will hike the Sutherland trail to the big rock and then have lunch. When everyone is ready we will return by the same route to the the Canyon Trail Loop .

Here is Catalina State Park map: https://goo.gl/6inTyT
Route map is here: https://goo.gl/7VBDM9
Route with levation profile: https://bit.ly/2WxFwRC
GPX file is here: https://bit.ly/2RsanLJ
KML file is here: https://bit.ly/2sY4hZV

The Hike:

This is a fairly flat, out and back hike, beginning with the Canyon Loop Trail in Catalina State Park (fee). From parking area we will take the Canyon Loop Trail then pick up the Sutherland trail to the Big Rock.
The Canyon Loop stays right following the creek bottom.
Sutherland Trail immediately climbs to a plateau and levels off. Hiking along this flat area you will notice a small ridge in front and to the right, in the distance. The trail takes you to the ridge, then makes a gradual climb along its North side.
There are some interesting large rock formations that bring to mind an ambush in the old west.

Not far beyond is a wire gate and fence, marking the forest boundary. Always properly close these gates! The trail now crosses a wash, with pools and large rock expanses, perfect for our lunch spot.

Click here (http://azstateparks.com/Parks/CATA/) for Catalina State Park web site.

Be sure to bring adequate water and snacks.

RSVP etiquette:
• Sign up only if you really intend to come
• If you need to cancel, do so BEFORE the 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?
Message me through MeetUP
Cell: 304.290.8066
WV-Mike