Lollipop Loop + Towers (Mount Lemmon)

So the last couple outings have been lengthy treks requiring overnight stays. Let's knock out a day hike of more reasonable distance. A gorgeous area with cool temps that I've never led a hike through. This outing offers great views, a scenic canyon plus a seasonal creek.

We will start from the Sunset TH. This will offer us a pleasant warm up of over 1.5 miles with virtually no AEG. Next up is the Marshall Gulch Trail. This will provide us with 525 ft of gain over 1.25 miles. Now that we have the juices flowing, the next section will offer several appealing aspects. Namely a 1k ft gain in 1 mile + full sun exposure. ☝️This will get us to the towers where we will take a much needed break.

The descent will feel much easier. We will then begin the loop back. Just when you start thinking it's a chill route to the starting point, we will deviate from the traditional route. Scramble to an off trail peak including bushwacking. This will get thorny. We can follow the ridgeline across Marshall Peak and continue the loop. This is clearly not for everyone. For those that wish to spare themselves from this section, feel free to continue the traditional loop. We will be going the same direction, it will just take those that stay with me longer.

Afterward we will dine in Tucson for much deserved recovery fuel following this 10 miler. The roads in are all paved. Anyone can make the drive. It is a trek though so...
Carpool: Cracker Barrell 5022 E Chandler Blvd 85048 Right off the I-10, near the 202. Park in the back in the direction of the I-10. Start & end times from here.