Douglas Spring Trail

The Douglas Spring Trail explores the northern edge of Tucson’s Saguaro National Park East. This park is a favorite for hikers in Tucson for its higher-elevation trails (in comparison to Saguaro National Park West) and classic desert views. This route explores the route in its entirety, so it’s a good fit for strong hikers. You can easily complete a shorter out and back or use the network of trails in the park to hike a shorter loop.

This is a big route, so come prepared with plenty of water, food, and sun protection. Don’t attempt this whole trail on a hot day, and try to get an early start to avoid the heat of the afternoon. Expect the possibility of horse traffic on this trail- remember to give riders the right of way and announce yourself from behind if you need to pass.

From the trailhead, take Douglas Spring Trail east past Scotts Knob. After a 4-way junction, the trail turns uphill to climb through a canyon. On the other side of the canyon, you’ll cross through another 4-way junction, continuing straight on. Once again, the trail ascends, then you’ll hike through a broad, flatter section with Tanque Verde Peak overhead. The route turns south and climbs to a 4-way junction just northeast of the peak, where you’ll turn back and retrace your steps to the trailhead.