Dripping Spring via Sutherland Trail

The hike to Dripping Spring on Sutherland Trail is a good pick for hikers of all levels who want an easy, fun adventure with a water feature at the end. This route runs from Catalina State Park to Dripping Spring, a small waterfall and spring just outside of the park bounds. Try to time your hike for when it’s been raining recently for the best experience at the spring.

This route usually isn’t too busy, which is a good thing when it comes to solitude and a bad thing when it comes to overgrowth. You may want long pants.

From the Sutherland Trailhead, hike northeast to cross the wash three times on your way to the park boundary. The amount of water in the wash fluctuates a lot with recent rainfall, and wading shoes could be helpful. Stay on Sutherland Trail as you leave the park, then take a right at the fork where Sutherland heads up to the left. Hike towards the hills ahead. The route terminates at the spring. From here, simply retrace your steps to the trailhead.