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Coronado Hiking Trails |
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Aspen Trail #93 & Marshall Gulch Trail #3
The loop formed by these two trails is one of the most
heavily used upper elevation routes into the Pusch Ridge Wilderness.
This moderate
hike leads through an area of diverse habitats that include
excellent examples of Canadian Zone riparian areas and ponderosa
pine forests.
If you’re a bit of an amateur naturalist, you might want to bring
a guide to Arizona’s trees as well. You’ll see quite a
few different species along this trail which changes aspect and life
zones as it loops around a false summit of Marshall Peak. You’ll
find aspens here, of course, but you’ll also pass by Douglas-fir
and white fir, Gambel and silverleaf oak, madrone and
more.
Notable sights along this view-rich trail include the bare
granite walls of the uppermost reaches of Sabino Canyon, through
which the first half mile or so of
the Aspen Trail passes. Along this part of the route the pathway literally
sparkles with flakes of mica and quartz. After taking in the wide
angle overlooks at Lunch
Ledge and Marshall Saddle, both of which include overlooks of the Wilderness
of Rock area, towering Lemmon Rock, and Romero Pass, take the Marshall Gulch
Trail back to your starting point. It leads down a cool, shady canyon which
is usually well stocked with wildflowers and pleasant little pools.
Attractions:
Great views
Scenic canyon
Cool mountain setting
Fall colors
Easy access
Season: All year (See notes)
Length: 3.8 miles (#93), 1.3 miles (#3)
Elevation: 7410'-8400'
Rating: More difficult
Use: Heavy in summer months
USGS Map(s): Mt. Lemmon
Access: Take the Catalina Highway off Tanque Verde Road
in Tucson. Drive 4.2 miles to the Forest
boundary and continue 26 miles through Summerhaven
to the
Marshall Gulch Picnic Area. All roads are paved, but chains
or 4-wheel drive may be required in winter because
of snow. The trailhead is at the end of
the road. You’ll have to walk the last couple hundred
yards in winter when the road into the picnic area is closed.
Notes:
3.5 miles of Aspen Trail #93 and 1 mile of Marshall Gulch Trail #3 are within the Pusch Ridge Wilderness.
Hiking and equestrian uses are permitted on the entire trail. Mountain biking is acceptable on the "non-wilderness" segment of this trail, but not worthwhile, because you quickly enter the wilderness. However, motorized and mechanized vehicles and equipment, including
mountain bikes, are not permitted in Wilderness. See
the Wilderness section of this guide
for more
wilderness rules and ethics.
Winter can bring heavy snows to this trail.
Water can be found in Marshall Gulch year-round. Purification
of water is recommended prior to use. The Marshal Gulch Trail #3 is a segment of the
Arizona Trail.
When hiking in remote areas go with a companion
whenever possible. Always tell someone where
you’ve gone and
when you expect to return.
Before using this trail, call the Santa Catalina
Ranger District for current trail conditions
which can vary
with season,
weather and maintenance
status.
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