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Coronado Hiking Trails |
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Herb Martyr Trail #247 & Ash Spring Trail #247A
These trails lead from Herb Martyr Campground to a number
of points of interest along the interface of the floor of Cave Creek
Canyon and the steep slopes that rise to the high peaks of the Chiricahuas.
From the campground they extend both north and south. The Ash Spring
Trail leads north across Cima Creek with its riparian forest of sycamores,
cypress and fir, to a picturesque old homestead site shaded by large
ash trees and watered by a perennial spring. The riparian habitat bordering
the stream and surrounding the spring provides good birdwatching, while
Coues white-tailed deer, nearly tame from frequent contact with humans,
are regularly seen in the area as well. Beyond Ash Spring, the trail
continues to the old Greenhouse Road. Turning right, the road returns
to the Herb Martyr Campground.
South from Herb Martyr Campground, the Herb Martyr Trail
crosses Cima Creek and follows Cave Creek toward the
Chiricahua high country. The riparian vegetation along this stream
provides good birdwatching
close to the campground, but the trail actually only
follows the stream for two short stretches. After leaving Cave Creek
for the second time,
Herb Martyr Trail begins one of the steepest climbs in
the Chiricahuas to a junction with Snowshed Trail #246 just below
Pine Park.
Attractions:
Watchable wildlife
Biological diversity
Campground access
Season: Spring, summer
Length: 2.8 miles (#247), 2 miles (#247A)
Elevation: 5,780'-8,170'
Rating: Most difficult (#247), more difficult (#247A)
Use: Light
USGS Map(s): Portal, Portal Peak
Access: From Tucson, take I-10 east 139 miles to US
80 (you will cross the New Mexico border to get to
this intersection). Turn right (south) and drive 28 miles,
then turn right (west) on the road to Portal, 7 miles. Drive west on
FR 42
approximately 4 miles, turn left (west) on FR 42A
and continue 2 miles to the Herb Martyr campground
and trailhead. All roads are paved and suitable for passenger vehicles.
Notes:
2.6 miles of the Herb Martyr Trail are in the Chiricahua
Wilderness.
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.
Pack and saddle stock are not allowed overnight in campgrounds.
Before using this trail, call the Douglas Ranger District
for a report on current trail conditions which can vary
with season, weather and maintenance
status.
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