Pusch Wilderness
Pusch Ridge towers over Tucson and the surrounding desert as one of the most
prominent features of the Santa Catalina Mountains. With its lower slopes dotted
with cactus and its upper reaches dark with pines, this unmistakable landmark
makes the point in no uncertain terms that this is a land of extremes–in
biodiversity as well as topography.
Within the 56,933-acre Wilderness, elevations range from 2,800 to 8,800 feet.
Deep canyons separated by razorback ridges crease the slopes; rocky bluffs
and pinnacles define the horizon. From the floor of Sabino Canyon to the
upper slopes of Mt. Lemmon, life zones vary from Sonoran desert to subalpine
forest.
The wildlife community that inhabits such a varied setting is diverse as
well. Black bears and coatimundis, Stellers jays and cactus wrens, saguaro
cactus
and Douglas-fir can all be found here as components of a natural diversity
that has few rivals.
An extensive trail network offers opportunities for day and extended trips
into this fascinating area. While its convenient location makes Pusch Ridge
Wilderness easily accessible to a growing number of nature lovers, it also
means the solitude and primitive surroundings many come to experience are
becoming more difficult to find. When you visit this natural wonder, come
ready to experience
all of its contrasts, even this latter one. Come prepared to take special
care of this irreplaceable resource. You’ll be glad you did.
Attractions:
Soaring ridges, deep canyons
Sonoran desert to Canadian Zone diversity
Magnificent views, picturesque rock formations
Many trails, convenient access
Maps: Coronado National Forest Recreation Map (Safford and Santa Catalina
Ranger Districts).
USGS Quads: Mt. Lemmon, Oro Valley, Tucson North, Sabino Canyon.
Location: Pusch Ridge Wilderness is the major mountain range north
of Tucson.
Elevation: 2,800'-8,800'
Access: Several trailheads are accessed from the north end of Tucson.
The east side of Pusch Ridge Wilderness is accessible from trailheads
along
Catalina Highway. The west side of the Wilderness can be entered
through Catalina
State
Park.
Trails in Wilderness: Marshall Gulch #3, Mount Lemmon #5, Romero
#8, Lemmon Rock Lookout #12, Box Camp #22, Box Spring #22A,
Sabino Canyon
#23, West
Fork #24, East Fork #24A, Esperero #25, Cathedral Rock #26,
Bear Canyon #29, Sycamore
Reservoir #39, Finger Rock #42, Wilderness of Rock #44, Soldier
#53, Pima Canyon #62, Aspen #93, Ventana #98, Palisade #99,
Pontatoc #410 & Pontatoc Ridge
#411.
Notes:
Motorized and mechanized vehicles and equipment, including
mountain bikes, are not permitted in Wilderness. Please abide
by Wilderness
rules and
observe NO TRACE! ethics.
Dogs are prohibited, except seeing-eye dogs or handi-dogs in the Bighorn Sheep Management Area portion of the Pusch Ridge Wilderness.
Water is scarce here, but some high country streams flow
year round. Purification of water is recommended prior
to use.
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