About
Length (round trip)12 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyStrenuous
Elevation gain3,600 ft up
Typical time7 hr 45 min
TrailheadJavelina picnic area, Rincon Mountain District (east)
SurfaceLong exposed ridge climb through changing vegetation
Best seasonNovember to March. Summer temperatures exceed 105F and the park records heat rescues every year.
DogsNot allowed
What you'll see ⛰️ Summit🌄 Big views🌼 Wildflowers🎒 Backpacking

Tanque Verde Ridge Trail offers a wide variety of hiking options for visitors. From a quick walk up to the overlook, to a multi day trip up the mountain. The trail extends a total of 11 miles from the trailhead, up to Cow Head Saddle Trail. Along the trail sits one of the many backcountry campsites (Juniper Basin). Be sure to plan accordingly for your desired hike. For sunset viewing along this trail, head up about 0.6miles (roughly 100ft elevation) to the overlook area.

Tips
The vegetation changes completely as you climb: saguaro, then grassland, then oak, then pine. Six miles to Juniper Basin campsite. No water and no shade for the first four miles.
Location

Javelina picnic area, Rincon Mountain District (east)

Other Hikers
No one has logged this trail yet.
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