Tucson Arizona Hiking
Miller Creek Trail #28

This Rincon Mountain Wilderness trail provides access into the Saguaro National Park and, when combined with the Rincon Peak Trail, serves as the shortest route to the summit of that 8,482 foot mountain. The first 1.5 miles of the route are located in the Coronado National Forest, following Miller Creek for about half that distance. This small stream and the riparian habitat it supports combine to provide a pleasant setting for those here to just spend time birdwatching or enjoying the picturesque surroundings. Those passing through headed for destinations more distant will most likely appreciate them as well. In order to protect this pleasant but fragile environment it is being managed for low-impact recreation, so no horseback riding or mountain biking is permitted on this trail.

After following the creek for a little over three quarters of a mile, the trail climbs along the canyon’s north ridge and enters the National Park bound for its junction with the Rincon Peak Trail. The Miller Creek Trail is a part of the Arizona Trail.

Attractions:
  Desert riparian area
  Access to Saguaro National Park
  Arizona Trail segment
  Access to Rincon Peak

Season: Fall, spring
Length: 4.4 miles
Elevation: 4,200'-6,200'
Rating: More difficult
Use: Light
USGS Map(s): Happy Valley

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Access: Drive east from 39 miles from Tucson on Interstate 10 to the J-Six-Mescal road exit (#297). Turn north on the Mescal Road and continue 16 miles to the large National Park Service "Miller Creek Trail" sign. Turn left and travel 0.2 mile to the trailhead.

Notes:
1.5 miles of this trail on the Coronado National Forest, and 1.4 of those miles are within the Rincon Mountain 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.

Horses are not permitted on portions of this trail within the Saguaro National Park.

Water can be found in Miller Creek in all but the driest months of the year. Purification of water is recommended prior to use.

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.

Saguaro National Park restrictions: No hunting, weapons, pets or bicycles. Camping in designated areas only. Must have a wilderness permit which is available at the Park Visitor Center.

For more information on the National Park, contact the Saguaro National Park:
Saguaro National Park-Headquarters
Rincon Mountain District
3693 South Old Spanish Trail
Tucson, AZ 85730-5601
Visitor Information - Rincon Mountain District: (520) 733-5153
Visitor Information - Tucson Mountain District: (520) 733-5158
Headquarters: (520) 733-5100
Fax: 520-733-5183