Hope Camp Trail to Ridgeview Trail, Saguaro East - Rincon Mountain District: Camino Loma Alta Trailhead, Saguaro National Park, Arizona
Hope Camp Trail to Ridgeview Trail - 1.6 miles
Saguaro East - Rincon Mountain District: Camino Loma Alta Trailhead
| Round-Trip Length: | 1.6 miles |
| Start-End Elevation: | 3,150' - 3,350' |
| Elevation Change: | +200' net elevation gain |
| Skill Level: | Easy |
| Dogs Allowed: | No |
| Bikes Allowed: | No |
| Horses Allowed: | No |
| Related Trails: |
Hope Camp Trail to Ridgeview Trail - 1.6 Miles Round-Trip
The Ridgeview Trail is located in the Rincon Mountain District of Saguaro National Park. It runs north into the foothills through a diverse collection of old-growth saguaro and cactus gardens. This area is known for terrific spring blooms when conditions are right. The Ridgeview Trail is ideal for families, or those with limited time or abilities:
The Hope Camp Trail heads east from Camino Loma Alta Trailhead for about 100 yards down to the Ridgeview Trail split. Turn left and begin a steady, mild climb on hard packed sand.
Many of the park's cacti and cholla species can be found right along this path. Views of Rincon Peak (8,482') emerge on the NE horizon, the district's eponymous summit.
The final 100-200 yards steepen up to a saddle that connects two small knolls, where the trail fades at its highest point (.8 miles : 3,350').
There is no clear end to the trail, but it does widen at a cul de sac of sorts, indicating the intended turnaround point. A social path continues in the same general direction (north) higher into the foothills. Be mindful of regulations that limit off-trail travel, and of rattlesnakes in this area.
Interactive GPS Topo Map
Key GPS Coordinates - DATUM WGS84
- N32 07.976 W110 41.220 — 0.0 Miles: Camino Loma Alta Trailhead
Worth Noting
- Saguaros are numerous, large and well-developed in this area. Saguaros flourish from 2,500' - 4,000', and in warm areas that drain water efficiently. Steep, south facing slopes above this trail are ideal saguaro habitat.
- Six species of rattlesnakes inhabit Saguaro National Park: Western Diamondback, Tiger, Northern Black-tailed, Mojave, Sidewinder and Arizona Black.
Rules and Regulations
- Dogs are not permitted on hiking and riding trails in Saguaro National Park.
Directions to Trailhead
Camino Loma Alta Trailhead is located at the end of Camino Loma Alta Road, on the southwest boundary of the Rincon Mountain District.
To reach the trailhead from Tucson, take Speedway Blvd (east) to Freeman Road. Turn right (south) on Freeman Road; this will turn into Old Spanish Trail Road just prior to reaching the visitor center.
Continue on Old Spanish Trail Road to Camino Loma Alta Road. Turn left (north) on Camino Alta Road. The final .5 miles is a graded dirt road.
From the parking area, follow the path just beyond the NPS sign to a gate. Unlatch the gate to access the trail. Stock trailers must park in a designated area just before the start of the dirt road.
Contact Information
Saguaro National Park Headquarters and Rincon Mountain District
3693 South Old Spanish Trail
Tucson, AZ 85730-5601
520.733.5153
Saguaro National Park - Tucson Mountain District
27 North Kinney Road
Tucson, AZ 85743
520.733.5158
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