Trail Description

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The Douglas Spring Trail beautifully captures the Rincon Mountain District's rich floral diversity and varied terrain. In reaching the campground and seasonal spring area, astute hikers will notice subtle transitions between 4 biotic zones: Desert Scrub, Desert Grassland, Chaparral and the lower reaches of Oak-Woodland. Terrific scenery and good wildlife viewing opportunities highlight every step of the way.

The first half-mile is home to an impressive array of desert vegetation and wildlife. Concentrations of saguaro, barrel cactus, prickly pear, ocotillo and multiple varieties of cholla line the trail. Dawn and dusk are ideal wildlife viewing times, most notably for roadrunners, jackrabbits, coyote and javelina.

The trail is a combination of sandy washes and hard-pack dirt until reaching the Wentworth Trail junction (.6 miles), after which it begins a fairly steady climb into the rockier foothills of the Rincon.

Following the sharp 250' ascent to the Carrillo Trail junction (3,120'), the trail takes on a steady, moderately challenging grade for nearly a mile. Half of this steep segment parallels a stone laden wash to the south, which is a good place to look for seasonal water and wildlife activity.

The trail levels out near the Three Tank Trail junction (3,695', 2 mile mark), passing through what is now a noticeably different landscape. Dense saguaro and cacti communities are gradually replaced by grassy hillsides, creosote, mesquite and yucca. The next .3 miles roll easily to the Bridal Wreath Falls spur trail split (3,740'), with increasingly good views of the district's highest peaks to the southeast.

For those with extra time, the falls are an enjoyable, easy and worthwhile excursion - only .6 miles roundtrip. Seasonal water flow makes the area particularly interesting, and accounts for the wealth of nearby vegetation and tree growth.

Shortly past the falls split, the trail begins a moderately steep .75 mile push deeper into the mountains. As you climb past 4,300, take note of the intensifying topography and increased presence of juniper trees, shrub oak and manzanita.

Though rugged and undulating, there is only a modest net elevation gain over the final 2+ miles. Terrific views and the wonderful trailside environment make this a highly enjoyable stretch. Helens Dome looms prominently to the southeast.

The Douglas Spring Campground (4,800') is nestled in a tree and brush filled plateau. This is an ideal turnaround point for most day-hikers. There is a privy at the site, and when nearby springs flow, this is an exceptionally pretty area. There is also plenty of shade to enjoy before returning to the trailhead.

Worth Noting

• The trail continues another 2.4 miles to Cow Saddle and a junction with the Tanque Verde Ridge Trail.


• The trail, especially within the first mile, sees heavy use. An early start will help avoid the crowds and resulting parking issues.


• Sunglasses, broad-rim hats, suntan lotion and layers of proper clothing (regardless of time of year) are essential. The sun is extremely intense all year round, and quick changes in elevation often require various types of clothing.


• Look for Gambels quail, roadrunners, javelina and jackrabbits in the lower elevations. Higher elevations are home to deer, bobcat, mountain lion and bear.


• Stay on the trail! While it's tempting to veer off for ideal rest spots and photographic locales, the Park's vegetation is extremely fragile, especially during drier periods. Cacti, snakes and scorpions also make off-trail travel inadvisable.


• Fires are not allowed at the campsite.

Directions to Trailhead

The Douglas Spring Trailhead begins at the end of Speedway Blvd. Travel east from Tucson to the end of Speedway Blvd. Parking is limited. Park only in designated spots.

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