Garwood Dam to Douglas Spring Loop

Route Description for Garwood Dam to Douglas Spring Loop

The Garwood Dam to Douglas Spring Loop hike explores the northern portion of Tucson’s gorgeous Saguaro National Park East. This park is a favorite for hikers in Tucson for its higher-elevation trails (in comparison to Saguaro National Park West) and classic desert views. This loop lets you appreciate the mountains of the park without needing to climb them, and there are tons of tall saguaros to check out.

Bring lots of water with you and try to avoid hiking in the heat of the day if you can. Expect the possibility of horse traffic on this trail- remember to give riders the right of way and announce yourself from behind if you need to pass.

From the trailhead, take Douglas Spring Trail east past Scotts Knob, which will be on your left. You’ll follow a short canyon to an open clearing. At the junction in the clearing, go sharply right to hike along the base of Tanque Verde Peak. Say to the left until you pass Wildhorse Trail, where you’ll descend to Garwood Trail, which is a right turn. Follow Garwood Trail back to the trailhead.