Rincon Mountain Passage Approximately 20 miles long (there are two different routes: equestrian and hiking), this passage crosses the varied terrain of Saguaro National Park. The route links Miller Creek Trailhead in Happy Valley with the Italian Spring Trailhead in Redington Pass. Backcountry camping permits are required for this section, and mountain bikes are not permitted in the park. Contact: Saguaro National Park, (520) 733-5100; Santa Catalina Ranger District, (520) 749-8700.
Santa Catalina Mountain Passage Another sky island passage, you'll travel through several different life zones on this section of the Arizona Trail. The route is approximately 22 miles long, linking Molino Basin Campground to the American Flag Corral Trailhead near Oracle. A series of trails, most managed as wilderness, are linked together for this passage. Contact: Santa Catalina Ranger District, (520) 749-8700.
Blue Ridge Passage This section of the Arizona Trail starts at the top of the Mogollon Rim. From General Springs Cabin, the eight-mile Blue Ridge Passage crosses meadows and forests as it heads north, ending at the Blue Ridge Campground. Contact: Blue Ridge Ranger District, (520) 527-3670.
Marshall Lake to Fisher Point Passage This short section of the Arizona Trail (five miles) offers great views of the San Francisco Peaks and good wildlife watching opportunities. Bald eagles, osprey, elk, deer and pronghorn antelope are a few of the more notable inhabitants of this region. Contact: Mormon Lake Ranger District, (520) 527-3650.
Coconino Rim Passage This 22.3-mile passage links the historic Moqui Stage Stop with Grandview Lookout, on the East Rim of the Grand Canyon. Part of this section parallels the old stagecoach route that operated between Flagstaff and the Grand Canyon from 1892 to 1901. Contact: Tusayan Ranger District, (520) 638-2443.
Kaibab Plateau Passage (southern segment) The Arizona Trail crosses the Kaibab Plateau between the Grand Canyon and the Utah border. This 20.3-mile passage connects the North Rim of the Grand Canyon to Forest Road 241 near Telephone Hill. The route winds through pine, fir, spruce and aspen trees, with a spectacular overlook at East Rim View. Contact: North Kaibab Ranger District, (520) 643-7395.
Kaibab Plateau Passage (central segment) Stretching 16.7-miles from Telephone Hill to US 89A just east of Jacob Lake, this passage marks the northern-most section of the Arizona Trail to date. Contact: North Kaibab Ranger District, (520) 643-7395.
Trip Planner
Getting There: Take Interstate 10 through Tucson and then go south on Highway 83 to Sonoita. From Sonoita, take Highway 82 southwest to Patagonia. Just past the Patagonia High School, turn right (north) on First Avenue (Forest Road 72). Proceed six miles to the trailhead parking area.Permit: None.
Season: Year-round (though winter temperatures can be cold at the higher elevations).
Maps: Coronado National Forest; USGS topos, Mount Wrightson and Patagonia. Newly constructed trails are not shown on maps. Contact the Nogales Ranger District for directions on the entire length of the Santa Rita Passage.