Hope Camp Trail

Dogs No Dogs

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The Hope Camp Trail heads east from the Camino Loma Alta Trailhead, offering breathtaking views of Tanque Verde Ridge and Rincon Peak along the way. The Rincon Mountains are a spectacular backdrop to the views along the Hope Camp Trail with Tanque Verde Peak (7,049’), Mica Mountain (8,666’) and Rincon Peak (8,482’) outlined against the sky.

The first mile of the trail is gradual, with a slight uphill followed by a short downhill. At about one mile and just past the junction with the North Coyote Wash Trail which you'll see on your right, you'll start a more steady climb. You'll also pass by the junction with the Ruiz Trail on your right along the way. This uphill terminates with a final steep section to gain the top of a small hill. Take a minute to catch your breath and enjoy the views before heading down the other side.

From here, it is all downhill running for a little over a mile until the trail's end. For the more adventurous or those looking for a longer run, you can pick up the Arizona Trail here for a longer outing, or you can retrace your steps back along the Hope Camp Trail to return to the trailhead.

This trail, which is wide and not technical, passes by two abandoned line camps with windmills, water towers, and storage tanks along the way.

The park is home to black bear, white-tailed deer, mountain lion, and coati, along with hundreds of birds, reptiles, insects, and amphibian species. You'll also be treated to a stand of giant saguaros, and other desert cacti and vegetation.