Miller Creek Trail

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Exit I-10 at Mescal Road (Exit 297). Head north on Mescal Road which eventually becomes FR35. A high clearance vehicle is necessary to reach the Miller Creek Trailhead. Miller Creek Trail is the most popular way to access Rincon Peak or various campgrounds in Saguaro National Park.

The Miller Creek Trail heads in a westerly direction from the trailhead. After about a mile, the trail enters Saguaro National Park. The first 1.5 miles of the trail are fairly tame as you work your way to the mountains, but from there the going gets a bit tougher.

The Miller Creek Trail is a connector trail leading deep into the Rincon mountains. After approximately four miles, the Miller Creek Trail intersects with the Rincon Peak Trail, from here, you can return the same way you came in or continue on to the top of Rincon Peak. The round trip mileage from the Miller Creek Trailhead to Rincon Peak and back is approximately 16.2 miles.

An overnight option would be to take the Miller Creek Trail to the Happy Valley Campground, and set up camp. From this campground, you can either spend the night before heading back down the way you came, or you can take a lighter pack to Rincon Peak. Either option makes for an enjoyable extended outing. Please remember camping is only allowed in designated areas within Saguaro National Park. One must have a permit to camp in Saguaro National Park.

Just to be safe, plan on carrying all your water. There might be water in various places along the trail, but no guarantee.