Temporal Gulch, Arizona
Date: 1/24/2004
Trail Time: 3-4 hours
Location: Patagonia (Tucson Area), Arizona
Mapping / GPS / Waypoint File: .gif Map Image / .MPS (Mapsource) Track File / .TXT Waypoint and Track
Trail Rating (1-5 scale): 2.5: There are a few loose hill climbs near the end of the trail, but it is otherwise an easy trek. Full-size ok.
Major Obstacle: None
Brush (minor, moderate, severe): Minor
Scenic Value (1-5 scale): 3: Make sure that you investigate the many catchments along the trail. The trail terminates at Walker Basin, with a very nice series of pools.
Attendees:
Scott and Stephanie- 1998 Isuzu Trooper
Doron and Family- 1999 Toyota Land Cruiser 100
This trail starts in Patagonia, AZ at the east end of town, winding through a few residential streets, before turning to dirt at the Arizona Trail, Coronado National forest parking area. The trail crosses several side routes, but the main path is easily discernable. The trail crosses Fresno Spring and begins climbing past 4,500 feet, with several very nice (and flat) campsites. Just past the campsites we investigated a more challenging side trail to the west that took us to Dragon Mine. The trail continued past the mine, but became faint, with only ATV tracks proceeding further. The trail intersects Mansfield Canyon and another well formed trail heading to the west (probably worth investigating).
Caption: A nice rock area to hike on near the start of the trail.
The trail climbs even further in elevation, and you start seeing pine and chaparral trees as you reach a saddle (5,700') just south of Walker Basin. The trail terminates at Walker Basin and an uneven campsite/parking area. A hiking trail continues on from there towards Mount Wrightson (9,453') and Madera Canyon.
Walker basin is to the west of the parking area and has a large concrete basin and several higher pools that are worth investigating. Overall this is a very pretty trail with several nice campsites if you would like to spend more time in this great area. The trail is quite easy, and can be negotiated by most SUV's and trucks. Even some of the lighter duty models (without low range) can make the trip with caution.
The trail starts at ~4,400', and begins a mild climb.
You cross Fresno Spring
As you gain elevation, the view gets even more impressive
It was a perfect AZ day!
One of several catchments found along the trail.
The view back to the south and Patagonia was incredible!
The campsite/parking area at Walker Basin, and the end of the trail.
The small tinijas are worth visiting.
Coming back from the optional trail to Dragon Mine (N31 36.617 W110 47.399 NADB3)
