West Fork Trail

Description:

• At the end of Sabino Canyon Trail #23, if you choose to continue deeper into the Pusch Ridge Wilderness, you have a choice to proceed one of three different ways. One of those choices is to follow Sabino Canyon farther upstream in the direction of Romero Pass and the West Fork. Along this route, you'll be able to enjoy more of the desert oasis supported by the water that flows above and below ground in the Sabino Basin. After the trail drops down to the creekbed from the Sabino Canyon/West Fork trails junction, it wanders close to the creek for a considerable distance. There are several perennial pools here and a healthy community of riparian vegetation, as well as excellent views of Sabino Canyon. Trail conditions are good in the basin and the trail is easy to follow, but creek crossings can be hard to negotiate when the water is high.

  After crossing Sabino Creek for the last time, the trail begins climbing gradually up West Fork Canyon. The trail stays with this smaller canyon for a considerable distance before it climbs out of the canyon for the last time. It then traverses and switchbacks its way toward Romero Pass and a junction with the Cathedral Rock Trail #26. Cathedral Rock Trail provides a connecting route to a number of other Pusch Ridge Wilderness trails, but it is hard to follow and not recommended for inexperienced hikers and equestrians.

  This trail is entirely within the Pusch Ridge Wilderness. Motorized and mechanical vehicles and equipment, including mountain bikes, are not permitted in Wilderness.

  The canyon riparian areas that make this trail such a pleasant place to visit have been damaged by thoughtlessness and overuse. Please take special care when you visit these fragile areas.

  Water can be found in Sabino Creek year-round and in West Fork during the wettest months of the year only. Purification of water is recommended prior to use.