Sutherland Trail

The trail officially begins at the Catalina State Park Trailhead. There is ample parking available within Catalina State Park, but an entrance fee is required to access the park.

Yes, an entrance fee is required to access Catalina State Park, where the trail begins. This fee covers park entry for the day. No additional permits are needed for day hiking the initial sections within the State Park or the Pusch Ridge Wilderness, though specific restrictions apply in the wilderness area.

Within Catalina State Park, leashed dogs and bicycles are permitted on designated trails. However, once you enter the Pusch Ridge Wilderness (part of the Coronado National Forest), dogs and bicycles are prohibited year-round to protect wildlife, especially bighorn sheep. During lambing season (January 1 to April 30), hikers must remain within 400 feet of designated trails in the wilderness area.

The difficulty varies significantly. The initial 2.6 miles from the trailhead are considered easy, with a gradual climb through desert landscapes. Beyond this point, it becomes much more challenging, rated as difficult, with steep, rocky climbs, especially through Cargodera Canyon. Higher elevations can be less maintained and overgrown, requiring reliance on rock cairns for navigation. The route featured here is an easy 3.2 km hike to Sutherland Wash.

Yes, the initial 2.6 miles from the Catalina State Park Trailhead are considered easy and suitable for beginners or families. This section offers a gradual climb through the Sonoran Desert landscape before the trail becomes significantly more challenging.

You'll experience a remarkable shift in scenery. Lower sections showcase classic Sonoran Desert landscapes with saguaro cacti and seasonal wildflowers. As you gain elevation, vegetation changes to agave, juniper, and eventually pine trees. Notable features include the Sutherland Wash, Sutherland Wash and Romero Canyon Crossing, and the Sutherland Trail Stairs. You can also enjoy sweeping views of the Sonoran Desert and the rugged Catalina Mountains.

Common wildlife includes jackrabbits, lizards, and various birds. Occasionally, you might spot javelinas or coyotes. In the Pusch Ridge Wilderness, the area is protected for bighorn sheep, though sightings are rare.

The best time to hike is generally during the cooler months, from late fall through spring (October to April), to avoid the extreme heat of the Arizona summer. Spring also brings seasonal wildflowers. Be aware of lambing season restrictions in the Pusch Ridge Wilderness from January to April.

No, there are no potable water sources or facilities available along the route. Hikers must carry ample water, especially for longer excursions, and pack out all trash.

Yes, the trail serves as a crucial link to other significant paths. It connects with sections of the Sutherland Trail itself, Canyon Loop, Bridle Trail, and Nature Loop, allowing for extended loops or more demanding ascents into the mountains.