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Recreation Region: Rincon Mountains

Miller Creek Trail #28

This Rincon Mountain Wilderness trail provides access into the Saguaro National Park and, when combined with the Rincon Peak Trail, serves as the shortest route to the 8,482 foot summit. The first 1.5 miles of the route are located in the Coronado National Forest, following Miller Creek for about half that distance. This small stream and the riparian habitat it supports combine to provide a pleasant setting to just spend time birdwatching or enjoying the picturesque surroundings. Those passing through headed for destinations more distant will most likely appreciate them as well. To protect this pleasant but fragile environment, the area  is managed for low-impact recreation, so no horseback riding or mountain biking is permitted on this trail. After following the creek for a little over three quarters of a mile, the trail climbs along the canyon’s north ridge and enters the National Park bound for its junction with the Rincon Peak Trail. The Miller Canon Trail #28 is a part of the Arizona National Scenic Trail.

Specific Trail Information

Trail Number

28

Trail Type

Standard/Terra Trail — A trail that has a surface consisting predominantly of the ground and that is designed and managed to accommodate use on that surface.

General Information

Year-round

Saguaro National Park restrictions: Camping in designated areas only. Must have a wilderness permit which is available at the Park Visitor Center.

Motorized equipment and equipment used for mechanical transport are prohibited. This includes the use of motor vehicles, motorboats, motorized equipment, bicycles, hang gliders, wagons, carts, portage wheels, and the landing of aircraft, including helicopters and drones, unless provided for in specific legislation. 

Dogs and horses are not permitted on portions of this trail within the Saguaro National Park. Saguaro National Park restrictions: No hunting, weapons, pets, or bicycles. For more information on the National Park, contact Saguaro National Park.

Entrance to the Sabino Canyon Visitor Center

Address: 5700 N. Sabino Canyon Rd., Tucson, AZ 85750
Phone: (520) 749-8700
Hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday (Closed on federal holidays)

Getting There

Directions

Drive east for 39 miles from Tucson on Interstate 10 to the J-Six-Mescal road exit (#297). Turn north on the Mescal Road and continue 16 miles to the large National Park Service "Miller Creek Trail" sign. Turn left and travel 0.2 mile to the trailhead. The trail begins at a small, popular dispersed camping area usually accessible to passenger vehicles.

Nearby Recreation Sites

Last updated September 5, 2025