Arizona National Scenic Trail - Passage 01: Huachuca Mountains

The first 13 passages of the Arizona National Scenic Trail pass through the Coronado National Forest. 

• Mexico Border to Parker Canyon Lake Trailhead - 20.6 miles

To start at the Mexico border, hikers will need to park at Motezuma Pass, then head south on Joe’s Canyon Trail, followed by Yaqui Ridge Trail for an out-and-back that adds 1.9 miles each direction, or a round trip of 3.8 miles. This is the official start of the Arizona Trail and is located within the Coronado National Memorial. Dogs are not welcome on the trails in the National Monument. 

Vault toilets greet you upon returning to the trailhead at Montezuma Pass, where you then cross the road and start your journey on Crest Trail #103 within the Coronado National Forest. Dogs are welcome on trails within the National Forest. Bond Spring has moved and is no longer a reliable water source. The trail sign has been removed to reduce confusion, and the trail has begun to become overgrown. Hikers wishing to add Miller Peak (9,466 feet) to their trip will have a round-trip ascent and descent of a mile. The views are spectacular! 

Bathtub Spring is the first and only reliable source of water on this section of the Arizona Trail. The old tub will greet hikers with refreshing water that should be filtered before drinking. You can expect to see other hikers at this confluence of trails, with some dispersed campsites available. Arizona Revised Statutes § 17-308 (2024) - Unlawful camping restricts camping within one-fourth of a mile from any natural or man-made water area. 

You will then leave most day-hikers behind as you head down the less-frequented west side of the Huachuca Mountains to the very popular Parker Canyon Lake. Water and snacks are sold at the small concessionaire-operated store. 

Arizona National Scenic Trail - Passage 1: Huachuca Mountains map