anza trail y r o t s i h f o l i a r t on the Along the Anza Trail
T
hreading its way through the Santa Cruz Valley is a scenic portion of the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail, which traces the route the Basque explorer took in 1776 while leading some 240 immigrants west to Alta California to establish a presidio and settlement. The Anza Trail will eventually run from Culiacan, Mexico to San Francisco, about 1,200 miles over mostly rugged and arid territory. For hikers, bicyclists and equestrians: •A 5.2-mile section in the Canoa Ranch area, just south of Green Valley, begins east of Interstate 19 on Elephant Head Road near the Santa Cruz River. The trail here is a packed surface for foot and bicycle traffic. Equestrians can use the river wash so as not to damage the trail. •A rather lush, 3.5-mile section follows the river from the presidio at Tubac to the mission at Tumacacori. This is one of the more popular hikes in the Santa Cruz Valley and can be picked up at well-marked trailheads at the mission and the presidio. Hikers and horseback riders are likely to see the left-behind evidence of illegal immigration along the trail, and the river itself flows with reclaimed wastewater. Still, it’s a beautiful route, and this mostly flat, easy trail is a great option for families. •A five-mile one-way stretch of the trail near Rio Rico follows the river and winds through mesquite forests. Take Interstate 19 exit 17, Rio Rico/Yavapai Drive. Cross the river to the east, then turn left onto a gravel road and look for the trailhead sign.
48
DISCOVER SOUTHERN ARIZONA