Marshall Gulch Trail Mount Lemmon
Escape to the cool, forested trails of Marshall Gulch on Mount Lemmon, featuring a babbling creek and 'sparkly rocks'.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy peaceful trails.
Marshall Gulch Trail Mount Lemmon
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy peaceful trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Escape to the cool, forested trails of Marshall Gulch on Mount Lemmon, featuring a babbling creek and 'sparkly rocks'.
"A refreshing mountain escape with a serene forest, creek, and kid-friendly 'sparkly rocks'."
Bring Cash for Fees
:moneybag: Day-use fees are typically $8-$10. Bring cash as e-pay isn't always an option.
Kid & Pet Friendly
:dog: :child: Great for families! Kids love the sparkly rocks, and dogs are welcome on leash.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Marshall Gulch Creek
Trailside
Listen to the soothing sounds of running water and discover small waterfalls along this scenic mountain stream.
Sparkly Rocks
Along the trail
Kids and adults alike are delighted by the mica rocks that add a touch of sparkle to the trail's natural beauty.
Aspen and Marshall Gulch Loop
Trailhead
A popular ~4-mile loop offering varied scenery, moderate inclines, and a refreshing escape from the desert heat.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Passes & Parking
Trail Conditions & Weather
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash for Fees
:moneybag: Day-use fees are typically $8-$10. Bring cash as e-pay isn't always an option.
Kid & Pet Friendly
:dog: :child: Great for families! Kids love the sparkly rocks, and dogs are welcome on leash.
Check Weather Forecast
:cloud: Expect cooler temps than Tucson. Be ready for rain, especially during monsoon season.
Wear Sturdy Shoes
:athletic_shoe: The trail is moderate with some inclines. Good footwear is essential for comfort and safety.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash for Fees
:moneybag: Day-use fees are typically $8-$10. Bring cash as e-pay isn't always an option.
Kid & Pet Friendly
:dog: :child: Great for families! Kids love the sparkly rocks, and dogs are welcome on leash.
Check Weather Forecast
:cloud: Expect cooler temps than Tucson. Be ready for rain, especially during monsoon season.
Wear Sturdy Shoes
:athletic_shoe: The trail is moderate with some inclines. Good footwear is essential for comfort and safety.
Picnic Spots Galore
:sandwich: Spacious picnic areas are available near the trailhead for a pre or post-hike meal.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Marshall Gulch Trail for its refreshing mountain air, serene forest setting, and the delightful presence of a creek and small waterfalls. It's a popular choice for families and pet owners due to its kid-friendly nature and scenic beauty, offering a welcome escape from the desert heat. Some find the trail moderately challenging, and the day-use fee requires cash payment.
"Good overflow parking for the Marshall loop.
$8 for a hiking pass, with no info on a way to e-pay...so bring cash or a check.
Picnic areas were nice though...very spacious.
There are bathrooms at the trailhead.
Trail itself was scenic once you made it about half way... definitely intermediate, but not too bad overall."
Burton Wilcox
"Terrific trail starting at the trailhead, bathrooms. Took the loop from Marshall Gulch trail #3 up to the crossroads, then Mint Spring trailhead back, about 4.25 miles total and 1k elevation. 78 degrees in August, while Tucson was over 100 degrees. Many more miles of trails from the crossroads."
Dave Twelker
"Early on a Sunday in March, we found plenty of parking at the trailhead and running water in the creek alongside the trail. A fee is required, but it's covered under the interagency pass, so bring your hangtag. Otherwise, it's $8/day or $10/week.
There are some informative signs with trail maps, vault toilets (about as clean as those type of bathrooms usually are), and some picnic tables nearby."
Jeremy K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Marshall Gulch Trail is located on Mount Lemmon, a scenic drive from Tucson, Arizona. The drive itself offers stunning views. Follow the Catalina Highway up the mountain. The trailhead has parking, but it can fill up, so arriving early is recommended.
Yes, there is parking at the trailhead. However, it's a popular spot, especially on weekends, and can fill up. Overflow parking is often available.
Absolutely! The drive up Mount Lemmon via the Catalina Highway is a popular activity itself, offering a significant temperature drop and beautiful scenery.
The drive is winding and scenic, taking you through different ecological zones. Be prepared for switchbacks and enjoy the changing landscapes.
Yes, there are bathrooms available at the Marshall Gulch Trailhead.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a day-use fee is required for Marshall Gulch Trail. It's typically $8 per day or $10 per week. Bring cash for the payment envelope as e-payment options may not always be available.
If you have an Interagency Pass (like the America the Beautiful Pass), it often covers the day-use fee. Make sure to bring your hangtag.
The trail is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific opening or closing times posted for the trail itself, but be mindful of driving conditions on Mount Lemmon after dark.
While the drive up Mount Lemmon is free, specific day-use areas like Marshall Gulch Trail require a fee.
Passes are typically purchased on-site via an honor system envelope at the trailhead. It's best to have cash ready.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Marshall Gulch Trail is generally considered moderate. The Aspen and Marshall Gulch Loop is about 4 miles with around 900 feet of elevation gain, offering some nice inclines.
Yes, it's often described as kid-friendly. Children enjoy the 'sparkly rocks' and the presence of a creek. A backpack carrier can be helpful for very young toddlers.
Dogs are welcome on the Marshall Gulch Trail, provided they are kept on a leash.
Expect a heavily forested environment with a stream, small waterfalls, and unique mica rocks. It's a stark contrast to the desert landscape below.
Yes, there are very spacious and stunning picnic areas near the trailhead, perfect for a meal before or after your hike.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the serene forest, the babbling creek with small waterfalls, and the unique 'sparkly rocks.' The contrast between the mountain's greenery and the desert below also makes for great shots.
Absolutely! The lush forest, water features, and diverse flora provide ample subjects for nature photographers.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light, ideal for forest photography. However, the scenery is beautiful throughout the day.
Drone usage is subject to federal regulations within National Forests. Check current FAA and Coronado National Forest guidelines before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the forest and landscapes. A macro lens can be useful for close-ups of flora and the 'sparkly rocks.'
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The cooler mountain temperatures offer a welcome respite from the Tucson heat, making the hike more enjoyable for everyone. The moderate terrain means most families can comfortably complete at least a portion of the loop, creating lasting memories in nature.
🐶 Pet Owners
The natural environment provides plenty of interesting scents and sights for your canine companions to explore. Remember to pack water for both yourself and your pet, and always clean up after them to keep the trails pristine for everyone. 💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Marshall Gulch Trail Experience
Popular routes include the Aspen and Marshall Gulch Loop, which is approximately 4 miles and offers a moderate challenge with about 900 feet of elevation gain. This loop is frequently cited as a favorite for its varied scenery and enjoyable inclines.
+1 The presence of a running creek and small waterfalls adds to the trail's charm, making it a delightful experience for all ages. Beyond the main trail, the area around the crossroads offers access to many more miles of trails, allowing for extended exploration for those seeking a longer hike. The cooler temperatures, even in August, make it an ideal summer destination.
Family and Pet-Friendly Adventures
A particular highlight for younger hikers are the 'sparkly rocks' (mica rocks) found along the path, which add an element of discovery and wonder to the hike. With bathrooms available at the trailhead and spacious picnic areas nearby, it’s well-equipped for a day trip. The moderate difficulty means most children can manage at least part of the trail, and a backpack carrier can be useful for toddlers. The cooler mountain air provides a comfortable environment for everyone, making it a stress-free outdoor adventure.
Navigating Fees and Passes
These passes are valid for all day-use sites managed by the Coronado National Forest. If you possess an Interagency Pass, such as the America the Beautiful Pass, it usually covers this fee. Remember to have your pass readily accessible for verification.
While the main parking lot can fill up, especially on weekends, there is often overflow parking available. Arriving earlier in the day is advisable to secure a spot and enjoy the trail with fewer people.
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