Douglas Spring Trail — Attraction in Tucson

This is a good trail head that has access to quite a few trails on the north side of Saguaro National Park East. The facility itself is unfortunately lacking. There are no services (no water or restrooms) and very little parking. There is a single covered picnic bench area directly adjacent to the parking lot and trail entrance. Most mornings the traffic overflows into street side parking which is fortunately adequate. I have seen FS Officers/Park Rangers in the lot on occasion which I appreciate (this would be a 2 or 1 star review if not for that). I would like to see more enforcement on the trails themselves in this area- I have seen horse riders not following proper trails as well as people walking pets, which is...

We visited Saguoro NP East a week ago. The ranger at the visitor center was very helpful, and we were looking for a moderate hike with beautiful views. It was located outside of the official entrance to the park. There was parking in the parking lot. There were cars parked outside along the street. It took us around 3 hours roundtrip. So glad that we went in the morning since it became hot. The view along the way was beautiful. We spotted a snake (not a rattlesnake) crossing our path and quickly went in the bush. There was no water flowing and can imagine how spectacular the spring is...

This trailhead has several short and low options, but the focus of my review is it's gateway to the higher slopes of the Rincons. These peaks see far less traffic than the Catalina's and are just as high and scenic. Douglas Spring TH can be used to get to Tanque Verde Peak, TV Ridge, Mica Mountain, Helen's Dome, Cowhead Saddle, Manning Camp, and the Arizona Trail. All of the high places listed let you experience the Sky Islands to the fullest and much of the trail system up top is in great condition. Along the way you'll see seasonal creeks, big views, and large Junipers and Ponderosa's not...