I wanted to hide the cache on the ledge near one of the springs.
But there was difficulty in getting good satellite reception and a
clear view of the sky due to the rock face and overhangs. So, the
cache is hidden on a point, a little before you would walk out onto
the ledge, overlooking Thomas Canyon and Altar Valley. This is a
log only cache in a 6 x 8 inch tin.
- Hiking Distance 6 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain 2100 feet
- Difficulty Strenuous
Driving: To get to the trailhead from Tucson take Highway 86
(Ajo Way) west, to Three Points Junction (Highway 286). Go south on
286 for about 28 miles. Take a right, after passing milepost 16, at
(N 31° 43.476 W 111° 29.278) onto a dirt road heading into Thomas
Canyon. This is a private road that allows access to the trailhead.
When you come to a fork, turn right. From the pavement it is about
7 miles to a ranch house gate where you will park (N 31° 44.926 W
111° 34.789). A high clearance or 4-wheel drive vehicle would be
preferred. It might be necessary to walk the last 3 tenths of a
mile depending on road conditions or your vehicle. Walk thru the
gate and follow the signs to the trail.
Hiking: Follow the trail, crossing the streambed a few times,
when you come to about (N 31° 46.094 W 111° 35.337) you will leave
the streambed and follow the trail to the east temporarily and then
northwest toward the saddle. Getting to the saddle is relatively
easy, but now it’s a bushwhack and a scramble. Take the path that
leads to the southeast from the saddle. The route is marked by
cairns and an occasional ribbon. I suggest allowing 8 hours or more
especially if you want to check out the ledge, which is really the
main reason for coming up here. Of course climbers going to the
peak would think otherwise. The spring is a good turn-around point.
So get an early start. Not advisable for small children.