Casual IntermediateHike Detail SheetHikes

Butcher Jones Trail, Saguaro Lake (CI)

By September 11, 2022 July 3rd, 2025 No Comments
Approx hike distance (miles): 5 Area: Tonto National Forest
Accum.  elevation gain (feet): 400 Park Entry Fee: See Below
Low to high elevation gain: N/A SCAMR All Trails Map: No
Recommended gas donation: $10 Website for reference info: N/A
Unpaved miles: 0 Trailhead GPS Coordinates 33.575464, _111.514575
Road Conditions: Good High clearance vehicle req’d: No

Please arrive 10 minutes prior to departure to check -in

Trail Conditions
Maintained Trail: Yes Uneven footing Yes
Steep side drop-offs Yes Steep Trail: No
Off Trial (scratchy) No Slippery Trail Surfaces: No
Use of hands required: No Boulder Hopping: No
Difficulty: Moderate Water Crossings: No
Restrooms at Trailhead: Yes Gloves Required: No

 

Special Instructions:

This is an out-and-back hike along Saguaro Lake with beautiful views of the lake. Parking for this hike requires a Senior Pass or a Tonto Day Pass ($8/car). Passes must be purchased before arrival at trailhead and are available at convenience stores on the way. Please divide the cost evenly among the carpools. Bring water and a snack.

Directions:

Take Hunt Highway north to Ellsworth and continue on Ellsworth to State Highway 24. Turn left onto Highway 24 to 202 North. Take 202 North to Exit 26 (Brown Road). Turn right on Brown Road and proceed to Ellsworth. Turn left on Ellsworth and proceed onto Usery Pass Road. From Usery Pass Road, turn right onto Bush Highway at the stop sign. Continue on Bush Highway to the Butcher Jones Rec Area. Go right into Butcher Jones and follow the paved road to the trailhead. Total driving distance from Sun City, one way is 46 miles.