Molino to Gordon Out-and-Back

Length: 4.8 miles (out and back)
Elevation Gain: 1,020 ft

Driving Directions to Trailhead

From Palisades Visitor Center, turn right out of the parking lot, heading down Catalina Highway. Continue approximately 14.6 miles to Molino Basin campground, which will be on your right on a sharp bend. The trailhead parking is on the left and right sides of the campground road right after you turn off the highway.

Hike Overview

This hike follows the Arizona Trail through the high desert oak scrub of Molino Basin. The hike will start as an hill climb from Molino Basin to Gordon Hirabayasho and then return downhill via the same trail.

From Molino Basin Campground, walk further into the campground on the campground road, which splits the parking lot at the trailhead. Soon, just past the camp host site and a small drainage that crosses the road, you’ll see a trail leave the road to your left. Take this turn. The trail will meander to the south of the campground, with several trail junctions to the right. Stay to the left, on the Arizona Trail (AZT).

There is no canopy, providing wide open views the entire hike. The trail contours through the valley past manzanita, scrub oak, sotol and yucca. In Spring and Fall the trail will be lined with wildflowers and cactus blooms.

Near Gordon Hirabayshi Campground, you’ll crest a small saddle. From here you can turn around and head back down or follow the trail to the campground for a restroom. Please note, there is no water here. If heading into the campground, take the next turn to your right off the Arizona Trail. To finish your hike return the same way you came, paying special attention at all of the junctions.

Safety

This hike has no shade along it. Bring plenty of water and sun protection. There is no water at either campground/trailhead.

Be sure to visit the Know Before You Go page for additional safety information.