As described here, the Gold Canyon Trail System includes four main sections: the K-Trail, Cougar Trail, Quartz Ridge and Gila Monster. Currently this system of trails is comprised of over ten miles of dedicated singletack, shared use horse/hiker/MTB trail (including the Lost Gold Mine Trail), and jeep track “connectors” between separate parts of this growing singletrack system. As the trail system develops and more singletrack is built, less reliance on jeep track will be the ultimate result.
The K-Trail is a 5-mile section of dedicated singletrack with many moods, all of which are unpredictable and varying shades of “happy.” From the moment the K-Trail breaks south off of the Lost Gold Mine Trail, this roller-coaster dives in and out of washes; twisting, turning, climbing, dropping, providing a sampler of technical challenges along the way including optional “man-drops," exposed rock and boulder traverses, short but steep climbs, and cows, though rarely. After flying out of the wash one final time, the trail begins a brief but spirited climb to the high points on the K-Trail, known as “Vista Rock” and “The Vortex.” Intermediate riders can make the climbs in the middle ring. Views of the Superstition Mountains from both of these points are grand. Depending on your ability and comfort level, descending from “The Vortex” can be an exhilarating mad dash down the hillside, clearing hedgehog cacti along the way thanks to the occasional well-placed jump.
After completing the K-Trail, a short stint to the east on the prominent east-west quad road delivers you to the Quartz Ridge Trail. Pay attention or you might miss the turnoff. The top of the ridge is accessed via a series of switchbacks that were clearly laid out with mountain bikers in mind. The top of Quartz Ridge offers expansive views of the Superstition Mountains to the north, and on clear days, Tucson’s Mt. Lemmon is clearly visible to the south. The Quartz Ridge Trail connects a series of small peaks on the parallel ridgelines that comprise the southern boundary of the trail system. This portion of trail sees moderate to heavy horseback rider usage, and portions of the trail show significant wear, especially where the QR traverses outcropping schist. Most of this loop is rideable, however, and adds considerably to the overall technical elements of the system.
The Cougar Trail is at its best from north to south. Prepare to grin. A lot. The Cougar does what the K-Trail does, but the flow is even better. The Cougar Trail has its share of technical challenges including its own "man drop," roller-coaster descents and ascents, hairpin turns and recumbent loops. Of note, this trail's namesake has been spotted in these parts from time to time, and in March, 2011 chased a bobcat to the top of a 30' saguaro cactus (the bobcat survived that chase).
The Gila Monster is a technical connector from the Vortex to the jeep road. It has numerous switchbacks, rocky sections and challenges. The author recently got tackled by a cholla on this section, resulting in 20 stitches to the right knee. Fun, but challenging!
The Gold Canyon Trails System is off to a promising start, and as this system expands and sees increasing ridership, it will have no problem reaching its potential: a destination trail system that is well worth the drive from anywhere in the Valley. ~PR
