Garwood Dam Trail
A direct desert route from Douglas Spring Trailhead to historic Garwood Dam through washes and eroded foothills.
Route overview
Garwood Dam Trail in Arizona.
NPS surveys the most direct 1.9-mile one-way approach via Douglas Spring, Garwood and Carrillo trails. The normal return uses the same alignment for an approximately 6.2 km outing, distinct from the longer Garwood Dam and Wildhorse Tank circuit.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- Arizona
- Distance
- 6.2 km
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- 147 m
- Best season
- Check current official seasonal access and conditions
- Trail type
- out-and-back
Safety context
Deep ruts, steep grades and loose rock require sturdy footwear. Carry all water, avoid washes during storms, and do not climb or disturb the dam. The derived round-trip distance must remain labeled as calculated from the official one-way value. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Deep ruts, steep grades and loose rock require sturdy footwear. Carry all water, avoid washes during storms, and do not climb or disturb the dam. The derived round-trip distance must remain labeled as calculated from the official one-way value.
Highlights
Garwood Dam Trail, Saguaro National Park, Sonoran Desert, Arizona hiking
Why find a buddy
Good for partners interested in history and moderate climbing. Match on pace, heat limits and comfort with eroded terrain.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.