Yesterday we hiked the Butcher Jones Trail at Saguaro Lake.
The trailhead starts at the Butcher Jones recreation area.
Its approximately 3.5 miles out and back, skirting the lake from the beach at Butcher Jones to Burro Cove.
There is access to swimming and fishing areas along the shore from the trail.
The trail is fairly easy, but there are some areas where it is quite narrow with loose rock.
This is a dog friendly desert trail, but be cautious as much of the narrow trail is lined with cholla cactus.
If you are heading out in summer, make sure to bring plenty of sunblock and water. I personally don’t leave home without my camelbak.
If you plan on bringing your dogs, its also a good idea to bring water for them and a collapsible water bowl. My big dogs generally carry their own stuff in their own pup packs.
This trail is in the Mesa Ranger District of the Tonto National Forest. Don’t forget to get your Tonto Pass before you go. They are $6 for a day pass, per vehicle. You can pick them up at most gas stations & convenience stores, but they are not available at the lake.
