Jackson Cabin/Muleshoe Ranch Road

Jackson Cabin / Muleshoe Road is one of those iconic trails for which the reward of the journey rivals that of the destination. The Nature Conservancy maintains the riparian areas at the beginning of the trail and has graciously allowed access to these wonders. You will see amazing views of rock cliff faces, mountain vistas, desert springs, seeps, and abundant plant life where springs have pushed up from below, nourishing abundant wildlife such as coatimundi and deer javelina, and a wide variety of watchable birdlife. The views of the rhyolite rock formations along the western face of the Galiuro Mountains could very well challenge the scenery experienced in the canyon country of southern Utah. The start of this trail is about 110 miles from Tucson. It's a long day to get to the end, but it's certainly worth it, for the payoff is a 100-plus-year-old cabin teeming with history. Bring your tent, bring your camp stove, bring your ice chest because this is a fabulous place to turn into an overnight adventure. In fact, the position of the sun on the way in (afternoon setting reds) and the way out (morning freshness) completely changes the views and makes this almost two different trips.