Hutch’s Pool
by Matthew J. Nelson
Nestled deep in the west fork of Sabino Canyon, Hutch’s Pool is the ultimate destination for those in search of riparian relief. The trail is long and the terrain can be arduous, but reaching the chasm of cold, dark water makes every step worthwhile.
From the Sabino Canyon Recreation Area take the tram all the way to the road’s end (Tram Stop 9), and follow the steep switchbacks uphill. Just as your legs and lungs begin to burn, the trail will reach an intersection; turn left and follow the Sabino Canyon Trail. After .3 miles another metal sign appears and the trail forks shortly thereafter. Stay right and continue up the canyon. Soon you’ll cross over a small pass and Sabino Basin will come into view.
Begin hiking downhill and enjoy the diversity of plants, flowers and cacti all around you. After walking among the granite boulders for about 40 minutes you’ll arrive at a sandy creek bed in the heart of Sabino Basin. Look for a small metal sign just above the ground designating the Arizona Trail and the confluence of Sabino Canyon’s east and west forks. Hutch’s Pool lies another 1.4 miles up the west fork, so follow the rock cairns across the creek to the northwest side of the basin. Ample shade can be found between here and Hutch’s Pool.
The trail will lead you to a choice campsite underneath a large oak, then turns sharply and crosses the creek. Follow the rock cairns until you locate the trail on the south side of the creek. When you encounter a twisted oak growing in the middle of the trail, turn right and hike toward the water. The sound of Sabino Creek cascading into the massive pool of cold mountain water is peaceful beyond words. Sit quietly and watch as butterflies flitter by and black phoebes pick gnats out of the sky.
Vertical cliffs surround the pool, and make for great jumping platforms. Diving is a bad idea, especially considering the lack of visibility in the dark water and the constant fluctuation of the pool’s depth.
Alternating between swimming in the cool water and sitting on the hot rocks is a backcountry spa treatment unlike any other.
After you’re sufficiently rested and rehydrated, begin the 4.1-mile trek back to the trailhead. Although the moisture from Hutch’s Pool will evaporate quickly, its refreshing properties will remain.
Spend an afternoon swimming in Hutch’s Pool and relaxing on the rocks like this family of Canyon treefrogs (Hyla arenicolor). photo: Brian Forbes Powell
Making Your Escape
Drive north on Sabino Canyon Road and follow signs toward Sabino Canyon Recreation Area. Park in the main lot ($5/day) and purchase a roundtrip tram ticket ($8 adults, $4 kids). Pick up a tram schedule so you’re aware of when you need to be back at the road, otherwise you’ve got another four miles of pavement to get back to your vehicle.
More details at: www.fs.fed.us/r3/coronado/forest/recreation/camping/sites/sabino.shtml
Matthew J. Nelson is a local outdoor educator, guide and conservationist.
Category: RECREATION
