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Carr Peak Trail

Coronado National Forest, Arizona · 3 min read

Distance
5.4 mi
Elevation Gain
2,100 ft
Difficulty
strenuous
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
April through October
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
10 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • 9,223-foot summit with views across San Pedro River Valley and into Mexico
  • Huachuca Mountains sky island ecosystem
  • Miller Peak Wilderness boundary near the summit
  • Apache pine and Douglas fir forest above 7,000 feet
  • Hummingbird migration through the canyon approach in late summer

Overview

The Huachuca Mountains rise south of Sierra Vista near the Arizona-Mexico border, forming one of the southern sky islands in Coronado National Forest. Carr Canyon is the main access corridor into the high country, and Carr Peak at 9,223 feet is the dominant summit accessible by trail. The Huachucas receive significant late-summer monsoon moisture and support a forest of Apache pine and Douglas fir at the higher elevations, transitioning to oak woodland in the canyon approach.

The San Pedro River Valley visible from the summit is the site of the San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area, one of the most important bird and wildlife corridors in the borderland region.

The Route

Miles 0.0 to 1.0: Carr Canyon to First Ridge

The trail begins at the upper Carr Canyon parking area and climbs through oak woodland on a steady grade. The first ridge, reached at mile 1.0, provides an initial view east across the San Pedro Valley.

Miles 1.0 to 2.5: Ridge to Summit Approach

The trail follows the ridge with increasing exposure as the pine forest thickens. The grade steepens for the final mile of approach.

Miles 2.5 to 2.7: Summit

The summit at 9,223 feet is an open rocky area with views in all directions. On clear days, the view south extends 20 or more miles into Mexico's Sonoran state.

Miles 2.7 to 5.4: Descent

Return via the same route. The descent on the lower oak woodland section is fast.

When to Hike

April through June for spring migration in the canyon approach and comfortable summit temperatures.

September through November offers post-monsoon clarity with excellent summit views.

July through August the hummingbird migration through the canyon is extraordinary; start before 6 AM and descend before noon to avoid lightning.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry 2 to 3 liters of water. A seasonal stream in lower Carr Canyon can be filtered but don't count on it in dry periods. Wind at the summit can be cold even in summer; carry a layer. Trekking poles help on the sustained descent.

Trailhead Access

The Carr Canyon trailhead is located at the end of FR-368 in the Huachuca Mountains. No fee to park or hike (as of 2026). High-clearance vehicle recommended for FR-368. Vault toilet at the parking area. Dogs must be leashed.

Nearby

Cochise Stronghold Trail in the Dragoon Mountains is accessible from Sierra Vista and offers a historically significant canyon hike. Mt. Wrightson Trail in the Santa Ritas is the premier summit hike in the forest.

Check road and weather conditions at checking conditions before you go. Practice Leave No Trace principles throughout.

Trailhead Parking

Carr Canyon trailhead at end of Carr Canyon Road (FR-368) near Sierra Vista. High-clearance vehicle recommended.

← Back to Coronado National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Carr Peak Trail take?
The 5.4-mile out-and-back takes most hikers 4 to 6 hours due to the 2,100-foot elevation gain.
Is Carr Peak Trail dog friendly?
Dogs are allowed and should be leashed. The summit area is open and accessible for dogs.
What is the Miller Peak Wilderness?
The Miller Peak Wilderness is a federally designated roadless area in the Huachuca Mountains adjacent to Carr Peak. It protects the high-country terrain of the range and is managed to preserve its natural character.